When it comes to cordless vacuum cleaners, Dyson is a household name that stands out from the rest. The brand offers a range of innovative products that cater to different cleaning needs and preferences. Two popular models that often get confused with each other are the Dyson V7 and V7 Animal. While they share some similarities, these vacuums have distinct features that set them apart. In this article, we’ll delve into the differences between Dyson V7 and V7 Animal, helping you make an informed decision when choosing the right vacuum for your cleaning needs.
Design and Build
At first glance, the Dyson V7 and V7 Animal appear to be identical twins. Both models feature a sleek and compact design that makes them easy to maneuver and store. They share the same dimensions, weighing around 4.5 pounds and measuring 8.2 inches wide, 49 inches tall, and 13.4 inches deep. However, upon closer inspection, you’ll notice some subtle differences.
The Dyson V7 has a more minimalist approach to its design, with a smooth, rounded body that’s easy to grip and handle. The V7 Animal, on the other hand, has a slightly more rugged and textured design, with a unique “animal” print on the wand and grip. This design element is purely aesthetic, but it does give the V7 Animal a more premium feel.
Color Options
Another difference between the two models lies in their color options. The Dyson V7 is available in a range of colors, including:
- Matt White
- Iron/Spruce Blue
- Fuchsia
The V7 Animal, on the other hand, is only available in two color options:
- Fuchsia/Iron
- Iron/Titanium
Suction Power and Performance
Suction power is a critical factor when it comes to vacuum cleaners. Both the Dyson V7 and V7 Animal boast powerful digital motors that produce a maximum suction power of 21.6 Air Watts. However, the V7 Animal has a slightly higher suction power in Max mode, with 30 Air Watts compared to the V7’s 25 Air Watts.
In terms of performance, both models are designed to tackle a variety of cleaning tasks, including hard floors, carpets, and upholstery. They both come with a combination tool that converts into a crevice tool for tight spaces and a upholstery tool for cleaning furniture and stairs.
Cyclone Technology
One area where the Dyson V7 and V7 Animal differ is in their cyclone technology. The V7 Animal features Dyson’s patented 2 Tier Radial Cyclone technology, which captures smaller dust and allergens as small as 0.5 microns. The Dyson V7, on the other hand, uses a single-tier cyclone system that still captures dust and allergens, but not as effectively as the V7 Animal.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is a critical consideration for cordless vacuum cleaners. Both the Dyson V7 and V7 Animal have a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides up to 30 minutes of fade-free suction. However, the V7 Animal has a slightly longer battery life in Max mode, with up to 15 minutes of cleaning time compared to the V7’s 6 minutes.
When it comes to charging, both models have a convenient drop-in battery charger that can be wall-mounted or placed on a countertop. The charging time is around 3.5 hours for both models.
Filtration System
The filtration system is an essential component of any vacuum cleaner. Both the Dyson V7 and V7 Animal have a washable pre-filter that captures larger debris and dust particles. However, the V7 Animal has a more advanced filtration system that includes a HEPA filter that captures 99.97% of dust, dirt, and allergens as small as 0.3 microns.
Additional Features and Tools
Both the Dyson V7 and V7 Animal come with a range of additional features and tools that enhance their cleaning capabilities. These include:
- A combination tool that converts into a crevice tool and upholstery tool
- A mini motorized tool for cleaning tight spaces and upholstery
- A docking station for charging and storing the vacuum
However, the V7 Animal has an additional tool that’s not available with the V7: a mini tangle-free turbine tool. This tool is designed specifically for cleaning pet hair and other stubborn debris from upholstery and tight spaces.
Warranty and Maintenance
Both the Dyson V7 and V7 Animal come with a 2-year warranty that covers parts and labor. In terms of maintenance, both models are easy to clean and maintain, with washable filters and a easy-to-empty dustbin.
Price and Value
The price is often a deciding factor when choosing between two similar products. The Dyson V7 is generally priced lower than the V7 Animal, making it a more affordable option for those on a budget. However, the V7 Animal’s additional features and improved performance may justify the extra cost for those who need a more powerful and feature-rich vacuum.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the Dyson V7 and V7 Animal share many similarities, they have distinct differences that set them apart. The V7 Animal’s more advanced filtration system, higher suction power in Max mode, and additional tools make it a more premium product that’s ideal for pet owners and those who need a more powerful cleaning experience. The Dyson V7, on the other hand, is a more affordable option that still offers excellent performance and features.
Ultimately, the choice between the two models depends on your specific cleaning needs and preferences. If you’re willing to pay a premium for a more advanced filtration system and additional tools, the V7 Animal is the better choice. However, if you’re on a budget and still want a reliable and powerful cordless vacuum, the Dyson V7 is an excellent option.
What are the main differences between the Dyson V7 and V7 Animal?
The main differences between the Dyson V7 and V7 Animal are the design, weight, and accessories that come with each model. The Dyson V7 is a more compact and lightweight option, making it ideal for small spaces and quick cleanups. On the other hand, the Dyson V7 Animal is designed for pet owners and comes with additional tools, such as the tangle-free turbine tool, which is specifically designed to remove pet hair and dirt from upholstery and tight spaces.
While both models share many similarities, the Dyson V7 Animal is a more comprehensive cleaning solution for pet owners who need to tackle stubborn pet hair and dirt. However, if you don’t have pets and are looking for a lightweight and easy-to-use vacuum, the Dyson V7 is a great option.
Is the Dyson V7 suitable for pet owners?
While the Dyson V7 is a great vacuum cleaner, it may not be the best option for pet owners. The V7 does come with a combination tool that can be used to remove pet hair, but it lacks the specialized tools and attachments that come with the V7 Animal. The V7 Animal, on the other hand, is specifically designed with pet owners in mind and comes with tools that make it easy to remove pet hair from upholstery, stairs, and tight spaces.
That being said, if you’re a pet owner with a small pet or minimal pet hair, the Dyson V7 may still be a suitable option. However, if you have multiple pets or a lot of pet hair, the V7 Animal is likely a better investment.
What is the tangle-free turbine tool, and do I need it?
The tangle-free turbine tool is a specialized attachment that comes with the Dyson V7 Animal. It’s designed to remove pet hair and dirt from upholstery, stairs, and tight spaces. The tool uses a counter-rotating brush to remove pet hair, and its design prevents hair from wrapping around the brushes, making it easy to clean.
If you’re a pet owner, the tangle-free turbine tool is a valuable attachment that can make a big difference in your cleaning routine. However, if you don’t have pets, you may not need this tool, and the Dyson V7 may be a more suitable option.
How do the suction powers of the Dyson V7 and V7 Animal compare?
The suction power of the Dyson V7 and V7 Animal is identical, with both models offering 21.6 Air Watts of suction power. This means that both models are capable of picking up dirt, dust, and debris with ease, making them both suitable for hard floors and carpets.
However, the V7 Animal’s additional tools and attachments, such as the tangle-free turbine tool, give it an edge when it comes to tackling pet hair and dirt in tight spaces. While the suction power is the same, the V7 Animal’s specialized tools make it a more comprehensive cleaning solution.
Are the batteries interchangeable between the Dyson V7 and V7 Animal?
Yes, the batteries of the Dyson V7 and V7 Animal are interchangeable. Both models use the same lithium-ion battery, which provides up to 30 minutes of fade-free suction. This means that if you already own a Dyson V7 and want to upgrade to the V7 Animal, you can use your existing battery.
It’s worth noting that the battery life may vary depending on the tools and attachments you use. For example, using the tangle-free turbine tool on the V7 Animal may reduce the battery life slightly.
Can I use the Dyson V7 and V7 Animal for above-floor cleaning?
Yes, both the Dyson V7 and V7 Animal can be used for above-floor cleaning, such as cleaning stairs, upholstery, and curtains. The crevice tool that comes with both models is ideal for getting into tight spaces and crevices, while the combination tool can be used to dust and clean surfaces.
However, the V7 Animal’s additional tools, such as the tangle-free turbine tool, make it a more comprehensive solution for above-floor cleaning, especially when it comes to pet hair and dirt.
Is the Dyson V7 or V7 Animal better value for money?
The value for money of the Dyson V7 and V7 Animal depends on your specific cleaning needs. If you’re a pet owner and need a comprehensive cleaning solution with specialized tools, the V7 Animal is likely better value for money. While it’s more expensive than the V7, the additional tools and attachments make it a more comprehensive solution.
However, if you don’t have pets and are looking for a lightweight and easy-to-use vacuum, the Dyson V7 is a great option. It’s less expensive than the V7 Animal and still offers great performance and ease of use.