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TopTenReviews
Joanne Lewsley

Dyson Outsize vs Dyson V15: what's the difference?

Dyson outsize vs v15.

When you're on the hunt for the best cordless vacuum for your home, the Dyson Outsize and V15 are two top contenders. Each has its strengths, so picking the right one depends on your cleaning style.

In this guide, I’ll break down the standout features of both models so you can see which one’s a better match for your home. I’ve also gathered some helpful tips from a cleaning expert to make your decision even simpler. Whether you're tackling pet hair or just maintaining a clean space, I've got the info you need to choose the right vacuum.

Dyson Outsize vs Dyson V15: Price

The Dyson Outsize is generally the more budget-friendly option. It's typically priced at $599.99 but right now you can find it for $399.99 at Home Depot, with a huge discount of $200 (33%). 

In contrast, the Dyson V15 is a premium model, retailing for $749.99 on the Dyson site. This higher price reflects its advanced features, including real-time particle detection and powerful suction capabilities. However, you might find better deals at other retailers, especially during sales events such as Amazon Prime Day and Black Friday. If you’re open to it, you can also snag refurbished Dyson V15s on places like eBay for a fraction of the price.

  • Verdict: The Outsize offers excellent value if you want powerful cleaning without breaking the bank. However, if you want intelligent and cool features like dust-reveal technology, you can upgrade to the V15. 
(Image credit: Dyson)

Dyson Outsize vs Dyson V15: Design and features

When comparing the Dyson Outsize to the Dyson V15, the first thing to note is the design. The Outsize is a larger, more robust vacuum, weighing 7.85 lbs, making it slightly heavier than the V15, which weighs 6.83 lbs. While the Outsize’s larger format and wider cleaner head (12.6 inches compared to the V15’s 9.8 inches) allow for more efficient cleaning of larger spaces, the V15's lighter weight makes it easier to handle for quick clean-ups or maneuvering around furniture. 

As Ken Doty, cleaning expert from The Maids points out, “The major differences between the two models are size, cleaning capacity and battery life. The Outsize model comes with a larger dust bin and cleaning head, alongside the extra battery life that can double the cleaning time compared to the V15.

“...the Outsize’s wider cleaning head allows the model to cover more ground with less repetitive passes,” which may suit you better if you find vacuuming dull!

Both vacuums are unmistakably Dyson in design, with pops of the brand’s distinctive purple and red alongside the sophisticated matte gray.

In terms of features, the Outsize boasts a 0.5-gallon bin, which is 150% larger than the V15's 0.2-gallon bin, meaning less frequent emptying during cleaning sessions. It’s equipped with the Digital Motorbar™ XL cleaner head, which features automatic detangling technology for handling long hair and pet fur. 

On the other hand, the Dyson V15 brings a high-tech edge to cleaning with its LCD screen, which displays real-time performance data, including the size and count of dust particles picked up during cleaning.  The Outsize also has an LCD screen that allows you to check your cleaning mode (Auto, Eco and Boost) but lacks the V15’s innovative technology.

Another great feature of the V15 is its piezo sensor, which automatically adjusts suction power based on the amount of dust detected, ensuring an intelligent cleaning experience. It also features a Fluffy Optic cleaner head that reveals hidden dust on hard floors, enhancing its cleaning efficiency.

While both vacuums offer up to 60 minutes of run time, the Outsize’s larger bin and wider cleaner head are particularly well-suited for extensive cleaning in larger homes, while the V15 excels in innovative technology and personalized feedback about your regular cleaning.

  • Verdict:  The Dyson Outsize is ideal for large spaces with its wider cleaning head and larger bin, reducing the need for frequent passes and emptying. Meanwhile, the V15's advanced technology and real-time feedback make it better for precision cleaning and dust detection.

Dyson Outsize vs Dyson V15: Attachments and Performance

The Dyson V15 and Dyson Outsize are both powerful vacuums, but they differ in performance. You’ll get more with your V15 than you will with your Dyson Outsize.

Attachments

Both models feature advanced cleaner heads but with different technologies. The Outsize is equipped with a Digital Motorbar™ XL cleaner head that deep cleans all floor types and includes detangling technology to handle pet hair while you clean. 

The V15 uses a Digital Motorbar™ cleaner head that monitors brush bar resistance 360 times per second, automatically adjusting power to different floor types. However, it also offers a Fluffy Optic™ cleaner head, which reveals twice the amount of invisible dust on hard floors, ensuring you won’t miss any hidden dirt. Having reviewed this feature in the Dyson Gen5Detect, I can confirm it’s a game-changer for thoroughly cleaning hard floors, picking up dirt and pet hair in the tightest corners. 

The V15 also includes a wand clip handy for storing extra tools, although you can also pick these up relatively cheaply on the Dyson site. Both models include a crevice tool, combination tool and hair screw tool (for longer pet hair).

Power

In terms of motor power, the V15 is powered by the Dyson Hyperdymium™ motor, which spins at up to 125,000 RPM, generating robust suction for deep cleaning. While also powerful, the Outsize focuses on energy efficiency with its power trigger, maximizing battery life by using power only when needed. 

With 240 AW of suction power, the V15 outperforms the Outsize’s 220 AW in raw suction strength, making it highly effective for carpets and tackling embedded dirt, as Doty was quick to point out. 

Battery life

Both models offer up to 60 minutes of run time, which is excellent for whole-home cleaning. 

Ease of use

The Outsize weighs a hefty 7.85 lbs, making it heavier and more challenging to maneuver, especially during long cleaning sessions or when handling in tight spaces. The larger bin and wider cleaner head add to its overall bulk, which is ideal for large, open areas but could be a drawback for more compact homes or when cleaning overhead.

The Dyson V15 weighs almost a pound less (6.83 lbs), making it lighter and easier to maneuver compared to the Outsize. Its more compact design suits quick clean-ups and navigating tighter areas or furniture. The lighter weight also means less strain when carrying the vacuum upstairs or using it for extended periods. 

Cleaning modes

Both the Dyson Outsize and V15 offer the same three cleaning modes:

  • Eco: Longest combination of run time and suction power. 
  • Auto: The most balanced suction mix of run time and power. 
  • Boost: Strongest suction with the shortest run time.
  • Verdict: The Dyson V15 offers more powerful suction and better features for detecting hidden dust, making it ideal for thorough cleaning. It's also the better choice if weight and ease of movement are priorities. The Outsize excels in efficiency and larger coverage but falls slightly behind in raw performance.
(Image credit: Dyson)

Dyson Outsize vs Dyson V15: which is best?

The Dyson Outsize and Dyson V15 both offer powerful performance but cater to different needs. With its larger bin and wider cleaner head, the Outsize is ideal for larger homes, allowing for more efficient cleaning with fewer interruptions. However, the Outsize is heavier at 7.85 lbs, making it less portable for multi-level homes. 

On the other hand, the Dyson V15 excels in advanced technology, offering real-time dust detection and more substantial suction power. It’s also lighter and easier to handle, perfect for detailed cleaning in smaller spaces or tech-savvy users. 

“It will always depend on individual cleaning needs,” says Doty. ”For most households, you'll find the V15 might be the better choice due to slightly higher suction power and price point, but the Outsize would be my pick for larger households.” 

  • Verdict: If you're looking for a cordless Dyson vac that offers great value for money, the Outsize is your best pick. However, the V15 goes much further with innovative tech and smart sensors. Plus, it's lightweight and easy to maneuver.  While you’ll need to fork out a few hundred dollars more, the V15 offers extra features and technology you’ll enjoy using every day.
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