Daleks from the original 26 year run of Doctor Who were squat metallic "pepperpots", shorter than a typical human being, with a rotating dome and eyestalk, manipulator arm and disruptor weapon. A total of 56 hemispheres were mounted on the lower skirt section. These were traditionally assumed to be sensors of some kind. Note that the rear angle of the Dalek is almost straight, with a much gentler angle than the front. Small lights topped off the dome.

The 2005 revival of Doctor Who introduced a new Dalek design, that drew heavily on the original with little modification. Note the metallic copper and bronze style finish, the addition of details such as shut lines, more detailed slats and hemispheres and a slightly taller base. Large lights appear on the dome. However the classic side and front profiles are maintained and the Daleks remained squat, their shortness belying their belligerence. The 2005 episode "Dalek" revealed that the hemispheres were part of an elaborate self-destruct mechanism, although they may also have other uses.

The 2010 redesign has none of the finesse of the earlier designs. This is a concept sketch found on the BBC website that illustrates the point nicely. Note that both the front and side profiles are disrupted by a heavy rubberised/plasticky central band that gives the Dalek a much heavier and less graceful feel, as well as providing it with an unfortunate hunchback appearance. This appears to be there to facilitate some kind of central panel at the back, purpose unknown, save that the number of skirt hemispheres is reduced to 48. The new model is significantly taller than the original models, with an enlarged base, modified manipulatory arm and longer almost cartoon-like disruptor gunstick. The main shape and aesthetic of the Dalek is totally different. With new "day-glo" colours, rather than appear dangerous, the entire feeling of the new Dalek is rather comical. In summary, the entire appearance is almost a a caricature of the original, with massively overemphasised details.

Image (C) BBC.