Three cordless dust extractors cover most job sites: the DEWALT DWH161B on 20V MAX, the DEWALT DCV585B on FLEXVOLT 60V MAX and the Milwaukee 0888-20 on two M18 batteries. All three are sold as tool only, so the battery you already own often decides which one makes sense. Specs below come from each maker’s own product page, and none of the figures are results from our own testing.
How do the specs compare?
DEWALT lists the DCV585B at 125 CFM, a 2 gallon tank, an 8-ft anti-static hose and dual filters with automatic cleaning. Milwaukee lists the 0888-20 at 125 CFM on two M18 batteries and 175 CFM when plugged in, with a 9 gallon capacity and a 10 ft hose that is 36mm in diameter. The DWH161B is the compact one: DEWALT does not publish airflow, tank size, weight or hose length for it, and says only that its dust box holds 45% more than the DWH302DH dust box.
| Model | Power | Airflow listed | Capacity listed |
|---|---|---|---|
| DEWALT DWH161B | 20V MAX battery | Not listed | Not listed |
| DEWALT DCV585B | FLEXVOLT 20V/60V MAX battery | 125 CFM | 2 gallons |
| Milwaukee 0888-20 | Two M18 batteries or AC adapter | 125 CFM battery, 175 CFM plugged in | 9 gallons |
Which ones claim OSHA Table 1 compliance?
All three makers tie the claim to specific accessories. DEWALT says the DWH161B is compliant with OSHA 1926.1153 table 1 when used with the right shroud and a rotary hammer. For the DCV585B, DEWALT says 125 CFM gives OSHA Table 1 compliant solutions for up to 5-in tuckpointing and surfacing with an appropriate dust shroud. Milwaukee says the 0888-20 is OSHA Table 1 compliant when used with its two certified HEPA filters. Check the exact tool, shroud and filter pairing on the maker’s page before relying on any of these claims.
What about runtime and wireless control?
Milwaukee states up to 41 minutes in Max Power Mode and up to 78 minutes in Max Run-Time Mode with two REDLITHIUM FORGE HD12.0 batteries. DEWALT does not give a runtime figure for either extractor. Both brands offer wireless start: the DCV585B includes a wireless tool control remote, the DWH161B needs a separately sold key fob, and the 0888-20 includes a VACLINK remote. New Equipment Digest, which covered the Milwaukee launch, lists the 0888-20 at 90 dB.
Who it suits
- Professional drywall or concrete crew: the 0888-20 has the largest tank and the highest listed airflow, but you need two M18 batteries on every run.
- Tuckpointing or surfacing contractor on DEWALT: the DCV585B has the most explicit Table 1 wording for grinding work, and the tool fits the TSTAK system. Confirm your shroud first.
- Serious DIYer or remodeler with 20V MAX tools: the DWH161B is the lightest commitment, with strap and belt hook, though the page gives no airflow or weight to judge it by.
- Anyone on another battery platform: buying into a different battery system for the vacuum alone rarely pays off.
Warranty is 3 years on all three according to the makers. Canadian pricing was not confirmed for this story, so check dewalt.ca, milwaukeetool.ca and your local retailer, and read the OSHA wording on each product page before you buy.
