Dyson Gen5detect
What’s the story?
Dyson’s latest model has finally reached UK shores… and it’s expensive even next to other top-end models like the compelling V12 and V15. So the key question is, what’s different? Power, that’s what.
It’s got the latest-gen motor (that’s the Gen5 bit), which generates 262AW of power to suck up large debris. The sealed HEPA filter system is also bigger than the V15’s, while the hard-floor-loving ‘fluffy optic detect’ head has binned the fancy laser and this time opted for directed LEDS instead, to show up twice as much dust as before.
Is it any good?
If you’re thinking shining light on dust across a hard floor is a gimmick, let’s just say we thought so too until we used the V15. And it’s just as much of a revelation in the Gen5detect, particularly when it allows you to see bits of muck lurking in dim light alongside kitchen cabinets and under tables.
The Gen5detect offers 10mins more running time than Dyson’s other vacs: up to 70mins. The top of the main tube (Dyson likes to call it a wand) has a clever built-in dusting and crevice tool, the idea being that you’ll rarely need to change attachments – well, unless you’re swapping between the fluffy optic hard floor head and one of the two carpet/upholstery ones with anti-tangle tech – and there’s a low-reach adapter for getting under sofas.
As with the V12 Detect, Dyson has removed the classic trigger, meaning you no longer have to keep your finger held down while you clean, although you do need to have your second hand free to switch it on and off – it’s no longer quite as easy for very quick clear-ups. But it is a step forward overall, especially for longer cleans. We would have liked a more pronounced power button, mind – it’s too flush on the control panel.
There are a couple of disadvantages to the Gen5detect, notably the fact that it’s heavier than many other cordless cleaners in the hand. And it’s hard to get away from that daunting price.
£850 / go.stuff.tv/5detect
Key specs
● 0.77L ● 70mins
● 3 power levels ● 3.5kg
STUFF SAYS A brilliant cleaner, but most people will be fine with a cheaper model ★★★★★