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Dyson V6 vs. V10

Derek Hales

Written By: Derek Hales

Updated on:

Dyson V6 vs V10 vacuum comparison

Dyson has been evolving their V-series stick vacuum for many years now, each model getting progressively better than the last. In this review we’ll look at the Dyson V6 vs. V10.

The V6 is the most basic Dyson model and the V10 is the newest model to be released. Is the high price of the V10 really worth the extra money over the Dyson V6.

Continue reading to find out!

Dyson V6Dyson V10
Dyson V6 Cord-Free stick vacuum reviewDyson V10 Absolute stick vacuum review
Battery2,200 mAh2,600 mAh
Run Time20 minutes60 minutes
Recharge3.5 hours3.5 hours
Dustbin0.4 L0.75 L
Weight4.5 lbs5.8 lbs
Noise76 dB75 dB
Cleaning95%99%
Maintenance$18 / year$0 / year
PriceCheck PriceCheck Price

Design

The Dyson V6 stick vacuum has a similar look to the Dyson Cyclone V10, in that the there is a three part system.

The cleaning head on the floor, the extension wand, and the in-hand component, which houses the battery, motor, cyclone system, and on/off trigger.

Each differing model of Dyson features a new color to help it stand apart from the Dyson pack.

Regardless of whether you select the V6, the V10 or something in between, the color does not change. Color is determined based on the specific model you select.

The Dyson V6 comes in two different models at Dyson.com:

  • Dyson V6 Fluffy – only includes the fluffy roller cleaner head, which is best suited for hardwood floors.
  • Dyson V6 Absolute – includes the direct drive cleaner head, which is best for carpets, in addition to the fluffy roller head. Includes more accessory tools.

On the other hand, the Dyson V10 only offers three different options:

  • Dyson V10 Absolute – includes both the torque drive cleaner head (great for carpets, safe for hard floors, but may struggle with larger debris on hard floors) and fluffy cleaning head (best for hardwood floors). Also includes more accessory tools.
  • Dyson V10 Animal – only includes the torque drive cleaner head (great for carpets, safe for hard floors, but may struggle with larger debris on hard floors). Includes extra attachments for pet hair removal.
  • Dyson V10 Motorhead – only includes the direct drive cleaner head (great for carpets, safe for hard floors, but may struggles with larger debris on hard floors).

To learn more about the different Dyson models, check out our complete Dyson Vacuum Review Guide here.

This review is going to compare the Dyson V6 to the Dyson Cyclone V10 stick vacuum.

Dyson V6 vs. V10 vacuum comparison review
Dyson V6 vs. V10 vacuum comparison review

How It Cleans

CYCLONE DESIGN | Both the Dyson V6 and Dyson V10 stick vacuums clean using Dyson’s patented cyclone cleaning system. A series of cyclones help to spin the dirt and dust, using the power of centrifuge to filter minute debris and particulate.

Although similar in design, the cyclone assembly of the V10 is very sleek. The V6 uses a 15-cyclone design, while the V10 uses a 14-cyclone design.

Dyson V6 vs. V10 dust bin canister review
Dyson V6 vs. V10 dust bin canister review

CLEANING HEADS | Both vacuums have the option to include one or two cleaning heads. One cleaning head, the “Direct Drive” head uses rotating bristles and agitate and release dirt, dust, and debris from carpeted surfaces. The “Fluffy” cleaning head uses a soft roller to suck up debris, especially large debris, from hard floors and surfaces.

The model you select may include one or more cleaning heads. See the list below:

  • Dyson V10 Absolute includes – both torque drive cleaning head and fluffy cleaning head
  • Dyson V10 Animal includes – only torque drive cleaning head
  • Dyson V10 Motorhead includes – only direct drive drive cleaning head
  • Dyson V6 Motorhead includes – both direct drive and fluffy cleaning head
  • Dyson V6 Fluffy includes – only fluffy cleaning head
V6 vs V10 Dyson vacuum cleaner heads
V6 vs V10 Dyson vacuum cleaner heads

2-in-1 DESIGN | These Dysons work as a stick vacuum or a portable handheld, by simply removing the extension wand attachment. As a handheld, they have the same motor and dust bin capacity as when used as a handheld. Both vacuum styles operate free of any cords, relying on the battery for power.

The Dyson V10 can be used as a handheld vacuum
The Dyson V10 can be used as a handheld vacuum

Size & Dimensions

The Dyson V6  is 47.5” high and 9.8” wide. Overall, it weighs about 4.5 pounds.

Comparably, the Dyson V10 , is 49.2” long and 10” wide. The V10 weighs in at 5.9 pounds.

Despite its heavier weight, the Dyson V10 has an important redesign that allows this vacuum to feel lighter and easier to maneuver.

The motor, dust bin, and cyclones have been aligned in this model, which creates better airflow, a stronger suction, and enhanced cleaning performance.

Dyson V6 Size

  • Height: 47.5″
  • Length: 9.8″
  • Depth: 8.2″
  • Weight: 5.1 lbs.

Dyson V10 Size

  • Height: 49.2″
  • Length: 9.8″
  • Depth: 10.1″
  • Weight: 5.9 lbs.

Accessories & Parts

Please note, the following table indicates the parts that came with Dyson models we tested, the Dyson V6 HEPA (2017 model) and Dyson Cyclone V10 Absolute (2018 model). Different models come with different accessories and extras.

#AccessoryDyson V6Dyson V10
1WandYesYes
2Charger YesYes
3Wall mountYesYes
4Direct Drive brushrollYesNo
5Torque Drive brushrollNoYes
6Fluffy brushroll NoYes
7Combination tool YesYes
8Crevice toolYesYes
9Dusting brushYesYes
10Mini-motorized toolNoYes
Dyson V6 vs V10 stick vacuum comparison review - parts and accessories
Dyson V6 (on right) vs V10 (on left) stick vacuum comparison review – parts and accessories

Dyson currently offers two cleaning heads— both the V6 and the V10 may include both cleaning heads.

Be sure to double check the specs to know which heads are included with your model. The main differences between the two cleaning heads are:

  1. Direct Drive cleaning head: Best used for vacuuming carpeted floors (but still safe on hardwood floors) and fine debris. Brush agitators spin and help release dirt and debris from deep within carpet fibers.
  2. Fluffy cleaning head: This is a soft roller cleaning head, best used for vacuuming hardwood floors. Good at removing larger debris from hard surfaces.

Dyson V6 Accessories

Aside from the cleaning head, the Dyson V6 includes the following tools:

  • Charger: plugs into a standard wall outlet to charge you vacuum
  • Docking station: allows your vacuum to charge while hanging from the wall
  • Extension wand: when using as a stick vacuum, this wand provides rigid stability as you clean
  • Mini soft dusting brush: used for cleaning wood surfaces or delicate areas that could use a gentle dusting
  • Combination tool: doubles as a dusting brush and rigid hose attachment
  • Cervice tool: designed to help you reach narrow or tight spaces
  • Mini motorhead tool: this tool helps clean upholstery and remove pet hair from fabrics

If you purchase from Dyson.com, you also have the option to add any additional three cleaning tools at no extra cost, when you auto register your vacuum. You can choose from the:

  • Mini soft dusting brush: best used for dusting areas that you don’t want to scratch; wide surface coverage
  • Multi-angle brush: when attached, this dusting brush is perpendicular to the hose attachment
  • Mattress tool: helps to clean dirt and allergens from the surface of your mattress
  • Stiff bristle brush: stiff bristles help to break apart dirt and debris that are dried into your surfaces
  • Dyson tool bag: holds Dyson tools and accessories, handy for a car or small closet

Dyson V10 Accessories

In comparison, the Dyson V10 includes the following tools:

  • Charger: plugs into a wall outlet and powers up your vacuum after each cleaning cycle
  • Docking station: attached to the walls and provides a place for your Dyson to hang while it charges
  • Mini soft dusting brush (quick release): a wide angle brush that is used for dusting and cleaning a variety of surfaces
  • Mini motorhead tool (quick release): uses rotating bristles to help collect dirt and debris, especially pet hair from upholstered surfaces
  • Crevice tool (quick release): allows you to access tight or narrow spaces that would be otherwise be very hard to reach
  • Combination tool (quick release): doubles as a dusting tool and short hose or crevice tool

The V10 offers the same tool deal for auto-registration. With this model, you can choose from the:

  • Up-top adapter (quick release): can snap into different positions and angles for cleaning up high, serves as a joint between the extension wand and cleaning tools
  • Soft dusting brush (quick release): snaps on for gentle dusting of flat surfaces and furniture
  • Mattress tool (quick release): used to clean mattresses or upholstery
  • Dyson tool bag: holds a variety of Dyson tools, great for keeping in your car or small closet

RELATED – Who is the best of the best when it comes to cleaning? Find out in our best vacuums guide.

Cleaning Tests

At Modern Castle, we put all of the vacuums through our standard vacuum cleaning tests. These cleaning tests are designed to test a vacuum’s full range of cleaning performance, from large debris to small. 

We perform a total of 12 debris tests, using 3 different flooring types and 4 types of debris. We test on engineered hardwoods, low pile carpet, and high pile carpet.

On each of those floor types, we test rice, dry cereal, kitty litter, and sugar.

  • Rice – 3 ounces
  • Dry Cereal – 1 ounce
  • Kitty Litter – 3 ounces
  • Sugar – 3 ounces
Cleaning test debris types
Testing Debris – From left to right: Rice (3 oz.), Kitty Litter (3 oz), Cereal (1 oz), Sugar (3 oz)

Hardwood Floor Cleaning Tests

On hardwood floors, the performance between the Dyson V6 vs. V10 was pretty similar.

Both of these vacuums performed exceptionally well against rice, kitty litter, and sugar. Large cereal debris proved to be a bit more of a struggle with the Dyson V6.

While the Dyson V10 performed flawlessly during our official cereal test, we did notice the rare hiccup with larger debris on hardwood floors while shooting our video reviews.

During some of those video shoots were noticed slight clogging when we vacuumed large cereal piles super fast. That said, we weren’t able to replicate it consistently, so it’s a problem we think is fairly rare.

Dyson V6 Cleaning Performance

Cereal

50%

Kitty Litter

100%

Rice

99%

Sugar

100%

Dyson V10 Cleaning Performance

Cereal

100%

Kitty Litter

100%

Rice

98%

Sugar

100%

Low Pile Carpet Cleaning Tests

On low carpet, the Dyson V6 and Dyson Cyclone V10 continued to excel for the rice, kitty litter, and sugar tests. The V10 did break out of the pack a little bit here, as you can see, where it collected 99% of cereal debris during the large debris test.

The V6 collected 26% more large debris than it did on the hardwood tests, but still fell short of where the V10 performed at.

Dyson V6 Cleaning Performance

Cereal

76%

Kitty Litter

100%

Rice

100%

Sugar

99%

Dyson V10 Cleaning Performance

Cereal

99%

Kitty Litter

99%

Rice

99%

Sugar

100%

High Pile Carpet Cleaning Tests

The high pile carpet test was extremely similar to the low pile carpet results. As you can see, continued success with cleaning the rice, kitty litter, and sugar.

The V10 swept the cereal test, capturing 100% of the debris, while the V6 only collected 70%.

If you frequently have large debris spills on carpet, you may find the V10 to be a better fit for that particular type of spill.

For more information on cleaning performance see our complete Dyson V6 review and Dyson V10 review.

Dyson V6 Cleaning Performance

Cereal

70%

Kitty Litter

100%

Rice

100%

Sugar

99%

Dyson V10 Cleaning Performance

Cereal

100%

Kitty Litter

100%

Rice

99%

Sugar

100%

Usability

The usability between the Dyson V6 vs. Dyson V10 is pretty similar, but there are a few key differences.

Unboxing

Both the V6 and V10 arrive mostly assembled. There are a number of parts and accessories with each model, so it may take some extra time to unwrap each piece from its packaging. That being said, once unwrapped, all that’s left is to click a few pieces into place and charge it up.

Setup

Setting up these Dyson vacuums is also quite simple. Because these are cordless, you’ll just need to charge the batteries before you’re ready to clean. The V6 and the V10 both take around 3.5 hours to charge, despite their different battery capacities.

Daily Use

For daily use, the Dyson V6 and Dyson V10 continue to have similarities, true marks of a Dyson. Both vacuums use the “trigger” on/off button, which means the vacuum only runs when your finger is on the trigger. This feature is great for conserving battery life.

2-in-1

Both the V6 and the V10 can operate as a handheld or stick vacuum with the simple push of a button. These vacuums come with attachments that work with the vacuum assembled as a handheld or as a stick with the extension wand.

Emptying the Dust Bin

EWhen you’re done cleaning and it’s time to empty the bin, here’s where another key difference appears. The Dyson V6 has a canister that empties with a latch at the bottom of the vacuum, that releases the debris to fall into the trash can. With this method, some people complain about dirt and debris getting on their hands.

With the V10, Dyson introduces a new technique for emptying the dust bin, simply called “Point and Shoot”.

With this technique, all you need to do is hover over the trash can and slide a button on the side of the vacuum, which unlocks the latch and empties the canister. While this method is more hygenic, we did find that the release button is surprisingly difficult to push down.

Dyson V6 vs V10 dust bin emptying technique
Dyson V6 vs V10 dust bin emptying technique

Maneuverability

Maneuverability for both the Dyson V6 and Dyson V10 vacuums is also pretty similar. They have similar buttons and directions to get cleaning. They both use color to direct the user to special features and functions.

Dyson stick vacuum comparison maneuverability
Dyson stick vacuum comparison maneuverability

PORTABILITY | The V6 is slightly smaller and lighter than the V10 so some people may find it easier to use. I would say that the V10 is a little on the heavy-side, especially when used as a handheld, but it felt quite manageable as a stick vacuum.

Also, the redesign of the shaft and aligning the motor, dust bin, and cyclones, helps this vacuum to feel very balanced in-hand.RELATED – If you need a vacuum that’s ultra portable and maneuverable see our best small vacuum cleaners guide.

CLEANING ANGLE | Both the V6 and the V10 have a comparable cleaning angle. While this isn’t an exact science, the “cleaning angle” is basically the degree at which a vacuum can lean backwards without the cleaning head lifting off the floor. Both of these vacuums have fantastic maneuverability under furniture, chair legs, or other tight spaces.

Both the Dyson V6 and Dyson V10 are capable of making a 90° turn.

Maintenance

The maintenance for both of these vacuums is easy. Some tasks should be done after every major cleaning cycle, like emptying the dustbin.

PartReplacement FrequencyDyson V6Dyson V10
Central FilterOnly if damaged or lostCheck PriceNA
HEPA FilterOnly if damaged or lostCheck PriceCheck Price
Battery~24 months Check Price Check Price

Both vacuums use a lifetime washable filter. So just wash with cold water once per month and air dry for 24 hours.

The V6 battery will last around 2’ish years, but the V10 is an advanced battery that will last for 15 years according to Dyson founder, James Dyson.

The Dyson comes with a 2-year warranty that covers the battery on both the V6 and the V10.

Dyson V6 annual maintenance costs will be around $18 / year.

Dyson V10 annual maintenance costs will be around $0 / year.

How can the V10 be $0? Since the filter is washable and the battery only needs to be replaced every 15 years, we feel like that basically brings your costs to zero.

As long as you properly take care of the unit you should have virtually zero maintenance costs.

Battery

The battery is another area where Dyson made some pretty significant changes between the V6 and the V10.

DYSON V6 BATTERY | The Dyson V6 runs off of a 2,200 mAh Lithium-ion battery. It takes about 3.5 hours to generate a full charge, can run for 6-20 minutes, depending on the cleaning mode. This battery has a 1-year warranty and can be expected to last between 1-2 years, before needing to be replaced.

DYSON V10 BATTERY | Comparably, the Dyson V10 uses a nickel-cobalt aluminum battery of 2,600 mAh. This battery also takes about 3.5 hours to charge, but has a run time between 20-60 minutes, depending on the cleaning mode. This battery also has a 1-year warranty and can be expected to last between 1-2 years.

PartDyson V6Dyson V10
Capacity2,200 mAh2,600 mAh
Charging Time3.5 hours3.5 hours
Run Time~20 minutes*~60 minutes*
Replacement CostCheck PriceCheck Price

*Exact run time based on cleaning mode and cleaning head.

Noise

Concerning noise, the Dyson V10 is slightly quieter than the V6, by one decibel. The V10 comes in around 75 dB at 3′ away, while the V6 comes in at 76 dB from 3′ away. It’s likely that this wouldn’t be much of a noticeable difference, depending on your home’s finishes and flooring types.

Dyson V6 vs V10 stick vacuum review - decibel noise test

Dyson V6 Value

With the release of the Dyson V10 as the “latest and greatest”, prices for the V6 have been dropping.

The V6 definitely falls into our $$ (moderate) pricing category. For the price, I would say that the Dyson V6 is a great value.

It has a clean aesthetic, simple design and usability, good cleaning performance on small debris messes, and a wide range of included accessories.

RELATED – What’s the best vacuum for the money? Find out in our best cheap vacuums guide

The biggest setbacks to the V6 is certainly the shorter run time and inability to tackle large debris messes.

If you have a larger home or frequent large debris messes, these issues alone could be a deal breaker, but that make not be the case for all homes.

Another minor strike against value is the older style dust bin, which is smaller and can be a little messy to empty compared to the newer V10 dust bin style.

  • Warranty – 2 years
  • Returns – Varies by retailer
  • Check Price

Dyson V10 Value

Even though the Dyson V10 comes in at roughly twice the cost of the V6, the value of the V10 is still a solid one, considering what you get.

The V10 has a bit more of a “streamline” look to it with the redesigned canister and airflow system. Usability is excellent and the newer style dust bin makes it easier and more sanitary to empty and clean.

Beyond that, cleaning performance is another bonus. While we did experience the rare hiccup with large debris on hardwood, overall performance across all of our tests was exceptional (nearly flawless).

In addition, the stronger battery provides a longer run time, roughly three times that of the Dyson V6 stick vacuum.

  • Warranty – 2 years
  • Returns – Varies by retailer
  • Check Price

RELATED – Need help keeping your home clean? See our house cleaning schedule infographic for help.

Dyson V6 vs. V10 Specifications

SpecsDyson V6Dyson V10
TypeStickStick
ManufactuterDysonDyson
ModelV6V10
Length47.5"49.2"
Width9.8"9.8"
Depth8.2"10.1"
Weight4.5 lbs.5.8 lbs.
Floor TypeAll (indoor)All (indoor)
Dustbin Capacity0.4 L0.77 L
CordlessYesYes
BaglessYesYes
ReturnsVaries by retailerVaries by retailer
Warranty2 Year limited2 Year limited
BuyCheck PriceCheck Price

A 2-in-1 Stick Vacuum With Amazing Suction

moderncastle-fs-table__image

Dyson V10 Stick Vacuum

The Dyson V10 features the strongest suction we’ve seen from a Dyson stick vacuum to date and includes a number of accessories and attachments. It’s lightweight and the 2-in-1 capability adds to its overall versatility. Check Price

Dyson V6 vs. V10? Dyson V10 is better, but V6 still a solid option.

If you can swing the hefty price tag, the Dyson V10 is a real winner here. The extra accessories, extended run time, and more powerful motor are all factors that contribute to the excellent cleaning performance of the V10 model.

Its performance is clearly superior. That said, if you’re on a budget the Dyson V6 is still a solid vacuum and great value.Check Price

Should You Buy the Dyson V6?

The Dyson V6 stick vacuum is a nice value, comes in at a lower price point, while still offering great cleaning performance. It easily converts between a stick vacuum and handheld for added versatility within the home.

You Should Buy If You…

  1. Want a lower price – If you want a Dyson stick vacuum, but don’t want to spend the higher cost, the V6 is a great option. With the release of the V10, prices for the V6 are decreasing, without sacrificing any of the features of the V6. It’s a Dyson with a shorter run time, but the price is right.
  2. Want a lighter vacuum – If you’re particularly concerned about the weight of the vacuum, the Dyson V6 is over a pound lighter than the Dyson V10 vacuum.
  3. Prefer more frequent, shorter cleaning cycles: The V6 does have a shorter run time compared to the V10, but it may be sufficient for smaller homes or people who like to tackle quick messes as they happen, instead of whole-house cleaning cycles.

For more information or to buy check out the Dyson V6 here.

Should You Buy the Dyson V10?

The Dyson V10 Absolute stick vacuum is among one of the top performers among all vacuum cleaners we’ve tested to date. Being Dyson’s newest release, it has the longest battery life and most powerful suction of any cordless Dyson, to date.

The extra accessories, like the soft roller cleaning head and varied cleaning tools make the V10 usable in the home, in the car, or anywhere else messes may be.

You Should Buy If You…

  1. Want a longer battery life – The V10 has a battery life of up to 60 minutes in the regular cleaning mode. By comparison, the V6 only lasts a maximum of 20 minutes.
  2. Want increased suction power – The V10’s redesign creates a vacuum that has increased air flow by aligning all the major parts of the vacuum, the cyclones, motor, and dust bin. This design combined with the stronger motor all contribute to the stronger suction power.
  3. Want a more-hygienic dust bin – The redesign of the dust bin emptying mechanism gives the V10 a “point and shoot” approach. A small lever on the side of the vacuum unlatches the lid to the dust bin and the debris empties into the trash, without ever touching dirt or even the canister lid.

For more information or to buy check out the Dyson V10 here.

About Derek Hales

Derek HalesDerek Hales is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of ModernCastle.com. He has been featured in Fast Company, Reader's Digest, Business Insider, Realtor.com, She Knows, and other major publications. Derek has a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from Kansas State University. Hales has been testing and reviewing products for the home since 2014.