Have never been a real Dyson fan especially the earlier models,as they where grossly overpriced, very heavy and of nasty,cheap plastic consruction with sharp edges,only plus points being the suction power and no bags.This has changed on the later models with the finish being much better and some very good offers on price.Unfortunately they are still far to heavy for some one who is of frail disposition and suffers from arthritus in the hands.(My wife)Even the DC24 Mini Ball (10Kg)is still to heavy to handle easely.Having tried several other cylinder cleaners without success,I decided with some trepedation to buy the DC26 Wood & Wool.All my fears about being a gimmick, no suction power,flimsy,were unfounded.It looks stunning,well finished and at 3.25 Kg it is really light,the suction is more than adequate,storage container is large enough to clean 3-4 rooms before emptying,it is reasonably quiet running and most important, my wife can handle it easely and is delighted with it.On the minus side,the hose does not detach from the cleaner,but can be altered with some DIY.The floor tool is great for most applications,but if exessive pet hair removal is a requirement,then fitting a miny Dyson Turbo Brush would solve the problem.The standard price tag of £250 is exessive,I managed to buy mine on the net for £195.Which is still a lot but does include a 5year guarantee,as there is no other make that even closely compares in performance,general finsh and looks it has got to be a reasonable deal. NoI don't work for Dyson and would highly reccomend this cleaner if weight, ease of handling all round cleanig power are important.