Compare DeWalt DCV517B 20V Max Cordless Portable Vacuum vs Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Cordless Hand Vacuum

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.

Comes with a motorized pet-hair tool plus crevice and upholstery tools. Most reviewers find the set genuinely useful for pet messes and tight areas, though a few note the upholstery tool is less effective and one reviewer wished for a dedicated dusting brush.

A few reviewers call it a nice-looking handheld with Bissell's bright pet-focused styling, and they generally like how it feels in the hand.

Exhaust airflow is noticeable. Some users like that it blows cool air near the handle, while at least one reviewer disliked the vent direction (toward the face) and wished it vented downward.

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.

Setup is generally plug-in-and-go with little to assemble beyond charging and choosing an attachment. Most guidance centers on letting it fully charge before first use.

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.

Charging experience is mixed: some testers report ~2–3 hours, while several others cite ~8 hours (often before first use). Users appreciate basic charge/low-battery indicators, but a few mention suction weakening as the battery gets low.

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.

Bagless, clear dust cup design; capacity is often cited around 0.7 L / 700 mL, which is a bit larger than many handheld competitors. Being able to see the debris level is a commonly mentioned plus.

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.

Several reviewers describe the unit as solid and ergonomic in-hand. The filtration stack and seals help keep debris away from the motor, though the motorized head can require periodic de-hairing.

High-pile carpet pickup remains strong, though some fine debris (like sugar) may require extra passes to reach top results compared to hard floors and low-pile carpet.

In low-pile carpet tests, pickup rates were very high overall, with only minor dips tied to bulky debris that could clog the intake near the end of a run.

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.

Fine debris pickup is generally reliable, but standardized tests reported occasional clogging or loss of suction when ingesting bulkier pieces (notably cereal).

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.

Across comparisons, it tends to win on well-roundedness (especially filtration and pet-hair capability) rather than being the most powerful handheld. It is selected as a top pick in at least one multi-model roundup.

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.

Controls are simple (single power button), and some reviews mention helpful status LEDs/indicators (charging state or low-battery warning). Overall UI is minimal but clear.

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.

Cord-free portability is repeatedly cited as a main benefit, making it easy to grab for quick couch, stair, and car cleanups without dragging out a larger vacuum.

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.

Crevice cleaning is a strong point. Reviews and tests show quick removal of sand or fine debris from cracks and tight corners using the crevice tool.

One reviewer explicitly mentions cyclone-like airflow visible in the dust cup during use, suggesting effective debris separation even in a compact handheld design.

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.

Most reviews emphasize simplicity: minimal setup, one-button operation, and straightforward attachment use. It is commonly described as a convenient tool for quick jobs.

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

Most reviewers find the bin straightforward to remove and empty, and at least one notes a one-way valve that helps keep debris in when powered off. However, one competitive test observed some sand falling back out when the inlet was pointed downward.

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.

Multiple reviews highlight multi-stage filtration/dust containment, with some testing calling it unusually good for this price tier. Filters are washable but still need periodic cleaning and eventual replacement.

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.

Embedded pet-hair removal on carpeted/mat surfaces is repeatedly described as excellent, largely credited to the powered brush tool designed specifically for pet hair.

Users report it does well picking up fur and scattered debris on hardwood, but deeply trapped litter in textured litter mats may not fully come out without multiple passes.

On hard floors, fine debris (like sugar) scored very highly in lab-style tests, and real-world users report strong pickup of fur and dust in high-traffic spots.

Hard-floor pickup of common larger debris (rice, litter, kibble) is generally strong, but very large items can be more challenging; one competitive test showed limited ability to ingest oversized pieces compared to higher-powered models.

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 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.

Routine upkeep is simple: empty the cup, clean/tap out the filters/mesh, and periodically remove hair from the brush roll. A few reviewers mention filters eventually need replacement and the brush tool can accumulate hair over time.

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.

The slender handheld shape and cordless use help it reach tight spaces and follow contours (cat trees, stair edges, between cushions). Maneuverability is consistently rated as a positive.

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.

Frequently described as relatively quiet for a handheld vacuum. Reported measurements vary by test setup, ranging from low-70s dB to low-80s dB.

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.

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.

Recurring costs are mainly filters. One reviewer estimates annual filter spend roughly in the $20–$40 range depending on replacement frequency.

Long-term feedback is mixed: one reviewer reports consistent weekly use after a year without noticeable suction loss, while another warns the internal battery appears difficult to source/replace, which could limit service life.

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.

Overall sentiment is strongly positive: most reviewers recommend it for pet hair and quick cleanups, with recurring caveats about charge time, short-session runtime, and a few design quirks (tool tightness, upholstery tool performance).

The powered pet-hair tool is the standout feature across reviews, repeatedly praised for pulling fur off couch cushions, cat trees, stairs, and carpeted surfaces where hair gets embedded.

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.

Perceived value depends on price: some reviewers call it a strong bargain when found in the sub-$50 range, while others note it can cost more than basic handhelds. The motorized pet tool and better-than-average filtration are the main value justifications.

Typical runtime lands in the ~15–20 minute range (often cited around 17–18 minutes). Reviewers generally frame this as enough for quick touch-ups, not long continuous sessions.

Multiple reviewers specifically demonstrate strong performance on carpeted stairs, especially for pet hair, using either the powered pet tool or crevice attachment for edges.

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.

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.

Suction/pickup is widely described as strong for a handheld, with especially good results on pet hair and common dry debris. Comparative testing suggests its overall power score is closer to average than class-leading, and several users note performance can taper as the battery drains.

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.

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

Best suited to quick spot-cleaning and small areas (furniture, stairs, cars). Several reviewers explicitly say it is not intended to replace a full-size vacuum for large rooms.

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.

Tool changes are usually quick (slide/snap-on), but more than one reviewer mentions the motorized brush can fit very tightly, sometimes requiring extra force or wiggling to remove.

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.

Above-floor cleaning is a major strength with the motorized tool (couches, chairs, blankets). Feedback on the non-powered upholstery tool is mixed; some find it helpful, others find it annoying to remove hair from the bristles.

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.

Regularly used across multiple scenarios (stairs, sofas, pet areas, vehicles, lint cleanup), making it a versatile secondary vacuum for targeted messes.

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.

Reported around ~3 lb (with at least one test listing ~2.6 lb), and generally described as comfortable to carry and not too heavy for above-floor work.