I’ve tested and reviewed the Dyson V10 and V11 in separate posts. Both are excellent vacuum cleaners with similar performances. However, given the added technology on the V11, it’s often the apparent pick between the two if you’re willing to spend a little more.
But there's still some nuance to consider. In this post, I’ll compare the two to help you make a decision. Remember, it’s not about the vacuum's fanciness; you must consider your use case: what you’re trying to clean and where, i.e., the type of floor and how often it needs to be cleaned.
Dyson V10 vs V11: Overview
The Dyson V11's most significant change compared to the Dyson V10 is its suction power, which is about 40% better. The V11 also has more tools, including an intelligent brush and a cordless battery system that lets you swap batteries quickly so you don’t run out of power while cleaning.
Both are stick vacuums that don’t need bags and are easy to use. You get a HEPA filter that helps capture allergens, but neither can clean wet messes. On bare floors, the V10 clears pet hair and small and bulkier debris. It is also lighter and easier to manoeuvre around obstacles and tight spaces.
If you prioritise convenience, cord-free operation, and efficient cleaning on a lower budget, the V10 makes sense. However, for the latest features, consider the V11 or Dyson’s newest V15 Vacuum Cleaner.
Dyson V10 vs V11: Specifications
Between the two vacuum cleaners, here are their key specifications:
Dyson V10
The Dyson V10 measures 123.8 x 25 x 24.2 cm, weighs 2.61 kg, and also has a 0.77 L bin capacity. It provides 150 AW suction power, runs for up to 60 minutes, and recharges in 3.5 hours. The model uses a horizontal configuration and includes a Torque Drive cleaner head.
Dyson V11
The Dyson V11 measures 125 x 25 x 22.1 cm, weighs 3 kg, and has a 0.77 L bin capacity. It delivers 185 AW suction power, runs for up to 60 minutes, and takes 4.5 hours to recharge. The vacuum uses a vertical configuration and comes with a high-torque cleaner head.
Okay, let’s dive deep.
Dyson V10 vs V11: In-Depth Comparisons
In the following sections, I pit the Dyson V10 against its successor, the V11, in a series of tests. From suction power to battery life, I’ll assess and compare their performance across various surfaces and debris types. It's not a straight win for the V11, as you may think—it gets interesting.
#1 - Vacuum type
The Cyclone V10 is a lightweight device with a handheld stick configuration to transition between floor and above-floor tasks. It ships with additional accessories for specific cleaning, such as a soft roller cleaner head for hard floors and a mini motorised tool for pet hair removal.
While the Dyson V11 maintains the design elements of Dyson vacuums, it has a slightly heavier build (3 kg) than the V10 models (2.61 kg), which impacts manoeuvrability. On the upside, the V11 is taller (126.1 cm), which is just about 3 cm taller than the Dyson V10 Absolute and base model. The differences are marginal, but they add to the V11 vacuum.
#2 - Motor and filtration technology
Dyson’s V10 vacuum cleaner packs a digital motor that spins at 125,000 rpm for good suction and thorough cleaning. The V11 takes this further with the new Dyson Hyperdymium motor, which also spins at 125,000 rpm but generates more suction to tackle the most challenging mess due to the newer technology.
As a result, the V10 Absolute has a maximum suction power of 150 AW, whereas the V11 offers 185 AW. This advancement in motor technology also enhances the V11’s cleaning performance, efficiency, and longevity.
For air filtration, both the V10 and V11 use HEPA filters with a filtration efficiency of 99.97% for particles as small as 0.3 microns. Additionally, Dyson’s fully sealed filtration system and design assure indoor air quality, making it ideal for allergy sufferers or households with pets.
The company uses washable filters for both the V10 and V11 vacuum cleaners. You can use them for the lifetime of the machine, reducing waste. The filters come off easily for cleaning and maintenance. To wash these, remove them from the vacuum, rinse under cold water, shake off any excess water, and let them air dry before reattaching them to the machine.
While I couldn’t test this, the Dyson V10 is tagged as an advanced whole-machine filtration vacuum cleaner. This means that, unlike the V11 vacuum, the V10 can capture up to 99.99% of particles as small as 0.1 microns. However, Dyson V10's product page only mentions that it:
"traps 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns."
Advanced whole-machine filtration is ideal for environments where air quality is a significant concern, whereas whole-machine filtration systems are most effective for general household cleaning and reducing allergens.
#3 - Cleaning tests
Now, for the cleaning test, I used the torque-drive cleaner head for the V10 and the high-torque cleaner head for the V11 vacuum cleaner.
I created debris by mixing specific amounts of chilli flakes, flax seeds, beans, and sugar in a straight 150 cm line on a low-pile carpet. Then, I passed over it with both machines separately and analysed the percentage pickup.
Here are the results of the carpet cleaning test:
| Power Mode | Dyson V10 | Dyson V11 |
|---|---|---|
| Mode 1 (Eco) | 4.5 | 4.7 |
| Mode 2 (Auto) | 4.6 | 4.9 |
| Mode 3 (Boost) | 4.9 | 4.9 |
The V11 marginally outperformed the V10 vacuum cleaner in eco and auto modes, which is expected, given the newer tech. However, in Boost mode, it didn’t make much of a difference. Here are the test results when I performed the same test on a tile floor with the same tools.
| Power Mode | Dyson V10 | Dyson V11 |
|---|---|---|
| Mode 1 (Eco) | 3.3 | 3.5 |
| Mode 2 (Auto) | 4.0 | 4.3 |
| Mode 3 (Boost) | 4.6 | 4.6 |
It’s evident from these tests that V11 outperforms V10. That’s expected of a successor model; however, the difference isn’t a lot. It’s basically what you pay for the slight price increase between the two models.
#4 - Battery and recharge time
Both vacuums feature rechargeable lithium-ion batteries for cordless operation. The battery of the V10 vacuum cleaner is slightly smaller than the battery of the V11 vacuum cleaner, and it has slightly different specifications. I’ve summarised the essential bits in the table below:
| Dyson V10 | Dyson V11 |
|---|---|
| 25.2 V | 25.2 V |
| 20.8 amps | 21.6 amps |
| 2600 mAmp/h | 3600 mAmp/h |
| 66 watt/h | 91 watt/h |
Dyson’s V10 falls slightly short of the V11’s battery power. However, it beats the V11 in terms of recharge time. The former has a relatively quick charging time of 3.5 hours to replenish the battery and resume cleaning.
In contrast, the Dyson V11 requires a charging period of 4.5 hours. While it's a significant increase in wait time, V11 offers an optional click-in battery, allowing you to swap out batteries should the current one run out of power. This means that you will need to purchase an additional battery, unfortunately.
#5 - Power modes and operating time
The Dyson V10 has three modes: Mode 1, Mode 2, and Boost settings. Likewise, the V11 vacuum introduces Eco, Med, and Boost modes. While the terminology differs, the functionality is similar.
One of the V11 vacuum cleaner's distinct features is that when you connect the high-torque cleaner head, the Med mode automatically switches to AUTO mode and adjusts the motor speed according to the brush roll resistance detected by the sensor of the high-torque cleaner head.
I compared the suction power of the two models in different power modes:
| Mode | V10 (AW) | V11 (AW) |
|---|---|---|
| Mode 1 (Eco) | 15.8 | 26 |
| Mode 2 (Auto) | 33.8 | 38.6 |
| Mode 3 (Boost) | 150 | 185 |
Besides suction power, both models offer different runtimes in different power modes. To test this, I used the motorised cleaner heads on both machines on a medium-pile carpet with fully charged batteries.
| Modes | Mode 1 | Mode 2 | Boost |
|---|---|---|---|
| V10 Test (min) | 63 | 30.23 | 9.14 |
| V10 Official (min) | 60 | 40 | 10 |
| V11 Test (min) | 76.14 | 44.17 | 8.52 |
| V11 Official (min) | 60 | 40 | 10 |
The Dyson V11’s runtime outperformed the V10. I reckon this is due to its advanced battery-optimisation technology and motor.
#6 - Controls and display
There's a power slider on the Dyson V10 vacuum to adjust the power mode. Above the battery, there’s a display area with three bars, indicating the remaining battery life. You'll also find a couple of lights indicating clogs and potential filter issues, where applicable.
For the Dyson V11, you get an LCD control panel that displays the power mode and the remaining runtime, counting down in real time, which is a really nice feature. You also get maintenance alerts to monitor your vacuum's status and make informed decisions to optimise cleaning efficiency.
The absence of a digital display in the V10 does not detract from its cleaning capabilities. For the V11, it improves user-friendliness and convenience. And I found it very useful during my tests.
#7 - Operating noise level
Both Dyson models provide good suction with minimal noise. To test this properly, I mounted the torque-drive cleaner head on the V10 and a high-torque cleaner head on the V11. Then, I placed a digital sound level meter 90 cm in front of the cleaner heads. Here are the noise level recordings:
| Mode | V10 (dB) | V11 (dB) |
|---|---|---|
| Mode 1 | 63.2 | 63.7 |
| Mode 2 | 71.4 | 68.4 |
| Boost | 72.5 | 71.0 |
The V11 edges out the V10, albeit slightly. Both vacuums are reasonably quiet compared to other competitors on the market.
#8 - Available accessories
Accessories ensure efficient cleaning on various surfaces and allow you to reach tight spaces easily. Both Dyson models feature similar accessories and attachments designed for multiple cleaning use cases.
The table below summarises all of it:
| Dyson V10 | Dyson V11 |
|---|---|
| Motorbar Cleaner Head Crevice Tool Combination Tool Dock Station Charger Hair Screw Tool Fluffy Cleaner Head |
Motorbar Cleaner Head Crevice Tool Combination Tool Dock Station Charger Hair Screw Tool Optional Click-in Battery |
Available accessories and attachments are key differentiating factors when deciding on a vacuum cleaner. I highly recommend choosing a vacuum with the necessary accessories that suit your regular vacuuming needs and floor type to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.
#9 - Price
The Dyson Cyclone V10 costs slightly less than the Dyson V11. This makes them more accessible options if you want reliable cordless vacuuming on a budget without the need for the latest innovations.
On the other hand, the Dyson V11 Vacuum Cleaner, with its enhanced performance and advanced features such as the LCD screen and optional click-in battery, commands a higher price. I recommend them for the new technology and additional cleaning functionalities.
How to Choose a Vacuum Cleaner?
The first step in choosing a vacuum cleaner is to assess your specific cleaning needs. Consider the size of your home, the type of flooring you have (e.g., carpet, hardwood, tile), and whether you have pets that shed.
For example, if you have a large home with mostly carpeting, you'll want a vacuum with strong suction and a motorised brush roll. Likewise, if you have allergies or pets, look for a vacuum with a HEPA filter.
Once you know what you need, compare vacuums based on key features like suction power, filtration, weight, cord length, and attachments. For instance, bagged vacuums are easier to empty than bagless models, but bagless ones are more eco-friendly. Consider the weight and manoeuvrability; lightweight vacuums are easier to carry upstairs and push around furniture.
Most vacuums come with attachments such as crevice tools and dusting brushes, but the specific tools included can vary. Be sure to weigh the pros and cons of every vacuum option based on your needs.
Mark Thompson
FAQs
Do Dyson V10 tools fit V11?
Yes, Dyson V10 tools are compatible with the V11 vacuum cleaner. The V10 and V11 use the same attachments and accessories, so any tools you have for the V10, such as the crevice tool, mini motorised tool, and soft dusting brush, will also work with the V11 model.
The V11 has a new torque drive cleaner head, but you can still use the older V10 cleaner head if you prefer. The batteries and chargers are also interchangeable.
Do Dyson V10 and V11 use the same filter?
The Dyson V10 and V11 models use the same type of filter, a lifetime washable HEPA filter. This means you do not need to purchase replacement filters frequently, as both models are built for easy maintenance through regular washing.
Can Dyson V11 be used on carpets?
The Dyson V11 is particularly effective on low- to medium-pile carpets. It may struggle with deep piles or thick rugs and not effectively pick up dirt and debris in these areas. For optimal performance, I recommend using the higher suction settings on carpets.
Laura Kemp
Who Won the Battle?
I hope that, based on these tests, you can make an informed decision about your purchase, taking into account your personal preferences, cleaning needs, and budget. For cleaning, here's my summary:
- The Dyson V10 Absolute is your budget option for carpet cleaning, but if you can afford it, choose the V11 vacuum cleaner.
- If you have a lot of handheld work to do, Dyson's V10 is best due to its lightweight design. On the downside, it has a limited runtime compared to the V11 vacuum cleaner.
- For delicate floor surfaces such as hardwood, laminate, or tile, the soft, fluffy, cleaner head of the Dyson V10 is gentler, preventing scratches or damage while effectively capturing dust and debris.
The filtration system is pretty much the same. Additionally, the hair screw tool is exclusive to the V10 Absolute and V11 models. If you are a pet owner or allergy-sensitive, consider either the affordable V10 Absolute or the more advanced V11 model for significantly improved efficiency.
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