DEWALT 5 Gallon STEALTHSONIC Shop Vac Review: Powerful & Quiet

As an expert who has tested many Shop Wet Dry Vacuums over the years, I understand what makes a vacuum truly reliable and effective. In this review, I will share my honest and detailed thoughts on the DEWALT 5 Gallon STEALTHSONIC Ultra-Quiet Wet/Dry Shop Vac, model DXV05P-QT. I have carefully studied its features and personally tested its performance in different settings like garages, workshops, and jobsites. You can trust my insights because I focus on real results and clear information. My goal is to help you decide if this DEWALT vacuum is the right choice for your cleaning needs, making your purchase easier and smarter.

Pros & Cons

What We Loved

• ✅ Ultra-quiet operation with innovative quiet technology
• ✅ Powerful 4 HP motor for strong suction
• ✅ Large 5-gallon capacity reduces frequent emptying
• ✅ Long 17 ft cleaning reach with hose and extension wands
• ✅ Durable design with rubberized casters and heavy-duty handle
• ✅ Easy-to-use features like quick connect port and water-resistant switch

What Could Be Better

• ❌ Slightly heavier than smaller shop vacs, affecting portability
• ❌ Limited to 5-gallon capacity for very large cleanup jobs
• ❌ Premium price compared to basic wet/dry vacuums

Who Should Buy This

The DEWALT 5 Gallon STEALTHSONIC Ultra-Quiet Wet/Dry Shop Vac is perfect for homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and professionals who need a reliable and powerful vacuum. It works great in garages, workshops, and jobsites where both wet and dry messes happen. If you want strong suction with less noise, this vacuum is a smart choice. Its portable size makes it easy to move around and store.

If you only need a vacuum for small, light tasks or want something very compact, this might be too large and powerful for you. Also, if you are on a tight budget, there are cheaper options with less power. This vacuum is best for those who need a durable and efficient machine for regular use.

Technical Specifications

Key Details

• Brand: DEWALT
• Model: DXV05P-QT
• Size: 20.5″ x 14.5″ x 15.0″
• Weight: 16.19 Pounds
• Material: Durable Plastic
• Color Options: Yellow
• Special Features: STEALTHSONIC Ultra-Quiet Technology, 4 Peak HP Powerful Suction, Wet/Dry Capability, Portable Design
• Warranty: Manufacturer’s Limited Warranty

Our Testing Experience

First Impressions

When I first took the DEWALT 5 Gallon STEALTHSONIC wet/dry shop vac out of the box, I was impressed by its sturdy build and compact size. Setting it up was easy, and I immediately noticed how quiet it was compared to other shop vacs I’ve used. I tested it on some sawdust and small debris in my garage. It picked everything up quickly without the loud noise I expected. The 5-gallon tank felt just right—not too big but enough to handle a good amount of mess before needing to be emptied.

Daily Use

Over the next week, I used this vacuum daily for different tasks around my workshop and garage. Whether it was cleaning up wet spills or dry dirt, it performed consistently well. The long hose and extension wands made it easy to reach tight spots without unplugging the unit. I especially liked how lightweight and portable it was, so moving it around didn’t feel like a chore. The quiet motor was a huge plus when working early in the morning or late at night.

Key Features in Action

The quiet technology really stood out during use—it was noticeably quieter than my old vacuum, which made cleaning less stressful. The powerful 4 HP motor handled tough debris like wood chips and sawdust with ease. The large capacity meant I didn’t have to stop and empty the bucket often, which saved me time. Also, the long 17-foot cleaning reach, including the power cord and hose, allowed me to clean large areas without constantly moving the vacuum.

Long-Term Performance

After using the DEWALT STEALTHSONIC for several weeks, I can say it holds up well. The motor still runs smoothly and quietly, and the suction power hasn’t dropped. The vacuum is easy to maintain and clean after use. Its durable design gives me confidence it will last a long time, even with heavy daily use. Overall, it’s become my go-to vacuum for wet and dry messes in my workshop and garage.

How It Compares

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	DEWALT 5 Gallon STEALTHSONIC Ultra-Quiet Wet/Dry Shop Vac, DXV05P-QT	DEWALT 5 Gallon STEALTHSONIC Shop Vacuum, DXV05S-QT	DEWALT 6 Gallon STEALTHSONIC Wet Dry Shop Vac, DXV06P-QT
Price	See Price	See Price	See Price
Quality	Built with innovative quiet technology featuring a powerful quiet motor delivering 4 Peak HP suction; 50% quieter and 3x longer lifetime than earlier models; durable and portable for long-lasting performance.	Similar quality with innovative quiet technology and 4 Peak HP motor; also 50% quieter with 3x longer motor life, designed for heavy-duty use and portability.	Higher capacity and power with a 5 Peak HP motor and 6 gallon tank; maintains quiet operation with same innovative quiet technology and durability for intensive use.
Features	4 Peak HP motor, 5 gallon capacity; ultra-quiet operation; 17+ ft cleaning reach with 10 ft power cord, 7 ft hose, and 2 extension wands; cleans wet and dry debris efficiently.	4 Peak HP motor, 5 gallon capacity; ultra-quiet operation; 17+ ft cleaning reach including 10 ft power cord, 7 ft hose, and 2 extension wands; versatile for wet and dry messes.	5 Peak HP motor, 6 gallon capacity; ultra-quiet operation; 17+ ft cleaning reach with 10 ft power cord, 7 ft hose, and 2 extension wands; enhanced suction for tougher jobs.
Best For	Ideal for users seeking a powerful yet ultra-quiet 5 gallon shop vac with excellent portability and long motor life for garage, workshop, or jobsite cleanup.	Best suited for those wanting a similar 5 gallon ultra-quiet shop vac with reliable suction and portability for home, garage, or workshop tasks.	Recommended for users who need a more powerful 5 Peak HP vacuum with larger capacity for heavy-duty wet/dry cleaning on jobsites or workshops.

In my opinion, this DEWALT 5 Gallon STEALTHSONIC Ultra-Quiet Wet/Dry Shop Vac, DXV05P-QT stands out because it perfectly balances powerful 4 Peak HP suction with ultra-quiet operation and portability, making it ideal for both professional and home workshop use. Compared to the similar DXV05S-QT model, it offers the same great features, while the DXV06P-QT provides more power and capacity but at a larger size. If you prefer a compact, quieter vacuum with excellent motor longevity for everyday wet/dry cleanup, this model is the better choice.

Customer Feedback on DEWALT 5 Gallon STEALTHSONIC Ultra-Quiet Wet/Dry Shop Vac, 4 Peak HP Powerful Suction, Built for Long-Lasting Performance, Portable Vacuum for Garage, Workshop & Jobsite, DXV05P-QT

Overall Satisfaction

The product enjoys high customer satisfaction with a seller rating of 4.88 out of 5, reflecting strong approval for its performance and reliability.

Most Praised Features

• Ultra-quiet operation praised for reducing noise compared to traditional shop vacs.
• Powerful 4 peak HP suction effectively handles both wet and dry debris.
• Compact and portable design appreciated for easy maneuverability in workshops and jobsites.

Common Concerns

• Some users noted the price point is higher than typical shop vacs.
• A few customers mentioned the hose length could be longer for added convenience.

Who Loves It Most

Professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts working in garages, workshops, or on jobsites value this vacuum for its quiet performance and strong suction power, making it ideal for frequent and demanding use.

Is It Worth the Price?

Price Analysis

At $127.99 after a 20% discount from $159.99, the DEWALT 5 Gallon STEALTHSONIC shop vac is competitively priced within the mid-range of wet/dry vacuums offering similar horsepower and capacity. It offers a good balance between performance and cost, making it a fair deal.

Value Features

• Innovative Quiet Technology: Operates 50% quieter than models with similar power, providing a more comfortable user experience that justifies the premium.
• Powerful 4 Peak HP Motor: Delivers strong suction ideal for tough debris, ensuring efficient cleaning that saves time and effort.
• Extended Cleaning Reach: Over 17 feet of reach with hose and cords reduces the need for frequent unplugging, adding convenience and productivity.
• Durable Build and Accessories: Features like rubberized casters, heavy-duty handle, and quick-connect ports increase longevity and ease of use, reducing replacement and maintenance costs.

Vs. Competitors

Compared to other wet/dry vacuums with similar specs, DEWALT’s STEALTHSONIC model stands out for its ultra-quiet operation and longer motor life. While some competitors might offer lower prices, they often compromise on noise levels or durability, making this a superior investment.

Final Verdict

This DEWALT shop vac offers excellent value for money due to its quiet yet powerful performance, durability, and practical features. It is a worthy purchase for anyone needing a reliable, portable vacuum for garage, workshop, or jobsite use.