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Dyson V8 vs. V10

Derek Hales

Written By: Derek Hales

Updated on:

This vacuum comparison review is going to look at the Dyson V8 vs. V10 vacuums and put them to the test.

Both of these vacuums are powerful stick vacuums in Dyson’s V Series lineup. But is the Dyson V10 worth the extra cost over the V8?

Dyson V Absolute Vacuum Thumbnail
Dyson V8
  • Battery: 2,800 mAh
  • Run Time: 40 minutes
  • Recharge: 5.5 hours
  • Dustbin: 0.54 L
  • Weight: 5.8 lbs
Dyson V Absolute Vacuum Review
Dyson V10
  • Battery: 2,600 mAh
  • Run Time: 60 minutes
  • Recharge: 3.5 hours
  • Dustbin: 0.77 L
  • Weight: 5.9 lbs

Dyson V8 vs. V10 Differences

The Dyson V10 has a higher max suction (145 AW vs. 115 AW), a longer run time (60 minutes vs. 40 minutes), and a more powerful brushroll (Torque Drive vs. Direct Drive). They both include similar accessories.

Prefer to watch rather than read? See our comprehensive Dyson V8 vs. V10 review video below.

YouTube video

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.

Dyson Cleaning Test Performance

Dyson V8

95%

Dyson V10

99%

Hardwood Floor Cleaning

When cleaning hardwoods, the Dyson V8 and V10 had similar results (mostly).

Both the V8 and V10 did an excellent job of collecting rice, kitty litter, and sugar. However, the V8 did struggle more with the cereal test compared to the V10. That said, we did have the fluffy cleaning head for the V10, but we did not have it for the V8.

Dyson V10 cleaning hardwood
Dyson V10 cleaning hardwood

Had we had the Dyson V8 fluffy cleaning head I expect the results would have be more similar.

If your home has any significant square footage of hardwood floors you will most likely want an Absolute version of the V8 or V10. The soft roller head makes a big difference. So much so that the V10 Absolute was awarded the #1 spot in our best vacuums for hardwood floors research piece.

Dyson V8 Results

Cereal

91%

Kitty Litter

99%

Rice

98%

Sugar

100%

Dyson V8 hardwood cleaning performance test
Dyson V8 performance on hardwoods

Dyson V10 Results

Cereal

100%

Kitty Litter

100%

Rice

98%

Sugar

100%

Dyson V10 hardwood floor cleaning tests
Dyson V10 cleaning performance tests

Low Pile Carpet Cleaning

For the low pile carpet test, we continued to use the V8 Direct Drive cleaning head and switched the Dyson V10 to the Torque-Drive cleaning head.

With these heads, both the V8 and the V10 had a nearly flawless performance on all debris tested on low pile carpet.

Dyson V8 Results

Cereal

99%

Kitty Litter

100%

Rice

97%

Sugar

100%

Dyson V8 low carpet cleaning performance test
Dyson V8 performance on low pile carpet

Dyson V10 Results

Cereal

99%

Kitty Litter

99%

Rice

99%

Sugar

100%

Dyson V10 low carpet cleaning test
Dyson V10 low carpet cleaning tests

High Pile Carpet Cleaning

Lastly, for high pile carpet, the performance was exceptional. All tests for both the V8 and V10 scored 99% or above, with the exception of the V8 rice test which scored a 93%.

Even so, this is a great score concerning overall cleaning performance.

Dyson V8 Results

Cereal

99%

Kitty Litter

99%

Rice

93%

Sugar

99%

Dyson V8 high carpet cleaning performance test
Dyson V8 performance on low pile carpet

Dyson V10 Results

Cereal

100%

Kitty Litter

100%

Rice

99%

Sugar

100%

Dyson V10 high carpet cleaning test
Dyson V10 high carpet cleaning tests

For our full testing data (in addition to before and after pictures) on all floor and debris types see our complete Dyson V8 review and Dyson V10 review.

Run Time Tests

According to Dyson, the V8 has up to a 40-minute run time and the V10 has up to a 60-minute run time. Bear in mind, these run time estimates from Dyson are based on the lowest power setting and using a non-motorized attachment.

Here is how each vacuum performed in our testing lab when we tested to see how long these vacuums could actually run for.

Dyson V8

(in minutes)

  • Normal Mode: 31:40
  • Max Mode: 8:20

Dyson V10

(in minutes)

  • Eco Mode: 49:40
  • Normal Mode: 26:50
  • Max Mode: 5:30

**Run-time tests were completed with the Torque Drive cleaning head (V10) and Direct Drive (V8)

Design Compared

The design of the Dyson V8 vs. V10 looks fairly similar. Both of them are about the same size and follow the same clean aesthetic patterns, using color to denote special features or capabilities for each model.

Dyson V8 cordless vacuum
Dyson V8

Both vacuums also have an on / off trigger switch, which powers the vacuum. If you’re not holding down the switch, your vacuum will stop running. This can be a handy feature for conserving battery life.

Dyson V10 cordless vacuum
Dyson V10

Both the Dyson V8 and Dyson V10 are also designed to alternate between a portable handheld and a powerful stick vacuum.

Easy to use accessories are designed with “quick release” latches that make it easy to go back and forth as you clean.

Dyson V8 vs. V10 vacuum comparison review
Dyson V8 (on left) vs. V10 (on right) vacuum comparison review

The biggest difference in design is the cyclone system and dust bin. On the Dyson V10, the cycles have been reworked for a more streamlined look, which resulted in a larger dust bin as well.

These small changes in design make a powerful impact on the overall cleaning performance of the Dyson V10.

How does the V8 & V10 clean?

The Dyson V8 and Dyson V10 both rely on Dyson’s patented cyclone cleaning system for powerful suction. Both vacuums use a 15-cyclone system, arranged across two tiers, but they look quite different.

Dyson V8 vs. V10 dust bin canister review
Dyson V8 (on right) vs. V10 (on left) dust bin canister review

In the case of the V8, the cyclones and dust bin are designed perpendicular to the extension wand and cleaning head, creating a T-shape. Whereas, with the V10, the dust bin is parallel to the cyclones and extension wand, creating a more streamlined look.

Cleaning Heads

The V8 comes with a “Direct-Drive” cleaning head and may also include the Fluffy cleaning head, depending on the specific model you select.

For example, the V8 Absolute comes with both cleaning heads, while the V8 Animal only includes the Direct Drive option.

V8 vs V10 Dyson vacuum cleaner heads
V8 vs V10 Dyson vacuum cleaner heads

The V10 Absolute comes with the Fluffy cleaning head (for hard floors) and the Torque Drive cleaning head (ideal for carpet, but safe for hard surfaces). Animal and Motorhead V10 variants only include the Torque Drive head.

These cleaning heads are interchangeable and with the push of a single button you can easily snap the alternate cleaning head in.

The Dyson V8 and Dyson V10 both operate as a stick vacuum or portable handheld vacuum.

When used as stick vacuums, the extension wand acts as an intermediary between the canister and the cleaning head. As a handheld, the cleaning tools snap directly into the canister and you’re good to go.

How big is the V8 & V10?

The difference in size between the Dyson V8 and V10 feels pretty negligible. The V10 model is 0.2″ taller than the V8 and 0.15 lb. heavier.

Is that a back-breaking difference? Not likely—so for the sake of this comparison, we’re going to call it a draw for size and dimensions.

Dyson V8 Size

  • Height: 49″
  • Length: 9.8″
  • Depth: 8.8″
  • Weight: 5.75 lbs.

Dyson V10 Size

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

What accessories come with the V8 & V10?

The Dyson V8 and Dyson V10 have been quite comparable up to this point, but what about accessories and parts? Is this where one breaks away from the pack?

Honestly, not really. Both of these vacuums have an almost identical collection of available parts and accessories.

#AccessoryDyson V8Dyson V10
1WandYesYes
2Charger YesYes
3Wall mountYesYes
4Direct-Drive brushrollYesNo
5Torque-Drive brushrollNoYes
6Fluffy brushroll YesYes
7Combination tool YesYes
8Crevice toolYesYes
9Dusting brushYesYes
10Mini-motorized toolYesYes

Other Versions

Please note that the table above indicates accessories that are available with the Absolute version of the Dyson V10 and V8. Other versions (ex. Animal, Motorhead) include a subset of these accessories.

The Dyson Animal includes everything except the soft “fluffy” cleaning head. The Dyson Motorhead, which is the least expensive, includes only basic accessories.

Dyson V8 vs V10 stick vacuum comparison review - parts and accessories
Dyson V8 vs V10 stick vacuum comparison review – parts and accessories

First thing first, is the cleaning head. Dyson offers three different cleaning heads for the V8 and the V10.

Depending on the specific model that you select, that will determine which cleaning head your vacuum includes.

Cleaning Heads

  1. Direct Drive cleaning head: This is only offered on the V8, not the V10. It is best used for vacuuming carpeted floors and fine debris. Brush agitators spin and help release dirt and debris from deep within carpet fibers.
  2. Torque Drive cleaning head: This cleaning serves the same purpose as the direct-drive cleaning head. It’s best on carpets, but is also safe on hard surfaces.
  3. Fluffy cleaning head: This is a soft roller cleaning head, best used for vacuuming up large debris from hard floors. This cleaning head is available with the Absolute and Fluffy versions of the V8 and V10.

Accessories Explained

Apart from the cleaning head differences, the V8 and V10 have the same included parts and accessories:

  • Charger: plugs the vacuum into a wall outlet to charge up before cleaning cycles
  • Docking station: attaches to the wall and allows you to hang up the Dyson while it charges
  • Extension wand: used for accessing high or hard-to-reach places as well as the upright portion when used as a stick vacuum
  • Mini soft dusting brush (quick release): has soft bristles that dust and clean furniture, baseboards, blinds, etc.
  • Combination tool (quick release): serves the purpose of a dusting brush and rigid hose attachment
  • Crevice tool (quick release): has an angled tip that is used in tight or hard-to-reach crevices
  • Mini motorhead tool (quick release): motorized brushes spin in opposite directions from each other and help clean pet hair from upholstery, with less tangling
Both Dyson V8 and V10 can reach into high corners and difficult to reach places.
Both Dyson V8 and V10 can reach into high corners and difficult to reach places.

How easy is it to use the Dyson V8 & V10?

Regarding usability, the Dyson V8 vs. Dyson V10 is quite similar.

Unboxing

Both vacuums arrive pretty much assembled, with extra parts. To assemble the vacuum, all that is needed is a few “quick release” latches.

These red buttons are a Dyson staple in stick vacuum models released after the Dyson V6. With a push of a button, these latches allow you to quickly and easily snap new accessories in or reconfigure your stick vacuum.

RELATED – Wonder how the V10 compares to the V6? Find out in our Dyson V6 vs. V10 vacuum battle.

Setup

Setting up these stick vacuums is also simple. Before running a clean, make sure to charge the vacuum fully. You can either use the wall docking station or simply plug the vacuum into the wall using the provided charger.

The wand snap into the cleaning head and body and with that you’re ready to clean.

Daily Use

When using the V8 or V10, the daily use is also similar for these vacuums. They turn on and off the same way, using a pressure-trigger.

To conserve battery life, these vacuums will only run if your finger is on the trigger.

Emptying the Dust Bin

Emptying the dust bin is one of the key differences in how these vacuums operate.

Dyson V8 vs V10 dust bin emptying technique
Dyson V8 vs V10 dust bin emptying technique

With the V8 vacuum, there is a latch at the top of the vacuum. Give it a pull and the top part of the cyclones slide up, unlatching the dust canister and allowing dirt and debris to fall into the trash can.

Dyson V8 dust bin
V8 dust bin empty
To empty the V10's dust bin, push down on the red level and point the end of the vacuum towards the trash can
V10 dust bin empty

With the V10, there is a sliding latch on the side of the unit. With this style, they take a “point and shoot” approach. Simply place the canister over a trash can, point, and slide the latch… or shoot. As it slides the dust bin opens and the debris falls out.

Maneuverability Compared

Because these vacuums are so similar in size, the maneuverability is also basically the same.

Dyson V8 vs. V10 - maneuverability turning angle
Dyson V8 vs. V10 – maneuverability turning angle

Both can squeeze under sofas and use the crevice tool for the hard-to-reach-places. With Dyson’s various attachments, there is a wide range of places you can use the V8 or the V10.

What are the Dyson V8 & V10 maintenance costs?

The maintenance costs for the Dyson V8 vs. V10 are notably different.

The Dyson V8 will cost around $11.50 / year in maintenance costs.

The Dyson V10 will cost virtually $0 / year in maintenance costs.

Both the Dyson V8 and V10 use a lifetime washable HEPA filter. The V8 has a lifetime washable central filter also. You only need to replace these if they are damaged or lost.

To maintain them, simply wash once per month with cold water and allow to air dry for 24 hours.

The other big difference here is the battery. In the case of the Dyson V8, you can expect it to last 3-6’ish years (warranty will cover it within the first 2 years). Our cost estimate is based on replacing it every 4 years.

The Dyson V10 is another story. Dyson’s founder, James Dyson, has been quoted saying the V10’s battery will last 15 years.

Making the replacement costs effectively zero (since you’ll probably upgrade vacuums before the battery is dead anyway).

PartReplacement FrequencyDyson V8Dyson V10
Central FilterOnly if damaged or lostCheck PriceNA
HEPA FilterOnly if damaged or lostCheck PriceCheck Price
Battery3-6 years (V8), 15 years (V10)Check Price Check Price

MORE – Have a specific cleaning surface you need to deal with? See our best vacuums for hardwoods and best vacuums for carpets guides.

How long does the battery last?

The battery between the V8 and V10 is certainly a major difference.

The V10 uses a seven-cell, nickel-cobalt-aluminum battery that can power the vacuum for up to 60 minutes. Comparably, the V8 uses a lithium-ion battery with a 40 minute run time.

With both of these vacuums, if you’re using the “Max Power” mode or motorized tools, you can expect the run time to be significantly less.

PartDyson V8Dyson V10
Capacity2,800 mAh2,600 mAh
Charging Time5 hours3.5 hours
Run Time40 minutes*60 minutes*
Replacement CostCheck PriceCheck Price

*exact run time determined by cleaning mode

Is the V8 or V10 quieter?

Concerning noise, the Dyson V8 is just slightly quieter, about 73 dB from 3′ away, compared to the V10, which is closer to 75 dB at 3′ away.

Dyson V8 vs V10 stick vacuum review - decibel noise test

Value Comparison

For a complete value assessment, let’s take a closer look at each specific model.

Dyson V8 Value

So overall, I would say that the value of the Dyson V8 is pretty good. Strictly looking at cleaning performance, this vacuum was able to keep up with the V10 on most all cleaning tests.

Dyson V8 cordless stick vacuum

The design is similar to that of the Dyson V10, in terms of usability and aesthetics. The big difference in design is the position of the dust bin.

The V8 comes with the Direct Drive cleaning head, which seemed to do equally as good of a job at cleaning as the Torque Drive cleaning head (with the V10). The V8 comes with the same accessories as the V10 so that’s a bit of a wash.

Considering that the Dyson V8 is notably less than the V10, its overall value is pretty good. Unless you need the extra-long run time of the V10, the V8 would likely suit all your needs.

  • Warranty – 2-Year
  • Returns – Varies by retailer. May vary from other retailers
  • Check Price

RELATED – Is cost the most important factor for you? Take a look at our best cheap vacuums guide or our Dyson V7 review.

Dyson V10 Value

Dyson V10 Absolute cordless vacuum

As for the Dyson V10, in my view, it’s as good if not a better value than the V8. This is especially true consider the price has declined since it launched in 2019.

The V10 has:

  • Greater suction (145 AW vs. 115)
  • A longer run time (60 mins. vs. 40)
  • Lower maintience costs ($0 / year vs. $11.50 / year)
  • A larger dust bin (0.77 L vs. 0.54 L)

It’s objectively better than the V8 in several key areas, while not being that much more expensive.

  • Warranty – 2-Year
  • Returns – Varies by retailer. May vary from other retailers
  • Check Price

RELATED – For more information on Dyson’s vacuum lineup see our complete analysis in our Dyson vacuum reviews guide.

Dyson V8 and V10 Specifications

SpecsDyson V8Dyson V10
TypeStickStick
ManufacturerDysonDyson
ModelV8V10
Length49"49.2"
Width9.8"9.8"
Depth8.8"10.1"
Weight5.75 lbs.5.9 lbs.
Floor TypeAll (indoor)All (indoor)
Dustbin Capacity0.54 L0.77 L
CordlessYesYes
BaglessYesYes
ReturnsVaries by retailerVaries by retailer
Warranty2 Year limited2 Year limited
PriceCheck PriceCheck Price

Comparison Summary

1.The Motor

The Dyson V10 runs off the V10 digital motor has 20% more suction power, compared to the V8, according to Dyson.

2. The Airflow

The Dyson V10 has been redesigned to have more efficient airflow and more powerful suction.

The cyclones, dust bin, and cleaning head have all been aligned to help to provide stronger suction and, in turn, help the vacuum be more efficient.

3. The Run Time

The Dyson V10 also uses an improved, fade-free battery that allows for up to 60 minutes of run time, compared to 40 minutes of run time on the V8.

Should You Buy the Dyson V8?

The Dyson V8 is a great option if you want a longer run time compared to the V6 / V7, but don’t want to pay the higher price tag for the Dyson V10.

Looking specifically at cleaning performance, the V8 was a real contender against the V10, coming within a percent or two for most of the tests.

You Should Buy the Dyson V8 If You…

  1. Want a lower price – With the new release of the V10, older models like the V8 are declining in price. Purchasing a model that is a couple of years old can be a great way to snag a deal, as is the case with the Dyson V8.
  2. Don’t need the extra run time – The 20-minute run time of the Dyson V6 may be a little short for some people, while the 60-minute run time of the V10 could feel a little excessive. If you want some time in the middle, the V8 provides that middle-ground between quality and value.
  3. Want multiple cleaning heads – If you want two cleaning heads, the V8 comes with the direct-drive cleaner head as well as the soft roller cleaner head (with the V8 Absolute model).

For more information or to buy check out the Dyson V8 here.

Should You Buy the Dyson V10?

The Dyson V10 is among the best vacuums that Dyson builds.

Dyson is such a fan of it that James Dyson himself was quoted saying that the launch of the V10 is “why I’ve stopped developing corded vacuums.” The vacuum is lightweight and portable, yet has a large dust bin and provides powerful suction.

You Should Buy the Dyson V10 If:

  1. Want a longer run time – Compared to the V8, the V10 offers 20 extra minutes of run time, for a total of a 60-minute run time. This run time is when running on standard power. If you’re using motorized tools or the “Max Power” setting, the run time will be less.
  2. You Want stronger suction – The redesign and alignment of the dust bin, motor, and cyclones results in a vacuum that looks more “streamline” and offers 20% stronger suction over that of the V8 stick vacuum.
  3. Want a larger dustbin – the V10’s dustbin is 40% larger than the Dyson V8.
  4. You Want the Torque Drive cleaning head – As an upgrade to the direct-drive cleaning head, the V10 model comes with a Torque Drive cleaning head. Both the V8 and the V10 are available with the “Fluffy” soft roller cleaning head.

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

Updates

  • March 4, 2021 – Added a run test tests section. Improved formatting. Clarified a few points, opinions, and facts. Fact checked the comparison. Updated several outdated links. Updated the estimated annual maintience costs.
  • April 12, 2019 – Further formatting and layout improvements. Clarified a few points.
  • March 31, 2019 – Overhauled layout and formatting.

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.