The Dyson V8 vs V11 will be the subject of this Dyson comparative analysis. The Dyson V11 is the most recent Dyson vacuum to reach the market, whereas the V8 remains one of the best Dyson models in terms of value for money.
Are the V11’s upgraded features worth the extra cost? Or Is it better to save some money instead and go with the tried-and-tested V8 model?
Dyson V8 vs V11 Overview
| Dyson Model | V8 | V11 |
| Max Suction | 115 aW | 185 aW |
| Weight | 5.8 lb | 6.68 lb |
| Running time | 40 min | 60 min |
| Dustbin | 0.54 L | 0.77 L |
| Click-In Battery | No | Yes; 1 included |
| Power Modes | 2 | 3 |
| Fluffy head | Absolute Only | No |
| Torque Drive head | No | Yes |
| Direct Drive head | Yes | No |
| Combination tool | Yes | Yes |
| Crevice tool | Yes | Yes |
| HEPA filtration | Yes | Yes |
| motorized brushroll (mini) | Yes | Yes |
| Dust brush (mini) | Absolute Only | Torque Drive Only |
| Docking station | Yes | Yes |
| Price | Check Here | Check Here |
The Dyson V11 and V8 are cordless versions of the stick vacuums from Dyson’s V-Series collection. A brushroll for multi-surface use is driven by a digital motor in both vacuums. The motor is built to be positioned into the vacuum’s handheld portion, enabling it to function as a cordless or handheld stick vacuum.
The V8 debuted in 2016, and the V11 came out in 2019.
In these 2 models, the following are the different versions available:
- The Dyson V8 has two versions: Animal and Absolute.
- The Dyson V11 comes as Animal and Torque Drive.
Dyson revised the V11 concept in late 2020, making all versions have a click-in battery power system. A permanently mounted battery is still used in the V8.
Dimensions
When it comes to size, the contrast between the 2 models isn’t that apparent.
The V11 weighs slightly more, is broader, and is a bit deeper compared to V8, but none of these variations are significant enough to make a real difference.
Dyson V8 Dimensions
- Length: 9.8 inches
- Depth: 8.8 inches
- Height: 49 inches
- Weight: 5.75 pounds
Dyson V11 Dimensions
- Length: 9.8 inches
- Depth: 10.3 inches
- Height: 50.6 inches
- Weight: 6.68 pounds
Dual Configuration
The V8 and V11 can be used as a handheld or stick vacuum.
It’s easy to switch between the 2 models. Both vacuums have the same assembly order – Handheld, Wand, and Cleaning Head.
Each aspect has the same form of quick linking, having a red button that can be used to attach and remove parts as required.
- To use a stick vacuum, connect the pieces as follows: Handheld, Wand, and Cleaning Head
- To get a standard handheld, connect the pieces as follows: Handheld, Attachment tool
- For a handheld with a longer reach, connect the pieces as follows: Handheld, Wand, and Attachment Tool
On the V8, a quick-release button secures the crevice tool.
It’s quite simple to have exactly what is required for every cleaning job because all tools have the same hookup.
Dyson V8 vs V11 Suction Power
Which Dyson has the most suction power?
The Dyson V8’s suction power is 115 aW, while the V11 has up to 185 aW.
According to Dyson, the V11’s in-line assembly increases suction power and airflow, which could be the reason for the higher rating.
Additionally, The Dyson V11 performs intelligent suction. This helps it to change the level of suction depending on the type of floor and the amount of debris on it. Applying the power where it’s really needed will save battery life and reduce charging time.
Design Differences
There are a few differences between the two models. Let’s start with the primary differences between the 2 models.
Design Concept
The Dyson V8 and V11 are dual vacuums that can be used as an effective stick vacuum or a handheld device. The distinction is in the way the parts appear when they’re put together.
The attachment wand intersects the dust bin and handheld motor at 90 degrees (like a “T”) in the V8 configuration. In contrast, the V11 rotates the dust bin container at a perpendicular angle for a more in-line setup.
Dyson claims that the design change for V10 and V11 to align the dust bin, wand, and body was made to increase performance.
RELATED: Check out our detailed comparison between V10 and V11.
Digital Display
Behind the motor, the Dyson V11 has a sophisticated digital display that shows aspects like remaining battery power, cleaning mode, and maintenance and performance videos (only videos with the Torque Drive version).
There is no digital display or video notification on the V8 model.
Capacity Of Dust Bin
The V8’s dust bin is slightly smaller in size compared to the V11. The V8 has a debris capacity of 0.54 liters, whereas the V11 has a holding space of 0.74 liters.
Dyson V8 Motorhead vs V11
The Dyson V8‘s digital motor can turn at a maximum speed of 108,000 RPM, while the V11’s digital motor can rotate at a limit of 125,000 RPM (the same frequency as the V10 model).
The higher rotational speed is another reason for the V11 to be able to produce more suction compared to the V8.
Dyson V8 vs V11 Cleaning
Both V8 and V11 models are operated by a “trigger” switch that lets you push the trigger for cleaning power while also turning it off when it is not held down to save battery life.
The V8 and V11 use cyclonic suction to produce power. These cyclones are housed right in front of the motor. In addition to being practical, they add a classic Dyson feel to the appearance of these models.
Cleaning Head
The Dyson V8 includes the Direct Drive head (comes with the Animal or Absolute versions) or the Fluffy head (comes only with the Absolute).
The Torque Drive head is included with the Dyson V11. This cleaning head resembles the Direct Drive head, but it has a 20% higher suction capacity.
The V11 doesn’t include the Fluffy head, which is useful for cleaning large debris from solid surfaces or cleaning hardwoods.
Dyson V8 vs V11 Cleaning Heads
As previously discussed, cleaning heads is another point in which these two models vary.
For daily cleaning purposes, the Dyson V8 is equipped with the Direct Drive head, while the Dyson V11 includes the updated Torque Drive head.
A spiral brushroll is used in both the cleaning heads to help shake up the carpets and pick up debris using the vacuum. According to Dyson, the Torque Drive head is a newer model that outperforms the Direct Drive head by 25%.
The Fluffy head is also available for the V8 Absolute. This head has a soft roller design that is ideal for cleaning hardwood floor types gently or removing large debris.
The Dyson V11 does not come with the Fluffy head, but the V10 and V8 Absolute do.
Here are the cleaning heads that come with each model:
- V8 Absolute: comes with a Fluffy and Direct Drive cleaning head.
- V8 Animal: comes only with the Direct Drive head
- V11 Torque Drive: comes only with the Torque Drive head
- V11 Animal: comes only with the Torque Drive head
Cleaning Experiments
All the vacuums were put through vacuum cleaning tests.
These tests are designed to evaluate a vacuum’s ability to clean a variety of surfaces, from large particles to small ones.
They were conducted on three types of flooring and multiple forms of debris. High-pile carpets, engineered hardwoods, and low-pile carpets were all included in the tests.
Cleaning High Pile Carpets
The results of high pile carpets were identical to those of low pile.
The V8’s rice-cleaning efficiency was slightly lower, but it still managed to remove most of the rice. The V11 performed well on all forms of debris except cereal.
Overall, a good performance.
Cleaning Hardwood Floors
When it comes to hardwood floors, the V11 had a clear edge.
Although the V8 performed similarly against rice, sugar, and cat litter, the tests with cereal revealed the V8 to be of lower performance.
Cleaning Low Pile Carpets
The results of these two models for cleaning low-pile carpets were identical, with both showing similar performance in all the debris categories.
Despite the fact that the Dyson V8 and the V11 use two separate cleaning heads, there wasn’t any significant difference in efficiency.
Included Accessories
There are some differences in the accessories included as well, but they are minor in comparison to the other aspects.
The actual differences vary slightly depending on the selected model. The complete list of accessories included with each model can be found below.
Accessories For The Dyson V8
Accessories for the Dyson V8 include a wall mount, charger, motorized brushroll, wand, and cleaning tools.
Parts and accessories included with the Dyson V8 Absolute are as follows:
- Direct Drive head
- Fluffy head for cleaning
- Combination tool
- Extension wand
- Crevice tool
- Motorized brushroll (mini)
- Dusting brush (mini)
- Charger
- Docking station
The Dyson V8 Animal has all the same accessories and parts as the Absolute, with the exception of the dusting brush and the Fluffy head for cleaning.
Accessories For The Dyson V11
The V11 Torque Drive, on the other hand, comes with the following accessories and parts:
- Extension wand
- Torque Drive head for cleaning
- Crevice tool
- Combination tool
- Motorized tool (mini)
- Dusting brush (mini)
- Docking station
- Charger
- Dirt brush
Except for the mini dusting brush, the V11 Animal comes with all the accessories and parts mentioned above.
Here’s a short rundown of what each of the accessories covers:
- Charger: links to the handheld section of the device and plugs into a wall outlet to charge the battery before cleaning periods
- Docking station: attaches to the wall and helps you to store your Dyson.
- Extension wand: adds additional length to a stick version or extends the reach of a handheld vacuum.
- Quick-release dusting brush (mini): contains soft bristles bound together for cleaning blinds, furniture, and fans.
- Combination tool: combines a dusting brush and a crevice tool into a quick-action device.
- Quick-release crevice tool: this tool is long and narrow compared to the combination tool’s crevice tip, making it ideal for working through couch cushions and other difficult-to-reach areas.
- Motorized tool (mini): motorized brushes rotate in an opposite manner, making them ideal for removing pet hair from upholstery without tangles.
Dyson V8 vs V11 Operation
Many aspects of the operation are similar, although there are a few noticeable differences.
We’ll go over usability in more detail below.
Unpacking
Both the Dyson V8 and V11 arrive mostly assembled. It’s simply a matter of putting together the parts quickly to create the required vacuum, whether you are looking for a stick or handheld version.
Setup
Both the models come with a wall dock that lets you hang the vacuum and the capability to store tools, while not being used.
Wall-Mounted Dyson
It is possible to connect the charger through the dock if there is a power outlet on the wall. This allows you to store and charge the device simultaneously.
Regular Use
In terms of everyday use, the models share similarities and a few main differences.
The vacuum is turned on and off with the “trigger” switch on both the V8 and the V11. When the device is not being used, this helps to avoid excess battery consumption.
The V8 has an indicator light to show the remaining charge on the battery, but it’s quite discrete. In contrast, the V11 has a larger digital monitor on the back of the motor which shows a variety of information.
The monitor shows the remaining charge on the battery as a run time counter on the Torque Drive and in the form of icons on the Animal). It lets you choose between Eco, Auto, and Boost cleaning modes.
Note that, the higher the cleaning mode, the more powerful the suction, and the quicker the battery would drain.
Clearing The Dust Bin
Emptying the dust bin is another aspect in which these 2 models vary.
Clearing V8 Bin
The Dyson V8 has a pull lever at the rear of the cyclones that lets the cyclones and filter move up and the particles fall into a garbage can below.
To open the dust bin, pull up on the flap (red tab at the top).
Clearing V11 Bin
Emptying the bin on the V11 is more of a simple process. Rather than a pull lever at the top of the device, you slide a lever located down on the side of the bin.
During the procedure, the dust bin propels forward, making the lid open and allowing the debris to fall out.
It is to be remembered that in order to clear the bin canister on the V11, all attachments must be removed.
Although the V8 does not require the attachments to be removed, it is much easier to clear the bin if they are removed.
Cost Of Maintenance – Dyson V8 vs V11 Battery
Another difference between the Dyson V8 and the Dyson V11 is the cost of maintenance.
There has been a significant increase in battery capacity between the Dyson V8 vs V11 in the three years between their releases.
While the V11’s run time is just 20 minutes higher than the V8’s run time of 40 minutes, Dyson claims that the V11’s battery would last about 5 times longer.
According to Dyson, the V8’s battery can last 3-5 years, while the Dyson V11’s battery is supposed to last around 15 years.
- The V8’s annual operating costs are largely determined by the battery life. A new Dyson V8 battery costs about $50. So, if it operates and lasts for 5 years, the annual expense would be $10.
- The Dyson V11’s annual operating costs are effectively $0 per year due to the battery’s long life cycle.
Run Time
The V8 has a 40-minute run time, while the V11 can last for about 60 minutes.
And that’s only when it comes to battery comparisons. Other features of the V11 model that extend the battery life are described below:
Smart Suction Control
The V11 can change suction automatically depending on the type of floor it’s on. This keeps the device from overusing suction power in places where it isn’t required, allowing it to save power for deep cleaning.
Of course, you can always manually change the cleaning setting to your preferred suction level (Eco, Auto, and Boost).
Digital display
The V11 has a digital display at the rear of the motor that lets you monitor how much battery life you have left.
The Torque Drive version displays a numerical run time counter, while the V11 Animal shows it in the form of a battery icon that is receding. The amount of cleaning time left gets adjusted based on the current cleaning mode.
Click-In Battery
A click-in battery is also included with the Dyson 11 (each model version). Only one battery is included, but you can buy more if you would like a longer run time. A click-in battery setup is not used in the V8.
HEPA Filter
Both the Dyson V8 and the V11 come with HEPA filters that are washable and can be used for a long time. This is a useful feature because it saves the consumer from having to replace filters on a regular basis, which can be expensive.
To maintain these filters in good working order, wash them once a month in cold water and let them air dry for a day.
Noise Level
The V11 has less noise compared to the V8, but the results could differ depending on the cleaning mode and type of flooring you’re working with.
The noise level was measured from 3 feet away while each device was running in the selected cleaning setting.
Noise Based On Cleaning Mode
Dyson V8
- Standard: 73 decibels
Dyson V11
- Eco: 70 decibels
- Auto: 75 decibels
- Boost: 78 decibels
The Ability To Maneuver
The maneuverability of the V8 and V11 is another point of similarity between the 2 models.
Both models are identical in size and have cleaning equipment and accessories that are similar.
The most notable distinction is the location of the dust bin. The bin is positioned perpendicular to the extension wand on the Dyson V8, while the Dyson V11 follows an in-line assembly.
Both models, however, have a comfortable recline and are able to comfortably fit under furniture, as well as turn around obstacles or make close turns.
When used as a handheld, the in-line setup makes the V11 feel a bit heavier. This is because the center of gravity is at a distance from your arm, increasing the length of the handheld slightly compared to the V8.
Value For Money
The V8 and V11 have a similar overall design. However, they have different features and benefits that may make one better than the other depending on your needs.
Dyson V8 Benefits
The V8 is less expensive, which could make it a better option for certain users.
It has high cleaning efficiency, a run time of 40 minutes, and comes with the Direct Drive and Fluffy cleaning heads (Absolute version).
Dyson V11 Benefits
The Dyson V11, on the other hand, costs more but comes with a range of additional features.
It has a greater cleaning efficiency, a run time of 60 minutes (20 minutes higher than the V8), and the Torque Drive head, which Dyson claims to clean up to 25% more than the Direct Drive head.
The V11 also comes with smart suction technology, a bigger dust bin, and a digital screen that allows you to adjust cleaning modes, display performance, and maintenance videos, and access the remaining battery power.
Conclusion
The V8 is a fantastic cordless Dyson stick vacuum in the mid-range. It not only has more advanced features than some of the basic Dyson V6 models, but it is also less expensive than the more advanced V11 model.
The Dyson V8 is a good choice if you want:
- Cleaning results: The V8 model has a high overall cleaning rating, despite the V8’s slightly low suction power.
- Fluffy head: Whether you mainly vacuum hardwood floors or constantly clean a lot of debris, the Fluffy head can be a great addition. This head only comes with the V8 Absolute; none of the V11 versions have it.
- Cheaper price: If you’re just concerned about the bottom line, the V8 costs about half as much as the V11.
The V11 is the company’s newer model, and it has all the advanced features of the cordless V-Series stick vacuums. The Dyson V11 would be the right choice if you want the new Dyson technology, longer run time and outstanding cleaning efficiency.
Go for the Dyson V11 if you want:
- More suction: The V11 has more suction than the V8, reaching a maximum of 185 aW (maximum output is 115 AW for V8). This is the most amount of suction we’ve seen compared to most cordless stick vacuums, achieving the levels of some full-size upright vacuum cleaners.
- Digital monitor: The Dyson V11 is so far the only model with a digital monitor. This is a cutting-edge feature that allows you to switch cleaning modes easily and see the approximate remaining operating time.
- Click-in battery: A click-in battery is a useful feature because it helps you to remove the battery easily (if it dies) and replace it with charged batteries. This allows you to expand the V11’s cleaning range and run time even more.
- Smart suction: The smart suction is a fine addition to the Dyson V11, extending the operating time. This feature enables the vacuum to operate with less noise when extra suction and power aren’t needed.