Dyson V6 Cordless Vacuum Comparison Chart

Are you thinking of buying a V6 but don’t know which to choose? Or are you confused about the differences between the Absolute, Animal and other models? To help you find the best V6 for your requirements, we’ve compared each model below.

We loved the Dyson V6 range at SpotlessVacuum.co.uk. When it was first released, there were few cordless vacuums that could compete in terms of raw suction power and convenient design. It’s also a highly versatile vacuum that’s relatively lightweight.

Even though both the Dyson V7 and Dyson V8 have superseded it with stronger suction and longer battery life (check out our Dyson V8 Absolute Vs Animal page for a comparison of this series), the V6 is still popular due to its lower price and excellent performance. Dyson has also expanded the V6 range to meet the requirements of more people.

The downside to these extra V6 models is that choosing can be confusing. While it’s great to have choice, we think Dyson has made it surprisingly difficult to find out exactly how the V6 models compare.

For this reason, we’ve put together a simple Dyson V6 comparison chart so you can see which model best matches your requirements.

What’s The Same About Every V6 Model?

Before we get to the comparison chart, here’s a list of features that don’t change between V6 models. It’s also important to know whether you’re looking for a handheld-only model or a complete cordless vacuum.

V6 Digital Motor

All V6 vacuum cleaners use the same motor. Dyson describes this as a digital motor which can spin at up to 110,000 RPM. It’s the main reason why the V6 series is so powerful compared to cheaper cordless vacuums.

For comparison, the V6 motor is capable of providing up to 50% greater suction than the previous V2.​ However, we found it to be noticeably less powerful than the V8 or V10 motors.

Two-Tier Radial Cyclones

The V6 series is built using two tiers of radial cyclones. This is the same technology used on Dyson’s uprights. Dirt is spun through the cyclones at high speeds, which separates particles from the air while maintaining constant suction.

In practice, this means that less dust, dirt and other particles escape from the vacuum when in use. While all V6 vacuums are built with this technology, some come with additional filters to expel even cleaner air (more on that later).

Trigger System

One of the more controversial features is Dyson’s trigger system. Instead of having an on/off switch, you need to hold down the trigger while using the V6.

The upside is that the effective battery time is increased, as the vacuum isn’t running when you’re changing position or moving between rooms. Some people find it annoying to always hold the trigger though. While we think the trigger system is a handy option for increasing battery life, we would prefer Dyson to include the choice of a continuous mode (like the Hoover FD22G) on future models.​

20 Minute Run-Time

When used with a non-motorised tool, the combination of V6 engine and battery is able to provide a run-time of up to 20 minutes. The effective time is often longer than this, however, as the vacuum only runs when you’re using the trigger.

The battery life is reduced if you’re using a motorised tool. This is something to keep in mind if you have a large house, as you may want to choose a model with a longer run-time. For most people, the trigger system means the V6 provides ample time for all but the most thorough cleans.​

Max Power Mode

All V6 models come with a maximum power or boost mode. This increases suction power further at the expense of battery life, which drops to around 6 minutes.

While you probably won’t use this option too often, it’s a handy feature for particularly stubborn dirt. Just don’t overuse it if you’ve got lots of cleaning to do!

Hygienic Emptying

The body of the V6 has a quick-release button for emptying dirt and dust, so you don’t need to pull it out manually. It doesn’t include the new “No Touch” system found on the V7 and V8 though.

Even with this system, we don’t recommend emptying the vacuum inside if you have allergies, as dust and other allergens can still escape. The system means you won’t need to touch the dirt directly though.

Docking Station​

All full cordless models in the V6 range come with a docking station. This holds attachments, stores the machine and also recharges it.

Handheld-only models don’t come with a docking station.

Dyson V6 Comparison Chart – How Do The Models Differ?

Now let’s discuss the differences between the various models. For a quick overview, here’s a comparison table of which tools and features are included with each V6. Below the table are summaries of the main features of each model.

Please be aware that these were the specifications when we last updated this article. We can’t be held responsible if Dyson or a re-seller changes what’s included with a certain model.

Note: The models listed below are those sold in the UK at the time of writing. Models such as the V6 HEPA or Fluffy Pro Animal are currently not available in the UK, but we’ll add them to this page if that changes.

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Cordless Stick Vacuums

As we’ve already mentioned, the V6 range of stick cordless vacuums all use the same motor, cyclonic system and battery. Where they differ is in the tools provided and, in some cases, the type of filtration. Dyson has designed each set of tools to fulfil a specific need, so it’s important to choose the best option for your requirements.

Dyson V6 Standard

The V6 Standard is the basic model. It’s also the cheapest V6, but doesn’t come with a secondary floor tool or many accessories. A mini motorised tool isn’t included, which is particularly important if you have pets or need to clean stubborn dirt.

The Standard only includes the basic motorised cleaner head. While this is effective at cleaning all floor types, it’s not as powerful as the direct-drive cleaner head, nor as effective on hard floors as the soft roller.

Who Should Buy It: The V6 Standard is an excellent cordless vacuum that provides great value – but it’s the least versatile in the range. While it’s great for regular cleaning, the lack of a motorised tool means it’s not suitable for pet owners.

Dyson V6 Animal

The Animal comes with a wider motorised cleaning head than the standard model. This features the same nylon bristles and carbon fibre filaments, for effective cleaning on carpets and hard floors, but allows for faster cleaning.

Additionally, the Animal comes with a mini motorised tool. This is great for getting rid of pet hair, making the Animal far better suited to dog or cat owners.

Who Should Buy It: As you’ve probably guessed, the Animal is aimed at pet owners. The mini motorised tool is handy for getting rid of pet hair on stairs and furniture, while the wider floor tool can speed up cleaning. If you can afford the Animal Extra, however, it’s the superior vacuum.

Dyson V6 Animal Extra

The Animal Extra is a newer addition to the V6 range that is a significant step up from the original Animal. Instead of the motorised cleaning head, it comes with Dyson’s excellent direct-drive head. This provides up to 75% more brush bar power than the standard model, so it digs deeper into carpets and removes more dirt. It also comes with a stubborn dirt brush.

​While the Animal Extra’s direct-drive cleaning head is fantastic for carpets, the vacuum doesn’t come with either of Dyson’s hard floor heads. The direct-drive does include carbon fibre filaments for getting rid of fine dust on hard surfaces, but there are probably better options (such as the Fluffy or Total Clean) if your home has lots of hard floors.

Who Should Buy It: The direct-drive cleaner head and stubborn dirt brush mean the Animal Extra is a big step up from the standard Animal. It also has a higher price – but we think it’s worth it if your home has lots of carpets. For homes with mainly hard floors, however, we recommend the Total Clean, Absolute or Fluffy for their hard floor tools.

Dyson V6 Total Clean

If you’re looking for the best all-round V6 for both carpets and hard floors, the Total Clean is the one to go for – as long as you don’t need extra filtration for allergies.

It’s the most expensive V6​ (along with the Absolute), but is the only model to come with both the direct-drive and soft roller cleaner heads. The direct-drive is a powerful tool that digs deep into carpets, while the soft roller is fantastic for getting rid of both large and small particles on hard floors. It also comes with the mini motorised tool for removing pet hair or dirt from sofas, stairs or cars.

The two downsides to the Total Clean are the price and lack of post motor filter. If you want the best cleaning on any floor type, however, then it’s the clear top pick.

Who Should Buy It: When it comes to cleaning performance, the Total Clean is the best in the V6 range. It’s pricey but the inclusion of both Dyson’s flagship floor tools means it’s well-worth the money. The only reason not to buy it, aside from the price, is if you suffer from allergies and want the extra filtration provided by the Absolute.

Dyson V6 Fluffy

If your home mainly contains hard floors, the Fluffy is the best option.

It comes with Dyson’s soft roller cleaner head that’s been specifically designed to clean hard floors. ​This floor head is built with both soft nylon and carbon fibre filaments, which allows it to pick up larger debris as effectively as smaller particles (which is something the direct-drive and standard floor heads struggle with).

The Fluffy also comes with the motorised cleaner head for carpets.​ This isn’t as effective as the direct-drive at digging deep into carpets, but can still do a good job. The mini motorised tool is also included.

Who Should Buy It: If your home is mainly hard floors or vinyl, the Fluffy is an easy choice. The soft roller cleaner head is one of the most innovative floor tools we’ve seen, while the motorised cleaner head does a passable job on carpets. If you have lots of carpets, however, the Total Clean or Absolute are better options.

Dyson V6 Flexi

The Flexi is basically the V6 Standard, but it comes with some extra accessories that make cleaning in tight spots much easier.

An example is the “Up Top” tool. This is a dusting brush with a hinge that allows you to quickly clean above cupboards or other flat surfaces. A Flexi Crevice tool is also included, along with a stubborn dirt brush.

​Aside from the extra accessories, the Flexi only comes with the basic motorised cleaning head. This is fine for most tasks, but isn’t as effective as the direct-drive found on other V6 models.

Who Should Buy It: The Dyson V6 Flexi comes with some interesting accessories that make cleaning tight crevices or high up locations much easier. This makes it more versatile than the V6 Standard, so it’s a great choice if you’re on a budget but still want the power of the V6 engine. If you have pets, the lack of a mini motorised tool is a big loss though. The motorised cleaner head also isn’t as effective as floor heads found on other V6 models.

Dyson V6 Absolute

When it comes to all-round performance, the Dyson V6 Absolute is a great choice.

It comes with a direct-drive cleaner head that has twice the brush bar power of the one found on the Total Clean. Many people don’t realise this is the case, as they assume all the direct-drive cleaner heads are the same.

It’s also the only full cordless model sold in the UK that has an additional post motor filter and fully sealed design. This removes bacteria and allergens as small as 0.3 microns, making it a better choice for people with allergies.

The V6 Absolute also includes a hard floor cleaner head. This isn’t as effective as the soft roller found on the Fluffy or Total Clean, but it’s better for hard floors than the standard motorised floor head.

Who Should Buy It: If you want the most powerful suction for digging deep into carpet fibres, the Absolute is the best choice. The hard floor cleaner head is a welcome addition, although if you have only hard floors the Total Clean or Fluffy is the better option. If you suffer from allergies, the Absolute has extra filtration systems to stop allergens escaping.

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Handheld Only

The handheld V6 vacuum cleaners tend to be cheaper, but they don’t include floor tools. Instead, they can either be used with accessories or mini motorised tools. Here’s an overview of the currently available handheld models.

Dyson V6 Trigger

The Dyson V6 Trigger is the entry-level handheld model.

While it contains all the same technology as other models, it only comes with a combination tool and rigid crevice tool. This makes it suitable for basic cleaning, but not recommend for people with pets or who need to get rid of stubborn dirt.

Who Should Buy It: The Trigger is the most basic V6 handheld. If you need a vacuum for everyday cleaning tasks and don’t have pets, it provides great value.

Dyson V6 Trigger Pro

The Trigger Pro is the same as the standard Trigger but with the addition of a mini motorised tool. This tool is great for getting dirt or hair out from sofas, stairs and other furniture.

Who Should Buy It: If you want a relatively “cheap” Dyson handheld but need a motorised tool to get rid of pet hair, the V6 Trigger Pro is the one to go for.

Dyson V6 Top Dog

​As the name suggests, the Top Dog is aimed at pet owners who need a little more help when it comes to cleaning dirt and mud.

The Top Dog comes with both a mini motorised tool and a stubborn dirt brush. The latter is designed with extra stiff bristles to get rid of dirt that’s dried on carpets, which can often be a problem for dog owners.

Who Should Buy It: If you own a pet and think you would use the stubborn dirt brush, the Top Dog is a great choice. If you won’t use the stubborn brush much, get the Animal Extra.

Dyson V6 Mattress

One of the most interesting V6 handheld models is the V6 Mattress.

The stand-out feature is a motorised brush bar for removing dust and dust mites from your mattress. Considering your mattress can house up to 10 million dust mites, this can make a big difference to allergy sufferers. The tool also pivots so it doesn’t lose suction when cleaning across large areas of your mattress.

Additionally, the V6 Mattress has the same post motor filter and sealed design found on the Absolute. This is one of the reasons why it’s been approved by the Allergy Standards as “Asthma and Allergy Friendly.”

Who Should Buy It: If you suffer from a dust allergy that’s particularly bad at night, the V6 Mattress could be a great option for reducing dust mites – at least if used along with other methods. It can also be used around the home with the crevice and combination tools.

Dyson V6 Car & Boat

The V6 Car & Boat, as you would expect, has a toolkit that’s designed to make cleaning cars as easy as possible.

The toolkit includes a mini motorised tool, soft dusting brush (for dashboards) and a stubborn dirt brush. Most importantly, it comes with an extension hose. This is great for getting under car seats or into glove compartments, which are areas most handhelds struggle.​

These tools make the Car & Boat the most versatile V6 handheld model – even if you don’t plan on using it in your car.​

There is also a model called the Car & Boat ​Extra. This comes with an extra in-car charger.

Who Should Buy It: If you need to clean your car interior regularly, the V6 Car & Boat is probably the best option on the market at the moment – mainly due to the extension hose and soft dusting brush. It’s also the best all-round V6 handheld for home cleaning due to the range of useful tools – but it comes at a premium.

Summary

As you can tell from the length of this page, the Dyson V6 series of cordless vacuums is one of the most diverse in the industry. Whether you need a powerful corded vacuum replacement or a versatile handheld for cleaning cars, Dyson have thought of pretty much every possible purpose.

When buying a Dyson V6, the key is to think about how you want to use it. The right option also depends on your budget, as Dyson vacuums aren’t cheap!​ We recommend reading the information above to find the model that’s best for your requirements, but here’s a quick summary.

Do you have any questions about the V6 range? Or do you own one and want to leave a review? Let us know in the comments!