I wanted to get the state-of-the-art Dyson V11 Outsize Cordless Vacuum from Harvey Norman delivered to Mum for Mother’s Day. However, I was a little worried that the old “I spent the best years of my life vacuuming up after you and now I never get to stop” is how the scene might play out. Thinking it better to be safe than sorry, I nervously called Mum.
“A Dyson V11 Outsize?! One thousand percent I want it! And if you really want to surprise me, I reckon you should probably just order it straight away as an early Mother’s Day gift.”
That solved that then. Mum was getting the Dyson V11 Outsize Cordless Vacuum for Mother’s Day (ahem, 3 weeks early) and I was going to order myself another Dyson innovation from Harvey Norman: the Dyson V11 Absolute Extra. I didn’t tell Mum about that though, because judging from her unbridled Dyson enthusiasm, she’d probably want it too.
So how did both of these new Dyson V11 cordless vacuum cleaners perform? Read what I’m calling my Dyson V11 Outsize vs Dyson V11 Absolute Extra review to find out and to learn more about what puts both appliances at the very top of the cordless vacuuming game.
First things first, what is the Dyson V11 Absolute Extra?
The Dyson V11 Absolute Extra Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is one of the newest models in Dyson’s V11 range. Offering all the convenience one would expect from a cordless Dyson vacuum, it’s also extremely powerful, with 40% more suction power than the Dyson Cyclone V10 vacuum*2. This means that alongside other models in the Dyson V11 range, it has the most powerful suction of any cordless vacuum*1.
The Dyson V11 Absolute Extra Cordless Vacuum also features Dyson’s most powerful battery (which is now optionally interchangeable), with up 60 minutes of fade-free power*3. Intelligent sensors allow the Dyson V11 Absolute Extra to automatically adapt to different floor types when in Auto/Medium mode, adjusting suction and run-time, so you get the most out of your battery.
Aside from Auto/Medium mode, Boost and Eco mode can also be selected. The former gives you more power, the latter extends the run-time. You can view your mode selection on the Dyson V11 Absolute Extra’s LCD screen, which also displays information including battery life and cleaning diagnostics.
The Dyson V11 Absolute Extra Cordless Vacuum comes equipped with an advanced whole-machine filtration system that captures up to 99.97% of particles*4, as well as a huge range of tools designed to make cleaning any surface in your home a breeze.
Tools include: High Torque cleaner head • Fluffy™ cleaner head • Combination tool • Crevice tool • Soft dusting brush • Mini motorised tool • Stubborn dirt brush • Wand clip • Wall-mounted Docking station.
And what is the Dyson V11 Outsize?
The Dyson V11 Outsize Cordless Vacuum is in many ways a kindred spirit to the Dyson V11 Absolute Extra. Both Dyson V11 vacuum models share the same extensive range of tools and key technologies, including LCD screen, Eco, Auto/Medium and Boost cleaning modes, up to 60 minutes of fade-free power*3, and whole-machine filtration*4. They have also both been acoustically engineered to absorb vibrations and dampen noise.
And, perhaps most importantly, they both share the title of having the most powerful suction of any cordless vacuum*1.
However, what really sets the Dyson V11 Outsize apart is its 25% wider cleaner head*5 and unbelievable 150% bigger dustbin*5!
These innovations make cleaning larger homes so much easier. The wider High Torque XL cleaning head allows you to cover more of your home faster, while the bigger dustbin lets you clean for longer with less trips to the rubbish bin.
My Dyson V11 Absolute Extra Review
As I’m writing this, I’ve got Mum on the phone telling me how much she loves the Outsize. So, let me get straight to the point with my Dyson V11 Absolute Extra review – because Mum’s told me that she’s got a lot to say!
While the Dyson V11 Absolute Extra Cordless Vacuum doesn’t match the V11 Outsize for cleaner head and dustbin size, I have to say that each feature is still large enough to be absolutely perfect for me. Living in an apartment, it gets the job done in no time at all.
Having already given my place a multitude of thorough cleans with the Dyson V11 Absolute Extra (my toddler makes sure there’s always another clean to do), I’m impressed every time by not only the power and speed of the Dyson V11 Absolute Extra Cordless Vacuum, but by its battery run-time and selection of tools.
Of the tools, the first two I tested were the High Torque cleaner head on my floorboards and the Combination tool on the skirting, each with the aim of getting rid of the disgraceful amount of dust that had piled up behind my bed.
As you can see in the below before and after photos, the mission was an absolute success.
Meanwhile, the classic Crevice tool has been particularly handy for getting into hard-to-reach places, such as between the seats in the couch. As shown below, it can get pretty messy in there.
Luckily, the Dyson V11 Absolute Extra Cordless Vacuum has sorted it all out.
In truth, every one of the Dyson V11 Absolute Extra tools has been fantastic. With such an extensive range, there’s been no issue in finding an attachment that’s ideally suited to any cleaning challenge.
Even the spider webs in the far corners of the room have met their match.
So, would I recommend the Dyson V11 Absolute Extra Cordless Vacuum? Absolutely I would!
Mum’s Dyson V11 Outsize Review
Mum, how was it…?
“Best Mother’s Day present ever!
“I loved it from the get-go. It was delightful to find that the packaging contained no plastic or polystyrene. All the parts were packaged in paper and cardboard, which I’ve already repurposed.”
How did the Dyson V11 Outsize Cordless Vacuum perform?
“The first thing I cleaned was the bedroom carpet, using the High Torque XL cleaning head. The wide cleaning head meant the Dyson V11 Outsize picked up so much dirt, dust and debris in just one movement. I didn’t realise how dusty I’d let the carpet get under the curtain. Out of sight, out of mind I guess.
“The stick design of the Dyson V11 Outsize certainly made it easy to completely get under the bed and furniture.”
Other initial thoughts when using the Dyson V11 Outsize?
“I noticed immediately how quiet the Dyson V11 Outsize was. You know how the cats normally bolt when I start vacuuming? Well, they weren’t concerned by the noise at all! They just leisurely repositioned themselves when I cleaned where they were sitting.
“I was able to easily chat with your Dad over the sound of the Dyson V11 Outsize, even on the high powered setting.”
What else did you vacuum with the Dyson V11 Outsize?
“After the bedroom, I tackled the hardwood living room floor, as well as the rug in the middle of the room. The Dyson V11 Outsize performed an amazing job, especially on the floor mat!”
“The High Torque XL head effortlessly glided between the hard floor and the mat, with no need to change attachments. Instead, the Dyson V11 Outsize automatically adjusted the power across the surfaces. It took all the guess work out of what power setting to use.”
Were you happy with the battery run-time on the Dyson V11 Outsize Cordless Vacuum?
“The battery life is excellent, especially in Auto/Medium and Eco mode, which were all I needed for my floors. It was super easy to switch between the modes when I needed to.”
Besides the wide High Torque XL head, what other Dyson V11 Outsize tools did you use?
“When I cleaned the stairs with the Dyson V11 Outsize, I used the Crevice tool to vacuum the dust in the corners and edges, followed by the Fluffy cleaner head, which I found to be a perfect size for the stairs. After using both tools, the stairs looked almost buffed. I was so impressed.”
“Also, while we’re talking about the stairs, let me just say that the Dyson V11 Outsize was so easy to manoeuvre on them – especially with no cord dragging behind me.
“Another tool I used was the Mini Motorised head on the cat stand.”
“The tool was great for powering through the cat hair and debris. I also used the soft dusting brush for a quick clean of the plantation shutters and fly screens. Perfect!”
“Also, I’ve got to say that each tool clips into place firmly with a solid click, and are simple to put on and take off.”
Did you get a chance to vacuum your car with the Dyson V11 Outsize Cordless Vacuum?
“Well, you know I rarely clean my car. In fact, I probably haven’t vacuumed it for a couple of years. However, I did decide to give it a quick detail with the Dyson V11 Outsize.
“I selected the Crevice tool first for the edges of the floor followed by the Mini Motorised tool for the rest of the dirt on the floor and seats. It was all clean in a flash!”
Has storage of the Dyson V11 Outsize been easy?
“Super easy! I currently also have two corded vacuum cleaners, and you know how difficult storage is for them. I usually just leave them out in the open because I’ve got nowhere to put them.
“However, the Dyson V11 Outsize slips into a wall mounted charger and hangs unobtrusively out of the way.”
What’s your opinion of the Dyson V11 Outsize Cordless Vacuum’s huge dustbin?
“It’s just so practical!
“I did wonder if the big dustbin was going to make the Dyson V11 Outsize a little heavy. This was not the case at all! I was able to easily manoeuvre the vacuum where I pleased.
“When the dustbin was finally full, I found it straightforward to empty. All I had to do was point and shoot to release it with a simple one handed lever action.
“I love that the dustbin is clear. Not only is it great for seeing when it needs emptying and the amount of debris collected, it also meant I was able to find a missing jigsaw piece I had accidently sucked up!”
And what are your impressions of the Dyson V11 Outsize’s LCD screen?
“It really makes things so convenient being able to see what mode I’m in, as well as run-time left.”
“And although I haven’t faced these issues yet, I’m actually really pleased to know that it will remind me when it’s time to clean the filter and will inform me when there are any blockages and how to remove them.”
Final thoughts on the Dyson V11 Outsize Cordless Vacuum?
“Again, thanks for the Mother’s Day gift. I love it!
“I really have found vacuuming easier, quicker and more efficient with the Dyson V11 Outsize – and a lot of fun too! I’ve surprisingly found myself wanting to clean with it every day – and I can certainly see the results.
“The power and performance of this beast are actually better than those of the corded vacuum cleaners I own, yet the Dyson V11 Outsize’s portability is so convenient. I’m exceptionally impressed because I always had the idea that a cordless vacuum cleaner could only be a second cleaner – but I was so wrong. Honestly, I’m not just saying this because you got it for me as a Mother’s Day gift, but the Dyson V11 Outsize is the only vacuum cleaner I need.”
Dyson V11 Outsize vs. Dyson V11 Absolute Extra: Which Dyson Cordless Vacuum Should I Buy?
Having reviewed the Dyson V11 Absolute Extra myself, and having heard my mum’s praise in her Dyson V11 Outsize review, I think it’s safe to say that when it comes down to Dyson V11 Outsize vs Dyson V11 Absolute Extra, it all depends on what type of home you have.
Each of these Dyson cordless vacuums have more power than any other cordless vacuum, and each share a majority of key features. However, the Dyson V11 Outsize does have a 25% wider cleaner head*5 and 150% bigger bin*5. That makes the Dyson V11 Outsize the ideal for choice for those with larger home who need to do more expansive cleans.
Though, if you live in a smaller home or apartment, like me, the Dyson V11 Absolute Extra Cordless Vacuum will more than meet your needs.
Ultimately, whichever way you go, you’re onto a sure-fire winner with either Dyson V11 vacuum model.
Shop Dyson V11 Cordless Vacuums
Shop the Dyson V11 Outsize Cordless Vacuum or the Dyson V11 Absolute Extra Cordless Vacuum online with Harvey Norman, or speak to our friendly, expert staff for more great Dyson vacuum tips.
*1. Suction tested to IEC 62558-2 CL5.8 and 5.9 at the cleaner head, using a High Torque XL cleaner head, against the cordless stick market, tested in Boost mode.
*2. Suction tested to IEC 62558-2 CL5.8 at the inlet, tested in Boost mode.
*3. In Eco mode on hard floors.
*4. Tested against ASTM F1977-04 (particles sized 0.3-0.5 microns), tested in Boost mode.
*5. Compared to Dyson V11 Absolute Extra.