Dyson V11 vs. V12

Dyson has been around since 1991, growing from a small local business to a global tech brand. Its line of vacuum cleaners includes over 20 models, including the popular Dyson V11 Torque Drive and Dyson V12 Detect Slim. These two look similar at first glance, but it’s the small details that make the difference. 

Today we’re testing and comparing the Dyson V11 vs. V12 in the ultimate side-by-side comparison. Let’s get into it. 

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

Performance

The performance of a Dyson vacuum or any other vacuum cleaner, for that matter, is just one piece of the puzzle. You also need to consider its design, usability, maintenance requirements, features, and other aspects. Additionally, its performance can be broken down into three main areas:

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

During our tests, we look at each of these factors in order to get objective results. That said, let’s run through the results and see how these two vacuums compare. 

Cleaning Performance

WINNER: Dyson V11

To assess the cleaning performance, we perform 12 tests using four types of debris and three types of flooring.

Model	Overall	Hardwoods	Low Carpet	High Carpet
Dyson V11	99.0%	99.0%	100%	99.0%
Dyson V12	98.6%	99.5%	98.5%	97.8%

As shown above, we test the vacuums on engineered hardwoods, low pile carpet, and high-pile carpet and against a mix of debris types, including:

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

Overall Cleaning Scores

Dyson V11 Cleaning Performance

The Dyson V11 did an excellent job on all flooring types, including those where the V12 struggled a little. We tested it with and without the soft roller heading, and the results were great every time. 

The Torque Drive cleaning head tends to spread lighter debris across the floor before sucking it up, but that’s not a major issue. It still managed to remove all the debris, including rice and fine sugar particles. 

MORE: Click here to see full cleaning tests of the Dyson V11.

Dyson V12 Cleaning Performance

The Dyson V12 is powerful enough to remove most types of debris, from cereals to sugar and kitty litter. In our tests, it performed well on all three types of flooring, as shown below:

This model has 150 AW of suction power, which is slightly less compared to the V11 (185 AW). That might explain why it wasn’t as effective at removing small particles from high-pile carpets as the V11 Torque Drive. However, the difference between the two was negligible for any other debris or type of flooring. 

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

Motor Performance

WINNER: Dyson V11

Both the V11 and V12 are equipped with the Dyson Hyperdymium motor, which spins at up to 125,000 rotations per minute (RPM). By comparison, the V8 and other older models reached a maximum of 110,000 RPM. 

Model	Max RPMs	Max Suction (AW)
Dyson V11	125,000 RPM	185 AW
Dyson V12	125,000 RPM	150 AW

But, as mentioned earlier, the V12 has 185 AW of suction power, so it’s slightly more advanced than the V11. 

Run Time Performance

WINNER: Tie

Both vacuums can run for up to 60 minutes on a single charge, which should give you enough time to clean a standard apartment or one-story house. The V11 takes about 4.5 hours to charge, whereas the V12 should be fully charged within 4 hours. 

Furthermore, both the V11 and V12 come with a click-in battery and an LED screen that displays the remaining run time.

There’s also the option to purchase an extra battery for either model, which would give you an additional 60 minutes of run time. 

Tip: If you have a bigger house, consider getting the Dyson Outsize for up to 120 minutes of run time. 

What about other cleaning modes?

Generally, the battery will last more or less on a single charge, depending on the vacuum mode used. 

Both models have three cleaning modes, including: 

• Eco Mode: Lowest suction level, longest run time
• Auto Mode: Varying levels of suction, depending on the type of flooring
• Boost Mode: Highest suction level, shortest battery life

For example, we were able to use the V12 for 51 minutes and 22 seconds in Eco mode, 33 minutes and 29 seconds in Auto/Med mode, and 7 minutes and 30 seconds in Boost Power mode. By comparison, the V11 had a run time between 8 and 80 minutes. 

Here’s a complete breakdown of our test results:

While both models have a 60-minute run time, this number may vary based on how you use the vacuum. Although the V11 requires more power to work, it can run for a longer time compared to the Dyson V12.

Design

The Dyson V11 and V12 look similar at first sight, but there are some notable differences between the two. Below we’ll discuss these aspects and what they mean to the average customer. 

For starters, the V12 is lighter and sleeker and has several features aimed at pet owners. A potential drawback is that it comes with a smaller dustbin, given its compact design. 

Similarities include:

• 2-in-1 stick/handheld vacuum 
• Quick-release attachment system
• LCD screen
• Washable filters
• 3 cleaning modes
• 60-minute run time
• Removable battery
• Filter design and placement
• A large selection of tools and attachments

Differences include:

#	Feature	Dyson V11	Dyson V12
1	Digital display	Yes	Yes
2	Piezo sensor	No	Yes
3	Cleaning heads	High Torque	Laser Slim Fluffy+, Motorbar head
4	Max suction	185 AW	150 AW
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)

Now let’s dive a little deeper into the differences between the V11 and V12.

#1. Digital Display

While both models feature a digital screen, the V11 has a more basic LED display. 

The digital screen on the V12 allows you to access or modify the following:

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

The Dyson V11, on the other hand, will display the following data:

• Cleaning mode
• Battery life
• Blockage reports
• Filter maintenance alerts

Also, both models have a small button below the screen, which enables users to adjust the settings (e.g., switch between cleaning modes) and access relevant data, such as the remaining run time. 

#2. Piezo Sensor

The V12 is equipped with a piezo sensor that can measure the size and type of dust particles. Based on this data, it automatically adjusts the power and suction level as needed. The Dyson V11 doesn’t have this feature. 

The V11 has just one cleaning head, but it’s suitable for most surfaces. Plus, it includes several tools and attachments, such as a stiff nylon brush and soft dusting brush, for hassle-free cleaning. 

High Torque vs. Motorbar

Both the High Torque and Motorbar cleaner heads feature a spiral bristle brushroll with rubber components. The former uses Dynamic Load Sense (DLS) technology, while the Motorbar head has 43 detangling vanes. 

Laser Slim Fluffy

The Dyson V12 also includes the Laser Slim Fluffy cleaner head, which allows it to detect microscopic dust particles in all lighting conditions. 

The brushroll can be removed and washed with warm water as needed. Let it air dry for about 24 hours before using it again. 

#4. Suction Power

The motors on the V11 and V12 can generate a maximum suction power of 185 AW, respectively 150 AW. 

While neither of them matches the Dyson V15, which produces up to 230 AW of suction power, they both perform well on most types of flooring. 

Based on our tests, I wouldn’t say there was a significant difference between the V11, V12, and V15 in this regard. 

#5. Dustbin Capacity

The dustbin on the V11 is twice the size of that on the Dyson V12. The latter has a relatively small bin and, therefore, requires more frequent emptying.

#6. On/Off Control

A significant difference between the V11 and V12 is the on/off control system. 

On the V11, you’ll have to hold down the trigger while using the vacuum. This extra step may seem like a hassle, but it allows you to save battery power. If, say, you want to move the sofa while cleaning the floor, the vacuum will stop working when you release the button. 

The V12 has a standard on/off switch. You simply press it to start vacuuming and then press it again to turn off the device when you’re done cleaning. 

Size & Dimensions

The Dyson V12 is significantly lighter than the V11, and it also has a more compact design. Therefore, it’s easier to maneuver and takes up less space. 

Accessories & Parts

Like other Dyson vacuums, the V11 and V12 have several versions, including different accessories. 

Currently, Dyson V11 comes in four different versions in the U.S.:

• Dyson V11 Torque Drive
• Dyson V11 Animal
• Dyson V11 Absolute
• Dyson V11 Outsize

These versions are similar in terms of design, size, and performance, with the V11 Outsize being the most advanced model. They also include pretty much the same accessories, such as a crevice tool, stubborn dirt brush, mini motorized brushroll, and more. However, the V11 Animal doesn’t have a mini dusting brush. 

For more information, see our comparison chart. 

Moving further, the Dyson V12 is available in two versions:

• Dyson V12 Detect Slim 
• Dyson V12 Detect Slim Absolute

The only difference between these models lies in the accessory package. 

The V12 Absolute comes with the same tools and attachments as the V12 Detect Slim, but it also has three additional accessories: a fabric and mattress tool, a mini soft dusting brush, and an up-top adapter for vacuuming hard-to-reach areas. 

See this comparison chart for a more detailed breakdown of the V12 Detect Slim vs. V12 Absolute. 

The models we reviewed today are the Dyson V11 Torque Drive and the V12 Detect Slim. Here’s what you’ll get with each model:

Tools & Attachments Explained

Here’s a rundown of common parts and accessories:

Usability

Both the V11 and V12 are easy to use and assemble. It takes as little as five minutes to take them out of the box and put everything together. 

Simply follow these steps:

1. Unbox the vacuum and its accessories;
2. Charge the battery before using your vacuum for the first time;
3. Assemble the vacuum cleaner and make the necessary settings.

Depending on your preferences, you may use the machine either as a handheld device or a stick vacuum cleaner. 

• For handheld use, attach the cleaning tools directly to the body of the device. 
• To use it as a stick vacuum, attach the extension wand along with a cleaning head. 

Which cleaning head do I need?

• Use the Laser Slim Fluffy cleaning head to vacuum hardwood flooring
• Choose either the High Torque (V11) or the Motorbar cleaning head (V12) for carpet and area rugs.

Which model is more user-friendly?

As far as usability goes, both the V11 and V12 are easy to operate. The V11 requires less maintenance because of the larger dustbin, but the Dyson V12 is lighter and sleeker, which makes it easier to maneuver. 

Another notable aspect of the V12 is that it includes two cleaning heads. The V11, on the other hand, comes with a special brush for stubborn dirt and has a slightly longer run time. 

All in all, each model has distinct advantages, and choosing one is a matter of personal preference. 

Maintenance

Whether you opt for the Dyson V11 or V12, it should be easy to keep your device in tip-top condition. Be prepared to:

• Regularly empty the dustbin 
• Wash the filter at least once a month
• Charge or replace the battery as needed
• Remove any tangles or clogs from the brushroll
• Wash the cleaning heads

Specifications

Specs	Dyson V12	Dyson V15
Type	Stick	Stick
Manufacturer	Dyson	Dyson
Model	V11	V12
Length	50.6"	49.1"
Width	9.8"	9.8"
Depth	10.3"	9.9"
Weight	6.68 lbs.	5.2 lbs.
Floor Type	All (indoor)	All (indoor)
Dustbin Capacity	0.77 L	0.38 L
Click In Battery	Yes	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?

The Dyson V11 and V12 are quite similar and perform almost equally well. With its high suction power, the V11 may seem like a better choice, but the V12 has the advantage of being sleeker. 

Should you buy the Dyson V11?

I would recommend the Dyson V11 to people who:

• Want increased flexibility and high suction power: The V11 can automatically adjust its suction power based on the type of flooring, leading to a longer run time. Additionally, it boasts 185 AW of suction power, which is significantly more compared to the V12 and other Dyson vacuums. 
• Seek excellent cleaning performance: In our tests, the Dyson V11 did a fantastic job on all floor types, removing the smallest particles of sugar and other debris. 
• Prioritize convenience: This Dyson vacuum comes with a large dustbin that can hold about three cups of debris. Therefore, you don’t have to empty it as often as you would for the V12 or similar models.

Click here to check out the Dyson V11 price.

Should you buy the Dyson V12 Detect Slim?

I would recommend the Dyson V12 Slim to people who:

• Want a sleek, compact vacuum cleaner: Weighing only 5.2 pounds, the Dyson V12 is one of the lightest stick vacuums in its class. Its compact design makes it suitable for homeowners with limited space or those who cannot lift heavy objects. 
• Need to clean hardwood or other hard-surface floors: The V12 comes with two cleaning heads, including the Laser Slim Fluffy. This cleaning tool is ideal for hard floors, featuring a laser beam that can detect invisible dust particles. 
• Have pets at home: In our tests, the Dyson V12 did a great job removing pet hair from rugs and other surfaces. This model includes an anti-tangle brush that can pick up long hairs and pet hair in seconds.

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

Now that you know more about the Dyson V11 vs. V12, it’s up to you to decide which model best suits your needs. 

Both vacuum cleaners have a long run time and perform well on most types of flooring, offering good value for the money. Plus, they include a wide selection of tools and accessories for a stress-free cleaning experience. The Dyson V11 has greater suction power, but the V12 is lighter and sleeker. The latter also includes two cleaning heads and may be better suited for pet owners. 

If you’re still undecided or have further questions, drop a comment below. We’re here to help you make the right choice.