DeWalt vs Makita Cordless Car Vacuum – Which One Sucks Less?

Hey everyone, I'm in the market for a cordless car vacuum. I've narrowed it down to the DeWalt 20V MAX and the Makita 18V LXT. I'll be using it mostly for quick cleanups after detailing, and I want something that actually has some suction, not just a toy. Any real-world experience with either? Battery life is a concern too since I already have tools in both platforms.

Get the Makita, hands down. Their 18V LXT line is bulletproof, and the vacuum is no exception. I've had mine for 2 years, use it on job sites daily, and it still sucks like new. Plus, the brushless motor is quieter and more efficient than DeWalt's. If you're already in the Makita ecosystem, it's a no-brainer.

I've seen too many guys burn out their shop vacs on wet messes. Make sure whatever you get has a wet/dry capability, else you'll ruin it. Also, check the filter – a HEPA filter is worth the extra cost if you're vacuuming drywall dust or allergens. And don't forget to empty the canister often, it kills suction when it's full.

I was all set to buy the Makita until I saw the price. DeWalt was on sale at Home Depot with a free battery and charger, so I went with that. Honestly, for the money, it's done everything I need. Suction is decent for a handheld, and I like that I can swap batteries with my drill. If you don't need the absolute best, you can save some cash.

Thanks for the input everyone. PlumberPaul brings up a good point about wet/dry – I didn't even think about that. I usually clean my car after a wash, so maybe I'll look into a wet/dry model. I'm leaning towards Makita for the build quality, but I'll see if I can find a deal. Appreciate the tips!