Dyson V8 Review

So you’re a fan of Dyson, but want to know more about the V8?

This week we’re completing our full Dyson V8 review on the Absolute model.

Does Dyson take the notch up once again? Is it really a better option than the Dyson V6 vacuum? There’s only one way to find out!

Continue reading below to discover if the Dyson V8 is the best vacuum for you.

Pros

• The Dyson V8 has up to 40 minutes of run time
• This vacuum does an excellent job of maneuvering around the home

Cons

• The price of the V8 is a bit steep
• This Dyson does struggle with large debris on hardwood floors

Rather watch than read? Check out our complete Dyson V8 review video below.

Dyson V8 Design

Much like most of the Dyson stick vacuums, the Dyson V8 is built with a handheld base that is attached to a wand.

On the main handheld portion of the Dyson V8 vacuum is a trigger that powers the unit, a dust bin release button, a dust bin, a HEPA filter, and a power mode switch.

The trigger on the Dyson V8 Absolute sits on the handle, allowing users to hold the vacuum in a comfortable position while being able to squeeze the trigger.

Additionally, the dust bin release tab is on top of the handle. Once pulled upwards, the bottom of the dust bin opens up.

There are a couple of connection points on the stick, as well as the base of the unit, which allows users to swap from the stick to a smaller cleaning tool and vice versa.

When fully assembled as a stick vacuum, the color scheme is described as Iron / Nickel.

In other words, the Dyson V8 offers a lighter gray color scheme with pops of red and purple along areas of the vacuum. These accents give the Dyson V-series a sharp and modern look.

1. HEPA filter
2. Cleaning mode switch
3. Dust bin release
4. Trigger
5. Wand connection point

How Dyson V8 Cleans

The Dyson V8 vacuum cleans through a few different processes, depending on the tool attached to the vacuum. If the V8 is being used as a stick vacuum, the cleaning heads included offer two different styles of cleaning:

• Motorized brushroll cleaning – The motorized brushroll tool works to agitate and lift dirt and debris out of a carpeted surface. This tool can be used on harder surfaces, but it is more effective on carpeted surfaces.
• Soft roller cleaning – The softer cleaning head is able to roll over larger debris on hard floor surfaces and suck them up without flinging them around. There are no bristles on this brush, therefore the debris is rolled over and sucked up.

Both of these tools use the same level of suction power, but they are different when it comes to agitation processes.

Several other cleaning tools provide a slightly different style of cleaning, but they are simple to understand when applied to the vacuum.

Overall, the Dyson V8 sucks up dirt / debris and filters it through the HEPA filtration and the two-tier radial cyclone system. This process helps filter and store the dirt / debris efficiently.

RELATED – What is dust made of? (more interesting than it sounds!)

How big is the Dyson V8?

The Dyson V8 vacuum sits at 49″ in total length, 9.8″ in height, and 8.8″ in width. Additionally, the unit weighs a total of 5.75 pounds when fully assembled.

• Length – 49″
• Height – 9.8″
• Width – 8.8″
• Weight – 5.75 pounds

What accessories come with the Dyson V8?

The Dyson V8 Absolute comes with a nice variety of cleaning tools and accessories:

• Soft roller cleaning head
• Mini soft dusting brush
• Docking station
• Crevice tool
• Mini motorized brushroll
• Combination tool
• Full sized motorized brushroll

Each of the included tools can be snapped into the vacuum via a quick-release button clasp. In other words, they snap in and out at the push of a button.

Dyson does offer a multitude of other cleaning tools and accessories that can be added to the V8.

1. Wall mount
2. Charger
3. Cleaning tools
4. Wand
5. Motorized brushroll

Dyson V8 Absolute vs. Animal vs. Animal+ vs. Motorhead

The Dyson V8 is available in two versions, the V8 Absolute and V8 Animal.

Both the Absolute and Animal versions of the Dyson V8 are functionally similar. They have the same motor, the same dust bin, the same suction, and the same battery.

However, there are a few noteworthy differences between the two that may make one better for your needs.

Below we have a complete list of all the major differences between the Dyson V8 Absolute vs. Animal:

You can find these specific models for purchase here:

• Dyson V8 Absolute
• Dyson V8 Animal
• Dyson V8 Animal+
• Dyson V8 Motorhead

Wonder how the Dyson V8 compares to other Dyson vacuum cleaners? Check out our comparison series below:

• Dyson V8 vs. V6
• Dyson V8 vs. V7
• Dyson V8 vs. V10
• Dyson V8 vs. V6 vs. V7 vs. V10 vs V11

The Dyson V8 Absolute and V8 Animal are virtually identical, with the exception of color schemes and additional accessories / floor cleaners.

The Dyson V8 Animal utilizes the same features and functions as the Dyson V8 Absolute, but is sold for a slightly lower price.

Both of these Dyson vacuums offer up to 40 minutes of run time when fully charged, in addition to a HEPA filter, and the Dyson two-tier radial cyclone filtration system.

Although these units carry different names, the major difference simply comes from whether or not you would like the soft roller head cleaning tool.

If so, the Dyson V8 Absolute is the more appropriate option for you. If not, go with the Dyson V8 Animal.

MORE – Looking for more info on Dyson vacuums? Check out our Dyson Vacuum Cleaner reviews page.

Cleaning Tests

The following vacuum cleaner tests are designed to show how the Dyson V8 performs on different surfaces, picking up a variety of debris types.

We test on three different floor types, including hardwood floors, low pile carpet, and high pile carpet.

Cleaning Score

Hardwood Floor Cleaning

The Dyson V8 performed quite well on the hardwood floor tests, with the exception of the cereal test. Rice, kitty litter, and sugar all scored 98% or higher, whereas cereal was only 58% cleaned up.

During the cleaning test, the V8 had a tendency to push the cereal forward, not rolling over all of it which resulted in less being sucked up.

Low Pile Carpet Cleaning

As we moved onto the low carpet tests, the Dyson V8 showed an even better level of performance. This time, all four debris types were cleaned up to a level of 97% or higher.

While using this Dyson vacuum on the low pile carpet, the motorized brushroll was able to pick up the debris without pushing it around.

The friction between the debris and the carpet helped avoid any movement, allowing the V8 suck it up with ease.

High Pile Carpet Cleaning

High pile carpet was another top performer. Virtually flawless cleaning scores across the board. The lowest percentage came from the rice test, which was a 93%. Otherwise, each debris was cleaned up at a level of 99%.

Usability

Using the Dyson V8 vacuum is among the easiest of the cordless vacuums we have tested. There is no real setup process required to get started with this vacuum. Simply unbox the unit. charge it, and begin using it.

The assembly process is really determined by which configuration you’re wanting to use during cleaning; handheld or stick?

Regardless, neither is a strenuous process. Attach the tool you’d like to use and you’ll be ready to rock and roll.

When using the Dyson V8 as a stick vacuum, you have the option of attaching tools to the end of the wand.

Once you’ve done so, you can pull the trigger on the handle to power the motor and begin cleaning.

The same power process is used for the handheld configuration. Remove the wand, add a cleaning tool, and pull the trigger.

Additionally, users have the option of swapping between two different cleaning methods; normal or max mode. Max mode offers a stronger degree of suction, but also drains the battery much faster.

RELATED – What’s the easiest vacuum to use? See our best vacuum cleaner primer for answers.All things considered, there are several ways to use the Dyson V8 Absolute, but none of them are difficult to manage.

Maneuverability

Maneuverability is one of the Dyson V8’s strong suits. The lightweight design combined with cleaning heads that turn with ease make for an easy to control vacuum cleaner.

Unlike most upright vacuums, the Dyson V8 is able to turn extremely easy, which allows users to get around furniture and other obstacles much easier.

• Weight: 5.75 pounds
• Battery: 2,800 mAh
• Height: 49″
• Turning: 90°

If the V8 is transformed into a handheld vacuum, the maneuverability only increases.

Users no longer have to deal with the wand and can target more localized messes quickly. While you do lose the reach of the wand, you gain more control due to the unit now being smaller.

Each of the tools included are also easy to use, helping to make maneuverability one of the most impressive characteristics about this Dyson vacuum.

V8 Maintenance Costs & Tasks

The following table indicates the frequency at which you will likely want to replace the various parts and components of the vacuum. However, your individual experiences may vary.

Managing the maintenance of the Dyson V8 is not a tough task. The three areas you need to pay attention to are the HEPA filter, central filter, and battery.

The HEPA filter is probably the most important piece of the puzzle if you have allergies or want to ensure your air is clean after vacuuming. Both are lifetime washable filters.

Make sure you wash both filters once per month in cold water and allow to air dry for 24 hours.

Lastly, the battery is fairly self-explanatory. Replace it when it dies. With a 2-year warranty, I would expect the battery to last at least 2 years, or Dyson will more than likely replace it under the warranty terms.

Several third party batteries are also available, so the cost of this part depends on which company’s battery you select.

Annual maintenance costs on the Dyson V8 will be $0 / year while your warranty is still valid. Once the warranty expires annual costs will be around $32 / year, which covers the cost of replacing the battery every 2 years.

How loud is the Dyson V8?

All vacuum cleaner reviews on Modern Castle are put through our standard noise test. For this test, we use a sound meter to measure noise in terms of decibel level approximately 3′ away from the vacuum.

How long does the Dyson V8 battery last?

All cordless vacuum reviews on Modern Castle are put through a standard assessment of battery size, run time, life, and replacement cost.

The Dyson V8 has one of the most impressive battery run-times we’ve tested to date (excluding robot vacuums). Its 40 minute run time powered by just a 5 hour charge is only surpassed by the Dyson V10 (which has a 60 minute run time).

COMPARISON – See how Dyson stacks up against Dyson in our Dyson V6 vs. V10 battle.

Replacing the battery may become necessary every 12-24 months. You can find a battery replacements here.

Is the Dyson V8 a good value?

This Dyson vacuum cleaner offers a solid value, but it’s not the best we’ve seen. Performance is certainly top notch, maneuverability is great, maintenance is low, but the overall cost of this unit is still quite high.

You most definitely are getting what you pay for, but there are other vacuum cleaners sold at a lower cost that offer a similar level of performance.

RELATED – Looking for a less expensive vacuum? Check out Electrolux’s Ergorapido or our complete Best Cheap Vacuum guide.

If you’re a big time Dyson fan or don’t mind the higher price tag, the V8 could be considered to be a great value. In my opinion, if the price was slightly lower it would be a spectacular buy.

That said, Dyson does offer a 2-year limited warranty and a 30-day money back guarantee with the purchase of the V8.

Dyson V8 Specifications

Below is a complete list of important specifications and features included on the Dyson V8 Absolute:

Who Should Buy the Dyson V8 Vacuum?

The Dyson V8 is a powerful unit that offers one of the longest run times we have seen from a cordless stick vacuum.

Several cleaning accessories and multiple cleaning configurations are offered by this Dyson vacuum, creating one of the most versatile vacuum cleaners in the industry.

I would recommend the Dyson V8 if you’re looking for the following features in a vacuum:

• Cordless unit with a good run time – The Dyson V8 has the ability to last up to 40 minutes when fully charged. As a cordless vacuum, this is one of the best run times we have seen. That said, if placed on Max mode, the run time drops down to 7 minutes.
• Strong suction – The suction on this Dyson vacuum is extremely strong on all indoor surfaces. If normal mode isn’t enough, users have the option of kicking the unit into max mode, which will increase the suction power dramatically.
• A 2-in-1 vacuum – The Dyson V8 Absolute can be used as a stick vacuum or a handheld vacuum. Simply remove the wand from the main portion of the vacuum and you have yourself a handheld vacuum cleaner.
• Don’t mind a higher price tag – Although a strong performer in most areas, the V8 is not an inexpensive vacuum. Dyson is no stranger to a higher price point, so you will need to be sure you’re comfortable spending a little extra on this V8 vacuum.

For more information on the Dyson V8 check it out here.

Updates

• September 9, 2019 – Few changes to formatting. Also, added two new models to our comparison chart.
• April 12, 2019 – Made a few minor formatting and content changes and improvements.
• March 31, 2019 – Overhauled page design and layout.