Dyson V10 vs. V12

More than three decades ago, Dyson launched the world’s first bagless vacuum cleaner. Today, it offers hundreds of products, ranging from cordless vacuums to air purifiers and headphones. The Dyson V10 and V12, two of its bestselling cordless stick vacuums, combine functionality and aesthetics, but which one is right for you? 

When it comes to the Dyson V10 vs. V12, the differences are subtle but important. While both models deliver good performance, they have distinct features and different price points. With that in mind, we’ve tested them to make a side-by-side comparison and see which one performs best. 

Let’s dive in. 

What’s in this comparison
Performance | Design | Usability | Maintenance | Specifications | Which Dyson is best?

Performance

First, let’s talk about performance, one of the most important aspects to consider when buying a new vacuum. While both the V10 and V12 performed well in our tests, it’s the little details that make the difference. 

Apart from that, you’ll want to consider their usability, design, and other factors. For example, it makes sense to choose a low-maintenance vacuum if you’re short on time, but you might also be looking for other features, such as a lightweight design or specific accessories. We’ll discuss these aspects later, so read on. 

As far as performance goes, we look at multiple factors during the testing process. These include:

• Cleaning Performance: how well it cleaned four different types of debris on three different floor types
• Motor Performance: how strong the suction is
• Run Time Performance: how long the battery lasts

Now let’s see the results for a thorough comparison of the Dyson V10 and V12. 

Cleaning Performance

WINNER: Dyson V10

Our team has tested the V10 and V12 against four types of debris on three types of flooring. Here’s what we found. 

Model	Overall	Hardwoods	Low Carpet	High Carpet
Dyson V10	99.0%	99.0%	99.0%	100%
Dyson V12	98.6%	99.5%	98.5%	97.8%

As shown above, we tested both vacuums against four types of debris on low- and high-pile carpets and engineered hardwoods:

1. Cereal (dry)
2. Rice
3. Kitty litter
4. Sugar (granulated)

Overall Cleaning Scores

Dyson V10 Cleaning Performance

The Dyson V10 did a great job on all floor types, removing almost all debris. As illustrated below, it has enough suction power to clean up kitty litter, granulated sugar, cereals, and rice:

In our tests, the V10 had a tendency to get clogged when we tried to quickly vacuum large piles of cereal with the fluffy cleaning head. Nonetheless, it was able to remove all debris.

We also found that, although both models have the same suction power, the Dyson V10 performed slightly better than the V12. 

MORE: Click here to see full cleaning tests of the Dyson V10.

Dyson V12 Cleaning Performance

Just like the Dyson V10, the V12 Detect Slim boasts 150 AW of suction power. Therefore, they performed similarly on most types of flooring, except for high-pile carpets, where the V12 struggled a little. 

Let’s see the test results:

We encountered some issues when cleaning up the sugar from low- and high-pile carpets, but apart from that, its performance was up to par. 

MORE: Check out our guide to see the full test results for the Dyson V12. 

Motor Performance

WINNER: Tie

Both the V10 and V12 feature rotational motors that spin at up to 125,000 rotations per minute (RPM). By comparison, the Dyson V6 or V8 didn’t exceed 110,000 RPM. 

The Dyson V11 Absolute is equipped with a digital motor, whereas the V12 comes with the Dyson Hyperdymium motor—but their performance is similar. 

Model	Max RPMs	Max Suction (AW)
Dyson V10	125,000 RPM	150 AW
Dyson V12	125,000 RPM	150 AW

Run Time Performance

WINNER: Tie

Both the Dyson V10 and the V12 can run for up to 60 minutes on a single charge. However, the actual run time depends on the power mode and cleaning heads used. 

It’s worth mentioning that the V12 Detect Slim takes around 4 hours to charge, whereas the V10 takes 3.5 hours. 

The V12 has a click-in battery that takes seconds to remove. Therefore, you can purchase a spare one and use it when you need an additional 60 minutes of run time. 

The Dyson V10 has a removable battery, too, but it’s not as easy to take it out and replace it as needed. However, its battery should last up to 15 years, or for 800 charge cycles, which is quite impressive. 

We don’t have any data on the V12 battery, but the manufacturer offers a two-year warranty on all parts, including this component. 

Tip: A 60-minute run time should suffice for a standard apartment or mid-sized house, but you can purchase the Dyson Outsize for up to 120 minutes of run time. 

What about other cleaning modes?

Both the Dyson V10 and V12 offer three cleaning modes with different suction levels. The greater the suction power, the faster the battery will drain. 

• Eco Mode: Uses the least amount of suction, resulting in a longer run time
• Boost/Max Mode: Generates the most suction, resulting in the shortest run time 
• Auto Mode: The level of suction is automatically adjusted based on the type of flooring

For example, we were able to use the Dyson V10 for 5 minutes and 30 seconds in Max Mode and close to 50 minutes in Eco Mode. By comparison, the V12 had a run time of 7 minutes and 28 seconds in Boost Mode and slightly more than 51 minutes in Eco Mode. 

Let’s see the complete results:

Our tests were completed with a full battery and using the standard cleaning head included with each model. 

All in all, the V10 and V12 have a similar run time, regardless of the cleaning mode used. From this perspective, the V12 Detect Slim appears slightly superior (especially when used in Auto mode), but the difference is insignificant. 

Design

The Dyson V10 Absolute and the V12 may look similar when you first see them, but each model has a slightly different design. Below we’ll discuss these aspects in detail. 

For starters, the Dyson V12 is sleek and lightweight, with a smaller dustbin than the V10. Therefore, it’s easier to maneuver, but you’ll have to empty the dust container more often. The Dyson Cyclone V10, on the other hand, comes with surface-specific tools and can hold twice as much dust as the V12. 

Similarities include:

• 2-in-1 stick/handheld vacuum 
• Quick-release attachment system
• In-line dustbin
• 3 cleaning modes
• HEPA filters
• Washable filters
• 60-minute run time
• Removable battery
• A wide selection of tools and attachments

Differences include:

#	Feature	Dyson V11	Dyson V12
1	Digital display	No	Yes
2	Piezo sensor	No	Yes
3	Cleaning heads	Motorbar head, Fluffy Cleaner head	Laser Slim Fluffy+, Motorbar head
5	Dustbin capacity	0.2 gallons (0.75 L)	0.1 gallons (0.38 L)
6	On/off control	Trigger (continuous hold)	Button (press ON/OFF)
7	Charge time	3.5 hours	4.0 hours
8	Cyclone Technology	14 cyclones	11 cyclones

Let’s take a closer look at the key differences between these Dyson models. 

#1. Digital Display

The Dyson V12 features an LCD screen where you can check the battery life and access/modify the following data: 

• Cleaning mode
• Suction power
• Particle size and type
• Maintenance reminders

The V10 doesn’t offer this feature, but it has a battery life indicator that lets you know how much run time you have left. 

#2. Piezo Sensor

One of the aspects we like most about the V12 is that it uses Piezo sensors to detect particle size, type, and quantity. This data will appear on the digital screen, allowing the machine to automatically adjust the amount of power and suction as needed. 

As of today, the Dyson V12 and V15 cordless vacuums are the only models equipped with Piezo sensors. The V10 doesn’t have this function, but it comes with a lower price tag. 

#3. Cleaning Heads

Model	Cleaning Heads Included
Dyson V10	Motorbar, Fluffy (can be purchased separately)
Dyson V12	Motorbar, Laser Slim Fluffy+

Both models include the Motorbar head, which is suitable for most types of flooring. Remember to wash the Motorhead brush roll at least once a month for optimal performance. Let it air dry after cleaning. 

The V10 can also be used with the Fluffy Cleaner head, a soft roller capable of removing dust and debris at the same time. This attachment is not included in the package but can be purchased separately.  

By comparison, the Dyson V12 features a more advanced version of the Fluffy Cleaner head, which uses laser technology to detect microscopic dust. The Laser Slim Fluffy+ cleaning head is included in the accessory set. 

#4. Click-in Battery

A notable difference between the V10 and V12 lies in the battery release mechanism. 

The Dyson V12 Detect Slim comes with a click-in battery that can be removed and replaced within seconds. For example, you can take it out when it’s fully discharged and install a new battery to get more run time. 

The V10 Absolute has a removable battery, too, but you’ll need a screwdriver to take it out. Therefore, you should only remove it (and buy a new one) when it can no longer hold a charge. 

#5. Dustbin Capacity

Another major difference between these Dyson models lies in the dustbin capacity. The V10’s dust container is double in size compared to that of the Dyson V12 and, therefore, requires less frequent emptying. 

#6. On/Off Control

On the V10, you need to hold the trigger while using the vacuum cleaner. This feature may seem inconvenient, but it allows you to spare the battery and get more run time. The vacuum will stop working the moment you take your hand off the trigger. 

The Dyson V12 comes with a standard on/off button located above the dustbin (on the upper side of the handle). Therefore, it’s pretty much impossible to accidentally power on the device—as it could happen with the V10 and similar models. 

#7. Charge Time

As mentioned earlier, the Dyson V12 cordless vacuum cleaner takes 30 minutes longer to charge compared to the V11, but that shouldn’t be an issue. Plus, you can use a spare battery to get the job done when you’re short on time. 

#8. Cyclone Technology

Thanks to Dyson’s cyclone technology, your vacuum cleaner can separate microscopic dust particles without getting clogged up. At the same time, it contributes to its overall performance and helps maintain battery life. 

The Dyson V10 features 14 cyclones generating 79,000 g-forces. Therefore, it’s very efficient at separating fine dust, pollen, and other microscopic particles. 

By comparison, the V12 features 11 cyclones that can generate up to 100,000 g-forces. This system is based on Dyson’s Root Cyclone technology, which is more advanced than that used for the V10. 

Size & Dimensions

The V10 and V12 cordless vacuums are similar in size, with the V12 being slightly lighter and more compact. 

Accessories & Parts

Both Dyson models have several versions, and each comes with a different set of accessories. 

Currently, there are three different versions of the Dyson V10 available in the U.S.:

• Dyson Cyclone V10 Absolute
• Dyson Cyclone V10 Animal
• Dyson Cyclone V10 Motorhead

These are quite similar, as they all use the same type of battery and motor and generate the same suction power. However, each model comes with different tools and attachments—as illustrated below. Additionally, the dust bin capacity varies from one version to the next. 

The model we reviewed today is the Dyson Cyclone V10 Absolute. This version has the largest dustbin and the highest number of cleaning tools. See our side-by-side comparison to find out more. 

Similarly, the Dyson V12 comes in two versions:

• Dyson V12 Detect Slim 
• Dyson V12 Detect Slim Absolute

Both models have a 0.38-liter dustbin and the exact same features, with the only difference being the accessory set. The V12 Detect Slim Absolute has three additional tools—a mini soft dusting brush, an up-top adapter, and a special tool for vacuuming fabrics and mattresses. 

In this guide, we reviewed the Dyson V12 Detect Slim—and you can check out this comparison chart to see how it differs from the V12 Absolute. 

That said, let’s take a closer look at the accessories included with each model:

Tools & Attachments Explained

Here’s a rundown of common parts and accessories:

Usability

These cordless stick vacuums are easy to use and take as little as five minutes to assemble. Your only job is to unbox them and put the pieces together, as shown below:

1. Take your new vacuum clear out of its box;
2. Charge the battery prior to first use;
3. Assemble the components and select the desired settings.

Also, note that either model can be used either as a handheld device or a stick vacuum cleaner. 

• For handheld use, connect the cleaning head or other attachments to the body of the device.
• For stick vacuum use, connect the extension wand to your vacuum cleaner and then install the cleaning head or other accessories.

Which cleaning head do I need?

• Use the Motorbar head, which is included with both devices, for carpet or area rugs. 
• Use the Soft Roller Cleaner Head (V10) or the Laser Slim Fluffy head (V12) to vacuum hard floors. 
• The Direct Drive Cleaner Head (V10 Motorhead) works well on both carpets and hard floors. 

Which model is more user-friendly?

Both the V10 and V12 are easy to operate. The Dyson V12 Detect Slim is more compact and lightweight, but the difference is negligible (5.2 lbs vs. 5.7 lbs). Plus, either model can be used as a handheld device, which makes it easier to carry it around. 

It would have been nice to see a digital screen on the V10, but that’s not an essential feature. However, the Dyson V12 is slightly more convenient from this perspective. 

Consider the size of the dustbin, too. As mentioned earlier, the Dyson V10 can hold significantly more debris than the V12, but it’s also a little bit bulkier. Given these aspects, we would recommend it for cleaning up bigger houses rather than studios or small apartments. 

Last but not least, ask yourself whether you’d be more comfortable using an off/off button (V12) or a continuous-hold trigger (V10)—which is a matter of personal preference. 

Maintenance

The Dyson V10 and V12 are pretty much identical in terms of maintenance. Like with other cordless stick vacuums, you’ll have to regularly empty the dustbin, wash the cleaning heads, and get a new battery every few years. 

Other maintenance tasks may include:

• Rinse the washable filter with cold water after removing excess dust. Do it at least once a month.
• Keep the roller brush free of hairs, strings, and other debris.
• Use the right settings and tools based on the type of flooring being vacuumed.
• Clean the dustbin with a damp microfiber cloth when full; do not use any detergents or household cleaners.
• Remove any dust or debris from the attachments after each use.
• Replace the battery as needed.

Specifications

Specs	Dyson V10	Dyson V12
Type	Stick	Stick
Manufacturer	Dyson	Dyson
Model	V10	V12
Length	48.7"	49.1"
Width	9.5"	9.8"
Depth	9.8"	9.9"
Weight	5.7 lbs.	5.2 lbs.
Floor Type	All (indoor)	All (indoor)
Dustbin Capacity	0.75 L	0.38 L
Click In Battery	No	Yes
Run Time	Up to 60 mins	Up to 60 mins
Cordless	Yes	Yes
Bagless	Yes	Yes
Returns	Varies by retailer	Varies by retailer
Warranty	2 Year limited	2 Year limited
Price	Check Price	Check Price
Review	Read Review	Read Review

Which Dyson Is Best?

Based on our test results, the Dyson V10 and V12 are similar in terms of performance, usability, functionality, and maintenance. They also have the same suction power and run time, and similar technical specs. 

A possible advantage of the V12 is its sleek design and the LCD screen. However, the V10 has a larger dustbin and a wider selection of tools and accessories. 

Either model can be a good choice, depending on your budget, personal preferences, the size of your home, and whether you have a pet. See our full reviews for more information: 

Should you buy the Dyson V10?

I would recommend the Dyson V10 to people who:

• Want a large selection of accessories: The V10 cordless stick vacuum includes 11 different tools and accessories, making it easier to clean hard-to-reach spots and delicate surfaces. A good example is the fabric and mattress tool, which allows you to vacuum upholstery. 
• Live in a bigger house or have a tight schedule: Featuring a 5.7-pound dustbin, the Dyson V10 is a great choice for customers with a busy schedule or those living in bigger houses. Its large dust bin requires less frequent emptying than that included with the V12, and, therefore, offers increased convenience. 
• Expect superior cleaning performance: This Dyson model doesn’t have the same suction power as the V15 or other newer models, but it delivers excellent cleaning performance. In our tests, it removed 99% of all debris and performed well on all types of flooring. 
• Prefer a more basic vacuum cleaner: Unlike the V12, this Dyson model doesn’t have an LCD screen. Instead, it comes with a battery life indicator, making it suitable for those who want a simple yet powerful vacuum cleaner without bells and whistles. 
• Have a lower budget: Launched in 2018, the Dyson V10 has a lower price tag than newer models, but it’s very similar to the V12 in terms of performance.

Click here to check out the Dyson V10 price.

Should you buy the Dyson V12 Detect Slim?

I would recommend the Dyson V12 Slim to people who:

• Want a sleek vacuum cleaner: At only 5.2 pounds, the V12 Detect Slim is easy to maneuver and move around as needed. This makes it suitable for those who live in smaller houses or apartments or cannot lift heavy objects. 
• Share their living space with pets: In our tests, the Dyson V12 did a fantastic job at removing pet hair. We were also impressed with its ability to avoid tangles around the brushroll when vacuuming longer hairs. 
• Need more run time: The V12 has the same run time as the V10, but it includes a click-in battery that can be swapped for a spare one as needed. This feature allows for additional run time, which can be helpful when vacuuming larger areas. 

Click here to check out the Dyson V12 price.

Dyson Comparisons

Looking for more in-depth side-by-side Dyson comparisons? See our complete list below:

• Dyson V15 vs. Outsize vs. V11 vs. V10 vs. V8
• Dyson V6 vs. V10
• Dyson V6 vs. V7
• Dyson V6 vs. V7 vs. V8 vs. V10 vs. V11
• Dyson V6 vs. V8
• Dyson V7 vs. V10
• Dyson V7 vs. V8
• Dyson V7 vs. V11
• Dyson V8 vs. V10
• Dyson V8 vs. V11
• Dyson V10 vs. V11
• Dyson V12 vs. V15
• Dyson V15 vs. V7
• Dyson V15 vs. V8
• Dyson V15 vs. V11
• Dyson V15 vs. V10
• Dyson V15 vs. Outsize
• Dyson Outsize vs. V11 Outsize vs. Outsize Absolute+
• Dyson V11 Torque Drive vs. Outsize vs. Animal vs. Outsize Origin
• Dyson Animal vs. Animal 2 vs. Multi Floor 2 vs. Multi Floor Origin

Also, check out our Best Dyson vacuums guide for a broader overview of Dyson vacuums and popular models.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to the Dyson V10 vs. V12, choosing the right model is mostly a matter of personal preference.

Both vacuum cleaners can handle most types of debris, including pet hair and stubborn dirt. Plus, they have a similar run time and the same suction power. The V10 is slightly heavier, but it also has a larger dust bin. The Dyson V12 features a more compact design, which makes it suitable for small living spaces. 

Either of these models can be a great choice, depending on what you’re looking for. Our team is here to help, so drop a comment below if you have further questions.