Dyson V8 vs. V15 Detect

Dyson has expanded their product line over the past few years, and we’ll look at two of them in this comparison, the V8 and V15 Detect.

These two models represent Dyson’s technological advancements at various points during the last five years.

The Dyson V8 is a massive upgrade over the V6 and solved the dirt disposal issues that plagued it with the hygienic system.

And the V15 Detect is Dyson’s current flagship with the latest technology like the industry-first green dirt tracking laser light and the Piezo sensor.

So which option is better? I’ve put these vacuums through a grueling series of tests to find out.

A quick overview of the Dyson V8 and V15 Detect

Introduction to the Dyson V8 and V15 Detect

The Dyson V8 and V15 Detect is a perfect representation of far Dyson has come with its cordless vacuums.

When the Dyson V8 was launched in 2016, it was one of the (if not the) best cordless vacuums for cleaning carpets, but compared to the V15, it’s a wide gap.

So kudos to Dyson for improving everything, from the motor to battery technology, which not many brands do.

Mid-Level Option: Dyson V8 Absolute

Pros

• Lighter and more ergonomic than the V15 Detect
• Excellent at vacuuming hard floors
• Decent sized dustbin
• Lots of interchangeable tools
• Above-average at cleaning carpet

Cons

• Still an expensive option
• Short run time at the max setting
• Not as good as the V15 at deep cleaning carpet

The V8 series is currently Dyson’s mid-level option with several sub-options available.

It’s Dyson’s prototypical stick vacuum before the current generation came out.

This variant was the first with a hygienic system and the upgraded direct drive attachment, solving the dirt disposal issues that plagued the V6.

The V8 Absolute model has the most attachments and nozzles for cleaning hard floors and carpets.

It’s the V8’s most versatile option since it can clean both surfaces I mentioned.

Other variants available include the Animal, Fluffy, and Motorhead.

Please note that all V8 models have the same motor and battery. The variations are tools out of the box that varies depending on the model.

For instance, the V8 Absolute comes with two nozzles (soft roller and direct drive) for cleaning hard floors and carpets, while the Animal only has the latter, so it’s best suited for carpets.

Best Vacuuming Option: Dyson V15 Detect

Pros

• Excellent performance on hard floors and carpets
• Green LED laser detects dirt better than a while LED headlight
• Long run time (over 80 mins)
• Detachable battery (easy to extend run time by purchasing extra batteries)
• Best Dyson option for long hair
• Also, the best Dyson cordless for deep cleaning carpet
• Torque screw tool is great at picking up long hair on upholstery

Cons

• Most expensive Dyson option
• The large motor and battery make it top-heavy
• Noisy

The V15 Detect is the pinnacle of Dyson cordless vacuum technology. This variant offers the most high-tech options Dyson has to offer.

Dyson introduced several new features in this variant.

The green LED laser that amplifies dirt better than any LED-equipped stick vacuum I’ve tested recently is the most helpful for me.

Dust particles (really) pop, making the vacuuming process more efficient since it’s easier to track dirt.

You can see in the photo above that dirt particles are amplified with the new nozzle.

Also, the redesigned nozzle is more compact and fits under overhangs better than the bulky V8 soft roller.

The next upgrade I like is the torq screw turbo brush.

Unlike the old mini turbo brush that struggles with long hair, the new design utilizes stiffer bristles and a tapered shape forcing away from the brush into a small capsule which eventually goes into the dustbin.

Dyson also upgraded the standard nozzle, adding combs and tweaking the roller, adding an agitating element behind the bristles, thus improving performance.

Lastly is the Piezo sensor that counts particles reflected on the LCD screen behind the motor.

It counts four different particles based on size.

1. Yellow: Allergens
2. Orange: Microscopic dust
3. Pink: Dust mites
4. Purple: Sugar and Fleas

Granted, these are tiny particles, and it’s not helpful for what I clean at home.

Others may have a different opinion, but I’m saying that this feature’s helpfulness will be subjective.

The V15 Detect is Dyson’s best performing cordless stick vacuum to date.

It’s the best at cleaning long hair and embedded dirt in the middle setting, better than the V11 Outsize.

However, it’s Dyson’s most expensive option, which may be a massive boundary for consumers.

Similarities between the Dyson V8 and V15 Detect

We’ll look at the similarities between these Dyson products in this section.

1. Trigger Switch

The V15 Detect and V8 utilize a trigger switch: a staple of most Dyson cordless products outside the Omni Glide and Micro.

The idea is to conserve power and use it only on demand.

Consumers either love or hate this, and whether you’ll like it or not will depend on your preference.

2. Hygienic System

The next similarity is the hygienic system, where folks use a red lever to push the dirt down.

This feature is one of my favorites among cordless vacuums in dirt disposal since most debris will come out.

There’s no need to touch debris to pull it out. One issue would be hair as it wraps around the middle plastic piece that you’ll need to pull out by hand.

But for stuff like dust, it won’t be an issue.

3. Interchangeable Tools and Versatility

Both products are based on Dyson’s idea of interchangeability and versatility, meaning you can use various attachments in different configurations as a handheld or stick vacuum.

It’s this feature that makes Dyson products popular.

The V15 retains this framework, but the bulky frame is heavier than the V8 in handheld mode.

4. Sealed System

One constant for most Dyson cordless vacuums is a sealed system, meaning allergens will stay inside the dustbin.

One test I use is the fog test to check for leaks visually.

The V8 and V15 Detect passed this test without any visible leaks.

Differences between the Dyson V8 and V15 Detect

Next, we’ll look at the differences, and there are a bunch to discuss.

1. Dustbin Size and Alignment

One noticeable difference is the dustbin size and alignment. The V15 Detect has a larger capacity at 0.77 liters versus the V8’s 0.54 liters.

The alignment also differs as the V15 utilizes the horizontal design Dyson has implemented to its new products since the V10, while the V8 has the vertically aligned bin.

This change in alignment aims to improve airflow efficiency, and the airflow results reflect the improvement (more below).

2. Weight and Ergonomics

The larger motor and battery Dyson used in the V15 increased its weight (6.8 vs. 5.8 lbs), and most of it near the motor, so the V15 feels heavier than the 1 pound difference.

This weight difference affects ergonomics as the V15 will be heavier in its handheld configuration than the V8.

3. Tool Variances

While both variants share the same core tools, the tool designs are different.

For instance, the V8 Absolute has a chunky soft roller and direct drive attachment without the combs.

The V15 has a slim soft roller with the green laser light that’s the best at amplifying dust.

Its standard brush also is redesigned with combs, so it resists tangles better than any Dyson stick vacuum.

Another variance is the mini-turbo brush, where the V8 only has the standard version, while the V15 has the souped-up torq screw tool.

4. LCD Screen [V15 only]

The V15 Detect has an LCD screen that shows real-time data with run time, the Piezo graph, and error codes.

Consumers also toggle between the three power settings using this button in the middle.

The V8 Absolute doesn’t have this feature, so consumers will have to rely on this three-strip LED display on the battery for its status.

Also, it relies on a slide switch on top for toggling between two different power settings.

One advantage of the manual switch is it stays at its current power setting unless you move it.

The V15 defaults to the auto setting if not used for an extended period.

It’s not a big issue, but only a nitpick from my experience.

5. Battery Capacity and Detachability

Dyson also has improved their battery technology. Newer Dyson cordless vacuums possess longer run times, far above the claimed 60 minutes.

The V8 and V15 are excellent examples of this variance.

Sure the V8 has a smaller battery (2800 mAh vs. 3600 mAh), but the V15 runs much further WITH the soft roller attachment (84 mins vs. 41 mins).

The 84 minutes doubles the V8’s run time despite the 800 mAh difference.

Another variance is the V15′ detachable battery, so it’s possible to double the run time by purchasing an extra battery.

Some V15 variants come with TWO batteries and chargers if you’re serious about doubling the run time.

Ergonomics Comparison

If there’s one plus for the V8’s lighter frame, it’s the ergonomics aspect.

With the smaller motor and battery, the V8 feels much lighter than the V15 in handheld mode.

Using the V15 in its handheld configuration, especially cleaning vertical spaces, feels like a workout.

The V15 weighs 4 pounds and 8.3 ounces without any tools, while the V8 weighs 3 pounds and 7 ounces.

The V8 will be the better alternative if handheld usage is a high priority.

Interface Comparison

The V15 has all the bells and whistles Dyson has to offer. It has an LCD screen with the Piezo readout behind the motor, plus the run time status letting consumers know when to recharge it.

The V8 doesn’t have any of these features and is quite bare.

There’s no LED screen or a fancy readout, only a slide switch and three-LED battery indicators for the run time status.

But simple can be good, depending on your preference.

Battery and Run Time Comparison

The V15 has a larger battery (3600 mAh vs. 2800 mAh) and, predictably, will run longer than the V8.

Consumers who value range will benefit from the V15 since it more than doubles the V8’s run time with a max of 84 minutes (soft roller).

An underrated benefit of the V15 is it can deep clean carpet for close to 20 minutes in the middle setting, whereas the V8 can only do so in 7 minutes (at the max setting).

The detachable battery is another benefit because extending the range is easier.

Folks don’t need to use a screwdriver to change the battery, unlike the V8.

Airflow Comparison

The V15 is the best Dyson cordless vacuum with airflow (75 CFM), 29.48% more than the V8 at the wand and 60% at the nozzle!

The 60% variance at the nozzle is insane and represents how far Dyson products have come with its motor technology.

It’s proof that the realigned nozzle provides better airflow efficiency.

However, airflow is only a factor for cleaning carpets, but not hard surfaces, because Dyson’s soft roller attachments are efficient at debris pick-up on this surface.

Cleaning Performance Comparison

There isn’t much variance with the Dyson V8 and V15 on hard floor cleaning as both picked up in the high 99s, even with difficult-to-clean sand.

However, the V15 is a notch higher than the V8 in cleaning carpet, picking up a perfect 100% on surface and embedded debris experiments.

It’s proof of the V15’s superior airflow and how it translates to carpet cleaning performance.

Which option is better on hard floors?

The results above show that both will clean hard floors well, and these numbers shouldn’t sway you towards either.

Both did well in the sand on hard floor test.

Here’s a before and after for the V15 Detect.

And the V8.

So these variants pass the measured and eye test with flying colors.

Consumers must look at the other features that could make or break their decision.

The V8’s lighter frame makes a better ergonomic option, while the V15 has the green laser sensor that’s the best at amplifying dust on hard surfaces.

Also, the V15’s slim roller design is better under overhands because of its smaller frame.

Edge Cleaning

There isn’t much difference between the Dyson 8 and V15 Detect with edge cleaning.

Both did excellent at picking up debris in this area.

Here’s a look at the V15’s result.

And the Dyson V8.

You’ll notice I used pet litter for the V8, which was part of my previous test metrics, but I’ve since shifted to coffee grounds.

Regardless, both are equipped for this task.

Hair Wrap Comparison

The Dyson V15 is, by far, the best Dyson product I’ve tested for cleaning long hair strands.

Here are the results on hard floors using the slim roller attachment.

• 5-inch: 100% inside the bin; 0% on the brush
• 7-inch: 100% inside the bin; 0% on the brush
• 9-inch: 100% inside the bin; 0% on the brush
• 11-inch: 100% inside the bin; 0% on the brush
• 12-inch: 80.6% inside the bin; 19.4% on the brush

Check out these shots for each hair length.

But realize that V15’s slim roller doesn’t have an active anti-tangle system, and long strands will wrap on the roller and axle.

The more impressive aspect of the V15 is the anti-tangle capability on carpet, which is one of the best for cordless vacuums.

• 5-inch strands: 100% inside bin; 0% on the brush
• 7-inch strands: 100% inside bin; 0% on the brush
• 9-inch strands: 100% inside bin; 0% on the brush
• 11-inch strands: 99% inside bin; 1% on the brush
• 12-inch strands: 98% inside bin; 2% on the brush

You could see in the scores above that barely any hair strands wrapped on the brush, even long 12-inch hair.

These results are confirmed with the eye test.

I haven’t done this comprehensive test for the Dyson V8, except for the five and seven-inch test, and it was decent.

The Dyson V8 also did well in most of the tests,  but was not as good with longer strands.

Here are some before and after shots on hard floors.

• 5-inch strands: 100% inside bin; 0% on the brush
• 7-inch strands: 100% inside bin; 0% on the brush
• 9-inch strands: 100% inside bin; 0% on the brush
• 11-inch strands: 89% inside bin; 11% on the brush
• 12-inch strands: 63% inside bin; 37% on the brush

It was excellent, between five and seven-inch strands, but the limit is nine inches.

And here are before and after shots on carpet.

• 5-inch strands: 100% inside bin; 0% on the brush
• 7-inch strands: 100% inside bin; 0% on the brush
• 9-inch strands: 100% inside bin; 0% on the brush
• 11-inch strands: 83% inside bin; 17% on the brush
• 12-inch strands: 16% inside bin; 84% on the brush

The results on carpet are similar: excellent with five, seven, and nine-inch strands, but with hair wrapping on longer eleven and twelve-inch hair.

Which is Better on Carpets?

The V15 Detect’s superior airflow makes it a better option on carpets.

It picked up more surface and embedded debris, gobbling up 100% in these experiments.

The deep cleaning test is a barometer I use to determine if a cordless vacuum will pick up debris on carpets.

The V15 picked up 100% versus the V8’s 97.7%.

And it picked up that much IN THE AUTO (or middle) setting, which is impressive!

I think this is a massive deal since using a cordless vacuum exclusively in the max setting WILL BURN OUT THE MOTOR (eventually).

So the V15 Detect has better-sustained performance on this surface.

Dustbin and Filter Comparison

Next, we’ll look at how the Dyson V8 and V15 have different dustbin designs and filters.

The V8 Absolute has a two-filter system with a pre-motor and post-motor filter.

The V15 Detect utilizes Dyson’s newer filter design, where the pre and post-motor filters are in one piece.

This change was a necessity with the dustbin realignment since the cyclones are now in a horizontal plane.

There’s no difference with filtration since both passed the fog test and didn’t have any visible leaks.

Noise Comparison

One downside with the V15’s high airflow and suction is the high noise levels.

It breached 80 decibels in the max setting versus the V8’s 73.2 dB.

Maintenance Comparison

These vacuums will require maintenance to run at their best.

I’ll run through the parts you need to clean or replace below.

1. Primary nozzles: The V15 Detect and V8 Absolute come with two nozzles for cleaning hard floors and carpets. Consumers must clean these at least once a month to dislodge hair and clean debris accumulation.
2. Dustbin: I’d recommend emptying the dustbin after every cleaning task to prevent dust mites from breeding. The hygienic system for both makes the process straightforward.
3. Filter: Wash the filters for the V8 and V15 once a month (as recommended by Dyson), but be sure it’s dry before reattaching. Buy extra filters to eliminate downtime from waiting for the filters to dry.
4. Other tools: Not much to do except clean any dirt accumulation. Specific tools like the mini turbo brush will need more TLC as hair wraps on the brush roll.
5. Cyclones: The cycles aren’t something consumers should worry about, but if there’s a noticeable downgrade in performance, it could be something to clean. This article has a detailed guide on cleaning the V8’s cyclones, but not the V15 (yet).

Are the Dyson V8 and V15 tools interchangeable?

Yes, the V8 and V15 tools are interchangeable since both use the same connecting ports.

Consumers can technically use the V15 slim roller in the V15, but the green laser light will not function.

Also, using the torq screw attachment of the V15 in the V8 is possible, which would be an immediate upgrade over the standard mini-turbo brush.

More Dyson Comparison Articles

• Dyson V6 vs. V8
• Dyson V6 vs. V10
• Dyson V7 vs. V8
• Dyson V7 vs. V10
• Dyson V7 vs. V12
• Dyson V8 vs. V10
• Dyson V8 vs. V12
• Dyson V8 vs. V15
• Dyson V10 vs. V11
• Dyson V10 vs. V12
• Dyson V10 vs. V15
• Dyson V11 vs. V12
• Dyson V12 vs. Micro 1.5KG
• Dyson V12 vs. Omni Glide
• Dyson V12 vs. V15
• Dyson V12 vs. Outsize
• Dyson V15 vs. Outsize vs. V11 vs. V10
• Dyson Micro vs. Omni Glide
• Dyson Micro vs. V15 Detect
• Best Dyson Vacuum [Detailed Guide]
• Dyson Gen5 Detect vs. V15 Detect
• Dyson V12 vs. V15 vs. Gen5 Detect

Dyson Versus Other Brands

• Tineco A11 vs. Dyson V15 Detect
• Tineco Pure One S12 vs. Dyson V15 Detect
• LG CordZero A9 vs. Dyson V12
• LG CordZero A9 vs. Dyson V8
• LG CordZero A9 vs. Dyson V10
• LG CordZero A9 vs. Dyson V15
• Miele Triflex HX1 vs. Dyson V15
• Miele Triflex HX1 vs. Dyson V12
• Shark vs. Dyson
• Shark ION P50 vs. Dyson V10 vs. V11

Can you replace the Dyson V8 and V15 battery?

Yes, both variants have replaceable batteries, and replacements are available if it breaks down.

But only the V15 has a detachable battery, meaning it comes off without removing any bolts.

The V8 doesn’t have the same benefit, and you’ll need to unfasten the screws to change the battery.

Spec Comparison

Where can I buy the Dyson V8 and V15 Detect?

These Dyson vacuums are available in online stores like Amazon. Check the links below for the latest pricing information.

• Dyson V8 on Amazon and Walmart.
• Dyson V15 Detect on Amazon

Disclaimer: I will earn a commission if you purchase through any of the links above. But at no additional cost to you, it’s a win-win for us!

Which offers the better value?

On paper, the Dyson V8 is the better value option since it’s cheaper, but it lacks the V15’s sheer power and range.

Choosing one, again, will boil down to your preference and how much you’re willing to spend.

To help you out, I’ll enumerate several reasons you should choose the V8 or V15.

4 Reasons to Choose the Dyson V8

1. Cheaper: The Dyson V8 is considerably cheaper than the V15 and not far off with cleaning performance.
2. Better handheld option: Its lighter frame easily make it better in its handheld configuration.
3. Excellent on hard floors: The V8 has more than enough power for cleaning hard floors (plus it’s cheaper!).
4. More ergonomic: Again, the lighter frame gives the V8 better steering, especially on hard floors.

4 Reasons to Choose the V15 Detect

1. Much better on carpet: The V15’s high airflow and redesigned nozzle make it better at picking up debris on carpet (surface or embedded).
2. Excellent at cleaning long hair: This variant is the best cordless vacuum at cleaning long hair on carpets, hard floors, and upholstery.
3. Green laser amplifies dust: It’s better than any LED-equipped cordless vacuum at tracking dirt.
4. Larger dustbin: The larger dirt volume makes the V15 better suited in larger homes.

The Verdict: Dyson V15 is Better, But It’ll Cost You a Premium

These tests prove that the Dyson V15 is better than the V8.

It has more suction and airflow, cleans better, and has better features than the V8, but all these benefits come at a premium cost.

And the question is, are you willing to spend on it?

Folks with hard-floor-only homes can save a bunch since the V8 has enough power and agitation to clean non-carpeted surfaces.

However, if you value high-end performance, especially on carpet or hair, the V15 Detect is the better alternative.