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10 Best 5-Gallon Shop-Vacs 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Vacmaster Professional Beast Series 5-Gallon* 5.5 Peak HP† Wet/Dry Vacuum

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,361
Power (Horsepower or Amps)
Tank Material
Portability and Maneuverability

Most important from
8179 reviews

Power (Horsepower or Amps)
The suction power is amazing, making it ideal for deep cleaning tasks like car detailing.
Tank Material
Works well for both dry and emergency liquid cleanups, though the chamber is small for extensive water pick-up.
Portability and Maneuverability
This vac is small, easy to move, and incredibly strong, outperforming previous larger models.
Noise Level
Quieter than most similar-sized vacs, with strong suction and lightweight build.
Accessories and Attachments
Attachments are excellent, providing everything needed for detailed cleaning jobs.

The Vacmaster Professional Beast Series 5-Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum is a versatile and powerful option for those in need of a reliable shop vac. It boasts a strong 5.5 Peak HP motor, delivering an impressive 320 air watts of power, making it suitable for heavy-duty tasks. The high-efficiency cartridge filter captures fine dust particles down to 1 micron, ensuring excellent filtration.

With a 25-foot cleaning reach, thanks to the premium kink-resistant hose and power cord, it provides good maneuverability and convenience, although the 7-foot hose could be longer for some users' needs. The vacuum's tank is made from durable material, and it comes with 9 useful accessories, including a car, utility, and crevice tool for various tasks, enhancing its versatility. Additionally, it features on-board storage for the hose, cord, and accessories, which helps keep everything organized. It also converts easily to a blower, adding to its functionality.

The noise level is a moderate 72 dB, which is tolerable for most users. Weighing in at 15.4 pounds, it is relatively portable, though it might be a bit heavy for some. The large dust-sealed on/off switch and oversized latches ensure secure operation and ease of use. Some might find the hose length and noise level to be slight drawbacks, but it is an excellent choice for both indoor and outdoor use, suitable for handling various cleaning tasks efficiently.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,361
Power (Horsepower or Amps)
Tank Material
Portability and Maneuverability

Most important from
8179 reviews

Power (Horsepower or Amps)
The suction power is amazing, making it ideal for deep cleaning tasks like car detailing.
Tank Material
Works well for both dry and emergency liquid cleanups, though the chamber is small for extensive water pick-up.
Portability and Maneuverability
This vac is small, easy to move, and incredibly strong, outperforming previous larger models.
Noise Level
Quieter than most similar-sized vacs, with strong suction and lightweight build.
Accessories and Attachments
Attachments are excellent, providing everything needed for detailed cleaning jobs.
#2

Shop-Vac 5 Gallon 5.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vacuum, Wall Mountable Compact Shop Vacuum with 6-23' Extra Long Hose & Attachments, Ideal for Jobsite, Garage, Car & Workshop. 9522236

Rating
9.6
Power (Horsepower or Amps)
Filtration System
Portability and Maneuverability

Most important from
496 reviews

Power (Horsepower or Amps)
The Shop-Vac 5 Gallon 5.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vacuum is an excellent replacement for older models, with significantly better suction power.
Filtration System
The ability to use older filter bags with this model is a big plus for those upgrading from previous Shop-Vac models.
Portability and Maneuverability
Its wall-mountable design and long hose make it convenient to use without needing to move the vacuum around frequently.
Noise Level
Despite being a bit loud, the noise level is justified by the strong suction capability.
Accessories and Attachments
The included attachments are versatile and useful for various cleaning tasks, from floors to ceilings.

The Shop-Vac 5 Gallon 5.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vacuum is a versatile and powerful vacuum well-suited for various cleaning tasks in the garage, workshop, or car. It boasts a robust 5.5 horsepower motor, providing strong suction for both wet and dry messes, which makes it ideal for handling dust, wood chips, debris, and damp sewage. The vacuum includes a comprehensive set of attachments, such as extension wands, multiple nozzles, a crevice tool, and a round brush, enhancing its utility for different cleaning scenarios.

The long 6-23' extendable hose reduces the need to move the vacuum frequently, making cleaning more efficient and convenient. Additionally, the wall-mountable design allows for easy storage and helps keep your workspace uncluttered. Its lightweight design at 14.97 pounds and handles on top further enhance its portability and maneuverability. The tank is made of durable materials, ensuring longevity and reliability. The filtration system includes a cartridge filter, foam sleeve, and filter bag, which work together to maintain clean and efficient operation.

This vacuum operates at a noise level of 70 dB, which might be a bit loud for some users. Another potential drawback is that it is not cordless, which could limit its portability in areas without easy access to power outlets. Despite these minor downsides, this Shop-Vac model is a dependable choice for those needing a powerful and flexible vacuum for a range of indoor cleaning tasks.

Rating
9.6
Power (Horsepower or Amps)
Filtration System
Portability and Maneuverability

Most important from
496 reviews

Power (Horsepower or Amps)
The Shop-Vac 5 Gallon 5.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vacuum is an excellent replacement for older models, with significantly better suction power.
Filtration System
The ability to use older filter bags with this model is a big plus for those upgrading from previous Shop-Vac models.
Portability and Maneuverability
Its wall-mountable design and long hose make it convenient to use without needing to move the vacuum around frequently.
Noise Level
Despite being a bit loud, the noise level is justified by the strong suction capability.
Accessories and Attachments
The included attachments are versatile and useful for various cleaning tasks, from floors to ceilings.
#3

DEWALT 5 Gallon STEALTHSONIC Shop Vacuum Wet and Dry, Powerful Suction & Portable Shop Vac with Attachments, Ultra Quiet Wet Dry Vac for Home, Garage, Car, Workshop, Jobsite, DXV05P-QT, 4 Peak HP

Rating
9.3
Power (Horsepower or Amps)
Portability and Maneuverability
Noise Level

Most important from
115 reviews

Power (Horsepower or Amps)
Despite its small size, it has impressive suction power and effectively cleans up sawdust and cobwebs.
Portability and Maneuverability
It is compact and rolls around easily, making it convenient for use in the garage or workshop.
Noise Level
The vacuum is significantly quieter than other models, eliminating the need for ear protection while cleaning.
Accessories and Attachments
Users appreciate the variety of attachments, which enhance its versatility for different tasks.

The DEWALT 5 Gallon STEALTHSONIC Shop Vacuum is a powerful and portable solution for home, garage, car, workshop, and jobsite cleaning. It boasts a robust 4 HP motor providing strong suction for both wet and dry debris. Its 5-gallon capacity reduces the frequency of emptying, making it convenient for larger tasks. One of its standout features is the innovative quiet technology, which makes it significantly quieter than many other models, operating at just 65 dB. This can be a huge plus for those sensitive to noise or working in environments where a quieter operation is preferred.

Additionally, the vacuum has excellent portability with 360° rubberized casters and a heavy-duty top handle, making it easy to move around. The long 17-foot reach, including a 10-foot power cord and a 7-foot hose, allows for extensive cleaning without frequently changing outlets. Quality details like the large water-resistant on/off switch, durable lid latches, and quick connect locking vacuum port enhance its usability.

It also comes with a variety of useful attachments including a floor brush, utility nozzle, and crevice nozzle, making it versatile for different cleaning needs. However, it is not cordless, which means you are limited by the length of the power cord. Weighing 16.19 pounds, it is relatively lightweight but still may be a bit cumbersome for some users to carry over long distances. Additionally, while the filtration system is effective with a washable cartridge filter and a disposable dust bag, it might require frequent cleaning for maintaining optimal performance. Users looking for a quiet, powerful, and versatile shop vac will find this DEWALT model a reliable choice, though those needing a cordless option or ultra-lightweight design might need to consider other models.

Rating
9.3
Power (Horsepower or Amps)
Portability and Maneuverability
Noise Level

Most important from
115 reviews

Power (Horsepower or Amps)
Despite its small size, it has impressive suction power and effectively cleans up sawdust and cobwebs.
Portability and Maneuverability
It is compact and rolls around easily, making it convenient for use in the garage or workshop.
Noise Level
The vacuum is significantly quieter than other models, eliminating the need for ear protection while cleaning.
Accessories and Attachments
Users appreciate the variety of attachments, which enhance its versatility for different tasks.

Buying Guide for the Best 5-Gallon Shop-Vacs

When it comes to picking a 5-gallon shop vac, it's important to consider your specific needs and the tasks you plan to tackle. Shop vacs are versatile tools that can handle a variety of cleaning jobs, from sucking up sawdust in a workshop to dealing with water spills in a basement. Understanding the key specifications will help you choose the best model for your requirements.
Power (Horsepower or Amps)The power of a shop vac is usually measured in horsepower (HP) or amps. This spec indicates the strength of the motor and its ability to create suction. Higher horsepower or amps mean more powerful suction, which is important for heavy-duty cleaning tasks. For light to moderate use, such as cleaning a car or small workshop, a shop vac with 1.5 to 2.5 HP or around 6-8 amps should suffice. For more demanding tasks, like construction site cleanup or large debris, look for models with 3 HP or more, or 9-12 amps.
Airflow (CFM)Airflow, measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM), indicates how much air the vacuum can move. This is crucial for determining how quickly and efficiently the vac can pick up debris. Higher CFM values mean better performance, especially for fine dust and small particles. For general use, a CFM of 70-90 is adequate. For more intensive cleaning, such as dealing with large amounts of sawdust or water, aim for a CFM of 100 or higher.
Sealed Pressure (Inches of Water Lift)Sealed pressure, measured in inches of water lift, shows the vacuum's ability to lift water vertically. This is particularly important for wet vacuuming tasks. Higher water lift values mean the vac can handle heavier, denser materials and liquids. For basic wet/dry tasks, a water lift of 50-70 inches is sufficient. For more challenging wet cleanups, look for a water lift of 80 inches or more.
Tank MaterialThe tank material of a shop vac can be either plastic or stainless steel. Plastic tanks are lightweight and resistant to dents and corrosion, making them suitable for general use and easier to maneuver. Stainless steel tanks are more durable and can handle rougher conditions, making them ideal for heavy-duty tasks. Choose plastic for lighter, everyday tasks and stainless steel for more demanding environments.
Filtration SystemThe filtration system in a shop vac is crucial for maintaining air quality and preventing dust from being released back into the environment. Basic models come with standard filters that are suitable for general debris. For finer particles, such as drywall dust or allergens, look for HEPA filters or models with multiple stages of filtration. If you have allergies or are working in a sensitive environment, a high-quality filtration system is essential.
Portability and ManeuverabilityPortability and maneuverability are important factors, especially if you need to move the shop vac around frequently. Consider the weight of the unit and whether it has wheels or a handle for easy transport. Lighter models with sturdy wheels and ergonomic handles are ideal for frequent movement. If you plan to keep the vac in one place, portability may be less of a concern.
Noise LevelShop vacs can be quite loud, so considering the noise level is important, especially if you will be using it in a residential area or for extended periods. Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB). Quieter models typically operate at around 60-70 dB, while more powerful units can reach 80 dB or higher. If noise is a concern, look for models with noise-reduction features or lower dB ratings.
Accessories and AttachmentsThe range of accessories and attachments that come with a shop vac can greatly enhance its versatility. Common attachments include crevice tools, extension wands, and brush nozzles. Consider what tasks you will be performing and choose a model that includes the necessary accessories. For example, if you need to clean tight spaces or upholstery, look for a vac with a variety of nozzles and brushes.

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