Dyson Gen5 Outsize Review

Pros

• Fantastic debris removal, long hair management, and pet hair performance
• 2 batteries for 140 minutes of runtime in ECO mode
• Built-in crevice tool and adjustable cleaning head
• Large dust bin capacity for longer cleaning

Cons

• Expensive for a cordless stick vacuum
• Suction can cause blowback for smaller debris

Scoring

In This Review

Debris Test | Long Hair Test | Pet Hair Test | Wind Speed Test | Smoke Sealant Test | Runtime Test | Noise Test | Usability | Accessories | Size | Specs | Summary

Performance Tests

The Dyson Gen5 Outsize comes in two versions: the standard and absolute. Currently, the only difference between the versions is color option, with the vacuum and included accessories being the exact same.

That said, with previous Dyson vacuums the Absolute version included additional accessories. As of right now, that isn’t the case with the Gen5 Outsize Absolute, but it may change in the future.

We put the Dyson Gen5 Outsize to the test by putting it through a barrage of 8 different performance tests.

These tests include:

• Cleaning test
• Hair test
• Pet hair test
• Wind speed test
• Runtime test
• Smoke sealant test
• Noise test
• Usability test

Cleaning Performance

Across the board the Dyson Gen5 Outsize showcased excellent cleaning performance. Whether dealing with hair or debris, this vacuum is more than equipped to deal with the cleaning situation.

Debris Test

Our debris test checks how well the Dyson Gen5 Outsize manages 4 different types of debris on 3 different floor types. We measure 0.5 oz of each debris type and lay them in separate lines on each floor type.

Next, we run the vacuum over each debris type on the highest suction available, performing a single forward and backward pass. After cleaning, we measure the amount of remaining debris by weight and compare it to the starting amounts to determine performance.

Here are the overall results for the Dyson Gen5 Outsize:

The Dyson Gen5 Outsize performed well across all floor and debris types. On average we see vacuums remove 91.6% of all debris across all floor types. Compared to the average, the Gen5 Outsize performed considerably better.

However, the vacuum doesn’t come without some minor issues. Mainly, it seems to generate an amount of airflow that blows smaller debris types away. In testing, this causes issues as we perform only a singular forward and backward pass, which means we miss some of the smaller debris that is blown away.

All that said, with more cleaning passes these issues wouldn’t be problematic. I am sure with a more thorough cleaning, the Gen5 Outsize would have nearly perfect performance across all categories.

Hardwood Floor Cleaning

The Dyson Gen5 Outsize truly showed spectacular performance on hardwood floors.

It had perfect results, completely removing the debris from the floor. On average vacuums only remove 87.8% of debris. It’s clear the Gen5 Outsize wins by comparison.

It’s thanks to the extra large cleaning head, the powerful suction, and overall high build quality.

Low Pile Carpet Cleaning

Performance dropped on low pile carpet for the Gen5 Outsize, but not considerably.

The real issue that the Dyson Gen5 Outsize had was with sugar. While cleaning enough blowback would be created to push the sugar out of reach of the large cleaning head.

Still the Outsize had performance levels better than the average. On average we see vacuums remove 96.1% of all debris on low pile carpet. While 96.7% debris removal isn’t considerably better, it is an improvement overall. In addition, with more cleaning passes, I am sure these issues would be resolved.

High Pile Carpet Cleaning

Again the Dyson Gen5 Outsize struggled with sugar on high pile carpet, but still showed an excellent performance overall.

On average we see vacuums remove 91.3% of all debris on high pile carpet. To be fair, on average vacuums seem to struggle with cereal on sugar on high pile carpet.

In comparison, the Gen5 Outsize had zero issues with cereal, removing all of it. While it struggled with sugar, it still had better performance than average. Again, I am sure with additional cleaning passes all of these minor issues would be resolved.

Long Hair Test

To check how well the Dyson Gen5 Outsize manages long hair and avoids tangles, we lay 1.0 grams of long hair on hardwood flooring. Once the test is set up, we run the vacuum over the hair on the highest suction power with a single forward and backward pass. After we’ve cleaned, we check the floor for remaining hair and brushroll for tangles.

Dyson has had a history of managing long hair well in our tests, and again the Gen5 Outsize did an exceptional job.

After the test we did find a few strands in the brushroll, but they were easily removed by fingers and so minimal that our scales couldn’t measure it. By comparison, on average vacuums have 0.13 grams of the hair remaining tangled in the brushroll.

Dyson has this consistent performance thanks to their hair removal vanes, which are installed in the cleaning head of the vacuum. Additionally, if you have a particularly difficult task, the included Hair Screw tool is perfect for the job. All this to say, the Gen5 Outsize will have no issues with long hair.

Pet Hair Test

We perform our pet hair test to check how well vacuums can clean pet hair from carpet fibers. We do this by nestling 1.0 grams of pet hair into high pile carpet. Once the test is ready to go, we run the vacuum over the entire carpet a single time on the highest suction power.

After the test, we measure the amount of remaining hair in the carpet by weight to compare to the starting amounts.

As with long hair performance, the Dyson Gen5 Outsize had no issues with pet hair. We found a tiny amount of pet hair remaining in the carpet after cleaning, but again it was so small our scales didn’t register the weight.

On average we see vacuums handle pet hair well, with only 0.01 grams of the hair remaining in the carpet. Still the Gen5 Outsize out performed that by having practically perfect performance.

Wind Speed Test

Our wind speed tests check the inward suction power of vacuums using an anemometer. We place the measuring device flush against the extension wand of the vacuum and toggle between each suction mode of the vacuum, measuring the amount of inward suction.

Here’s what we found:

In comparison to the average across all stick vacuums we’ve tested for wind speed, the Dyson Gen5 Outsize falls behind. Here is the average wind speed we’ve measured in each mode:

Sealed System Test

Vacuums that are completely sealed don’t distribute debris around the room while cleaning. While vacuums that are not properly sealed may spread dust and debris around your home.

We test this by utilizing a fog machine, placed against the extension tube of the vacuum, directly in front of the output nozzle. Next, we turn the vacuum on and release short bursts of smoke into the device checking to see how much smoke escapes the device.

We found the Dyson Gen5 Outsize to be completely sealed.

None of the smoke escaped the device, even when releasing longer streams of smoke into the vacuum. This high quality design ensures all the debris remains in the dustbin while you clean.

Runtime Test

We test the runtime of the Dyson Gen5 Outsize by fully charging the battery and running it until it completely dies on each mode. Please note: we attached the extension wand and Motorbar cleaning head onto the device for testing.

Here are the results from our test:

The Dyson Gen5 Outsize offers a good amount of time for cleaning in each mode. In addition, the inclusion of an additional battery effectively doubles the runtime in each mode.

Another note, the Auto mode can have varying runtimes depending on the cleaning task. It automatically adjusts suction power based on the floor and debris types it detects, which can affect runtime both positively and negatively.

Noise Test

Vacuums are loud devices while they clean. To check how loud, we use a professional sound meter device to measure the level of noise generated from about 3’ away. We run the Dyson Gen5 Outsize on each mode and record the noise levels measured.

Across the board noise levels for the Outsize are average. On average we see vacuums generate noise in the 70-75 dB range, which matches what we found with the Gen5 Outsize.

Common noise levels:

• 20 dB – rustling leaves
• 30 dB – whisper
• 40 dB – quiet library, babbling brook
• 50 dB – refrigerator, moderate rainfall
• 60 dB – normal conversation, dishwashers
• 70 dB – traffic, showers
• 80 dB – alarm clock, telephone dial tone

Usability

Dyson’s are generally pretty handy devices to use while cleaning and they have only improved upon that design with the Dyson Gen5 Outsize. Across the board usability is fantastic for the Outsize.

This is especially thanks to a fantastic new feature that makes switching to handheld mode much quicker. Instead of finding your crevice tool to attach to the vacuum, it is instead stored in the extension wand of the Gen5 Outsize. Simply by pressing a new button on the extension wand, you can quickly remove it revealing the crevice tool.

In testing, we found this feature useful as it reduces the inconvenience of changing between handheld mode when it’s needed. There are still tools you can attach using the traditional method, but the inclusion of this built-in tool greatly improves the cleaning experience.

Setup

The Dyson Gen5 Outsize comes with a good amount of tools and accessories that aid in cleaning and storage.

Here is what is included with the Dyson Gen5 Outsize:

• Dyson Gen5 Outsize body
• Fluffy optic cleaner head
• Digital Motorbar XL cleaning head
• Hair Screw tool
• Built-in crevice tool
• Combination tool
• Wall Dok
• Charger (2x)
• Battery (2x)
• Manuals & documents

Straight out of the box the Gen5 Outsize is ready to clean. That said, the battery will most likely not be completely charged. Dyson recommends fully charging the batteries before cleaning.

In addition, there is some setup required if you choose to use the Wall Dok and it will require tools to install.

Controls & Display

You’ll find a few different pieces of the Dyson Gen5 Outsize that you will commonly interact with as you use the device. The most notable being the top of the vacuum, which holds two buttons and the display.

The red button will start/stop the vacuum, while the silver button will toggle between the 3 power modes. The middle power option functions as an auto mode, which will adjust the suction power based on floor types and particulate matter it detects.

Additionally, the vacuum will display the current particulate intake on the top display. This display can also be checked for the estimated remaining battery life as well as a report of the previous cleaning session performed.

Other controls include a trigger to open the dustbin and buttons to detach pieces of the vacuum. As mentioned previously, there is a new button near the extension wand that reveals the built-in crevice tool.

Maintenance

Overall maintenance for the Dyson Gen5 Outsize is simple, with the main task being emptying the dustbin. This is done in Dyson’s classic point-and-shoot style, which is intuitive and easy to do.

In addition, the vacuum will need to be maintained as needed and the filter washed. The vacuum will notify you via the display that the filter needs to be washed and make sure to let it fully dry before reinstalling it into the Outsize.

Accessories

There are a number of tools included with the Dyson Gen5 Outsize that aid in cleaning situations. For storage, the Wall Dok is included, which can be installed via tools to store your vacuum on the wall.

The combination tool is included as a more traditional cleaning attachment, while the built-in crevice tool also has combination features.

Included with the Gen5 Outsize are a few cleaning heads with the standard being the Digital Motorbar XL. It’s larger in comparison to the standard Motorbar and includes gates, which can adjust the suction.

On some floor types, you’ll find the suction too powerful, which creates a seal with the floor. This can be remedied thanks to the inclusion of these gates, which can be raised or lowered as needed via a switch in front.

For hard surfaces Dyson included the Fluffy Optic cleaning head. It’s a soft brush roll cleaning head that has the added benefit of a green laser to highlight debris. While it may seem gimmicky, in practice I find this feature incredibly useful as it highlights debris, directing me where to clean.

The final accessory included is the Hair Screw tool, which is designed to manage tangles. While the anti-tangle combs in the Motorbar XL do a fantastic job on their own, this tool is here as back-up. In addition, it functions as a smaller motorized cleaning head for hand-held mode.

Size & Dimensions

As the name of the Dyson Gen5 Outsize states, it’s larger than your standard cordless stick vacuum. Despite being larger, it still keeps the maneuverability of a stick vacuum. It can lay almost completely flat on the ground, is lighter weight than an upright, and can take tight turns around corners.

Here are the dimensions:

• Width – 12.6″
• Length – 11.4″
• Height – 50.0”
• Weight – 8.6 lbs.

A major benefit of the larger size is a larger dust bin. The dust bin on the Gen5 Outsize has a volume of 0.5 gallons (1.9 liters). Compared to the Gen5 detect, which has a dustbin capacity of 0.2 gallons (0.76 liters), the Gen5 Outsize can hold significantly more debris.

Across the whole device the build quality seems excellent, although I do have a concern regarding the built-in crevice tool. While I appreciate the feature, there seems to be more flex to the device in that specific area. It doesn’t seem like a major issue, but it is something I wanted to note.

Dyson Gen5 Detect vs. Gen5 Detect Absolute vs. Gen5 Outsize vs. Gen5 Outsize Absolute

With the current setup of the Gen5 series there are essentially 2 different models: the Gen5 Detect and the Gen5 Outsize. Both models have Absolute editions, but currently the only difference those versions provide is a different color option.

However, previous Absolute versions of Dyson vacuums have come with additional accessories. It is possible Dyson will update these versions with similar additions in the future.

Here are the similarities and differences between these 4 models:

Specs	Gen5 Detect	Gen5 Detect Absolute	Gen5 Outsize	Gen5 Outsize Absolute
Height	50.2"	50.2"	50.0"	50.0"
Width	9.8"	9.8"	12.6"	12.6"
Weight	7.7 lbs.	7.7 lbs.	8.6 lbs.	8.6 lbs.
Dust Bin Capacity	0.2 gal (0.76 liters)	0.2 gal (0.76 liters)	0.5 gal (1.9 liters)	0.5 gal (1.9 liters)
Run time	70 min.	70 min.	70 min.	70 min.
Batteries	Click-in	Click-in	Click-in, 2x	Click-in, 2x
Suction Power	262 AW	262 AW	250 AW	250 AW
Floor Type	All (indoor)	All (indoor)	All (indoor)	All (indoor)
Color Scheme	Purple & Silver	Prussian Blue & Copper	Purple & Silver	Prussian Blue & Copper
Auto Mode	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Built-in Crevice tool	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Motorbar Cleaning Head	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Fluffy Optic Cleaning Head	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Hair Screw Tool	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Combination Tool	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Warranty	2 years	2 years	2 years	2 years
Price	Check Price		Check Price

The biggest difference between the Dyson Gen5 Detect and Gen5 Outsize is the size. The Outsize is larger and has a higher capacity dust bin, but the Detect is lighter. Additionally, the Outsize comes with an additional battery and charger for extended cleaning sessions.

Dyson Gen5 Outsize Specifications

Specifications
Type	Cordless Stick
Manufacturer	Dyson
Model	Gen5 Outsize
Height	50.0″
Width	12.6″
Length	11.4″
Weight	8.6 lbs.
Floor Type	All (indoor)
Filter	HEPA
Dust Bin Capacity	0.5 gal (1.9 liters)
Run time	70 min. (single battery; Eco mode)
Suction Power	250 AW
Cordless	Yes
Bagless	Yes
Returns	Varies by retailer
Warranty	2 years
Price	Check Price

Should you buy the Dyson Gen5 Outsize?

I would recommend the Dyson Gen5 Outsize if you are looking for the following features:

• Excellent overall cleaning performance: Whether managing debris or hair, the Dyson Gen5 Outsize is more than capable of handling the job. It removed 98.1% of all debris across all floor types, managed long hair with minimal tangles, and practically removed all of the pet fur. In addition, many of the tools included aid in cleaning or enhanced the experience completely.
• Features for extended cleaning: Just like the Outsize name suggests, the Gen5 Outsize has a larger dustbin capacity. This holds more debris, which is especially useful for voluminous debris like pet hair. In addition, it has an additional battery that doubles the run time in each mode.
• Useful features and tools: Being the newest stick vacuum from Dyson, it includes the latest features. It has an auto mode, particulate sensors, and, most notably, the built-in crevice tool. Every feature or tool included enhances usability, making the vacuum easier or more convenient to use.

For more information or to buy the Dyson Gen5 Outsize, click here.