Compare Dyson V15s Detect Submarine Wet Dry Vacuum vs Dyson Gen5 Outsize Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

The bundle is repeatedly praised for including multiple floorheads and specialty tools, but several reviews say the docking/storage options do not neatly accommodate everything.

The tool set is widely praised: two main floorheads plus a hair screw tool, combination/dusting tools, and a built-in crevice tool cover most home scenarios. Some reviewers note that many attachments can become a storage hassle if you do not have a dedicated dock or stand setup.

Most reviewers like the premium Dyson look and finish, but a few call out plasticky feel on the Submarine head or aesthetic mismatches with some docking accessories.

The particle sensor and Auto mode are widely praised for adjusting power and visualizing what is being picked up; a few users also relied on the Dyson app/manual for fuller guidance.

Auto/Medium mode and sensor-driven suction adjustments are frequently mentioned as helpful, reducing the need to manually switch settings. The automation is generally appreciated even when the particle-count visuals are seen as less useful day to day.

A minor but real complaint appears about airflow blowing back toward the user when cleaning under very low furniture.

Some reviews note airflow can cause minor blowback with very small debris in certain situations. It is presented as an occasional annoyance rather than a major failure, but it’s a notable edge case for a high-suction cordless vacuum.

On area rugs, it generally cleans well, but light debris on thicker rugs can be pushed around unless you adjust technique or settings.

Most reviewers find initial assembly straightforward, but several say the Submarine instructions are too visual or confusing and may require looking up the full manual or app.

Setup is straightforward for the vacuum itself, but docking options can add complexity. Wall-mount docks may require drilling, while freestanding stand options (when included) are viewed as easier and more renter-friendly.

Some reviews mention alerts or shutoff behavior when airflow is obstructed or performance cannot be maintained, which helps protect the vacuum but can interrupt a job.

Battery performance is a strong point overall, with long Eco/low runtimes and a removable battery; charging is often cited around 4.5 hours and Boost/Turbo drains quickly.

Battery setup is a standout: the Outsize commonly includes two swappable batteries and an extra charger, enabling long sessions and easy battery swaps. Charge times are described as typical for the category, but the ability to rotate batteries is a major usability win.

The bagless bin size is described as adequate and the emptying mechanism is mostly hygienic, though hair and clumps can occasionally stick and require a quick manual pull.

The larger 0.5-gallon (about 1.9 L) bin is a core Outsize advantage and reduces how often you need to empty during large cleans. The tradeoff is added bulk, and a few reviewers note that runtime may end before the bin fills for some households.

The main vacuum feels sturdy and well-built in most reviews, while the Submarine head and some docking solutions get more mixed feedback (plasticky feel or leakage concerns).

Build quality is described as premium and well-finished, consistent with Dyson’s reputation. Minor notes include small flex around the built-in crevice tool area, but overall durability impressions are strong.

High-pile carpet results are more mixed: some reviews report strong pickup while lab testing shows lower scores and higher push resistance on thick carpet.

High-pile carpet pickup is also reported as strong, with lab-style results in the high‑90% range and good hair handling. A few comparisons suggest the Outsize’s wider head can slightly reduce concentrated deep-clean performance versus the Gen5 Detect, but still scores well above average.

Low-pile carpet performance is typically excellent, with strong pickup even on embedded debris and hair.

On low-pile carpet, test results and reviewer feedback indicate strong pickup and good deep-cleaning ability for a cordless stick vacuum. Performance is generally framed as premium-tier, though some comparisons suggest the standard-width Gen5 Detect can be slightly more effective per pass.

Clogging is not a constant problem, but some reviewers report blockages with large debris (like pine needles) or residue buildup that needs manual clearing and head cleaning.

Clogging and tangle-related interruptions are reported as rare in testing, especially with pet hair and long hair. A few reviewers note potential hair wrapping around side axles/gaps, but overall debris flow and anti-tangle systems reduce maintenance compared with many cordless rivals.

Compared with other cordless vacuums and most mop-vacs, it is usually rated superior at dry vacuuming; the wet function is seen as convenient but not best-in-class versus dedicated wet cleaners.

Comparisons often favor the Gen5 Detect for lighter weight and slightly better concentrated performance, while the Outsize is preferred for capacity and coverage speed. Against older Dysons, reviewers highlight incremental improvements (runtime, filtration, features), but some argue the performance leap over a V15 may be smaller than the price gap.

The LCD and mode controls are well-liked for showing runtime and particle info, but many reviews criticize the trigger-hold design for comfort during longer cleans.

Controls and readouts are generally considered excellent: an on/off button (no trigger hold), mode switching, and an LCD that shows time remaining and alerts. The particle-count display is often viewed as novelty, but real-time runtime and troubleshooting info are valued.

The vacuum converts into a handheld easily, which reviewers like for furniture, stairs, and quick spot cleaning.

It converts to handheld easily and includes effective handheld tools, but several reviewers warn the Outsize can feel wrist-heavy for longer above-floor tasks. Some recommend using a hose accessory to make handheld and dusting jobs more comfortable.

Cordless convenience is consistently highlighted, especially for quick daily cleanups and moving between rooms without a cord.

Dedicated crevice tools are effective for edges and tight spots, but the built-in/integrated crevice solution and the Submarine head can be less effective in deep grooves or corners.

Crevice cleaning is generally strong, helped by the included crevice tool and high suction. Some review testing reports only minor issues in crevice-specific trials, suggesting it performs reliably for gaps and grooves on hard floors.

Dyson's cyclone-based design is credited with maintaining strong suction and solid overall dust handling.

The laser illumination is one of the most praised features, repeatedly described as revealing hidden dust and improving confidence on hard floors.

The Fluffy Optic green laser is one of the most-cited features and is widely considered genuinely useful for hard floors. Reviewers say it makes fine dust visible and encourages more thorough cleaning, though it can be a bit unsettling for anyone sensitive to seeing every speck.

Multiple reviews note the lack of a clear dirty-water level indicator, making it harder to tell when the dirty compartment needs emptying.

The Submarine roller can remove dried-on stains, but results vary: some tests show quick removal while others needed multiple passes and more water on older, set-in messes.

Handling is strong for floor cleaning, especially in open areas where the wider head covers more space per pass. The flip side is added bulk and weight, making tight spaces and prolonged handheld use less comfortable than on lighter Dyson models.

Overall usability is rated good thanks to strong cleaning and smart feedback, but trigger ergonomics, weight, and post-mop cleanup are recurring drawbacks.

Usability is rated highly overall thanks to an on/off button, strong pickup, helpful tools, and clear runtime readouts. The biggest usability negatives are the heavier feel and bulk, plus occasional comments that the lack of a trigger can lead to leaving it running between rooms and wasting battery.

Edge pickup during vacuuming is often excellent, while edge performance in mop mode is more mixed and can miss right along walls.

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The ejector-style emptying system reduces contact with dust, though occasional clumps or hair can stay behind and need a quick manual assist.

Emptying is described as quick and low-mess, and the larger bin reduces how often you need to do it. Transparent bin design also helps users see what’s collected and avoid surprises before dumping.

Maintenance alerts for the filter are appreciated, including prompts to wash or service filters during ownership.

Filtration and dust containment are consistently rated strong, with a sealed system and good particle control; HEPA-level filtration is mentioned more often for certain versions or upgrades.

Filtration is repeatedly described as top-tier, with a fully sealed system and HEPA media that targets very small particles. This is framed as a meaningful upgrade for dust containment compared with less-sealed cordless competitors.

Floors usually dry quickly after Submarine passes, often described as only slightly damp and drying in minutes.

Floorhead design is widely praised: the Fluffy Optic head excels on hard floors and the Motorbar XL adds faster coverage for larger spaces. Some testing suggests the wider XL head can slightly reduce suction concentration versus a standard-width head, but overall pickup remains excellent.

Fresh spill cleanup is generally quick for small liquid-only messes, but larger spills or liquid mixed with solids can overwhelm the Submarine head.

Carpet hair pickup is generally very strong, with reviewers pulling out visible hair and lint from rugs and carpeting.

Hair pickup on hard floors is consistently strong with the dry heads, while the wet head is best treated as a mop rather than a hair-collection tool.

Anti-tangle performance is usually a strength (especially with the hair screw tool), but longer hair can still wrap on the main brush bar in some situations.

Hair-wrap resistance is repeatedly praised, with testing showing near-zero tangling on the brushroll and effective detangling combs. A minority of comments mention hair can wrap on side axles/gaps, but overall maintenance burden from hair is low.

Hard-floor fine dust pickup is consistently excellent, helped by the laser illumination and soft roller design for revealing and collecting powdery debris.

Hard-floor fine dust pickup is consistently described as exceptional, especially with the Fluffy Optic head that both reveals and removes fine particles. Multiple reviewers comment that floors look cleaner than expected once the laser highlights what’s left behind.

Dry vacuum heads handle larger debris well, but the Submarine wet head struggles with bigger pieces (like cereal) and can push debris around rather than capture it.

Hard-floor large-debris pickup is excellent in both testing and real-world anecdotes, including piles of debris, pet hair, and even hay-like material. Reviewers highlight strong intake and consistent results across different hard-floor mess types.

Reviewers view the concept as innovative: a flagship stick vacuum paired with a wet roller head, though several also describe the wet system as first-generation with compromises.

Multiple sources describe the Gen5 series as state-of-the-art cordless vacuum tech, highlighting the laser illumination, sensors, improved filtration, and strong power specs. Innovation is framed more as a premium refinement than a necessity for every buyer.

Kid appeal is mentioned in passing: the laser and on-screen feedback can make cleaning feel more engaging for families.

Maintenance is a key tradeoff: standard vacuum upkeep is manageable, but the Submarine head adds regular rinsing, drying, and occasional messy dirty-water emptying.

Routine maintenance is generally described as simple (emptying the bin, maintaining filters), and anti-tangle systems reduce brush cleanup. The main practical maintenance complaint is organizational: lots of tools need a good storage solution to avoid losing attachments.

Handling is generally strong thanks to swivel articulation and the ability to get under furniture, but some reviewers still find it heavy in-hand over longer sessions.

Mopping is best described as maintenance-level: good for routine hard-floor refreshes and small spills, but it does not vacuum while mopping and struggles more with solids, edges, and large wet messes.

Noise is generally acceptable: mop mode is often described as quiet, while Boost/Turbo vacuuming gets noticeably loud.

Noise is described as typical for high-power cordless vacuums: not quiet, but manageable. Measured figures and reviewer impressions generally place it around the high‑60s to high‑70s dB depending on mode, with Boost being noticeably louder.

Tool storage is a consistent frustration: you get many tools, but there is limited onboard or dock capacity to keep everything together.

Onboard tool storage is a clear convenience win: the built-in crevice/dusting tool stored in the wand is frequently praised for quick cleanup without hunting for attachments. This design is cited as improving everyday usability over older Dyson models.

Ongoing costs are usually moderate (filters and occasional roller replacement), but the Submarine roller can add a replacement/consumable consideration over time.

Overall sentiment is very positive on cleaning performance and feature set, with several reviewers placing it among the best cordless vacuums available. The strongest reservations are about price and the heavier, bulkier feel compared with non-Outsize alternatives.

Packaging is described as protective and well-organized, with at least one review praising the recyclable materials and secure packing.

Reviewers with pets praise the dry-vac tools for hair and kibble, but note the Submarine mop head is not meant to pick up solid pet food while wet cleaning.

Pet hair performance is a highlight: multiple tests report excellent fur pickup and very low clogging, even with heavy shedding. The included hair-focused tools (hair screw and detangling floorhead) are repeatedly called out as effective for pet owners.

Price is a common pain point: many call it expensive and best justified only if you will use both the top-tier vacuuming and occasional mopping.

Price is the most consistent complaint. Reviewers often describe the Gen5 Outsize as best-in-class but hard to justify unless you specifically want the XL bin, wide head, and included extra battery; otherwise, the Gen5 Detect or older Dyson models are frequently cited as better values.

Default/Eco runtimes are often around an hour or more depending on mode, with Auto mode shortening runtime when it ramps up power. Boost/Turbo runtime is consistently short, commonly under 10 minutes in testing.

Eco/Low runtimes are commonly reported around 70–75 minutes per battery depending on head, which is excellent for a high-power cordless. With the included second battery on Outsize packages, reviewers emphasize that total cleaning time can exceed two hours for large homes. Boost/Turbo runtime is much shorter, often reported in the ~7–15 minute range per battery depending on the test and head. Several reviews suggest Boost is best reserved for occasional deep-clean bursts rather than whole-home cleaning.

Reviews repeatedly call out that there is no automated self-cleaning cycle or wash/dry base for the mop head, so post-mop cleanup is manual.

Several reviews mention the Submarine head feels self-propelled, making wet passes easier and faster.

The liquid system is simple and water-based; some reviews mention you can use a mild detergent, but there is typically only one wet mode and limited control over water flow.

With the handheld conversion and tools, stairs are generally easy to clean, especially on hard stair treads and edges.

It stores like a typical Dyson stick via a wall dock, but it is not truly freestanding and alternative docks can be bulky; the extra heads/tools also add storage complexity.

Storage feedback is mixed: wall docks can require drilling and can feel finicky for renters, while a freestanding stand (where available) is praised for keeping tools organized. Overall, the Outsize footprint and accessory count make storage planning more important than with smaller stick vacs.

Streaking is mixed: some report a streak-free shine, while others saw streaks or dirty-water drips, especially if the roller is paused mid-flow or the dirty channel gets too full.

Across reviews, dry vacuuming is the standout: very strong suction and pickup on both hard floors and most carpets, though the high suction can make the head harder to push on thicker carpet.

Reviews consistently describe suction and real-world pickup as elite for a cordless stick vacuum, with lab-style results around 98% debris removal. A few comparisons note the wider XL head can spread suction over more area, slightly reducing concentration versus the standard-width Gen5 Detect, but performance remains well above average.

For heavy-duty mopping or frequent large wet messes, reviews suggest it is not ideal; it is better as a light, regular maintenance mop paired with strong vacuuming.

The Gen5 Outsize is repeatedly framed as ideal for big cleans: large homes, heavy debris loads, and pet owners. The combination of high pickup, big bin, and two-battery runtime supports longer sessions without frequent stops.

It is often framed as a good fit for apartments or smaller homes that only want one cleaning device, since it can replace a separate vacuum plus a basic mop.

The Outsize format is less ideal for cramped areas. Several reviewers note difficulty in very tight spots (for example, car seats or compact nooks) and recommend considering a smaller model if you mainly clean small rooms or do lots of spot-cleaning.

Support is mentioned less often, but Dyson customer service is described as a plus where it comes up.

The soft rollers and floorheads are generally seen as gentle on hard floors, and at least one reviewer specifically noted reduced worry about scratching tiles.

Dry heads and tools click on quickly, but swapping between vacuum and mop heads is required for wet cleaning and some users find the Submarine setup a bit fiddly.

Under-furniture reach is a recurring positive due to head articulation and the ability to lay flatter, though one review notes the vent can blow air toward your face in tight spaces.

Motorized tools for upholstery and above-floor tasks perform well, especially for pet hair and furniture cleaning.

Above-floor cleaning is effective thanks to strong suction and the hair screw tool, but the Outsize’s weight makes extended handheld or overhead work more fatiguing. Reviewers suggest it’s best as a primary floor vacuum rather than a lightweight dusting tool.

Versatility is a core theme: multiple heads let it cover hard floors, carpets, above-floor cleaning, and basic mopping, but wet cleaning requires a separate pass and head swap.

Versatility is a consistent strength: the combo of a hard-floor roller and an all-floor Motorbar head is repeatedly praised for mixed flooring. Reviewers commonly describe it as effective across hardwood/tile and carpets without frequent tool swaps.

The clean-water tank is small (often cited around 300 mL), so it suits maintenance mopping more than big jobs; the dirty-water compartment can be messy and may leak if overfilled or tilted.

Weight is frequently noted: it is manageable for many as a stick vacuum, but the handheld configuration and long sessions can feel heavy or fatiguing for some users.

Weight is one of the biggest drawbacks. Multiple reviews cite around 8.6 lb (about 3.9 kg) and describe it as noticeably heavy for wrist-intensive handheld work, stairs, and overhead cleaning compared with lighter stick vacuums.

At least one review reports acceptable cleaning on a delicate wool rug, suggesting it can be used carefully on wool surfaces.