Dreame H12 Core: affordable price, simplified features, same floor cleaning quality

The Dreame H12 Core vertical vacuum cleaner is a simplified version of the older models. Dreame H12 And Dreame H12 Pro, which were previously reviewed. And, apparently, the model that replaced the previously released Dreame H11 and Dreame H11 MaxSo, at $285, or $290 at the exchange rate at the time of writing, this device is a fairly standard cordless vacuum cleaner with a self-cleaning function and an automatic power boost mode when dirt is detected. Below, I'll thoroughly test the Dreame H12 Core, after which I'll express my opinion on whether it's worth considering. So, let's get started!

Equipment

Let's start with the package contents. The washing vacuum cleaner arrived in this branded box:

The package includes:

1. Removable handle.
2. Base for charging and self-cleaning.
3. Charger.
4. Operating instructions.
5. Vacuum cleaner cleaning brush.
6. Branded cleaning product.

The package is standard; no spare accessories are included. But I'm glad they at least included a cleaning solution!

Appearance

Now let's take a look at the Dreame H12 Core's design. Let's start with the cleaning module. The roller is located behind a transparent cover that locks on both sides. Behind the roller, in front of the suction opening, is a comb for detangling hair and pet hair. Below, again behind the roller, is a squeegee for collecting liquid and debris from the floor. As you can see, the roller doesn't extend all the way to the edge, meaning this wet/dry vacuum cleaner can't thoroughly clean along the baseboard like the older H12 and H12 Pro models.

A dirty water tank is located above the cleaning module. It contains a HEPA filter with a mesh screen and a sensor system to monitor the water level. When the dirty water tank is full, the Dreame H12 Core will alert you to drain it. There is no coarse filter for dirty water.

The clean water tank is located even higher. On top of it is an opening with a sealed valve for filling with water. A coarse filter for clean water is installed inside.

An informative LED display is located above this tank. It shows the battery percentage, operating mode, and service messages. The display is less bright than on older models. Apparently, this was done to reduce power consumption and increase battery life.

It's worth noting right away that the Dreame H12 Core can automatically increase suction power depending on how dirty the floor is. Unfortunately, manual power adjustment is not possible.

The handle contains three mechanical control buttons: power on and off, switching between two operating modes (automatic and liquid collection), and starting the self-cleaning function when the vacuum cleaner is placed on the charging base.

There's another mechanical button on the back that switches the voice package language. The Dreame H12 Core supports voice notifications in several languages, including Russian.

This is what the vacuum cleaner looks like when assembled:

It is also worth noting that it supports vertical parking outside the station.

As for the base, the wet/dry vacuum cleaner only uses it for self-cleaning and charging. Unfortunately, there's no way to dry the roller.

Technical specifications

The main characteristics of the Dreame H12 Core, as stated by the manufacturer:

• Battery: Li-Ion, 2500 mAh.
• Power consumption: 200 W.
• Working time: up to 25 min.
• Charging time: 5 h.
• Clean water tank: 900 ml.
• Dirty water tank: 500 ml.
• Noise level: 67-72 dB.
• Weight: 4.65 kg.

The battery capacity is smaller than that of the older models. It's not the same as the Dreame H11. Consequently, the battery life has been reduced. However, the noise level is similar to other Dreame lineup wet/dry vacuum cleaners, ranging from 67 to 72 dB.

Testing

A detailed video review of the Dreame H12 Core, including all tests, has already been prepared and published on the channel:

And finally, let's move on to the tests. The Dreame H12 Core performs well in everyday floor cleaning, both on wood and tile surfaces. It doesn't leave streaks and, when used correctly, won't damage delicate flooring.

This cordless vacuum cleaner can be used not only for cleaning floors but also for picking up liquids. And, as in my case, it even passed the now-traditional test of picking up a mixture of raw egg and flour.

The Dreame H12 Core can also be used to clean slightly dried-on dirt. As you can see, there are no marks or streaks left behind. The floor is perfectly clean.

Since the roller doesn't extend right up to the edge of the housing, a narrow strip approximately 22 mm wide remains. This is important to take into account.

This vacuum cleaner was able to remove even the toughest dried-on coffee and sauce stains. As with similar vacuums, it took some time to remove the sauce stains. Specifically, it took 10.5 minutes to remove the stains. The Dreame H12 Pro's proprietary cleaning solution was used in this test. For comparison, the Dreame H12 Pro took 4.5 minutes to complete the same task, while the Dreame H12 completed the task in 9 minutes.

Furthermore, this wet/dry vacuum cleaner can also be used for dry cleaning. It easily picks up debris of various textures from the floor. There are no blind spots along baseboards or in corners; all debris is collected directly from the stand. That's a plus!

Considering this is a wet/dry vacuum, it's not practical for cleaning carpets. However, it's still possible if you don't add water to the tank or use the wet mode, which simply vacuums debris without adding water. The roller, despite its fluffy texture, is capable of picking up pet hair, fur, and other debris.

However, debris can clog the suction hole and block the brush, which is what happened during testing, as the suction system doesn't work properly without water. Overall, I still recommend cleaning carpets with a regular upright vacuum cleaner, or entrusting this task to a robotic vacuum cleaner of a suitable design and power.

The final test is to check the self-cleaning performance after all the tests. And here, the Dreame H12 Core impressed. It cleans itself effectively of debris and dirt.

Moreover, even after such a challenging test, the module was completely clean; there was no dirt left behind the roller holder or on the roller itself. The platform was also clean. This model's self-cleaning feature is well implemented. The test was passed successfully!

Personal opinion

The Dreame H12 Core upright vacuum cleaner has been thoroughly reviewed and tested. I'll share my thoughts on it.

I liked the following:

1. Capable of effectively washing floors and removing dirt.
2. Automatic power increase when contamination is detected.
3. High-quality self-cleaning.
4. Stylish design.
5. Ergonomic design.
6. Informative LED display on the body.
7. Voice notifications in Russian.
8. High quality assembly.
9. Availability of warranty and service.

As for the disadvantages, there are the following comments about the vacuum cleaner:

1. Weak battery and, as a result, short operating time.
2. There is no drying of the roller on the base.
3. There is no manual adjustment of suction power.
4. There is no way to regulate the water supply level.
5. Not suitable for cleaning carpets.
6. It doesn't wash a narrow strip along the baseboard,

Basically, the only complaint I have is about the battery. The other issues are typical for all Dreame wet/dry vacuum cleaners. As for this particular model, it's worth considering for cleaning small areas, as well as if you're on a budget but still really want a Dreame wet/dry vacuum cleaner. Essentially, this is the Dreame H11 in a new color. With a good sale discount and a significant price difference compared to older models, this unit could be a winner, as, aside from a blind spot along the baseboard, its floor cleaning performance in a home environment isn't significantly different.

On that note, I'd like to end this review. If you have any questions, please ask them in the comments. Happy shopping. Bye!