Dyson V8 Absolute vs Animal

The Difference Between the Dyson V8 Absolute and V8 Animal

Even with newer stick vacuums on the market, Dyson’s V8 is still a top contender to consider when shopping for a stick vacuum. When comparing the Dyson V8 Absolute vs. the V8 Animal there’s often a bit of confusion. On paper (and in our specifications run-down below) it looks as though they are identical. There’s a good reason why: the vacuums are identical, the only difference between the two is a single attachment.

Everything, from suction power, to battery run and charge time to warranty is the same between the two Dyson stick vacuums. The difference? The V8 Absolute includes a Soft Roller cleaning head that then V8 Animal does not. The Soft Roller shines when it comes to cleaning non-carpeted surfaces, such as hard wood, linoleum or polished concrete. That doesn’t mean that the V8 Animal isn’t capable of cleaning those surfaces. It does a great job, too.

Our Recommendation

So, which Dyson V8 vacuum should you choose? If most or all of your home is carpeted go with the Animal. If a third or more of your home is hard wood or another non-carpeted surface, the Soft Roller head will be a welcome accessory making the V8 Absolute the right pick.