And their cleaners have a reputation for being reliable and long-lasting. I've heard parts are still being made for models long since decommissioned.

They vigorously defend their patents because other vacuum cleaner makers just don't want to license them.

Wade.

Remember when people called vacuum cleaners "Hoovers"? Well, I've seen signs of people now using the term "Dyson" to mean a vacuum cleaner.

Dysons seem to be expensive. But they seem that way only next to the inexpensive, less than wonderful machines with designs from yesteryear. Prices have crashed on those. But compared to other actually really good machines (Rainbow, Shark and a few European ones), Dyson prices are quite reasonable. Hoover, Sanyo, Kambrook and many other makers are fighting for the low-end of the market in what may well be a race to the bottom. Dyson clearly doesn't to play that game.

Wade.