Dyson V8 vs. V11: Comparing Dyson Cordless Vacuums
Choosing Between the Dyson V8 and V11
Key Specs Breakdown
If you're looking for a cut-and-dry comparison of these vacuums, this chart breaks down the essential specs of each vacuum to make it easier to decide.
| Vacuum Model | Suction Power | Attachments | Battery Life (Normal) | Battery Life (Max Mode) | LED Screen | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| V8 | 115 AW | Hair Screw Tool, Crevice Tool, Combination Tool | 40 minutes | 7 minutes | No | 5.58 lbs. | $539 |
| V11 | 185 AW | Hair Screw Tool, Crevice Tool, Combination Tool | 60 minutes | 5 minutes | Yes | 6.59 lbs. | $629 |
Suction Power: How Much Do You Need?
Suction power is arguably the most important feature of a vacuum. The V8 features 115 AW (air watts) and the V11 has 185 AW of suction power. That's a pretty big difference. However, that doesn't automatically mean the V11 is better for you. If your home only has hard floors or you supplement your floor care with a robot vacuum or a steam mop, you might not need as much suction power as possible. Dyson also claims the V8 is good for homes with pets, but if you own multiple pets or even one dog that sheds a lot, you may want to upgrade to the V11. If you have carpet in your home that needs more powerful suction to remove debris, the V11 is also a better choice for you.
Bin Capacity & Emptying
To empty the Dyson V8, hold by the handle and pull the red lever back, then lift up to open the bin. The Dyson V11 features a "point and shoot" design for seamless emptying; just hold the machine over your trash can and push the red release lever. Both bins are easy to empty, so there's no clear winner here.
Battery Life
The V8 runs for up to 40 minutes on normal mode, while the V11 can run for 60 minutes. However, the V8 can run for 7 minutes on Max mode compared to the V11's 5 minutes on Boost mode. But when you consider the big boost in suction power on the V11, you might find that it makes more sense to invest in a vacuum that's more powerful to start, and use Boost mode less often. The V11 also has Eco mode, which the V8 does not, which is designed to preserve battery life over long stretches of cleaning.
Vacuum Controls
If you're looking for the simplest operation, the V8 might suit you better. There's one switch that lets you toggle between Normal and Max mode. The V11 has a small button on the top that lets you switch between Auto, Boost and Eco mode, and isn't much more complicated to operate.
Attachments
In this case, it's a tie. Both vacuums come with the hair screw tool, which picks up long hair and pet hair while preventing tangling; the combination tool, which can switch between cleaning and dusting; and the crevice tool, which is ideal for cleaning along floorboards or on staircases. Each comes equipped with Dyson's Motorbar™ cleaner head, which automatically clears the brush bar as you vacuum.
Ease of Use
Depending on your home's floors, you're vacuuming a couple times a week or even daily. How comfortable and easy your vacuum is to use matters. In terms of comfort, the V8's lighter build may come in handy for longer stretches of cleaning. On the other hand, only the V11 has the LED screen that lets you know how much battery is left, so your vacuum doesn't die unexpectedly. Both can be wall mounted, so they're easy to store and keep the attachments handy. Both cordless vacuums can also be used as handhelds, great for upholstery or cars.
Budget Considerations
Of course, you also need to consider how much you're willing to spend. Dyson vacuums aren't cheap, but that's because they're great vacuums. However, you still might have a limit of what you want to spend. The V8 retails for $539, while the V11 is $629. That's only a $90 difference for upgraded suction and longer battery life, but only you can determine your vacuum budget.
Dyson V8 vs. V11: Which Vacuum Should You Buy?
The V8 and V11 are both solid cordless vacuums, so it comes down to your preferences. If your home has more demanding cleaning needs, like carpet, pets or more square footage, you'll prefer the more powerful suction and longer battery life of the V11. If you're looking for a lighter or more affordable option, the V8 is the way to go. If there are certain features you still have questions about, or a specific use case you need to address, get assistance from Abt's appliance specialists at 800-860-3577. And if you're curious about other Dyson cordless vacuums, we also have a comparison of the Dyson V12 vs. V15.
Dyson V8 vs. V11 FAQs
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The battery lasts up to 40 minutes, depending on how old your vacuum is and which mode you're using.
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The V8 takes up to 5 hours to fully charge, depending on how much battery life is left when put on the charger.
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The V8 is definitely worth it if you have hard floors in your home. If you also have carpet or live in a larger home, though, it's worth upgrading to the V11.
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The V11's suction power is 185 AW (air watts).
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No, the V11 doesn't have a light. For that, you'll have to upgrade to the V15.
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We definitely think the V11 is worth it. It has great suction power and battery life, and can clean both carpet and hard floors. It's also good for homes with pets.
