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DEWALT DXV38SC Review | 43 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£170
  • Avg. price in US: ~$220
  • Suction pressure: 16 kPa
  • Capacity: 38 L
  • Power: 1,050 W
  • Noise level: 80 dB
  • Weight: 12.5 kg

DEWALT DXV38SC review. Compare 43 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category and whether it is worth buying.

6.2

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category, based on technical analysis and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference for identifying the best products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category.

Score components:

80.0%

6.1

Technical Score

20.0%

6.7

User score

Good
6.1

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of technical performance for products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category across these key areas: Performance, Battery, Design & Mobility, Filter & Accessories.

When it matters: When you want to compare products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category by technical performance, specifications, and available features.

Score components:

40.0%

6.2

Performance

22.0%

4.9

Design & Mobility

20.0%

7.0

Filter & Accessories

18.0%

6.5

Battery

Good
6.7

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews with the total review volume for products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category.

When it matters: When you want to know how products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category perform in everyday use and how reliable owners find them over time.

Score components:

70.0%

8.6

User reviews

30.0%

2.2

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.3
(15)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
(14)

(Reviews last updated: August 2026)

Good
  • 3.2
    Car cleaning

    Score components:

    30.0%

    1.0

    Weight

    25.0%

    4.0

    Cordless

    25.0%

    5.5

    Suction pressure

    20.0%

    2.8

    Noise level

  • 6.8
    Workshop & garage

    Score components:

    30.0%

    7.4

    Rated motor power

    25.0%

    10

    Capacity

    25.0%

    4.0

    Power tool socket

    20.0%

    5.5

    Suction pressure

  • 6.5
    Professional use

    Score components:

    30.0%

    7.4

    Rated motor power

    30.0%

    5.5

    Suction pressure

    25.0%

    10

    Capacity

    15.0%

    1.0

    Weight

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Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The DEWALT DXV38SC is a heavy-duty corded wet-dry vacuum featuring a 1200W motor that delivers 16 kPa of sealed suction pressure and an airflow rate of 42.5 L/S. Constructed with a durable, rust-resistant 38-liter stainless steel tank and a 48mm-diameter by 2.1-meter locking hose, its main advantages include powerful dual-material cleaning performance, a built-in blower port, a water-resistant on/off switch, non-marring rubberized casters, and an integrated drain port for easy liquid disposal. However, users may find its 3-meter power cord significantly limits reach without an extension, and its 12.5 kg weight can make it cumbersome to transport when filled to capacity.

Technical Specifications of wet-dry vacuum DEWALT DXV38SC

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of technical performance for products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category across these key areas: Performance, Battery, Design & Mobility, Filter & Accessories.

When it matters: When you want to compare products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category by technical performance, specifications, and available features.

Score components:

40.0%

6.2

Performance

22.0%

4.9

Design & Mobility

20.0%

7.0

Filter & Accessories

18.0%

6.5

Battery

6.1
DEWALT DXV38SC has a technical score of 6.14 points, which is lower than 88.6% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews with the total review volume for products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category.

When it matters: When you want to know how products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category perform in everyday use and how reliable owners find them over time.

Score components:

70.0%

8.6

User reviews

30.0%

2.2

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.3
(15)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
(14)

(Reviews last updated: August 2026)

6.7
DEWALT DXV38SC has a user score of 6.67 points, which is lower than 92.1% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category.
When it matters: When you prefer products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category that have been chosen and reviewed by many other buyers.
2.2
DEWALT DXV38SC has a popularity of 2.2 points, which is lower than 64.9% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the overall score of products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category with their prices.

When it matters: When you are comparing products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category and want a good balance between quality and price.

Score components:

60.0%

6.2

Overall score

40.0%

9.6

Price

7.3
DEWALT DXV38SC has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.3 points, which is lower than 86.6% of products in this category.
Power
What it is: The rated electrical input of the vacuum motor.
When it matters: Higher power can help sustain demanding wet and dry cleaning, although suction design also matters.

Importance: HIGH

1,050 W
DEWALT DXV38SC has power of 1050 W, which is worse than 55.9% of wet-dry vacuums and equal to 2.9% of wet-dry vacuums.
Variable power
What it is: Whether the vacuum lets you adjust motor or suction power.
When it matters: Power adjustment helps match suction to delicate surfaces, heavy debris, and power-tool use.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
DEWALT DXV38SC has fixed suction power. 34.2% of wet-dry vacuums have adjustable suction power.
Capacity
What it is: The amount of liquid or debris the collection tank can hold.
When it matters: A larger tank reduces emptying interruptions during big spills and workshop cleanup.

Importance: HIGH

38 L
DEWALT DXV38SC has capacity of 38 L, which is better than 97.5% of wet-dry vacuums.
Noise level
What it is: The sound level produced while the vacuum is running.
When it matters: Lower noise is useful for longer cleaning sessions and work in occupied spaces.

Importance: HIGH

80 dB
DEWALT DXV38SC has noise level of 80 dB, which is worse than 77.4% of wet-dry vacuums and equal to 14.5% of wet-dry vacuums.
Suction pressure
What it is: The maximum pressure difference the vacuum can generate for suction.
When it matters: Higher suction pressure helps lift dense debris and extract liquid from difficult areas.

Importance: HIGH

16 kPa
DEWALT DXV38SC has suction pressure of 16 kPa, which is worse than 71.4% of wet-dry vacuums and equal to 5.1% of wet-dry vacuums.
Show more
Cordless
What it is: Whether the vacuum can run without a mains power cable.
When it matters: Cordless operation improves mobility in cars, stairs, and areas without a nearby outlet.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
DEWALT DXV38SC requires a power cord. 29.6% of wet-dry vacuums support cordless operation.
Battery type
What it is: The battery chemistry used by a cordless vacuum.
When it matters: Battery chemistry affects weight, charging behavior, lifespan, and replacement options.

Importance: LOW

?
Battery runtime
What it is: How long the cordless vacuum can operate on one charge.
When it matters: Longer runtime lets you finish larger jobs without stopping to recharge.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
Charging time
What it is: The time required to recharge the battery.
When it matters: Faster charging reduces downtime between cleaning sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
Battery voltage
What it is: The nominal voltage of the vacuum battery system.
When it matters: Voltage helps describe the battery platform and its available power class.

Importance: LOW

?
Show more
Power cable length
What it is: The length of the vacuum's mains power cable.
When it matters: A longer cable increases reach and reduces how often you change outlets.

Importance: MEDIUM

3 m
DEWALT DXV38SC has power cable length of 3 m, which is worse than 82.6% of wet-dry vacuums and equal to 8.7% of wet-dry vacuums.
Operating radius
What it is: The total working reach provided by the cable, vacuum body, and hose.
When it matters: A larger radius lets you clean more space without moving the plug or machine.

Importance: MEDIUM

5.1 m
DEWALT DXV38SC has operating radius of 5.1 m, which is worse than 78.7% of wet-dry vacuums and equal to 2.9% of wet-dry vacuums.
Bagless
What it is: Whether debris is collected directly in a reusable tank instead of a disposable bag.
When it matters: A bagless tank avoids replacement-bag costs and is convenient for wet pickup.

Importance: LOW

yes
DEWALT DXV38SC uses a bagless collection system. This feature is present on 66.2% of wet-dry vacuums.
Tank material
What it is: The material used for the vacuum's collection tank.
When it matters: Tank material affects durability, corrosion resistance, weight, and ease of cleaning.

Importance: LOW

stainless steel
DEWALT DXV38SC uses a more suitable tank material.
Power cable holder
What it is: Whether the vacuum has an integrated holder for the power cable.
When it matters: Onboard storage keeps the cable tidy and makes the vacuum easier to carry and store.

Importance: LOW

yes
DEWALT DXV38SC has onboard power-cable storage. This feature is present on 86.9% of wet-dry vacuums.
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N. of filters
What it is: The number of filtration elements supplied or used by the vacuum.
When it matters: Multiple filters can support different pickup modes or provide staged dust capture.

Importance: MEDIUM

2
DEWALT DXV38SC has 2 filters, which is better than 25.3% of wet-dry vacuums and equal to 55.6% of wet-dry vacuums.
HEPA filter
What it is: Whether the vacuum includes a high-efficiency particulate air filter.
When it matters: HEPA filtration helps capture fine dust and allergens from the exhaust air.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
DEWALT DXV38SC does not have HEPA filtration. 53.4% of wet-dry vacuums have HEPA filtration.
A HEPA filter is explicitly not included.
Washable filter
What it is: Whether the filter can be cleaned with water and reused.
When it matters: A washable filter can reduce replacement costs and simplify maintenance.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
DEWALT DXV38SC has a washable filter. This feature is present on 96.6% of wet-dry vacuums.
A washable filter is explicitly included.
Automatic filter cleaning
What it is: Whether the vacuum cleans its filter automatically during operation.
When it matters: Automatic cleaning helps maintain suction during dusty work and reduces maintenance stops.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
DEWALT DXV38SC requires manual filter cleaning. 0.9% of wet-dry vacuums have automatic filter cleaning.
Automatic filter cleaning is explicitly not supported.
Flexible hose
What it is: Whether a flexible suction hose is included.
When it matters: A flexible hose improves reach and control around furniture, vehicles, and tools.

Importance: LOW

yes
DEWALT DXV38SC has a flexible suction hose. This feature is present on 78.6% of wet-dry vacuums.
A flexible suction hose is explicitly included.
Show more

DEWALT DXV38SC vs the average wet-dry vacuum

  • 23 L more tank capacity
    2 L more tank capacity: DEWALT DXV38SC has 38 L, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 15 L.
    What it is: The amount of liquid or debris the collection tank can hold.
    When it matters: A larger tank reduces emptying interruptions during big spills and workshop cleanup.

    Importance: HIGH

    2 L more tank capacity: DEWALT DXV38SC has 38 L, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 15 L.38 L vs 15 L
  • 13 mm more hose diameter
    2 mm more hose diameter: DEWALT DXV38SC has 48 mm, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 35 mm.
    What it is: The internal diameter of the suction hose.
    When it matters: A wider hose is less likely to clog on leaves, shavings, and large debris.

    Importance: LOW

    2 mm more hose diameter: DEWALT DXV38SC has 48 mm, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 35 mm.48 mm vs 35 mm
  • More durable tank material
    DEWALT DXV38SC uses a more suitable tank material than the average wet-dry vacuum.
    What it is: The material used for the vacuum's collection tank.
    When it matters: Tank material affects durability, corrosion resistance, weight, and ease of cleaning.

    Importance: LOW

    DEWALT DXV38SC uses a more suitable tank material than the average wet-dry vacuum.stainless steel vs plastic
  • Tank drain
    DEWALT DXV38SC has a tank drain, while the average wet-dry vacuum does not.
    A tank drain outlet or plug is explicitly provided.
    What it is: Whether the tank has a drain for releasing collected liquid.
    When it matters: A drain makes it easier to empty a heavy tank without lifting the whole vacuum.

    Importance: LOW

    DEWALT DXV38SC has a tank drain, while the average wet-dry vacuum does not.
  • 23 L more tank capacity
    2 L more tank capacity: DEWALT DXV38SC has 38 L, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 15 L.
  • 13 mm more hose diameter
    2 mm more hose diameter: DEWALT DXV38SC has 48 mm, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 35 mm.
  • More durable tank material
    DEWALT DXV38SC uses a more suitable tank material than the average wet-dry vacuum.
  • Tank drain
    DEWALT DXV38SC has a tank drain, while the average wet-dry vacuum does not.

Total
Performance
Design & Mobility
Filter & Accessories
  • 3 dB more operating noise
    2 dB more operating noise: DEWALT DXV38SC has 80 dB, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 77 dB.
  • 2 kPa less suction pressure
    2 kPa less suction pressure: DEWALT DXV38SC has 16 kPa, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 18 kPa.
  • 150 W less motor power
    2 W less motor power: DEWALT DXV38SC has 1050 W, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 1200 W.
  • 6.83 kg more weight
    2 kg more weight: DEWALT DXV38SC has 12.5 kg, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 5.67 kg.
  • 2 m less cable length
    2 m less cable length: DEWALT DXV38SC has 3 m, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 5 m.
  • 54005.8 cm³ more external volume
    2 cm³ more external volume: DEWALT DXV38SC has 127730 cm³, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 73724.2 cm³.
  • 1.91 m less operating radius
    2 m less operating radius: DEWALT DXV38SC has 5.1 m, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 7.01 m.
  • 98 mm more depth
    2 mm more depth: DEWALT DXV38SC has 445 mm, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 347 mm.
  • 95 mm more width
    2 mm more width: DEWALT DXV38SC has 445 mm, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 350 mm.
  • 60 mm more height
    2 mm more height: DEWALT DXV38SC has 645 mm, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 585 mm.
  • 0.03 m less hose length
    2 m less hose length: DEWALT DXV38SC has 2.1 m, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 2.134 m.
  • No HEPA filter
    DEWALT DXV38SC does not have HEPA filtration, while the average wet-dry vacuum has HEPA filtration.
    A HEPA filter is explicitly not included.
  • 6.83 kg more weight
    2 kg more weight: DEWALT DXV38SC has 12.5 kg, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 5.67 kg.
    What it is: The total mass of the vacuum.
    When it matters: Lower weight makes carrying, stair cleaning, and transport easier.

    Importance: HIGH

    2 kg more weight: DEWALT DXV38SC has 12.5 kg, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 5.67 kg.12.5 kg vs 5.67 kg
  • No HEPA filter
    DEWALT DXV38SC does not have HEPA filtration, while the average wet-dry vacuum has HEPA filtration.
    A HEPA filter is explicitly not included.
    What it is: Whether the vacuum includes a high-efficiency particulate air filter.
    When it matters: HEPA filtration helps capture fine dust and allergens from the exhaust air.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    DEWALT DXV38SC does not have HEPA filtration, while the average wet-dry vacuum has HEPA filtration.
  • 3 dB more operating noise
    2 dB more operating noise: DEWALT DXV38SC has 80 dB, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 77 dB.
    What it is: The sound level produced while the vacuum is running.
    When it matters: Lower noise is useful for longer cleaning sessions and work in occupied spaces.

    Importance: HIGH

    2 dB more operating noise: DEWALT DXV38SC has 80 dB, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 77 dB.80 dB vs 77 dB
  • 2 m less cable length
    2 m less cable length: DEWALT DXV38SC has 3 m, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 5 m.
    What it is: The length of the vacuum's mains power cable.
    When it matters: A longer cable increases reach and reduces how often you change outlets.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    2 m less cable length: DEWALT DXV38SC has 3 m, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 5 m.3 m vs 5 m
  • 54005.8 cm³ more external volume
    2 cm³ more external volume: DEWALT DXV38SC has 127730 cm³, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 73724.2 cm³.
    What it is: The approximate external volume of the vacuum body.
    When it matters: A more compact machine takes up less storage and vehicle space.

    Importance: LOW

    2 cm³ more external volume: DEWALT DXV38SC has 127730 cm³, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 73724.2 cm³.127730 cm³ vs 73724.2 cm³
  • 1.91 m less operating radius
    2 m less operating radius: DEWALT DXV38SC has 5.1 m, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 7.01 m.
    What it is: The total working reach provided by the cable, vacuum body, and hose.
    When it matters: A larger radius lets you clean more space without moving the plug or machine.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    2 m less operating radius: DEWALT DXV38SC has 5.1 m, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 7.01 m.5.1 m vs 7.01 m
  • 98 mm more depth
    2 mm more depth: DEWALT DXV38SC has 445 mm, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 347 mm.
    What it is: The front-to-back depth of the vacuum body.
    When it matters: Less depth can make the vacuum easier to store on shelving or in a small workshop.

    Importance: LOW

    2 mm more depth: DEWALT DXV38SC has 445 mm, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 347 mm.445 mm vs 347 mm
  • 2 kPa less suction pressure
    2 kPa less suction pressure: DEWALT DXV38SC has 16 kPa, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 18 kPa.
    What it is: The maximum pressure difference the vacuum can generate for suction.
    When it matters: Higher suction pressure helps lift dense debris and extract liquid from difficult areas.

    Importance: HIGH

    2 kPa less suction pressure: DEWALT DXV38SC has 16 kPa, while the average wet-dry vacuum has 18 kPa.16 kPa vs 18 kPa
Total
Overall
Performance
Design & Mobility
Filter & Accessories

Graphic comparison of DEWALT DXV38SC and other products in the Wet-Dry Vacuums category

Attribute category
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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.3
15 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
14 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: August 2026)

What customers like about DEWALT DXV38SC?

  • Powerful 16 kPa suction easily picks up heavy debris, sawdust, metal swarf, and liquids
  • Durable, lightweight stainless steel tank construction built for tough workshop environments
  • Surprisingly quiet motor operation compared to traditional competitor shop vacuums
  • Smooth and stable movement thanks to rubberised, non-marring caster wheels
  • Convenient built-in drain port for quick and easy liquid disposal
  • Versatile design featuring a built-in blower port to easily clear workshops
  • Generous range of accessories, multiple filtration options, and a secure quick-connect locking hose system

What customers dislike about DEWALT DXV38SC?

  • The 3-meter power cord is considered somewhat short for larger job sites, requiring an extension lead
  • The large-bore hose and heavy-duty extensions can feel bulky, heavy, or unwieldy during prolonged use
  • Attachments and nozzles can occasionally pop loose from the heavy hose if not held directly by the cuff
  • Higher price point compared to entry-level plastic or smaller-capacity competitor vacuums

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