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For a lower-cost all-rounder, TechRadar’s pick is the Dyson V8 Cyclone. Choose the Dyson V15s Detect Submarine if you want one vacuum that can also wash hard floors, or the Dyson PencilVac Fluffycones if you prioritize a lightweight, nimble machine for hard floors. These are recommendations by TechRadar author Ruth Hamilton, who says she has used the three models; her hands-on performance observations are hers, not independent tests by itechguides.com.
At a glance: which Dyson fits your needs?
| Model | Best for | What stands out | Main consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dyson V8 Cyclone | Budget-conscious buyers seeking a cordless vacuum for mixed flooring | Updated V8 controls and features; TechRadar’s author reports good pickup on carpet and hard floors | It is still a vacuum-only choice; the independent comparison cited below covers the V8 and V15 Detect, not a direct three-model test |
| Dyson V15s Detect Submarine | People who want dry vacuuming and wet hard-floor cleaning in one machine | Swappable dedicated wet roller head | The wet head needs cleaning and upkeep, and it is not interchangeable with other Dyson vacuums |
| Dyson PencilVac Fluffycones | Hard-floor households prioritizing light handling and maneuverability | Slim design and paired fluffy cone rollers | Its design and suction are not aimed at carpet-heavy cleaning |
Best budget Dyson vacuum: Dyson V8 Cyclone
The V8 Cyclone is TechRadar’s budget recommendation. Hamilton describes it as an updated version of the V8 with longer battery life, stronger suction, three suction levels rather than two, and a one-press control instead of a trigger. In her tests, she says it picked up large and fine debris, as well as pet hair, on carpet and hard flooring. Those observations are her hands-on assessment, not a separate test by itechguides.com.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Dyson Ball Animal 2 Plus Corded Vacuum | $449.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Dyson Ball Animal Origin Upright Vacuum | $329.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Dyson V8™ Cordless Vacuum | $389.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum, HEPA, Carpet and Pet Hair, Blue, NV360 | $149.99 | Buy on Amazon |
The generation matters when shopping: the recommendation is specifically for the V8 Cyclone, not every older vacuum sold under the V8 name. TechRadar suggests choosing the updated Cyclone over an older V8 when the price difference is modest. Check the exact model and included accessories in a listing rather than relying on a shortened “V8” label.
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How it compares with a more powerful V15
RTINGS’ comparison of the V8 and V15 Detect found the V15 Detect somewhat better overall, including longer runtime and more effective debris pickup across the tested surfaces. It also cited a marginally larger dirt compartment and surface adjustment. The V8 was easier to pick up and carry, and had fewer parts requiring regular maintenance. This is evidence about those V8 and V15 Detect configurations; it is not a direct comparison of the V8 Cyclone with all three recommendations, nor a definitive test of every V15s Submarine configuration. See RTINGS’ V8 versus V15 Detect comparison.
#1 Best Overall
- Powerful Dyson Suction. Engineered for homes with pets.
- Ball technology helps you navigate around obstacles with a simple turn of the wrist. For easy, precise maneuvering around your home.
- The self-adjusting cleaner head has an active base plate that automatically raises and lowers to seal in suction across all floors. Combined with a powerful motorized brush bar, it deep cleans throughout the home.
- Engineered for larger homes with pets.
- Comes with 5 Dyson-engineered accessories. Combination tool, Stair tool, Reach under tool, Mattress tool and Tool holder enable you to clean up high, down low, and everywhere in between.
Best Dyson vacuum-mop combo: V15s Detect Submarine
The V15s Detect Submarine combines a V15 vacuum with a separate wet roller head that swaps onto the machine. The vacuum and washing functions are distinct: the Submarine head handles wet hard-floor cleaning, while the regular vacuum path is for dry debris. Dyson says the vacuum should not draw water through that dry path. TechRadar’s author says the wet head handled routine cleaning as well as mud and dried-on food in her tests, though she found it could be a little drippy.
This arrangement can suit someone who wants both vacuuming and wet cleaning without storing a separate dedicated floor washer. It is not a conventional vacuum head that can safely pick up spills: use only the dedicated Submarine wet roller head for wet debris or liquid, and confirm the machine and head are compatible. Dyson says the Submarine head is incompatible with other Dyson vacuum models, including V15s/vacuums bought previously. Dyson’s V15s Detect Submarine guidance explains the product and wet-cleaning setup.
Rank #2
- Dyson Ball Animal Origin upright vacuum
Maintenance and replacement
Dyson recommends cleaning the wet roller after each clean and replacing it every six months, depending on use. The manufacturer also says it does not sell the Submarine wet roller head separately as an accessory, citing its incompatibility with other Dyson vacuums. Before buying a purported replacement part, verify its exact identity and compatibility with Dyson rather than assuming a generic or third-party listing will fit.
Best ultra-light Dyson vacuum: PencilVac Fluffycones
The PencilVac Fluffycones is the recommendation for buyers who value nimble handling on hard floors. TechRadar describes a slim handle housing the motor, filters, battery, and dust cup, with paired fluffy cone rollers and lights intended to illuminate dust. Hamilton characterizes it as unusually maneuverable, but its design and suction levels are aimed at hard flooring rather than carpet. It is therefore a more focused choice than a general-purpose pick for homes with substantial carpet.
Rank #3
- Lightweight for quick, versatile cordless cleaning.
- Up to 40 minutes of fade-free Dyson power.¹
- Power trigger helps maximize energy efficiency, only using power where you need it.
- Choose between two cleaning modes for the right power where you need it.
- Motorbar cleaner head deep cleans all floor types. De-tangles wrapped long hair and pet hair as you clean.
How to choose among the three
- Choose the V8 Cyclone if keeping the purchase budget down is central and you want a cordless vacuum for a mix of carpet and hard floors.
- Choose the V15s Detect Submarine if washing hard floors is a must and you are willing to swap, clean, and maintain a dedicated wet roller.
- Choose the PencilVac Fluffycones if your floors are mainly hard surfaces and low-effort maneuverability matters more than carpet performance.
There is no uniform three-way benchmark in the cited coverage, so these are best treated as choices for different household needs rather than a single ranked performance contest. Dyson’s US product overview lists both the V8 family and V15s Detect Submarine; its product distinction also separates the V15s vacuum with a wet roller from the WashG1, a dedicated wet floor cleaner rather than a vacuum. View Dyson’s US vacuum range.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Check regional availability before buying
TechRadar’s article lists UK and US offers dated October 2026, but prices, stock, retailer listings, and product variants can change. Treat those offers as time- and market-specific rather than ongoing prices, and confirm the current listing, region, model generation, and included heads with the retailer before purchase. No live checkout price is established here.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- POWERFUL SUCTION FOR CARPET & HARD FLOORS: Clean carpets and hardwood floors with strong multi-surface suction. This lightweight upright vacuum cleaner lifts dirt, debris, and pet hair for a complete home clean.
- LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY FOR ABOVE-FLOOR CLEANING: Detach the pod to clean stairs, furniture, and more—attach the upholstery or crevice tools to clean dust and debris from baseboards, curtains, blinds, tight spaces and other surfaces.
- PERFECT FOR PET HAIR CLEANUP: Powerful suction and a specialized upholstery tool removes pet hair from carpets, furniture, and stairs with ease—ideal for homes with pets and everyday messes.
- HEPA FILTER WITH ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL: Advanced HEPA vacuum technology traps dust and allergens* inside the vacuum, helping deliver a cleaner home environment. *Allergens refer to non-living matter.
- SWIVEL STEERING FOR EASY MANEUVERABILITY: Navigate tight spaces, corners, and around furniture with ease using smooth swivel steering for effortless control across floors.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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