Comparing Dyson's V8 and V15 cordless vacuums: delineating the distinctions and providing a recommendation for your purchase decision.

The Dyson V15 Detect and the Dyson V8 are two popular cordless stick vacuums from the renowned technology company. While both vacuums offer impressive performance, they cater to different needs and budgets.

First introduced in 2016, the Dyson V8 is a straightforward option focusing on strong suction and great maneuverability. It weighs 5.6 lbs / 2.5 kg, making it lightweight and comfortable for long periods and handheld mode. The V8 features a dust cup capacity of 0.14 gallon / 0.54L and delivers 115AW / 130AW of suction power. It can run for 40 minutes in Standard mode and 7 minutes in Boost. The V8 is the cheapest Dyson stick vac available, with a list price starting from $469.99 / £329 / AU$599.

In contrast, the Dyson V15 Detect was launched in 2021, offering more suction power with a maximum of 240AW. It is noticeably heavier than the V8, weighing 6.8 lbs / 3 kg. However, the V15 Detect is a better choice for larger homes due to its longer battery life, larger dust cup, and automatic suction adjustment. Its dust cup capacity is 0.2 gallon / 0.77L, and it can run for 40 minutes in Eco and 18 minutes in Max.

One of the standout features of the V15 Detect is its removable, swappable battery, a feature not found in the V8. The V15 also comes with an extra floorhead for hard floors, which is soft and equipped with a laser to illuminate hidden dirt. The V15's battery is replaceable, while the V8's is not.

The V15 Detect also boasts an information screen, automatic suction adjustment based on floor cleanliness, and a separate cleaner head for hard floors. Its real-time dust reports, displayed as a bar graph on the vacuum's screen, can help identify hotspots for dust. The V15 Detect's price is significantly higher than the V8, with a list price starting from $799.99 / £649.99 / AU$1,449.

Since their market entry, the Dyson V8 and Dyson V15 Detect have shown different price evolutions in various countries. The V15 Detect has maintained a high-end price range, while the V8 has been more budget-friendly since launch. For instance, in Germany (2025 data), the Dyson V15 Detect Absolute prices around €529 to €625, with initial prices higher at launch around €535–€625. The Dyson V8 prices are lower, historically starting around €100 to €300 but with fewer recent listings available for precise current comparison.

In summary, the Dyson V8 and Dyson V15 Detect cater to different needs and budgets. The V8 is a more budget-friendly option with strong suction and great maneuverability, while the V15 Detect is a high-end vacuum offering more suction power, longer battery life, and advanced features.