Strong and Quiet: DEWALT StealthSonic
Published June 20, 2025Slice Hardware is no stranger to StealthSonic. The deals on DEWALT StealthSonic shop vacs are very popular when they come up. And it’s no surprise. StealthSonic users rave about the the power and quietness of the DEWALT vac. It got us thinking, what else is out there that measures up as competitors to the StealthSonic vac. After all, we’ve seen other popular deals on options, like Bosch VAC090AH. Let’s take a look.
Overview: What Makes a Quiet, Versatile Wet/Dry Vac?
Trade pros and serious DIYers know that noise matters—especially when running a vac for long periods indoors or in noise-sensitive spaces. At the same time, you don’t want to sacrifice power, hose compatibility, or dust extraction capability.
The best vacuums in the 9–12 gallon class strike a balance between suction power, noise level (measured in decibels), onboard tool integration, and compatibility with dust collection systems. Below, we compare the quietest and most versatile vacs on the market today, including DEWALT’s stealthy StealthSonic model.
Comparison Table: Quiet 9–12 Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuums
| Model | Capacity | Suction Power (CFM) | Sound Level (dB) | HEPA Filter | Auto Tool Activation | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DEWALT DXV12P-QT | 12 gal | 90 CFM | ~60 dB | No | No | Quiet jobsite cleanup |
| Makita VC4210L | 11 gal | 148 CFM | 64 dB | Yes | Yes | OSHA-compliant dust extraction |
| Bosch VAC090AH | 9 gal | 150 CFM | ~70 dB | Yes | Yes | Power tool dust collection |
| Ridgid RT1400 | 14 gal | 165 CFM | ~75 dB | No | No | Large debris cleanup |
| Fein Turbo I Set | 9 gal | 153 CFM | 66 dB | Optional | Yes | Woodworking shops |
DEWALT 12-Gallon Quiet Wet/Dry Vacuum (DXV12P-QT / StealthSonic)
DEWALT’s StealthSonic vacuum emphasizes low-noise performance without giving up rugged jobsite features. At just ~60 dB, it is one of the quietest models in its size class, making it ideal for use in indoor environments where noise matters.
Although DEWALT is widely known for power tools, its vacuums are manufactured by Emerson Electric—who also makes Ridgid-branded shop vacs. This explains the shared rugged housing and tank design found across both brands. The DXV12P-QT forgoes HEPA filtration and auto start but provides dependable suction and mobility at an affordable price.
Dust Extraction Capability: While not designed specifically for tool-integrated dust extraction, it can be adapted with standard hose adapters to work with tools like sanders and miter saws. However, it lacks the fine filtration and auto-start controls that make other vacs more OSHA-suitable.
Brand Strengths: DEWALT is trusted for durable, jobsite-ready gear and broad tool compatibility, making this vac a strong pick for general contractors.
Makita VC4210L 11-Gallon Dust Extractor
Makita has earned a strong reputation for engineering-driven tools, and the VC4210L is a great example of that precision. This vac was designed from the ground up as a dust extraction system, not just a cleanup tool. With 148 CFM and a low 64 dB operating noise, it’s ideal for use with concrete, masonry, and woodworking tools.
Makita manufactures its own vacuums in-house, with a focus on meeting OSHA compliance for silica dust mitigation. The VC4210L includes HEPA filtration, two hose size adapters, and an integrated power outlet for automatic on/off with tool use.
Dust Extraction Capability: Excellent. OSHA-compliant when used with HEPA filter and proper attachments. It pairs especially well with Makita grinders, rotary hammers, and planers. Its auto-start feature ensures synchronized dust collection with tool operation.
Brand Strengths: Makita focuses on complete systems—battery, vac, and tool—working seamlessly together, especially for finish carpenters and tile pros.
Bosch VAC090AH 9-Gallon HEPA Dust Extractor
Bosch tools are known for precision, reliability, and advanced safety features. The VAC090AH fits right in, offering 150 CFM of power with HEPA filtration and automatic filter cleaning. This self-cleaning feature is especially valuable for pros working on long-duration jobs.
Bosch’s vacuums are built in-house, often drawing on the brand’s European engineering heritage. While slightly louder at ~70 dB, the VAC090AH stands out in performance for tool-triggered dust collection in cabinet shops, jobsite renovations, and finish work.
Dust Extraction Capability: Very high. Meets OSHA requirements for silica dust when equipped with certified HEPA filters. Integrated tool-start and high suction make it ideal for router tables, saws, and concrete tools.
Brand Strengths: Bosch excels in filtration and safety systems, making this vac ideal for tradespeople needing OSHA-compliant, high-suction performance.
Ridgid RT1400 14-Gallon Wet/Dry Vac
The Ridgid RT1400 is built for rugged cleanup, not quiet finesse. It moves a massive amount of air—165 CFM—but at the cost of higher noise (~75 dB). That said, it’s built by Emerson Electric, the same company that manufactures DEWALT vacs, and shares similar durability and tank build quality.
You won’t find HEPA filtration or dust extraction features here, but it’s a top choice for rough jobsite cleanup, water removal, and garage use where power trumps quietness.
Dust Extraction Capability: Minimal. This unit is primarily for large debris cleanup and does not support fine dust filtration or tool activation. Not suitable for silica dust mitigation.
Brand Strengths: Longstanding reputation for high-value, tough shop vacs. Widely available and supported by Home Depot.
Fein Turbo I Set Dust Extractor
Fein is a German brand known for quiet motors and refined design, particularly in metalworking and high-end woodworking. The Turbo I is compact, quiet (66 dB), and includes tool start, dust collection accessories, and fine filtration capability.
Fein vacs are premium units built for precision applications. They’re not as widely available but enjoy a loyal following among finish carpenters and cabinet installers. The Turbo I is lighter and easier to maneuver than most competitors.
Dust Extraction Capability: Strong. Includes auto tool activation and is compatible with most small dust ports. While not always equipped with HEPA filters out of the box, it can be upgraded for better compliance. Very efficient for sanding, routing, and sawing tasks.
Brand Strengths: Premium German engineering focused on quiet, vibration-free operation. Ideal for fine woodworking and pro detailing.
Recommendation
If quiet operation is your top priority and you need general cleanup power, the DEWALT DXV12P-QT (StealthSonic) is hard to beat for the price and noise level. But for those doing dust collection from power tools, the Makita VC4210L or Bosch VAC090AH will give you better filtration and tool integration.
FOR OSHA-level silica dust jobs, Makita remains the best balance of noise and compliant performance. Fein wins for premium quiet detail work, while Ridgid is your best value for big messes that don’t need fancy features.
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