What do you need to know when comparing the Dyson V6 Absolute vs the Dyson V8 Absolute model stick vacuum cleaner? How are these two cordless Dyson vacuum cleaners similar and how are they different?
| Model | Dyson V6 | Dyson V8 |
|---|---|---|
| Suction Power | 100AW | 115AW |
| Bin Capacity | 0.11 Gallons | 0.14 Gallons |
| Run Time | 20 Minutes | 40 Minutes |
| Charge Time | 3.5 Hours | 5 Hours |
| Weight | 5.1 lbs | 5.75 lbs |
| Advantages | Lighter Weight Lower Charging Time Lower Price Tag | Better Run Time Larger Dust Bin More Powerful Suction Better Brush Bar Power |
Similarities Between the Dyson V6 and V8 Absolute
Aside from the Dyson name, both Absolute vacuums are stick vacuums. Each comes with HEPA filtration. You need to hand wash these air filters at least once a month and let them dry out overnight to have the vacuum run well. (Lack of air flow from a dirty filter will strain the motor and cause the battery to run out even faster.) You have to hold down the trigger on the Absolute vacuums continuously to use them. This is intended to save battery power so that the battery is not in use when you are in idle mode. Each offers direct drive cleaners to mimic the deep cleaning of upright vacuum cleaners.
The V6 vacuum lets you separate the head and use it as a handheld cordless vacuum cleaner. So does the Dyson V8 vacuum, but it lasts several minutes longer in this mode because of its high power battery.
The Dyson Absolute wall mount uses the wall adapter as the charging base, so it takes up very little storage space.
The cordless V8 vacuum is often described as an upgrade to the V6 stick vacuum cleaner, but both have their relative strengths. Both these vacuums also fall into the “Dyson Pet vacuum” category due to the brands specialization in tackling pet hair. When is the V8 stick vacuum the better choice, and how does it compare to the cordless Dyson V6?
Strengths of the Dyson V6
Despite the price tag and expectations, there is no replacement battery pack with the V8.
The V6 weighs 5.1 pounds and is well balanced. If you have limited upper body strength, which is a deciding factor for many who buy stick vacuums, the V6 is the better choice.
A single charge of the V6 lets you clean around two mid-sized rooms. It takes about three and a half hours to charge.
If you spot clean or clean a very small apartment, the V6 is enough for you to work with and becomes ready for re-use faster.
Strengths of the Dyson V8
The V6 runs for around 20 minutes on a single charge at normal power; it lasts far less time if you use it at high power and could even stop after five minutes on thick carpet. In contrast, the V8 can last up to 40 minutes on normal power assuming you’re using the crevice tool. If you’re cleaning carpet and upholstery, it is closer to a thirty minute run time. Has a longer battery charge time of about 5 hours.
The Dyson V6’s soft roller is designed for hard floors but you can swap to a vacuum head for carpets. It doesn’t clean thick carpets well. The V8 model’s more powerful brush bar and significantly stronger suction (115AW) makes it a better choice for cleaning thick carpets. Both the vacuums would perform similarly on hardwood and tile floors.
The cordless V8 and V6 Absolute vacuums come with similar tools like a crevice tool, dusting tool and pet hair mini-motorized vacuum head.
You’ll want to go back with the crevice tool to clean in corners after using the vacuum head or hard floor tool.
The V6 has a smaller bin that fills up quickly and fills up even faster if picking up pet fur or hair. The V8 is the better choice if you have pets. The bin emptying has been improved in the newer model with the new hygienic dirt ejector.
Susan Evis says
I have the v6 absolute very good cleaner but I do find the bin is difficult to empty? Looking at the v8 does it have a different emptying way.also which would you recommend for 2 dogs short haired) .
Roy says
I recently purchased the V6 Animal model and it has exceeded my expectations. I use to use a Kirby but never again - I’m branded now. This is my second Dyson and I’ll never purchase anything else. Dyson always deliver a great product.
Mandeep Bhogal says
I have the Dyson v6 and have no end of problems with it initially but having repeated call outs and phonecalls I can diagnose most problems with it i.e pulsing and washing the filter pointy side pointing upwards. I just wish that Dyson would point out these common faults (user errors) initially. It’s almost out of guarantee but I love it. The battery run time is a pain but I normally charge it straight away. In short it’s a brill product and when it breaks I will replace it for another one.