When it comes to high-end vacuums, Dyson's V15 series stands out for its innovative features and powerful cleaning performance. Two models in this lineup, the Dyson V15 Detect and Dyson V15 Detect Absolute, are among the best Dyson vacuums you can buy today. Unfortunately, they often cause confusion among consumers due to their similar names.
So what are the differences between these two cordless vacuums? Well, actually there are only three, and they're pretty small. The first is the color scheme. The second is the attachments they come with. And the third is a slight difference in the filters. Yes, honestly, that's all. Further to that, Dyson isn't even always consistent with these three things.
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If you want an in-depth guide that'll be relevant to all iterations of this model, head to our Dyson V15 Detect review, or for a closer look at what you're (usually) getting with each model, read on...
Dyson V15 Detect vs V15 Detect Absolute: aesthetics
The biggest difference between the V15 Detect and V15 Detect Absolute is their appearance. While both models share the same sleek, modern design that Dyson is known for, they come in different colorways. The standard V15 Detect generally features Dyson's signature combination of bronze and purple, while the V15 Detect Absolute swaps purple for turquoise blue, and an accent color of gold.
We say 'generally' because this isn't always consistent. On the Dyson UK website at time of writing, there's a V15 Detect Absolute in purple/gold, and an Absolute+ in turquoise/gold.
Dyson V15 Detect vs V15 Detect Absolute: xxx
Dyson V15 Detect vs V15 Detect Absolute: accessories
While the core vacuum unit is identical between the two models, there may be slight variations in the included accessories, depending on your region and where you purchase the vacuum.
Generally, both the V15 Detect and V15 Detect Absolute come with a Digital Motorbar cleaner head, a Fluffy Optic cleaner head (with laser dust detection), a Hair Screw tool, a Combination tool and a Crevice tool.
However in some markets, including the USA, the V15 Detect comes with a crevice tool and a wand clip, while the V15 Detect Absolute instead includes a built-in dusting and crevice tool. So it's worth checking the specific offerings in your country. This Dyson tools guide will help you figure out which tools you need.
Dyson V15 Detect vs V15 Detect Absolute: filters
The third and final difference between these vacuum cleaner is the type of filters they use. In the US, the V15 Detect uses a purple HEPA filter, which means it filters down to 0.3 microns. The V15 Detect Absolute, meanwhile, uses a blue HEPA filter that filters down to 0.1 microns. The latter is technically better, but ultimately we'd say very few people are going to notice the difference.
If you're not in the US, you're probably getting the same filter on both the V15 Detect and Detect Absolute, and it's the one that filters down to 0.3 microns.
Dyson V15 Detect vs V15 Detect Absolute: price & availability
Pricing for the V15 Detect and V15 Detect Absolute will vary depending on your location and current promotions. On Dyson's own website, either they are priced identically (such as in the USA, where both cost $749.99) or only one of them is available (such as in the UK and Australia, where the V15 Detect Absolute has a list price of £649.99 / AU$1,449, but reduced at time of writing to £549.99 / AU$896). Both things serve to emphasize that they are basically the same device.
That said, limited-time offers or regional variations on third-party retailers might occasionally create price discrepancies between the two models. So given that these are essentially the same vacuum cleaner, it's definitely worth shopping around for the best price.
- US: V15 Detect $749.99 / Absolute $749.99
- UK: V15 Detect (unavailable) / Absolute £649.99
- AU: V15 Detect (unavailable) / Absolute AU$1,449
Dyson V15 Detect vs V15 Detect Absolute: core features and performance
Despite their different names, both the V15 Detect and V15 Detect Absolute share the same core features and performance capabilities. These include:
1. Piezo sensor: Both models incorporate a piezo sensor that can detect and measure microscopic dust particles, providing real-time feedback on the cleanliness of your floors.
2. Laser dust detection: The innovative green laser on the Fluffy Optic cleaning head illuminates dust particles on hard floors, making it easier to see and clean areas you might otherwise miss.
3. LCD screen: Both vacuums feature an LCD screen that displays particle counts, remaining battery life, and selected cleaning mode.
4. Powerful suction: With up to 230 air watts of suction power, both models offer exceptional cleaning performance on various floor types.
5. Auto mode: This intelligent feature adjusts suction power based on the floor type and amount of dust detected, optimizing cleaning efficiency and battery life.
6. Battery life and charging: Both models offer up to 60 minutes of runtime on the lowest power setting. This can vary depending on the cleaning mode used and the type of surface being cleaned. Both models also feature removable batteries, allowing you to buy extra batteries for extended cleaning sessions.
If you're interested to see how these features compare to what you'd get with the models either side in the lineup, head to our Dyson V15 Detect vs Gen5Detect comparison (for the model up) or our Dyson V11 vs 15 comparison (for the model down).
Should I buy the Dyson V15 Detect or V15 Detect Absolute?
Given that the V15 Detect and V15 Detect Absolute are essentially the same vacuum cleaner with minimal differences, your choice will come down to only a few factors.
1. Availability: There may only be one model available in your region.
2. Aesthetics: Choose the color scheme that best matches your personal style.
3. Included accessories: Verify if there are any differences in included tools in your region.
4. Promotions: Check for any current deals or bundles that might make one model more attractive.
Whichever version you choose, though, you'll be investing in a top-of-the-line cleaning tool that can tackle a wide range of household cleaning tasks with ease.
