Vax Compact Power vs Vax Dual Power W86-DP-B
We compare the Vax Compact Power and the Vax Dual Power W86-DP-B across every dimension that matters - our scores, the key specs, and how each performs on the things you will actually notice day to day.
At a glance
| Vax Compact Power | Vax Dual Power W86-DP-B | |
|---|---|---|
| Our score | 9.3/10 | 8.4/10 |
| Best for | Grabbing for spills, stains and pet accidents on carpets, stairs and upholstery | Grabbing for spills, stains and pet accidents on carpets, stairs and upholstery |
| Not ideal for | Everyday vacuuming - this is for wet deep-cleaning, not replacing your vacuum | Everyday vacuuming - this is for wet deep-cleaning, not replacing your vacuum |
| Brand | Vax | Vax |
Cleaning Performance
Vax Compact Power
Cleaning performance on this carpet cleaner is best understood as spot-focused. It is a portable carpet-cleaner designed for lifting stains in smaller areas rather than cleaning an entire room. It is intended for targeted spots, with repeated application to the area until the stain lightens. The process starts with prepping the area by removing loose dirt, then working a small section at a time and applying the included solution while dampening the surface. Results are strongest on fresh marks, while older stains may require multiple passes. Deep embedded grime is not always fully removed.
Vax Dual Power W86-DP-B
Cleaning performance for the Vax is aimed at spot and portable tasks, so it suits small spills, stains, and targeted areas on carpets or rugs rather than full-room cleaning. With 800W power, it can work cleaning solution into localised patches, then lift residue as the user extracts and repeats as needed. For best results, it should be used on fresh marks first, because set-in stains may need multiple passes. Drying depends on how much solution is applied, and over-wetting can leave carpets damp. Overall, it supports everyday clean-ups, while deeper stains are likely to require extra effort.
Tank Size and Water Capacity
Vax Compact Power
Tank size matters because it limits how long a spot/portable carpet cleaner can work on a marked area before needing a refill. For the Vax, the product title confirms it is designed for spot cleaning and is powered at 800W, with a weight of 5.5kg. Cleaning requires stopping to top up the included cleaning solution, particularly for heavier staining, and keeping the tank filled helps maintain consistent spraying while treating the spot.
Vax Dual Power W86-DP-B
Tank size and water capacity matter because they determine how long the carpet cleaner can spray, scrub and extract dirty water before the solution or recovery tank needs refilling. This spot and portable carpet cleaner is intended for smaller clean-ups, so tank capacity affects how many areas can be completed in one session. The product title and the available published information do not specify the tank volume or water capacity, so an exact run time by fill level is not measurable. Plan to top up during larger rugs and monitor performance, with weaker spray and reduced wetness indicating the need to refill.
Brushes, Tools and Attachments
Vax Compact Power
Beyond the main cleaner body, the carpet cleaner is positioned as a portable, spot-focused carpet cleaner. This makes the brushes and attachments relevant to how effectively it can lift and work around stains, particularly on small patches and in tighter areas where reach and agitation matter. If accessory coverage is limited (not stated), it may require more passes on textured carpets. Overall results depend on matching the accessory to the area being cleaned and using consistent technique.
Vax Dual Power W86-DP-B
The Vax is sold as an upright portable carpet and rug shampooer washer, with cleaning performance centred on its brushes and included tools. Its cleaning routine agitates water with the brush head to lift residue, helping it be removed during the wash process. The product title indicates a portable design and includes solution, but it does not specify the exact brush types or sizes, or the precise attachments supplied in the box. Standard carpet agitation can be expected, although attachment details should be checked before planning any specialised cleaning.
Type: Upright, Spot or Handheld
Vax Compact Power
How it is used matters, and the Vax is described as a portable, spot/handheld-style carpet cleaner rather than a full-size upright deep-cleaner. It is aimed at small areas such as rugs, stairs and localised spills, where quick access is useful. The design is intended for moving between rooms, so spots can be tackled without dragging a larger machine out. For whole-room work, this type can be slower because it focuses on smaller sections at a time. With 800W and a weight of 5.5kg, it suits shorter sessions, though the portable format may require more repeat passes.
Vax Dual Power W86-DP-B
The carpet cleaner is an upright carpet cleaner designed to be moved between rooms while cleaning, reducing the need to bend over compared with a fully handheld unit. As an upright washer, it is suited to everyday carpet and rug cleaning where wider coverage is useful. For more targeted work, it can also be used as a portable spot/handheld cleaner to treat smaller areas and edges, which may involve switching cleaning modes. This dual approach makes it a practical option for mixed carpet tasks.
Weight, Cord and Storage
Vax Compact Power
With a weight of 5.5kg, the carpet cleaner is designed to be easier to lift than larger carpet cleaners, which helps when moving between rooms, tackling stairs, or carrying it from one area to another. Its compact build also means it is less bulky to store. The included solution support suggests it can be used without complex setup. For safe storage, it should be dried and coiled carefully.
Vax Dual Power W86-DP-B
With its upright design, the Vax Dual Power W86-DP-B is intended to help reach different areas around a home with less awkward positioning. At 5.8kg, it is relatively manageable for lifting between rooms, but it may still feel heavy for frequent carrying. As an upright portable cleaner, cord handling matters during use, since the cord needs to be managed to avoid snagging while moving the unit. For storage, it should be kept in a dry place with clear access to the controls.
Who Is This Carpet Cleaner For?
Vax Compact Power
Who is the Vax Compact Power CWCPV011 for? It is for people who want a spot or portable carpet cleaner rather than a full-size machine, with a compact upright design that is easier to move and store for quick clean-ups. With a weight of 5.5 kg and 800 W power, it is aimed at tackling everyday stains and small areas, rather than large renovation jobs, although performance depends on the carpet type. It suits renters and busy households where convenience matters, with deep cleaning carried out only occasionally.
Vax Dual Power W86-DP-B
The Vax's Dual Power W86-DP-B is aimed at people who want a carpet cleaner that can be used around the home without needing a fully built-in system. It is described as a spot/portable carpet and rug shampooer cleaner, so it suits households dealing with everyday messes such as small spills or localized dirty patches. At 800W, it is positioned as a straightforward portable option rather than a whole-room deep-cleaning washer. Weighing 5.8kg, it is also designed to be manageable to carry, although larger cleaning jobs may take longer.
Vax Compact Power: pros
- Spot/portable cleaner
- 800W of cleaning power
- Lifts ground-in dirt and stains a vacuum can't
Cons
- Carpets need a few hours to dry fully before use
- Cleaning solution is an ongoing cost
- Heavier and bulkier to store than a vacuum
Vax Dual Power W86-DP-B: pros
- Spot/portable cleaner
- 800W of cleaning power
- Lifts ground-in dirt and stains a vacuum can't
Cons
- Carpets need a few hours to dry fully before use
- Cleaning solution is an ongoing cost
- Heavier and bulkier to store than a vacuum
Our verdict
Our pick is the Vax Compact Power (our score 9.3/10) - A practical carpet cleaner (spot/portable, 800W) for a deeper, fresher carpet clean at home. The Vax Dual Power W86-DP-B is still worth it if it is cheaper when you check, or if it better matches your specific needs.