Dyson has launched its PencilVac in the US, a remarkably thin and lightweight cordless vacuum that resembles a pencil more than a traditional cleaner. Priced at $599, it promises powerful suction in a compact design ideal for light tasks. Early tests highlight its ease of use, though its small dustbin may limit it for larger homes.
Dyson's PencilVac, now available for purchase in the US, stands out for its ultra-slim profile, measuring just 38 millimeters in diameter and weighing less than 4 pounds (1.8 kilograms). The device incorporates a Hyperdymium 140k motor housed entirely within the handle, delivering 55 air watts of suction—34% more power-dense than previous models. This setup makes it feel more like a broom than a vacuum, enhancing maneuverability compared to bulkier cordless options that often weigh 6 to 12 pounds.
Key features include four conical Fluffycones cleaner heads, arranged in two brush bars that rotate in opposite directions to detangle and eject long hair, preventing tangles. Green LED lights on both sides illuminate dust particles as small as 0.3 microns, which the dust separation system captures at 99.99% efficiency. The 0.08-liter dustbin uses a compression system to hold five times more debris than its size suggests, though testers noted it fills quickly during use, requiring frequent emptying via a plunger-style ejection mechanism.
A swappable battery provides up to 60 minutes of runtime, and the vacuum pairs with the MyDyson app for monitoring battery life and filter maintenance, with an LCD screen on the handle displaying key info. It comes with attachments like a combi-crevice tool and conical hair screw tool for tight spaces, plus a magnetic charging dock for storage.
In showroom demos, the PencilVac effortlessly cleared biscuit crumbs from wood floors, showcasing its lightweight design for quick cleanups. However, its small capacity makes it better suited as a supplementary tool rather than a primary vacuum for households with pets or children. Dyson positions it as the world's slimmest vacuum, undercutting pricier models like the $850 V15 Detect while exceeding budget options in innovation.