Compare Black+Decker Dustbuster AdvancedClean Handheld Vacuum vs DeWalt DCV517B 20V Max Cordless Portable Vacuum

Integrated pull-out crevice tool and flip-up brush are repeatedly praised for convenience and reach; one reviewer calls the crevice tool flimsy and prone to collapsing under use.

The built-in nozzle and integrated hose are widely seen as practical, and one roundup highlights a wide accessory selection. However, multiple reviewers note the bare tool ships without extra tips/brushes, and some users may need third-party kits or an adapter for standard attachments.

A few reviewers describe dust or debris blowback/leakage, including fine dust exhausting out the back and sand falling out after the vacuum is powered off.

Area rug/entry mat deep-cleaning can be challenging in test scenarios (e.g., flour worked into mat grooves), though it can still handle light surface debris.

Setup is typically described as simple, with minimal assembly beyond snapping the nozzle/parts into place.

Setup is minimal: install a charged battery, confirm the tank and filter are seated, and start cleaning. Reviewers frame it as ready-to-use with little fuss.

Charging dock convenience is frequently praised; full charge is commonly described as 2 to 4 hours, with some saying it can be ready within about an hour for quick use when kept on the dock. Battery longevity is debated, with some reporting multi-year health and others reporting early failure.

Battery performance is described as ample for typical cleanup sessions, with one test completing two vehicle interiors on a 4.0Ah pack with charge remaining. Compatibility with different DeWalt pack sizes is highlighted, but bare-tool buyers must supply their own battery/charger.

The bagless, translucent bin makes it easy to see fill level and is sized for quick jobs; large messes can fill it quickly, requiring more frequent emptying.

The 1/2-gallon tank and latch system are described as easy to remove, empty, and reattach, with sealing elements that help keep debris contained. Capacity is inherently small, so bigger messes may require more frequent emptying.

Many describe the unit as solid-feeling, but at least one repair-focused reviewer criticizes the battery pack design and overall repairability.

Build quality feedback is mostly positive, citing sturdy latches, gaskets, and a durable hose that holds up to jobsite-style cleanup. Long-term impressions (including a one-year update) remain favorable.

Carpet and mat performance is mixed: some surface debris comes up, but fine dust and embedded hair tend to remain compared with stronger handhelds.

A tank flap/seal design is mentioned as helping keep debris from escaping if the vacuum tips over. No widespread clogging complaints appear, but the 1-1/4 inch intake naturally limits very large debris.

Compared with larger corded or higher-capacity cordless vacs, it trades raw suction and capacity for portability and convenience. Several reviewers prefer it specifically because it reduces friction for small cleanup tasks.

Controls are generally simple (on/off switch) and the pivot/rotation locks into positions, but a couple reviewers say rotating/pivoting can feel finicky or unnecessary.

Controls are simple, with a large on/off switch that is easy to hit while holding the handle. There are no complex modes or screens to manage.

Cordless convenience is widely valued for cars, quick kitchen/table cleanups, and small spills, but only holds if you can store it on the dock so it stays charged.

Cordless, grab-and-go cleanup is one of the most praised benefits, especially for cars, small shop messes, and remote spaces without outlets. Users like avoiding cords and dragging out full-size vacs.

Crevice performance benefits from the built-in extending tool for car seats and tight gaps; results are decent but not the fastest in heavy sand/crevice stress tests.

Crevice reach is a strength when using the pull-out hose, enabling cleaning between seats, corners, and grooves that the main nozzle cannot comfortably access.

Ease of use is a major strength: quick grab-and-go operation, simple switch, and a dock that encourages frequent use for small daily messes.

Day-to-day usability is praised for quick cleanups and one-handed operation, especially in cars and shops. A minority find the wide-nozzle grip awkward and prefer using the hose for better control.

An angled head and hose-based approach are praised for guiding along baseboards and edges, helping clean fine debris that collects against walls.

Emptying is usually described as quick and straightforward with release buttons, but some users report awkward handling, potential spillage, or debris leakage if the nozzle is pointed down after use.

Filtration is a recurring complaint: it is not HEPA and multiple reviews report fine dust is hard to capture or can pass through/exhaust, though some owners find it acceptable for larger crumbs and typical household debris.

Several reviews emphasize a washable HEPA wet/dry filter and strong dust containment for fine particles. Maintenance is framed as simple rinsing/tapping clean, though one reviewer cautions about managing the filter correctly for wet pickup.

For small liquid spills, reviewers describe it as a convenient, fast solution compared with towels or larger vacs. There is limited evidence on large-volume liquid pickup, and users caution against expecting flood-level capability.

Hair pickup on hard floors appears acceptable for surface clumps, but fine hair and strands can still be a pain, especially if paired with the filtration/exhaust complaints.

Fine dust pickup is inconsistent: some tests show it struggles with flour and powdery debris, and some users report fine dust escaping through exhaust.

Large debris pickup is generally strong for handheld use (cereal, rocks, leaves, crumbs) according to both tests and real-world car/household cleanups.

The integrated hose is generally seen as long enough for car detailing and tight spots, with one review describing extension up to several feet. Some users may still prefer a longer hose for more reach without moving the unit.

Maintenance is straightforward with washable filters and bowl; routine cleaning is commonly recommended to prevent airflow restriction and keep performance consistent.

Maintenance is framed as easy: empty the tank, twist off the filter, and rinse or tap it clean. The washable filter reduces consumable waste and keeps upkeep simple.

Handling is generally described as light and well balanced, but some users find the main nozzle grip awkward and note the unit can feel heavier than smaller car vacs. Using the hose improves reach and control in tight areas.

Noise is often described as loud (including high dB readings in one comparison and an 80+ dB measurement in another review), though one owner felt it was quieter than expected for a handheld.

Noise is a recurring complaint, with at least one reviewer calling it loud compared with other vacs. A minority describe it as only moderately quiet, so overall expect a louder handheld experience.

Onboard storage is a standout: tools are built in, so there is nothing separate to lose, and this is consistently cited as a convenience win.

Onboard storage of the hose and having a built-in nozzle reduce loose parts and make it easy to grab quickly. Multiple reviewers still wish DeWalt bundled additional tips (brush/crevice tools) in the box.

One reviewer argues repair costs (battery cells/parts) can exceed the cost of buying a new unit, making DIY replacement poor value for many owners.

Ongoing costs are modest for users with existing DeWalt batteries, but the bare-tool package can raise the effective price if you need to buy a battery and charger. Replacement filters are noted as readily available.

Durability experiences split: several owners report years of reliable performance, while at least one reviewer reports battery failure around roughly the two-year mark, making longevity dependent on battery health.

Overall sentiment is mixed: many casual owners love it for quick, frequent cleanups and report years of dependable use, while some testers rate performance low due to weak fine-dust pickup/containment and short runtime.

Overall sentiment skews strongly positive, with multiple reviewers recommending it for quick cleanup and one reporting continued satisfaction after a year. A more critical review still acknowledges it performs on typical shop debris, just with limitations.

Packaging and included documentation (manuals, safety info, warranty mention) are described as straightforward and adequate.

Pet readiness is generally weak: multiple tests/reviews report it struggles with pet hair, especially when hair is embedded in upholstery or carpet fibers.

Value is often rated high (especially at sale prices) because it is convenient and capable on everyday debris, but looks weaker when judged against stronger handhelds for fine dust, pet hair, or longer runtimes.

Value is strongest for owners already invested in DeWalt 20V batteries, especially when the bare tool is priced under typical kit bundles. Some buyers question the cost once you factor in a separate battery/charger and add-on accessories.

Reported runtime varies widely: one review cites about 10 minutes, another mentions 8 to 10 minutes, while others reference longer advertised claims. Battery condition and consistent dock contact appear to be key variables.

The dock keeps storage tidy for many, but at least one household disliked the corded base for drawer storage and found the charging contact alignment easy to mess up.

Reviewers repeatedly call the unit compact and easy to store, including keeping it in a toolbox or car. Its small footprint supports grab-and-go use in tight workspaces.

Suction/airflow is described as strong by several owners for everyday crumbs and car debris, but at least one test-based review calls suction weak and another bench comparison places it mid-pack for lift despite decent airflow.

Most reviews describe strong pickup for small debris (dust, chips, car carpets), with some calling it surprisingly powerful. A consistent caveat is that it cannot match a larger shop vac’s suction and can struggle with bigger chunks unless you get very close.

It performs best as a powerful mini for targeted messes, not as a primary shop vac or whole-jobsite solution. Reviews repeatedly position it as a supplement for quick, localized cleanup.

Frequently recommended as a small-space companion vacuum for quick pickups when you do not want to drag out a full-size machine.

Its compact body and hose access make it well suited to cars, cabins, and tight shop corners where larger vacuums are annoying to deploy.

Attachments and brush options are generally considered safe and helpful on varied surfaces, including areas where users worry about scratching.

Switching between the front nozzle and pull-out hose is generally quick and intuitive. One review notes the hose can be tricky to pull free if it is pushed in too tightly.

Reach under furniture is limited (one test cited just over 10 inches), though the crevice extension can help with tight gaps.

Above-floor and upholstery cleaning is okay for crumbs and surface dirt, but embedded pet hair is a common failure point.

Car seats and in-between upholstery areas are a common use case, and the hose makes above-floor pickup more practical than relying on the wide front nozzle alone.

The wet/dry design plus dual pickup modes makes it useful for car detailing, edge cleanup, and small spills. Reviews still warn it is not intended for big jobsite cleanups or major water events.

Weight is generally considered manageable for one-handed use (around the mid-2 lb range reported), with multiple reviewers calling it light or well-balanced.

Several reviews call it super light for a wet/dry handheld, while one roundup notes it can feel heavier than some competing car vacs. Most still consider the weight manageable given the convenience and power.