They say you only have one chance to make a first impression but I think, if you give a person or product enough time, impressions will evolve. Today, I’m giving you my first impressions in a Dyson DC25 Animal vs Oreck XL Gold review series and see how the two stack up against each other. In the next few weeks, we’re going to toss the product claims aside and see just how well these vacuums stack up in real in-home tests.
To get started, let’s meet the vacuums…
Dyson DC25 Animal
Dyson DC25 Animal is a Dyson Ball™ upright for pet hair pick-up. Rides on a ball for greater maneuverability. Top features include: mini turbine cleaning head, Ball™ technology and Root Cyclone™ technology.
Oreck XL Gold
Awesome cleaning power and advanced bacterial-fighting technology for a cleaner, healthier home. Top features include: Hypo-allergenic filtration, Anti-microbial protection and 2 speed settings.
Quick Feature Comparison
A quick view of the specifications of each model that were made available online from the manufacturer. Note: Dyson has additional specs available online but Oreck does not have these available online according to my research.
| Features | Dyson DC25 Animal | Oreck XL Gold |
| Price | $549.99 | $499.99 |
| Weight | 16.2 lbs | 9 lbs |
| Warranty | 5 years | 5 years |
| Filtration | Lifetime Washable HEPA | HEPA |
| Cord Length | 24.6 feet | 30 feet |
Our First Impressions
Set Up
Dyson – The instructions were very easy to follow and involved 2 simple steps of attaching the brush head by clicking it into place and attaching the handle and hose. Neither step involved tools.
Oreck – Much like the Dyson, the instructions were very simple to follow but included more work. Piecing together the vacuum involved removing two screws from the handle, placing the handle into the base and screwing them back in.
Additional Feature Comparison
Like any major purchase, it’s important to get the facts, details and some personal guidance to help in making a decision. Over the years, my husband and I have been through many moderately priced vacuum cleaners. Some lasted 2 months, some lasted 2 years. As with most things in life, you get what you pay for. If we had taken all of the money we invested into those vacuums, we could have purchased a high end vacuum that comes with a 5 year warranty, like the Oreck XL and Dyscon DC25.
Over the next few weeks, our family will be giving you a peek inside our home and the vacuum cleaners to help you decide where you money is best spent. With one big dog and three messy kids, these vacuum cleaners will have their work cut out for them!
I’m curious, based on first impressions alone, did you find yourself leaning towards either vacuum?
Stay tuned for more comparative updates to see if your impressions change by the time we finish.
FTC Compliant Review Policy: The product(s) featured in this review were provided free of cost to me by the manufacturer or representing PR agency. Opinions expressed are my own and are NOT influenced by monetary compensation.
I’ve always wanted to see dyson and oreck put head to head. I’ve always leaned more towards the dyson because of the look and the functionality of it. I’ll keep watching throughout the week for updates
I have a Ricca, and have a love hate relationship with it. Normally I agree with the you get what you pay for, but with the one I have…expensive doesn’t mean better! LOL Like you, I would rather have a canister vac, just saves so much time when emptying it then trying to replace a bag. Oreck is a well known name, but Dyson would be my pick. Great review Cat!
Very thorough, thanks! I have been wanting to see more about the Dyson roller ball…how cool that you get to try it out for us.
I’m curious to see what the differences will be–will be watching for your results
The dyson wins for me with style points.
thanks cat I appreciate the differences being noted!
Thanks for showing them side by side
This is probably one of the best reviews I’ve seen – there’s nothing like seeing a real live demonstration of a product, let alone a comparison with another similar product. I’m really looking forward to seeing your next installment – I hope you’re going to show various forms of dirt and see how each one does cleaning it up?
We have a Bissel right now and I’m NOT thrilled with it. I’ve wanted a Dyson forever. Hey, if I can’t look sexy cleaning my house, at least my vacuum cleaner can, right? I just hope it performs as good as it looks – I’ll be reading your blog to find out!
Wow, you have got me really interested! Great review of the two. Can’t wait to hear more about the vacuums!
Right now I’m leaning more towards the Dyson. Again, awesome review!
Oh I’ve been interested to how well they hold up against each other, great review.
I love my Dyson but I must admit that I am intrigued by the Oreck. I am glad that someone is doing a side by side comparison. I have wanted to try the Oreck Halo but thats because I am a total germaphobe. I have this preconception in my mind that Oreck vacuum cleaners require more maintenance for some reason. I like that the Dyson has the lifetime filter – that just makes more sense to me. Great review so far, I will definitely be staying tuned!
I love comparison reviews!! I too have an Oreck XL and I am seeing why its labeled as “hotel vacuum” I think it would be perfect for that.
hanks can’t wait to see what other ways you compare. Having owned a new model but not comparable to a Dyson I too am loving the more updated feel as opposed to the old style
Thank you for the video. My husband and I have been looking to replace our old Oreck for some time now. This Dyson looks like a vacuum that would be great for our dogs that shed everywhere.
I really have vacuums with bags to be constantly replaced. I have the Dyson Root handheld vacuum, and I love it. Besides being cordless for quick cleanups, it’s the best bug catcher that I’ve ever found… no muss, no fuss, easy disposal with the push of a button.
I’ve always wanted the Dyson Animal because I work with Miniature Pinscher (MinPin) rescue and have three rescued MinPins that live here permanently on top of whatever fosters pass through. I’m looking forward to the continuing review.
oops.. that should have said “I really HATE vacuums with bags”
Honestly, I used to change vacuums like I changed socks. In the first 12 years of our marriage I had like 4 vacuum cleaners. Then I got a Dyson Animal (the older version without the ball). I ♥ ♥ ♥ my Dyson. If it ever breaks, I’m gonna cry (and then go out and buy another Dyson….)
But thanks for doing a comparison, it would be kind of nice if everyone could test drive stuff like that like we do cars lol!
Great review! I personally own a dyson (not this model) but I LOVE mine! We have all wood floors & tile and this is the ONLY vacuum that has gotten low enough to the ground to vacuum on hard floors.
I have owned Dysons in the UK. Never owned an Oreck. I know that most electrical shops in the UK that repair appliances are packed with Dysons. They look good, may even clean ok, although I am not sure that see through plastic wouldnt start to look shoddy over time, especially picking up dust and grime. The reason the electrical stores are packed with Dysons requiring fixing is that they are to expensive to throw away, they are to complicated for the average person to attempt to fix and they are frankly not very reliable. A typical case of over engineering. But if all you care about is how you look vacuuming, they would probably be first choice. If your intention is to vacuum, then they would be pretty far down the food chain. They never rank very high in consumer tests. The best vacuum is a Miele. Lasts for years, very powerful, cannister, easy to use, does dog hairs etc. and that is the one I use and is rated the best in Europe by consumer magazines. Certainly not the Dyson.