Dyson V8 Cordless Vacuum: 2023 Redesign Review

The Dyson V8: A New Take on a Classic

Dyson has long been a leader in the vacuum industry, consistently pushing the boundaries of what's possible in home cleaning technology. Their latest offering, a redesigned version of the V8 cordless vacuum, continues this tradition of innovation. This article will provide an in-depth look at the new Dyson V8, examining its features, performance, and how it stacks up against both its predecessors and competitors.

Design and Ergonomics

The Classic Handle Design

One of the most notable aspects of the new V8 is its retention of the classic handle design. Unlike many of Dyson's newer models which feature a more elongated handle, the V8 sticks to its roots. This decision has several benefits:

1. Lighter weight
2. Improved center of gravity
3. Easier maneuverability
4. Better suited for above-floor cleaning tasks

The shorter distance between the hand and attachments makes the V8 particularly effective for tasks like dusting, reducing strain on the forearm and making the overall experience less awkward.

Practical Bin Emptying

Another advantage of the V8's design is the ability to empty its bin without removing the wand. This might seem like a small detail, but it significantly improves the user experience, making the cleaning process more streamlined and efficient.

Performance

Airflow and Suction

In bench tests, the new V8 demonstrated airflow and sealed suction numbers comparable to its predecessor. These figures are higher than average for cordless vacuums, indicating strong overall performance.

The New Motor Bar Cleaner Head

One of the most significant upgrades in the 2023 V8 model is the introduction of the "detangling motor bar cleaner head." This new design includes several improvements:

1. Active Hair Detangling System: Plastic combs effectively remove hair as you vacuum, largely solving the common problem of hair tangling around the brush roll.
2. Improved Floor Seal: The new head creates a better seal on hard floors, leading to improved performance in unsealed suction tests and crevice pickup tests.

Carpet Performance

The V8 excels in carpet cleaning:

• Capable of picking up all types and sizes of debris, from fine to extra-large
• Above-average performance in deep clean tests, effectively removing deeply embedded debris

HEPA Filtration

The V8 features Dyson's whole machine HEPA filtration system, trapping 99.99% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. This high-end feature is typically found only in more expensive vacuum models and is a significant selling point for those concerned about air quality.

Attachments and Accessories

The new V8 comes with an upgraded attachment set, matching what you'd find with Dyson's top-of-the-line models like the V15 or Gen 5. The package includes:

1. Wall mount
2. Crevice tool
3. Combination dusting brush and upholstery tool
4. Motorized hair screw tool (excellent for upholstery cleaning)

This comprehensive set of attachments enhances the V8's versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of cleaning tasks beyond just floor cleaning.

Battery Life and Power Settings

Battery Performance

Dyson rates the V8's battery life at 40 minutes on low power, which is slightly below average but consistent with the previous V8 model. In max power mode with the cleaning head attached, our tests showed a runtime of about 9 minutes. This is an improvement over the previous V8 and comparable to even higher-end models like the V15, though it's worth noting that the V15 outputs more power in its max setting.

Power Settings

Unlike newer Dyson models, the V8 only offers two power settings:

1. Low power
2. Max power

While the low power setting is sufficient for most cleaning tasks, the lack of a medium power setting or an auto-adjustment feature is a notable omission. These features could have helped optimize battery life and performance.

Non-Removable Battery

Unlike newer Dyson models, the V8's battery is not removable. This could be seen as a drawback for those who prefer the option to swap batteries for extended cleaning sessions.

Hard Floor Performance

The new motor bar cleaner head is designed as a combo head, suitable for both hard floors and carpets. While it performs admirably in most situations, there are some limitations:

• Excellent performance with normal-sized debris on hard floors
• Some difficulty with larger debris, showing a tendency to "snow plow" medium-sized particles in hard floor tests

Despite this minor issue, the motor bar cleaner head proves more than capable for most hard floor cleaning tasks in real-world scenarios.

Comparison to Other Dyson Models

Advantages Over Newer Models

1. Weight and Handling: The V8 offers a superior experience in terms of weight and maneuverability compared to even the most expensive Dyson models.
2. Price: While still a premium product, the V8 is significantly more affordable than other Dyson cordless vacuums.

Trade-offs

1. Power: The V8 has slightly less power than top-of-the-line Dyson models.
2. Battery Life: Battery life is somewhat shorter compared to newer, more expensive models.

Value Proposition

Despite being an older model, the V8 still outperforms many competitors' brand new models. The 2023 redesign has brought significant improvements, making it an excellent value proposition within the Dyson lineup.

Conclusion

The redesigned Dyson V8 cordless vacuum represents a thoughtful evolution of a classic model. By retaining the beloved ergonomic design while incorporating new technologies and improvements, Dyson has created a vacuum that balances performance, usability, and value.

Key Takeaways

1. Ergonomic Design: The classic handle design offers superior maneuverability and comfort, especially for above-floor cleaning.
2. Improved Cleaning Head: The new motor bar cleaner head effectively tackles hair tangling and provides better floor sealing.
3. Strong Performance: Excellent carpet cleaning capabilities and effective hard floor cleaning for most debris types.
4. HEPA Filtration: High-end filtration system typically found in more expensive models.
5. Comprehensive Attachment Set: Versatile set of tools for various cleaning tasks.
6. Value: Offers many features of higher-end Dyson models at a more accessible price point.

Considerations

1. Battery Life: Slightly below average, with no option for removable batteries.
2. Limited Power Settings: Only two power modes available.
3. Hard Floor Limitations: Some issues with larger debris on hard floors.

Overall, the Dyson V8 (2023 version) presents a compelling option for those seeking a high-quality cordless vacuum without the premium price tag of the latest models. Its balance of performance, ergonomics, and features makes it a strong contender in the cordless vacuum market.

Buying Guide

When considering the Dyson V8, keep these factors in mind:

1. Home Size: The 40-minute battery life on low power is suitable for most apartments and small to medium-sized homes. For larger spaces, you might need to plan your cleaning sessions or consider a model with longer battery life.

2. Floor Types: The V8 performs well on both carpets and hard floors, making it a good choice for homes with mixed flooring.

3. Allergies: If you or your family members have allergies, the HEPA filtration system of the V8 could be a significant benefit.

4. Budget: While more affordable than top-tier Dyson models, the V8 is still a premium product. Consider if the features and performance justify the price for your needs.

5. Cleaning Habits: If you prefer to do all your cleaning in one long session, the non-removable battery might be a limitation. However, if you tend to do quick, regular clean-ups, the V8 should be more than sufficient.

6. Storage Space: The wall-mount option makes the V8 easy to store in small spaces, which could be a deciding factor for those with limited storage.

Maintenance Tips

To keep your Dyson V8 performing at its best:

1. Regular Filter Cleaning: Wash the filter monthly with cold water and allow it to dry completely before reinserting.

2. Empty the Bin Frequently: Don't let the bin fill past the max line, as this can reduce suction power.

3. Clean the Brush Bar: Regularly remove hair and debris from the brush bar to maintain optimal performance.

4. Check for Blockages: Periodically inspect the wand and cleaning head for any blockages that might reduce suction.

5. Battery Care: While the battery isn't removable, you can extend its life by storing the vacuum in a cool, dry place and avoiding leaving it plugged in constantly when not in use.

Final Thoughts

The Dyson V8 2023 redesign proves that sometimes, refining a classic can be just as effective as creating something entirely new. By addressing key issues like hair tangling and improving the attachment set, Dyson has breathed new life into the V8 model.

For many users, the V8 will hit a sweet spot of performance, features, and price. It offers many of the benefits of more expensive Dyson models while retaining the ergonomic design that made the original V8 so popular. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of the latest models, its core functionality is strong, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize ease of use and effective cleaning over having the absolute latest technology.

Ultimately, the decision to purchase the Dyson V8 will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you value a lightweight, maneuverable vacuum with strong performance and don't mind the lack of some newer features, the V8 could be the perfect addition to your cleaning arsenal. Its balance of tried-and-true design with updated technology makes it a standout option in the crowded cordless vacuum market.

Article created from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_VBfyPybV4&ab_channel=VacuumWars