DEWALT vs SIMPSON: Pressure Washers Compared by Specs
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You are comparing a SIMPSON vs DEWALT pressure washer for your cleaning needs. The DEWALT unit is a cordless tool-only cleaner, while the SIMPSON model is a gas-powered pressure washer. Both brands offer reliable equipment, but they serve different purposes. The DEWALT focuses on portability and convenience for light tasks. The SIMPSON provides raw power and high flow rates for heavy-duty jobs. This guide breaks down the specs to help you decide.
Key differences
| Aspect | DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Power Cleaner | Simpson PowerShot 3300 PSI Gas Pressure Washer |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | Cordless | Gas |
| Maximum Pressure | 550 PSI | 3300 PSI |
| Flow Rate | 1 GPM | 2.5 GPM |
| Intended Use | Light cleaning, on-the-go | Decks, driveways, siding |
| Hose Length | Connects to garden hose | 25-foot high-pressure hose |
| Nozzle Count | Not listed | 5 quick-connect tips |
Which one should you choose?
Choose DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Power Cleaner if
- You need a lightweight, portable tool for quick cleanups.
- You want to avoid fuel and maintenance associated with gas engines.
- You primarily clean small items like patio furniture or bikes.
Choose Simpson PowerShot 3300 PSI Gas Pressure Washer if
- You require high pressure and flow for stubborn dirt and grime.
- You are cleaning large surfaces like driveways or siding.
- You need a complete system with a long hose and multiple nozzles.
Verdict: The DEWALT is best for light, portable tasks where convenience is key. The SIMPSON is the right choice for heavy-duty cleaning that demands power and speed. Your decision depends on whether you prioritize mobility or performance.
DEWALT vs SIMPSON Spec Comparison
Power Source
The DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Power Cleaner runs on a battery system, offering tool-only flexibility without fuel or cords. You can draw water from any fresh source, making it ideal for on-the-go tasks where electricity is unavailable. In contrast, the SIMPSON PowerShot relies on a premium Honda GX200 gas engine. This power source delivers consistent, high-volume output suitable for heavy-duty professional work. While the DEWALT offers quiet, emission-free operation, the SIMPSON provides raw power for demanding jobs that require sustained performance without worrying about battery life or charging times.
Maximum Pressure
Pressure determines how effectively a machine removes stuck-on dirt. The DEWALT unit produces a maximum of 550 PSI. This is significantly lower than typical pressure washers, functioning more like a high-powered hose to rinse away loose debris. The SIMPSON PowerShot generates 3300 PSI, a level capable of stripping paint, cleaning concrete driveways, and removing heavy grime from siding. For light maintenance, the DEWALT is sufficient. For deep cleaning tasks requiring significant force, the SIMPSON’s higher pressure provides the necessary impact to clean surfaces thoroughly.
Flow Rate
Flow rate, measured in gallons per minute (GPM), affects how quickly you can rinse away dirt. The DEWALT delivers 1 GPM, which is adequate for rinsing light dust or washing a bicycle. The SIMPSON offers a much higher 2.5 GPM. This increased water volume works in tandem with its high pressure to flush away debris faster. For large areas like decks or driveways, the SIMPSON’s superior flow rate reduces cleaning time significantly. If you are cleaning small items or sensitive surfaces where high volume might be excessive, the DEWALT’s lower flow is manageable.
Portability
Size and weight dictate how easy a unit is to move. The DEWALT is compact, measuring 25 inches in length, 5 inches in width, and 11 inches in height. It is designed to be handheld or easily carried, making it perfect for quick jobs around the yard. The SIMPSON is a substantial machine, weighing 74.8 pounds and measuring 21 x 24 x 34 inches. However, it features 10-inch pneumatic tires for smooth rolling over gravel or grass. While the DEWALT is lighter, the SIMPSON’s wheels make it mobile for larger work sites.
Nozzle Count
The variety of spray tips included affects versatility. The SIMPSON PowerShot comes with five quick-connect tips: 0, 15, 25, and 40 degrees, plus a soap nozzle. This range allows you to switch from stripping paint to gentle car washing or applying detergent. The DEWALT product data does not specify the number of included nozzles. It mentions a quick connect adaptor for hose connection, but specific tip variety is not listed. For users needing multiple spray patterns for different tasks, the SIMPSON offers a complete, ready-to-use set.
Hose Length
Reach determines how far you can clean without moving the machine. The SIMPSON includes a 25-foot Morflex high-pressure hose that resists kinks and abrasion. This length provides ample reach for cleaning driveways, fences, and large siding areas without constantly repositioning the unit. The DEWALT product data does not list a specific hose length. It mentions connecting to a garden hose via a quick connect adaptor, implying it may rely on existing hose length or a shorter integrated line. For extensive cleaning projects, the SIMPSON’s included 25-foot hose offers greater convenience.
Which pressure washer fits your needs
Users needing portable, cordless cleaning
The DEWALT DCPW550BR is a cordless tool-only unit. It delivers 550 PSI and 1 GPM. Its compact dimensions of 25 by 11 by 5 inches make it easy to carry. You can draw water from any fresh source. This design suits light tasks where mobility matters more than raw power. It connects to a garden hose for convenience.
Professionals cleaning large outdoor areas
The Simpson PS3228 offers 3300 PSI and 2.5 GPM. It features a Honda GX200 gas engine for sustained performance. The included 25-foot hose and five quick-connect tips handle heavy debris. Its 74.8-pound weight and pneumatic tires aid mobility on rough terrain. This machine is built for contractors who need durability and high output.
Buyers wanting maximum pressure and flow
If you need serious cleaning power, the Simpson model is the clear choice. It provides 3300 PSI compared to the DEWALT's 550 PSI. The 2.5 GPM flow rate cleans faster than the 1 GPM output of the cordless unit. The triplex plunger pump is designed for long service life. You get professional-grade results for decks and driveways.
The products compared
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Power Cleaner
Best for: light cleaning with existing DEWALT batteries
- Maximum Pressure
- 550 PSI
- Flow Rate
- 1 GPM
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Dimensions
- 25 × 5 × 11 inches
View on Amazon: DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Power Cleaner Affiliate link
This is a cordless pressure washer from DEWALT that delivers 550 PSI and 1 GPM. It connects to a garden hose to draw water from any fresh source. The unit measures 25 inches long and 5 inches wide. It offers ten times the power of a standard garden hose. You will need a compatible DEWALT 20V MAX battery, which is not included in the tool-only package.
Pros
- Cordless design for portability
- Connects to garden hose for water supply
- Compact 5-inch width
- Draws from any fresh water source
Cons
- Low 550 PSI output limits heavy cleaning
- Battery and charger not included
- Requires external garden hose connection
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight tool for delicate surfaces
- You already own DEWALT 20V MAX batteries
- You want to clean from a hose source without a pump
Skip if
- You require high pressure for concrete or decks
- You do not have DEWALT batteries
- You need a self-contained unit without a hose
Verdict: DEWALT DCPW550 20V MAX Cordless Cleaner suits users with existing DEWALT batteries who need gentle cleaning for light tasks like patio furniture or cars. It is not suitable for heavy-duty surface cleaning.
Simpson PowerShot 3300 PSI Gas Pressure Washer
Best for: large outdoor cleaning tasks
- Maximum Pressure
- 3300 PSI
- Flow Rate
- 2.5 GPM
- Power Source
- Gas
- Hose Length
- 25'
- Nozzle Count
- 5
- Pump Type
- triplex plunger
View on Amazon: Simpson PowerShot 3300 PSI Gas Pressure Washer Affiliate link
The SIMPSON PowerShot PS3228 delivers 3300 PSI and 2.5 GPM from a Honda GX200 engine. It includes a 25-foot hose and five quick-connect tips. The unit weighs 74.8 pounds and sits on 10-inch pneumatic tires for mobility. This gas-powered cleaner suits contractors and homeowners needing high pressure for decks, driveways, and siding. It is not available in California due to emissions rules.
Pros
- Honda GX200 engine with low-oil shutdown
- 25-foot Morflex hose resists kinks
- Five quick-connect tips included
- 10-inch pneumatic tires for smooth rolling
Cons
- Heavier at 74.8 pounds than cordless competitors
- Not 49-state compliant for sale in California
- Requires gas and oil maintenance
Good fit if
- You need high pressure for large outdoor surfaces
- You prefer gas power for unlimited runtime
- You want a durable pump for professional use
Skip if
- You live in California
- You want a lightweight cordless tool
- You prefer electric power sources
Verdict: SIMPSON PowerShot 3300 PSI Gas Pressure Washer offers robust cleaning power for large jobs. It fits users who prioritize raw performance and durability over portability.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Power Cleaner | Simpson PowerShot 3300 PSI Gas Pressure Washer |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Pressure | 550 PSI | 3300 PSI |
| Flow Rate | 1 GPM | 2.5 GPM |
| Power Source | Cordless | Gas |
| Hose Length | not stated | 25' |
| Nozzle Count | not stated | 5 |
| Pump Type | not stated | triplex plunger |
| Color | Yellow/Black | Black |
| Dimensions | 25 × 5 × 11 inches | 21 × 24 × 34 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 74.8 pounds |
| Model | DCPW550BR | PS3228 - S |
| Size | not stated | 3300 PSI |
Frequently asked questions
Is the DEWALT cleaner good for washing cars?
Yes, it is suitable for light tasks like car washing. The DEWALT DCPW550BR is designed for gentle cleaning on patio furniture or vehicles. It uses 20V MAX batteries for power. This unit is not built for heavy-duty surface cleaning. It offers portability for quick jobs.
Does the SIMPSON pressure washer come with a battery?
No, it is a gas-powered unit. The SIMPSON PowerShot runs on fuel rather than electricity or batteries. It delivers 3300 PSI of cleaning power. This model prioritizes raw performance for large outdoor tasks. You do not need to worry about charging batteries for this machine.
How heavy is the SIMPSON gas pressure washer?
The SIMPSON PowerShot weighs 74.8 pounds. Its dimensions are 21 inches in length, 24 inches in width, and 34 inches in height. This size makes it less portable than the cordless DEWALT option. It is better suited for stationary use or moving with a cart.
Can I use the DEWALT cleaner without a hose?
No, you must draw water from a fresh source. The DEWALT DCPW550BR is a power cleaner that requires a water connection to operate. It does not have a built-in pump for self-priming. You need a standard garden hose to provide the necessary water flow for cleaning.
Which machine has higher water flow?
The SIMPSON model has a flow rate of 2.5 GPM. The DEWALT unit typically provides lower flow for its class. Higher GPM helps rinse away dirt faster. The SIMPSON is better for large areas where speed matters. The DEWALT is for smaller, detailed jobs.
Is the DEWALT unit corded or battery powered?
It is a cordless tool-only cleaner. The DEWALT DCPW550BR runs on 20V MAX batteries. You must purchase batteries and a charger separately. This design offers flexibility for users who already own DEWALT power tools. It eliminates the need for extension cords during use.