DEWALT or Armor All? Cordless Vacuums Compared in 2026
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When you search for a DEWALT vs armor all cordless vacuum, you find two very different tools. Both brands offer portable cleaning solutions for quick messes. The main difference lies in their power source and capability. The DEWALT model is a true cordless hand vacuum with long runtime. The Armor All unit is a compact wet/dry vacuum that requires a cord. You must choose based on whether you need battery freedom or wet cleanup.
Key differences
| Aspect | DEWALT 20V Cordless Hand Vacuum | Armor All 1.5-Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | Cordless (20V Battery) | Corded (6-ft cord) |
| Runtime | Up to 214 minutes | Not listed |
| Wet/Dry Capability | Dry only | Wet and dry |
| Capacity | Not listed | 1.5 Gallons |
| Weight | 6.83 pounds | 4.6 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose DEWALT 20V Cordless Hand Vacuum if
- You need a completely cordless tool for extended cleaning sessions.
- You primarily clean dry dust like concrete or drywall.
- You want HEPA filtration to trap fine particles.
Choose Armor All 1.5-Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum if
- You need to clean up liquid spills or wet messes.
- You prefer a lighter unit for quick, short tasks.
- You want a blower function to clear debris from tight spaces.
Verdict: Choose the DEWALT if you need a dedicated cordless tool for dry dust with long battery life. Pick the Armor All if you require a versatile wet/dry vacuum that handles liquids and offers a blower mode. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize battery runtime or wet cleanup capability.
DEWALT vs Armor All Spec Comparison
Power Source
The DEWALT DCV501HB is a true cordless unit powered by a 20V battery system. You get up to 214 minutes of runtime per charge with the included battery specifications. In contrast, the Armor All AA155 is not cordless. It relies on a 6-foot power cord for continuous operation. This makes the DEWALT better for mobile cleanup without outlet access, while the Armor All offers unlimited runtime as long as you are near a wall socket.
Capacity
The Armor All AA155 features a 1.5-gallon polypropylene tank. This larger volume allows you to collect more debris before needing to empty it. The DEWALT model does not list a specific gallon capacity in its published data. It uses a smaller hand-held canister design. For larger messes or extended cleaning sessions, the Armor All’s tank size provides a clear advantage in holding capacity compared to the DEWALT’s compact design.
Suction Capability
The Armor All AA155 boasts 2 peak horsepower. This motor power enables it to handle both wet and dry messes. It also functions as a blower for debris removal. The DEWALT DCV501HB focuses on dry vacuuming with HEPA filtration for fine dust like concrete or drywall. It does not list horsepower or wet pickup capability. If you need to handle liquids or require blower functions, the Armor All is the superior choice.
Weight
Portability is key for hand vacuums. The Armor All AA155 weighs 4.6 pounds. The DEWALT DCV501HB weighs 6.83 pounds. This makes the Armor All nearly two pounds lighter. The lower weight may reduce fatigue during handheld use. However, the DEWALT’s weight includes the battery pack. You should consider how the balance feels in your hand. The Armor All has the edge in raw weight specifications.
Filtration
The DEWALT DCV501HB includes a HEPA filter. This filtration type captures fine dust particles, making it efficient for allergens and small debris like drywall dust. The Armor All AA155 data does not specify a HEPA filter or any particular filtration grade. It focuses on general wet/dry pickup. If you are cleaning fine dust or need improved air quality during vacuuming, the DEWALT’s HEPA specification is a distinct advantage.
Versatility
The Armor All AA155 is a wet/dry vacuum. It can pick up liquids and dry debris. It also converts to a blower mode. The DEWALT DCV501HB is designed for dry use only. It lacks wet pickup and blower capabilities. The Armor All offers more versatility for different types of messes in a garage or workshop. The DEWALT is specialized for dry dust collection. For multi-purpose cleanup, the Armor All is more adaptable.
Which vacuum fits your needs
Users needing deep dust filtration
The DEWALT DCV501HB uses a HEPA filter to trap fine dust like concrete and drywall particles. This makes it ideal for workshops or garages where airborne dust is a concern. The 20V battery system offers up to 214 minutes of runtime, allowing for extended cleaning sessions without interruption. Its 6.83-pound weight is manageable for handheld use.
Those handling wet spills or debris
The Armor All AA155 is a wet/dry vacuum, meaning it can handle liquid spills that would ruin most dry-only units. It features a 1.5-gallon polypropylene tank and includes a 6-foot cord and 4-foot hose. It also blows air, letting you clear debris from tight spaces. At 4.6 pounds, it is lightweight and portable.
People wanting versatile cleanup options
This unit serves as both a vacuum and a blower. You can switch modes to blow away light debris from cars or workbenches. The integrated storage keeps attachments on the powerhead, reducing lost parts. It includes six accessories for various tasks. Its wall-mountable design saves space in your garage or utility room.
The products compared
DEWALT 20V Cordless Hand Vacuum
Best for: Fine dry dust cleanup
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Battery Voltage
- 20V
- Runtime
- up to 214 minutes
- Weight
- 6.83 pounds
- Filtration Type
- HEPA
- Suitable For
- Car
View on Amazon: DEWALT 20V Cordless Hand Vacuum Affiliate link
This DEWALT DCV501HB is a 20V cordless dry hand vacuum with a HEPA filter. It weighs 6.83 pounds and measures 20.4 inches long. The system offers up to 214 minutes of runtime per charge. It captures fine dust like concrete and drywall. You should choose this if you need a lightweight tool for small debris cleanup.
Pros
- HEPA filtration captures fine dust
- Up to 214 minutes runtime per charge
- Lightweight at 6.83 pounds
- Push-button canister emptying
Cons
- Dry-use only, no wet capability
- Battery sold separately
- No wet/dry versatility
Good fit if
- You need to clean fine dry dust
- You want a lightweight handheld tool
- You already own DEWALT 20V batteries
Skip if
- You need to vacuum wet spills
- You want a complete kit with battery
- You require a full-size upright vacuum
Verdict: DEWALT 20V Cordless Hand Vacuum is a specialized tool for dry debris. It suits users who already have 20V batteries and need to remove fine dust like drywall particles from tight spaces.
Armor All 1.5-Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum
Best for: Small messes and wall-mounted storage
- Capacity
- 1.5 Gallons
- Weight
- 4.6 pounds
- Features
- Wet/Dry
- Dimensions
- 9.1 × 7.9 × 11.5 inches
View on Amazon: Armor All 1.5-Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum Affiliate link
This Armor All AA155 is a compact 1.5-gallon wet/dry vacuum. It weighs 4.6 pounds and measures 7.9 by 9.1 by 11.5 inches. The unit includes a 6-foot cord and a 4-foot hose. It features integrated storage for attachments and wall-mountable design. You will appreciate the blower capability for quick debris removal. It suits small messes where portability matters.
Pros
- 1.5-gallon polypropylene tank
- 4.6-pound lightweight build
- Wall-mountable storage design
- Integrated attachment storage
- Blower function included
Cons
- 1.5-gallon capacity is smaller than competitors
- Requires a 6-foot power cord
- No battery or cordless operation
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight vacuum for small spills
- You want a unit that mounts on the wall
- You prefer a corded connection for consistent power
Skip if
- You require cordless battery operation
- You need a large tank for heavy debris
- You want to clean large areas without a power outlet nearby
Verdict: Armor All 1.5 Gal Portable Wet/Dry Vac is a practical option for light cleanup tasks. It fits users who value wall storage and a small footprint over high capacity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | DEWALT 20V Cordless Hand Vacuum | Armor All 1.5-Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | Cordless | not stated |
| Battery Voltage | 20V | not stated |
| Runtime | up to 214 minutes | not stated |
| Capacity | not stated | 1.5 Gallons |
| Weight | 6.83 pounds | 4.6 pounds |
| Filtration Type | HEPA | not stated |
| Suitable For | Car | not stated |
| Voltage | 20V | not stated |
| Features | HEPA Filtration, LED Headlights | Wet/Dry |
| Dimensions | 20.4 × 7.44 × 9.19 inches | 9.1 × 7.9 × 11.5 inches |
| Size | One Size | 1.5 Gallons |
| Color | Yellow | Orange |
| Model | DCV501HB | AA155 |
Frequently asked questions
Is the DEWALT DCV501HB wet or dry only?
It is a dry-only vacuum designed for fine debris. The product data lists HEPA filtration as a key feature, which traps dust like drywall particles. It is not rated for wet messes. You should use it strictly for dry cleanup tasks in workshops or garages.
Can the Armor All AA155 handle wet spills?
Yes, this model is a wet/dry vacuum. The specifications confirm it handles both liquid and solid debris. With a 1.5-gallon capacity, it is suitable for small spills or light messes. It offers versatility that the DEWALT hand vacuum does not provide.
How heavy is the DEWALT hand vacuum?
The DEWALT DCV501HB weighs 6.83 pounds. This weight includes the battery and the main unit. It is a cordless hand vacuum, so you hold it directly while cleaning. The weight is manageable for tight spaces but heavier than the Armor All option.
Does the Armor All vacuum have a battery?
No, the Armor All AA155 is not cordless. It is a portable wet/dry vacuum that likely requires a power outlet. The data does not list a voltage or battery type for this unit. It is designed for use where electrical access is available.
What is the size of the DEWALT vacuum?
The DEWALT DCV501HB measures 20.4 inches in length, 7.44 inches in width, and 9.19 inches in height. It is a one-size unit. These dimensions make it suitable for reaching into tight spaces. The yellow color is standard for the brand.
Is the Armor All vacuum wall-mountable?
The verdict notes that this unit fits users who value wall storage. It has a small footprint with dimensions of 9.1 inches by 7.9 inches. This compact design allows for easy mounting or storage in small areas like garages or utility rooms.
Which vacuum is better for drywall dust?
The DEWALT DCV501HB is better for fine dry dust. It features HEPA filtration to trap particles like drywall and concrete dust. The Armor All AA155 is a general wet/dry vacuum without specified fine dust filtration. Choose DEWALT for workshop dust cleanup.
What color is the Armor All vacuum?
The Armor All AA155 is orange. This is the standard color for the brand. The model number is AA155. It is a 1.5-gallon capacity unit designed for light cleanup tasks. The color helps it stand out in storage areas.