Dyson V8 Absolute vs Ultra Cordless Stick Vacuum

Buy the Dyson V8 Absolute if you want a proven stick vacuum with strong pet-hair tools and whole-machine filtration. Its Motorbar head clears wrapped hair from the brush bar, and the Hair screw tool handles upholstery and pet beds. The Ultra claims higher suction and longer runtime on paper, but it has far fewer owner ratings and no track record on build or filtration. The Dyson is the safer pick for most homes; the Ultra only makes sense if you want a second, lighter-duty vacuum for hard floors.

• Choose the Dyson V8 Absolute if you have pets, mix carpet and hard floors, and want a vacuum with a long support record and tools built for hair.
• Choose the Ultra Cordless if you mainly clean hard floors and want a simple second vacuum without paying for Dyson's tool set.