I’ve been testing vacuums for years — these 7 are Dyson’s very best

Long gone are the days of the clunky, can’t-move-around vacuum monsters that have you schlepping a heavy sucker from room to room. Fortunately, we’ve found the best vacuums in 2024 and beyond to help you on your squeaky-clean journey.

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Now, the buffet of vacuums on the market comes in an array of high-tech features, including robot vacuums, handhelds, or cordless vacuums that can have your rugs and floors spotless in minutes. Best of all, some of the best ones, like those from Dyson, are on sale.

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There’s no question some of the best vacuums can be up there in price. So, you want to ensure the swift cleaner you snag is well worth the investment — especially when so many models claim to be the best for families and pets.

Luckily, we spent months shuffling past rooms with different vacuums to find recommendations we would recommend IRL. And, to no surprise, Dyson passed with flying colors (and super clean carpets).

Below, find the seven best vacuums we tested, the pros and cons of each, and unique features to help guide your new carpet and hardwood floor cleaner decision. Whether you’re looking to add a vacuum to your wedding registry or are in the market for a more convenient, of-age system, there’s certainly one for you.

Best Overall: Dyson Gen5detect Cordless Vacuum

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The Dyson Gen5detect Cordless Vacuum is, by far, the most impressive Dyson vacuum I’ve tried in the past four years. Trust me, that’s a tall order, but the impressiveness of this cordless model — from its incredible suction power to its ease of deep cleaning — makes it worth its high-ticket price tag.

When it comes down to it, you don’t want to keep repurchasing vacuum after vacuum because you didn’t invest in one originally. Plus, vacuums aren’t as cheap anymore, as a well-made one is usually around $200. So, this all-in-one cordless option that boasts up to 70 minutes of runtime and a 4.5-hour charge makes deep cleaning my home a snap.

As a new homeowner, I knew I wanted to unbox the best vacuum so I could actually look forward to deep cleaning days. The Gen5detect Cordless Vacuum didn’t disappoint; its simple for me to maneuver from my kitchen to my dining area to my living room, and then upstairs to suck up all of the dust and debris from my plush carpet. It tackles a variety of floors, from engineered laminate to tile and it’s so satisfying to see all the dust enter the dustbin, especially when I use the crevice tool to really capture everything.

I personally love its included Fluffy Optic Cleaner Head, though it also comes with the more traditional Digital Motorbar Cleaner Head characteristic of several other Dyson cordless models. The Built-In Crevice Tool is ultra-convenient because I never have to think about finding a separate attachment. With the touch of a button, I can instantly transform my cordless vacuum into a handheld to tackle dust buildup on my second-floor vaulted ceilings.

While I haven’t installed the included Wall Dok yet, I plan to, as it creates an individualized station for my Dyson vacuum to live in my under-the-staircase large storage closet. And, as someone with seasonal allergies, the HEPA filter that’s included in its design is a dream come true.

As you can tell, I can’t stop raving about this vacuum. I’ve used a variety of models ranging from $100 to $1,000, but none compare to this hygienic, modern and ergonomic model.

What’s in the box: Dyson Gen5detect, Fluffy Optic Cleaner Head, Hair Screw Tool, Combination Tool, Digital Motorbar Cleaner Head, Built-In Dusting and Crevice Tool, Wall Dok, Charger | Dimensions: 50.2″ (H) x 10.87″ (L) x 9.8″ (W) | Weight: 7.72 lbs. | Charge time: 4.5 hours | Run time: Up to 70 minutes

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Best Value: Dyson V8 Cordless Vacuum

The Dyson V8 Animal Cordless Stick Vacuum is all the rage, and for a good reason — it’s one of the best cordless vacuums we tested from Dyson and is a practical, relatively affordable investment that’ll leave your house spotless.

With the V8 Animal, you’re getting optimal suction and hassle-free maneuvering. Though I don’t have a furry pet, this vacuum impressively worked well in picking up finer dust and hairs from carpeting.

The ability to switch between two power modes was a feature I didn’t know I needed. I enjoyed its MAX mode, which provides up to seven minutes of intense power on my thicker shag carpet, and its Powerful mode for regular Sunday deep cleans.

Its mini cleaning tools: With the V8 Animal, you’ll never need a car vacuum or a spot cleaner again. Conveniently, this model is clad with a combination tool that works well on finer textures — like carpeting on stairs — a crevice tool for hard-to-reach places, and even a motorized brush bar to tackle dirt and dust on anything from car seats to couches.

As a bonus, the V8 Animal is certified asthma and allergy-friendly, so it traps allergens inside the machine rather than expelling them into the home. As someone with allergies to dust and mold, this is a nifty aspect.

While it doesn’t feature advanced technologies, its quality in comparison to its price is quite unmatched.

What’s in the box: Dyson V8 Animal, Direct Drive Cleaner Head, Mini Motorized Tool, Mini Soft Dusting Brush, Crevice Tool, Combination Tool, Charger, Docking Station | Dimensions: 9.8″ (H) x 49″ (L) x 8.8″ (W) | Weight: 5.63 lbs. | Charge time: 5 hours | Run time: Up to 40 minutes

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Best Splurge: Dyson Gen5outsize Cordless Vacuum

I’ve been testing the Dyson Gen5Outsize for months now, and it has become a staple in my cleaning routine. While it is slightly larger than some other models, this doesn’t detract from its overall performance. In fact, its extensive range of attachments makes it a comprehensive cleaning system that’s well worth the investment.

This model features Dyson’s most advanced cordless vacuum technology, boasting powerful suction, integrated HEPA filtration to combat allergens, and the brand’s longest runtime yet. It effortlessly tackles both hardwood floors in my living room and shag carpeting upstairs.

One of its standout features is the dust detection technology, which is displayed on a modern screen. This high-tech feature adds an element of excitement to cleaning. With a motor that spins up to 135,000 revolutions per minute (rmp). it delivers remarkable suction power for a thorough cleaning. I’m always amazed at the amount of dust and debris it collects in the easy-to-empty reservoir. It’s incredibly satisfying.

I particularly appreciate the Fluffy Optic Cleaner Head for its precision, along with the Digital Motorbar XL Cleaner Head for larger spaces. The vacuum also comes with a built-in dusting and crevice tool, a hair screw tool for pet hair, a combination tool for quick cleaning tasks, and a docking station, charger, and additional battery for continuous use. While it may require a bit of a splurge, it’s the only vacuum you’ll need for years to come.

I found this model complete with plenty of tools to make cleaning easier, which added to its value and experience. It’s also equipped with advanced suction power, and advanced HEPA filtration. While heavier than most, it’s a breeze to maneuver, especially in hard-to-reach areas and angles. That said, it’s great for reaching under beds and behind furniture you don’t want to move.

The price may pose a barrier for some consumers, but it’s worth the splurge because of all the amazing benefits it provides, like a lengthy runtime, dust detection factor, and additional battery.

Additionally, this model is larger compared to other Dyson models, although it may not be considered a significant drawback. For instance, its waste bin is 150% larger than the Gen5detect bin, allowing it to suck up more dirt between cleanings.

What’s in the box: Fluffy Optic Cleaner Head, Hair Screw Tool, Combination Tool, Wall Dock, Digital Motorbar XL Cleaner Head, Built-In Dusting and Crevice Tool, Additional Battery, Charger, and User Guide Dimensions: 50” (H) x 11.4” (L) x 12.”6 (W) | Weight: 8.6lb | Charge time: 4.5hrs | Run time: 140 min

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Best for Small Spaces: Dyson Omni-Glide Cordless Vacuum

When I first unboxed Dyson’s Omni-Glide, I was shocked at how small it was. Sure, stick and cordless vacuums are the new wave, but this was only a few inches taller than my 1.5-year-old niece.

That said, the saying “small, but mighty” was certainly in mind when Dyson designed the Omni-Glide. In fact, it’s Dyson’s slimmest and most maneuverable vacuum for hard floors, featuring the brand’s first omnidirectional soft roller cleaner head that literally glides into hard-to-reach places.

I vacuumed my living room, then walked upstairs to vacuum my bedroom, and then went outside to vacuum a small rug — and the whole cleaning process took me less than 10 minutes. Why? The vacuum is so lightweight!

The Omni-Glide is a true answer to prayer for anyone who gets frustrated lifting a heavy cleaning tool. While it’s a surefire perfect match for handheld dusting with the included crevice tool, it’s also impressive at sucking up dirt on tile floor, debris in floor molding, and even in between your stair rails — all with velvet-like, soft nylon brush bars.

You can either store the Omni-Glide with the included wall-mounted charging dock — which is great for apartment closet storage — or concentrate the cleaning device in-line under your bed or couch. Again, small but mighty.

With the help of Dyson’s follow-along video, it hasn’t been easier to learn how to properly care for the new tool. Plus, emptying the bin is hands-free and shoots out straight from the vacuum’s storage when ready.

Due to the Omni-Glide’s tinier-than-tiny statute, it hurt my back to vacuum my entire living room floor. Though the stick comes up to chest level, I found myself reaching over at times to glide it around the room — which isn’t good for your back. It’s not the best for large spaces in that respect.

However, the convenience of the vacuum being so small is still great for small spaces. Particularly, it’s great if you have an apartment with just a kitchen, living area, and bathroom to worry about.

Take note of the floors you’re looking to clean, too. If you have intense shag (as I do in my hallway foyer) or Berber-textured carpet, this isn’t the vacuum for you. While it does glide, I felt like it didn’t pick up embedded dust on coarser, soft floors. However, it’s dynamite on hard floors, especially the deep multi-colored brown tile in my kitchen, which is always difficult to spot where dirt lays.

What’s in the box: Dyson Omni-Glide, Omnidirectional Soft Roller Cleaner Head, Combi-Crevice Tool, Docking Station, Charger | Dimensions: 42.4″ (H) x 3.6″ (L) x 8.1″ (W) | Weight: 4.18 lbs. | Charge time: 3.5 hours | Run time: Up to 20 minutes

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Best Suction Power: Dyson V7 Advanced Cordless Vacuum

Though the Dyson V7 Advanced Origin Cordless Vacuum isn’t a recent Dyson release, it’s still a wonderful cleaner that comes in an aesthetically pleasing purple and silver color.

In short, this model has incredible suction power and, though comparable to the brand’s V8 Animal and Omni-Glide, the ability to suck dirt, dust and grime is unparalleled.

The inclusion of two-tier radial cyclones — 15 total — allows the vacuum to increase the airflow and capture fine dust. And it’s not too noisy, either; it’s more of a whoosh than a loud motor. It’s an exceptionally powerful vacuum with great suction power.

Though it’s not the Omni-Glide, it was one of the best for swiveling into corners and other hard-to-reach places, specifically for your stairs, behind your bed, and under sinks. It’s one of the best Dyson vacuums for the money, even though it doesn’t feature the brand’s more advanced technologies.

What’s in the box: Dyson V7 Advanced Origin Cordless Vacuum, Wand, Motorbar Cleaner Head, Combination Tool, Charger | Dimensions: 49.5″ (H) x 8.7″ (L) x 9.8″ (W) | Weight: 5.58 lbs. | Charge time: 5 hours | Run time: Up to 40 minutes

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Most Lightweight: Dyson V12 Detect Slim+ Cordless Vacuum

Dyson’s V12 Detect Slim Vacuum is one of the most of-age vacuums I’ve ever used — and that includes my experience with robot vacuums.

Dubbed Dyson’s “most compact intelligent cordless vacuum,” it’s clad with laser technology that scientifically shows you how well it’s cleaning on its built-in LCD screen. The screen shows what has been sucked up, while its piezo sensor sizes and counts the number of dust particles to automatically increase the suction power. In short, it’s pretty ground-breaking.

In tandem with the crevice tool and easy-to-maneuver stick handle, the V12 Detect is incredibly high-tech and apt for all kinds of spaces. This is huge, especially if you’re really particular with your deep-cleaning sessions (as am I).

Additionally, its LCD Screen proves to me, as a consumer, how much time and energy was put into designing this vacuum. Dyson wants you to comprehend exactly how it’s getting the job done — and it gets the job done efficiently!

It doesn’t take me long to vacuum my smaller-sized spaces, so the up-to-60 minutes of run time is a wonderful aspect of the V12 Detect. If I’m cleaning my entire house, it’s still amazing, and when I clean just one room, I know it’ll never die on me.

While all good vacuums locate and remove dust from your floors, the V12 Detect’s Laser Slim Fluffy cleaner head has built-in laser technology you can’t normally see, ensuring you won’t miss anything. At the end of my cleaning, my bedroom never looked more refreshed.

Dyson’s V12 Detect is around $450, which is pretty comparable — if not pricier — to robot vacuums that do it all for you. That said, I still love working it myself (it’s so simple to use), but it’s one con to consider before purchasing.

What’s in the box: Dyson V12 Detect Slim, Laser Slim Fluffy Cleaner Head, Hair Screw Tool, Combination Tool, Motorbar Cleaning Head, Crevice Tool, Wand Clip, Docking Station, Charger | Dimensions: 25.2″ (H) x 124.7″ (L) x 9.8″ (W) | Weight: 5.2 lbs | Charge time: 4 hours | Run time: Up to 60 minutes

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Best for Upright: Dyson Ball Animal 2 Upright Vacuum

The tried-and-true Dyson Ball Animal 2 Vacuum is the perfect cleaner for thick carpets. And when we say thick, we mean thick.

It’s impressive that this model isn’t cordless but still comes with accessories to transform your power vac into a precise cleaning machine. And there’s even a mattress tool, which is ideal. Because let’s face it — when’s the last time you gave your everyday mattress a spin clean?

The textured rugs in my parents’ home aren’t fine. They have a crazy shag, deep-rooted Berber and macrame boho area rugs that I personally don’t know how to give a true deep cleaning to. However, the Ball Animal 2 is an effective solution.

What’s more, its ball structure gives weight to gravity, making it stand perfectly upright without leaning against a wall or charging dock. It’s convenient, handy and won’t crash into your furniture.

Weighing in at almost 18 pounds, it’s no lightweight machine. Although it’s not my favorite, its incredible ability to deep clean, allowed it to make the cut. I do want to note that though the Ball Animal 2 comes with some unique and practical tools, it can’t transform into a handheld cleaner.

What’s in the box: Dyson Ball Animal 2, Articulating Hard Floor Tool, Tangle-Free Turbine, Tool Storage Bag | Dimensions: 42.13″ (H) x 13.39″ (L) x 15.35″ (W) | Weight: 17.42 lbs.

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An FAQ on Dyson Vacuums

Ahead, find some commonly asked questions on Dyson, including how to use its vacuums and what makes them so wishlist-inducing.

What is the best Dyson vacuum?

The best Dyson vacuum depends on your preference and needs, though we find the Dyson Gen5detect Cordless Vacuum to be the very best. It boasts powerful suction and a lightweight design, comes with a built-in crevice tool that makes it simple to switch between a cordless and handheld cleaner, and features a built-in HEPA filter that makes it great for those with allergies.

The Dyson Omni-Glide Cordless Vacuum is ideal for hard floors and small spaces. It’s a lightweight vacuum that’s easy to maneuver and designed specifically for efficient cleaning of flat surfaces.

And, while not a cordless vacuum, the Dyson Ball Animal 2 Upright Vacuum offers a more traditional cleaning experience and is thought to be great for pet hair.

What makes Dyson a fan-favorite brand?

Dyson is known for its cutting-edge technology, such as powerful suction, advanced filtration systems, and unique designs like the cyclonic separation that prevents clogging The brand’s vacuums are revered for delivering superior cleaning performance on various surfaces, making them effective for both carpets and hard floors.

Dyson products are also aesthetically appealing and ergonomic, with a focus on user-friendly features like easy maneuverability and lightweight designs. To top off the brand’s allure, many Dyson models are cordless, offering the freedom to clean without being tethered to an outlet, which adds convenience and flexibility.

Dyson vacuums are built to last, often coming with long warranties and robust construction; this provides users confidence in their investment.

What is the cheapest Dyson vacuum?

While Dyson vacuums commonly go on sale, the two most affordable models we reviewed are the Dyson V8 Cordless Vacuum and the Dyson V7 Advanced Cordless Vacuum.

The Dyson V8 Cordless Vacuum is slightly more expensive than the V7, but still a cost-effective choice for everyone — pet owners, especially — who need strong suction and good battery life.

The Dyson V7 Advanced Cordless Vacuum offers solid performance and is often one of the more affordable options in Dyson’s lineup. It’s lightweight and versatile, suitable for quick clean-ups.

How we tested

Let’s be real — any Dyson cordless vacuum is a gift in and of itself (truly), but there are specific characteristics I kept in mind:

• Suction power: When it comes to tackling dust and debris in your home, the efficiency of the vacuum takes priority. I took note of which vacuums had the most impressive and high-functioning suction power.
• Value: Though most Dyson vacuums typically cost a pretty penny, there are some that are pricier than others. I took note of this, in comparison to how each model performed.
• Ease of use: Most Dyson vacuums come with attachments, while others are more apt for maneuvering over carpets. I assessed how complex each was, if applicable.
• Weight: Some Dyson vacuums are heavier than most, which may not be the best for some users, especially those with arthritis or with upper-extremity disabilities. I listed the weight of each vacuum and how each one felt as I was maneuvering it through my home.

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