Dyson V8 Review: Absolute vs Animal vs MotorHead

The V8 is one of Dyson’s most popular cordless stick vacuums available right now.

We will compare the three different options available: the V8 Absolute, MotorHead, and Animal.

Once upon a time, the Dyson V8 had the most powerful motor and the best cleaning performance of all cord-free vacuums.

But with the release of the Dyson V10 and V11, that is no longer the case.

Still, the V8 is a great value-for-money alternative for folks who don’t want to pay a premium for the newer Dyson cordless vacuums.

Pros

• Excellent cleaning performance on both hard floor and carpet, thanks to the soft roller and direct drive cleaning heads
• The hygienic bin is easier to empty than the old design in the V6 series
• 40-minute run time is adequate for most homes

Cons

• Small dustbin
• The battery isn’t detachable
• Shorter run time than newer Dyson releases

Check Price on Amazon

Check Price on Walmart

Introduction to the Dyson V8

While the Dyson V8 may look just like a slight upgrade over the V6 model, it’s more than just that. Dyson addressed several issues that consumers have complained about, mainly the dust cup and the lack of runtime.

It retains the V6’s design, but offers more power, runs longer, and performs better overall.

For consumers in the United States, there are three different variants of the V8: the Absolute, MotorHead, and Animal.

All three models have the same motor and battery. Thus, they will perform the same. The difference is in the tools that come in the box.

Please watch this video to understand what to expect from this stick vacuum.

How does the Dyson V8 clean?

Continuing with Dyson cordless vacuums’ tradition of interchangeability, the V8 operates on this theme, its main strength.

However, the V8’s primary function is to clean floors, and it features two main attachments designed for this task.

The V8 has the direct drive tool (left) and soft roller tool (right) to clean carpet and hard floors.

These two attachments will work great on any indoor surface such as hardwood, tile, linoleum, or carpet. The soft roller attachment is an excellent tool for cleaning hard floors as it will literally grab dirt and funnel it towards the suction chamber behind it.

Since it has lots of clearance in front, there’s no risk of it pushing dirt forward.

The direct-drive cleaning head is more suitable for cleaning carpet since it does not have the adjustable gates that the Dyson V10 has. It combines soft carbon fiber and stiff nylon bristles to clean surface and embedded dirt well.

Right behind the brush is a seal that ensures dirt gets sucked into the dust cup.

You can use the extension wand attached as a stick vacuum.

It then transforms into a handheld vacuum if you remove the long orange tube. This design has been widely successful, and other manufacturers have copied the design.

The motor of the V8 is situated on top of the dust cup, along with the cyclones that prevent dirt from clogging the filter. Of the brands I’ve tested, Dyson is one of the best at keeping the filter clean for longer periods.

This stick vacuum features two filters: a pre-motor filter located in the middle of the cyclonic system and a second post-motor filter positioned behind the motor.

The V8 has two filters that help keep fine dust and allergens inside the dust cup.

These two filters are “lifetime” filters, meaning it should last the vacuum’s lifetime if you clean it regularly. You can purchase extra filters to minimize downtime, and there are many options on Amazon.

What improvements does the Dyson V8 have over the V6?

1. Bigger Motor

This new Dyson model features an improved motor that has increased power by approximately 15%. The new V8 motor produces a maximum output of 115air watts while the V6 has 100 air watts.

However, in default mode, the V6, V7, and V8 variants have 22 air watts on tap.

To give you some perspective, the Black and Decker BDH2000FL has the same amount of power. But what separates the Dyson is the superior agitation.

2. Better Agitation

More importantly, the V8 has better agitation – approximately 150% better, according to Dyson. It will provide better cleaning performance, especially on carpet, where agitation plays a considerable role in how much dirt it can pick up.

The design of the motorized tools remains the same. It features one soft roller head, called the “Fluffy,” and another bristled tool, called the “Direct Drive” head.

3. Improved dirt bin

Perhaps the most significant improvement, at least to me, would be the addition of a dirt bin. Not only is the V8 bin bigger, but emptying it is much easier than before.

No longer will you need to use your fingers to dislodge dirt trapped between the outer casing and inner mesh filter. The new design has a lever on top that you pull, and the machine does the rest.

Instead of relying solely on a trap door and gravity to empty dirt, the new design helps push the dirt out. With the mesh filter out of the way, it’s easier to remove any statically charged dirt, like pet hair, with the extra space.

The whole dust cup frame is removable if you need a more thorough clean. I prefer this design over the V6, as you don’t have to use your fingers to pull out hair or dust that sticks on the metal part of the filter.

4. Larger battery

The new lithium-ion battery extends the V8’s run time from 25 minutes (without any motorized tools attached) to 41 minutes.

With the motorized tools attached, run time is around 25 minutes. And with the “Max” engaged, that goes down to 7 minutes.

5. Less Noise

Dyson says the new V8 engineers have developed “significant acoustic improvements” to reduce sound without compromising suction power.

I used a sound meter a few feet away from the vacuum to measure noise.

Here are the results of the tests:

6. Max Switch

The last upgrade would be the power setting switch, which toggles between normal and maximum.

Dyson V8’s new power settings button

Instead of using the same push-button switch, Dyson changed it to a slide switch, which makes it easier to use, in my opinion.

How well does the Dyson V8 Clean?

To check how well the Dyson V8 cleans, I put it through a series of tests using different types of debris like Quaker oats, coffee grounds, quinoa, pet litter, sand, Cheerios, and Fruit Loops.

Scroll down to see all the results on hard floors and carpets.

Cleaning Test Results

• Overall: 98.21%
• Hard Floor: 99.66%
• Carpet (Surface Pick Up): 97.29%
• Carpet (Deep Cleaning): 97.7%

The Dyson V8 is one of the few cordless stick vacuums capable of deep cleaning carpets, and cleaning tests confirm this.

To see how the V8 performs on different surfaces, I’ve put it through a rigorous series of tests using various types of debris, including Quaker oats, pet litter, and fine coffee grounds.

I weigh the handheld unit on a digital weighing scale empty and then weigh it again after each test to get an accurate reading on how much it picked up.

And here are the results.

I also did a test with Fruit Loops, but I didn’t weigh. This test was to see if the V8 can handle extra-large debris.

Hard floor Results

• Overall: 98.83%
• Quaker Oats: 99.3%
• Coffee: 97.2%
• Pet Litter: 100%

Testing the V8 on coffee on hard floors

Testing the V8 on Quaker oats on hard floors

Testing the V8 on pet litter on hard floors

One of the biggest strengths of the V8 is how well the soft roller attachment picks up fine to large debris.

This tool’s fabric-like texture provides excellent pick-up and does a fantastic job at dusting hard floors.

In all of the cleaning tests, the V8’s soft roller brush did exceptionally well, scoring in the high 90s.

If there is an issue with the soft roller tool, it would be cleaning large quantities of Fruit Loops. Like the V10, it’s a clogging issue, as it will clog at the suction port or the nozzle leading to the dust cup.

The low-profile clearance of the V8’s direct-drive attachment will limit its effectiveness on hard floors.

It can clean stuff like Quaker oats and coffee grounds, but it won’t be as effective as the Dyson V10 with the adjustable gates. Cleaning Fruit Loops will be impossible with the direct-drive head as it simply won’t fit.

If your home has lots of bare floors, the obvious choice is the V8 Absolute because it comes with the soft roller attachment, since the Fluffy version isn’t available in Dyson North America.

Carpet cleaning test

Like what I did on hard floors, I tested it on 50 grams of Quaker oats, pet litter, and coffee grounds on low and mid pile carpet, plus a deep cleaning test with 100 grams of sand on mid-pile carpets.

I tested the V8 on two types of carpet – low pile and medium-pile carpet.

Low pile results

• Overall: 97.79%
• Quaker Oats: 94.5%
• Coffee: 99.3%
• Pet Litter: 99.4%

The Dyson V8 does a fairly good job of picking up surface dirt on low-pile carpet, as revealed by the scores.

You don’t see the slight plowing effect from the direct-drive cleaning head in the photos because of its low-profile design.

It isn’t a big deal as most folks will probably not have to deal with this amount of dirt daily.

It performed worst on coffee grounds among all the test debris items, likely due to its delicate nature.

Mid Pile Results

• Overall: 97.3%
• Quaker Oats: 92.9%
• Coffee: 99%
• Pet Litter: 100%

The mid-pile results are also excellent, in the high 90s, except for fine coffee grounds, which scored an average of 92.9%; this is consistent with the results from the low-pile carpet test.

Deep cleaning test results

For the deep cleaning test, I used 100 grams of fine sand, then rubbed it on the carpet to see how much the Dyson V8 picks up.

On two tests, it was able to pick up an average of 97.7% which is an outstanding result and almost at part with the more expensive cordless stick vacuums such as the Dyson V10, Dyson V11, and Tineco Pure One S12.

How long does the V8 run?

The official number for the V8 is 40 minutes on low power using non-motorized tools.

In actual run-time tests, the V8 actually exceeds this figure by a couple of minutes. Check the table below.

The 42-minute run time is impressive and more than enough for most spot-cleaning tasks.

That number will drop down to 33 minutes with any of the motorized tools attached. If you’re relying on the V8 to clean your floors, it is feasible, as the run time above is adequate unless you live in a large mansion.

Maintenance and Running Costs

Keeping the V8 in peak condition boils down to keeping both air and oil filters clean. This vacuum has two filters – the pre-motor and post-motor HEPA filters- that need to be cleaned.

The good news is that both filters are lifetime washable filters, meaning you don’t have to replace them.

Washing it once a month is enough. Ensure the filter is allowed to air dry for 24 hours before reattaching it.

In addition to cleaning the filter, other parts to inspect are the main cleaning heads. Regularly check both tools to see if there is hair wrapped around the brush or the axles. Do the same for the mini-turbo brush.

One more thing to consider is the battery. It should last the duration of the 2-year warranty period and possibly more if you take good care of it. Fortunately, the battery in the V8 is replaceable, and third-party options are available (some have higher capacity).

Dyson V8 Comparison: V8 Absolute vs. V8 Animal vs. V8 Total Clean

There are two variants – the V8 Absolute and V8 Animal, with the former being more expensive.

To clarify that all V8 products have the same motor and bin. So performance is the same, and the main difference would be the tools that come along in the package.

Both have a HEPA filter, so 99.9% of allergens stay inside the bin.

Dyson’s HEPA filter is washable, at least in their cordless line, so you don’t have to buy anything extra during the machine’s lifetime.

Check the photo below to see what comes with the V8.

Take note that you’ll only get these attachments from the V8 Absolute variant available in North America.

1. Soft roller cleaner head: A purpose-built tool for cleaning hard surfaces such as tile and hardwood.

2. Direct-drive cleaner head: This tool works best on carpet capable of even deep cleaning dirt.

3. Mini motorized tool: Miniature version of the direct drive tool that cleans up embedded dirt on upholstery and even mattresses.

4. Soft dusting brush: This attachment’s soft bristles make it ideal for cleaning more delicate surfaces like curtains and lampshades.

5. Combination tool: A combo tool that combines a mini-upholstery tool and brush tool. Ideal for cleaning vents or keyboards.

6. Crevice tool: For cleaning tight crevices such as areas between sofa cushions or car seats.

7. Docking station: A tool for storing and charging this vacuum cleaner. You’ll need to drill holes in the wall to use it. *

8. Extension wand: This tube extends the reach of the V8 with the non-motor attachments and transforms it from a handheld to a stick vacuum if you attach the main nozzle.

* If you don’t want to drill holes, you can buy a third-party tool like the Slysy Storage Stand that helps you store this vacuum cleaner plus all the accessories in one area. I like this accessory because it doesn’t require drilling holes, and the vertical storage will save a lot of space.

V8 Absolute

This is the most expensive and feature-rich variant currently in the V8 line up armed with the soft roller head and direct-drive cleaner head.

These tools make this a great option inside homes with hard floors and carpet.

It also comes with the mini motorized tool that makes it a feasible option for cleaning pet hair on upholstery inside your home or vehicle.

Here’s the complete list of attachments and tools that you’ll get from the Dyson V8 Absolute:

1. Soft roller cleaner head
2. Direct drive cleaner head
3. Mini motorized tool
4. Soft dusting brush
5. Combination tool
6. Crevice tool
7. Docking station

V8 Animal

The V8 Animal has the same tools as the V8 Absolute but minus the soft roller head. Opt for this variant if your home only has carpet inside.

The direct drive is still capable of cleaning debris like dust on hard surfaces. However, it will struggle with the large particles of dirt. If you try it on cheerios or cereal, it will just push it forward.

If you don’t need the soft roller cleaning head, you can save yourself some dough by opting for the V8 Animal.

1. Direct drive cleaner head
2. Mini motorized tool
3. Soft dusting brush
4. Combination tool
5. Crevice tool
6. Docking station

V8 Total Clean

Another option available is the V8 Total Clean. This variant comes with more tools than the V8 Absolute.

Like the V8 Absolute, it comes with two main cleaning heads, crevice, combination, mini turbo brush, and soft dusting brush. It comes with two extra tools that make your life easier, cleaning areas high above your head and really tight crevices.

Take a look at the photo below to see the tools.

1. A soft roller cleaning head
2. Direct drive cleaner head
3. Mini motorized tool
4. Soft dusting brush
5. Combination tool
6. Crevice tool
7. Docking station
8. Quick-release up top adapter: You can use this tool with the soft dusting brush to clean areas high up like tops of cabinets or ceiling fans.
9. Flexi crevice tool: Excellent at reaching in really tight areas where a standard crevice tool might not.
10. Toolbag: For storing all the attachments.

Does the V8 provide good value?

Yes, the V8 is expensive, but it offers a lot of value for your dollar.

It is, hands down, one of the best performing options available. Both floor tools can pick up nearly 100% of surface debris on the rug, carpet, or hard floor.

However, it isn’t the best-performing cordless vacuum (that distinction goes to the V10 and V11).

Additionally, there are more affordable options that perform almost as well as the Dyson V8, but they struggle with deep cleaning carpets.

That’s the trade-off you should look at. If you don’t mind the high price tag, this vacuum cleaner will be an integral part of keeping your home clean.

How is this different from the V7?

Just recently, Dyson has released a new variant in the market called the V7. This product combines the features of the V6 and V8 at a more affordable price than the V8.

It is a V6 with the upgraded bin design and slide max button switch. If you’re not a fan of the V6 but don’t want to spend a lot for the V8, then this is a good compromise.

To summarize, here are the differences:

1. Dyson V8 has more airflow

The Dyson V7 has slightly less power than the V8. I measured the airflow of both stick vacuums using an anemometer; please refer to the table below for the results.

That’s around a 9.8% difference in the default power setting and a 7.69% difference at max mode.

2. Filtration

The Dyson V7 does not have a post-motor HEPA filter that will affect its ability to filtrate allergens, while the V8 has the second filter.

3. Attachments

Depending on the variant you’ll get, the attachments will vary. The V8 Absolute has a total of 8 attachments while the V7 Motorhead only has 5. The V7 Fluffy is also available if you want the soft roller attachment, but only in certain markets – particularly in Asia or Europe.

4. Price

There is a significant price difference between the V8 Absolute and V7 Motorhead. If your home only has carpet, I would suggest going with the cheaper V7 Motorhead or the slightly more expensive Animal version if you have pets.

Maintenance

Like all vacuums, Dyson products need regular maintenance to keep it running at its peak. This includes cleaning the filters, nozzles, and occasionally, the cyclones. I’ve written a guide on thoroughly cleaning the Dyson V8, please check the link for more details.

Product Specifications

The information below is the complete list of product specifications for the Dyson V8.

The verdict: Who should buy the Dyson V8 stick vacuum?

The Dyson V8 may not be the most powerful cordless vacuum, but it strikes a great balance between ergonomics, power, and runtime. One thing that surprised me about the V8 is how well it cleans surface dirt. There isn’t much of a difference between this model and the V10 in my tests.

The V8 lacks a middle setting, which limits its range, at least for cleaning carpets. The soft roller attachment works well on bare floors, even on the low setting, so runtime won’t be an issue.

It’s a rare combination you must look for when buying something without a cord.

You’ll get a versatile tool that can be used in various configurations, depending on your needs.

If you’re looking for the following features (listed below) in a cordless stick vacuum, then the Dyson V8 would be a great option.

• Versatile cleaning tool: The Dyson V8 can be used as a handheld or a stick vacuum for cleaning hard floors or carpets.
• Lightweight and ergonomic: The Dyson V8 does not have the power of the V10, but it’s lighter, thus more maneuverable and easier to use above floors.
• Strong suction: The V8 scores high in airflow (cfm), contributing to the excellent cleaning performance.
• Long run time: Dyson’s real-world tests exceeded the 40-minute mark. Even if you use the main cleaning head, it’ll still run for more than 30 minutes, which is plenty for a cord-free vacuum cleaner.
• Don’t mind paying for a quality product: Yes, the Dyson V8 is expensive, but you’ll be getting an excellent product that will last for years with the proper maintenance. This is a great option if you’re willing to spend the $$$ for such a product.