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10 Best Industrial Shop Vac 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250 2.5 Gallon 2.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Shop Vac, Portable Shop Vacuum Wet and Dry with Filter Bag, Hose and 6-Piece Micro Cleaning Kit for Intricate and Detail Cleaning

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,431
Power (Horsepower or Amps)
Tank Capacity
Portability

Most important from
8920 reviews

Power (Horsepower or Amps)
Strong suction power efficiently handles wet messes, such as removing water from plant saucers without spills or stains.
Tank Capacity
The 2.5-gallon tank capacity allows for extended cleaning sessions without frequent emptying.
Portability
The compact design and sturdy plastic make it easy to carry, assemble, and empty, enhancing portability and convenience.
Noise Level
It operates quietly, making it less disruptive during use.
Attachments and Accessories
The included accessories cover many cleaning needs, although the absence of a brush attachment is a notable omission for some users.

The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250 is a compact and highly portable wet/dry shop vac featuring a 2.5-gallon tank and 2.5 peak horsepower. Its small size and lightweight design make it easy to carry and store, which is ideal for quick cleanups around the home, garage, or vehicle interiors. The included 1-1/4 inch hose and multiple attachments, including a micro cleaning kit, are well suited for detailed cleaning and tight spaces.

This model includes a two-in-one blower feature that adds versatility beyond vacuuming. Its smaller tank capacity and moderate power make it best suited for light to medium tasks rather than heavy industrial jobs or large debris cleanup. The filtration system uses a compatible filter bag to help with dust control but may require regular replacement.

With a 3-year limited warranty, it provides solid reliability for occasional use. This shop vac is a smart choice for those seeking a handy, easy-to-store unit for everyday small messes rather than a heavy-duty industrial vacuum.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,431
Power (Horsepower or Amps)
Tank Capacity
Portability

Most important from
8920 reviews

Power (Horsepower or Amps)
Strong suction power efficiently handles wet messes, such as removing water from plant saucers without spills or stains.
Tank Capacity
The 2.5-gallon tank capacity allows for extended cleaning sessions without frequent emptying.
Portability
The compact design and sturdy plastic make it easy to carry, assemble, and empty, enhancing portability and convenience.
Noise Level
It operates quietly, making it less disruptive during use.
Attachments and Accessories
The included accessories cover many cleaning needs, although the absence of a brush attachment is a notable omission for some users.
#2

CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17594 12 Gallon 6.0 Peak HP Wet Dry Vac, Portable Shop Vacuum Wet and Dry with Filter, Dust Bag, Hose and Attachments for Home Projects & Renovations

Rating
9.6
Power (Horsepower or Amps)
Tank Capacity
Portability

Most important from
11676 reviews

Power (Horsepower or Amps)
The 12-gallon shop vac is very lightweight and has exceptional suction power, efficiently picking up everything from dust to concrete chunks without sticking to the floor.
Tank Capacity
The 12-gallon shop vac is very lightweight and has exceptional suction power, efficiently picking up everything from dust to concrete chunks without sticking to the floor.
Portability
The 12-gallon shop vac is very lightweight and has exceptional suction power, efficiently picking up everything from dust to concrete chunks without sticking to the floor.
Attachments and Accessories
This Craftsman shop vac is perfect for all needs – it never clogs, has a large capacity, and the attachments are ideal for various tasks, including cleaning car interiors.

The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17594 is a robust 12-gallon wet/dry vacuum designed for various home and job site projects, making it a strong contender in the industrial shop vac category. With a powerful 6.0 Peak HP motor, it delivers impressive suction power, capable of handling heavy-duty tasks like cleaning up after renovations or managing floodwaters. Its dual-flex technology hose, measuring 7 feet in length and 2-1/2 inches in diameter, allows for excellent maneuverability and resists kinking, making it user-friendly during operations.

Portability is a key strength, as this vacuum weighs only 24.5 pounds and features a long 20-foot power cord that provides ample reach for most chores. Users can also enjoy the convenience of a built-in blower port for outdoor cleaning tasks, like removing leaves and debris. The inclusion of various attachments, such as extension wands and nozzles, adds versatility, allowing for tailored cleaning in different settings.

While the CMXEVBE17594 excels in many areas, it is not cordless, which might limit its use in areas without easy access to power outlets. Additionally, some users may find the noise level during operation to be higher than expected, which could be a consideration for those sensitive to sound. The filtration system, although effective, may require regular maintenance depending on usage, and compatibility with specific filters and dust bags means additional purchases may be necessary over time.

This shop vac is best suited for DIY enthusiasts and professionals looking for a reliable, versatile cleaning tool for both indoor and outdoor projects. Its powerful performance and array of accessories make it a solid choice, but potential buyers should consider their specific needs regarding noise and power access.

Rating
9.6
Power (Horsepower or Amps)
Tank Capacity
Portability

Most important from
11676 reviews

Power (Horsepower or Amps)
The 12-gallon shop vac is very lightweight and has exceptional suction power, efficiently picking up everything from dust to concrete chunks without sticking to the floor.
Tank Capacity
The 12-gallon shop vac is very lightweight and has exceptional suction power, efficiently picking up everything from dust to concrete chunks without sticking to the floor.
Portability
The 12-gallon shop vac is very lightweight and has exceptional suction power, efficiently picking up everything from dust to concrete chunks without sticking to the floor.
Attachments and Accessories
This Craftsman shop vac is perfect for all needs – it never clogs, has a large capacity, and the attachments are ideal for various tasks, including cleaning car interiors.
#3

DEWALT DXV16PA 16 Gallon Poly Wet/Dry Vac/Acc, 6.5HP Shop Vacuum Wet/Dry for Jobsite/Workshop, Yellow

Rating
9.4
Power (Horsepower or Amps)
Filtration System
Portability

Most important from
5271 reviews

Power (Horsepower or Amps)
The suction power is phenomenal, even better than other shop vacs, making it perfect for chip extraction and various cleanup tasks.
Filtration System
Using bags with the vacuum keeps suction strong and makes maintenance easier, especially for fine dust like drywall and stone dust.
Portability
The wheels are sturdy and rubberized, making them quiet and preventing scratches on hardwood floors.
Noise Level
Sound level is adequately quiet, comparable to professional versions, thanks to the integrated silencing muffler.
Attachments and Accessories
The hose storage system with a heavy soft rubber strap is cleverly designed and compact for storage.

The DEWALT DXV16PA 16 Gallon Poly Wet/Dry Vac is a powerful and versatile shop vacuum designed for job sites and workshops. With a robust 6.5 peak horsepower motor, it delivers strong suction power, capable of handling various cleanup tasks including dust extraction and liquid spill recovery. The large 16-gallon tank capacity ensures less frequent emptying, making it suitable for extended use in demanding environments.

Its 7-foot hose length and 2.5-inch diameter provide ample reach and efficient debris intake, although some users may find the hose length slightly limiting for larger areas without moving the unit frequently. The integrated silencing muffler is a notable feature, keeping operational noise to a minimum at around 50 dB, which is relatively quiet for such a powerful vacuum. Portability is enhanced by its sturdy wheels and manageable 30.64-pound weight, albeit still on the heavier side for some users.

The vacuum comes with useful attachments including a specialized car nozzle, extension wands, and various nozzles for different cleaning tasks, adding to its versatility. It also features a long 20-foot power cord with a cord wrap system, minimizing the need for extension cords and making it easier to use around larger spaces. One downside could be its bulkier design, which might be cumbersome in tighter spaces or for storage. Additionally, while highly efficient for wet tasks, regular maintenance of the filtration system is necessary to ensure optimal performance. Despite these minor drawbacks, the DEWALT DXV16PA offers reliability and strong performance, making it an excellent choice for professionals and serious DIYers looking for a robust wet/dry shop vac.

Rating
9.4
Power (Horsepower or Amps)
Filtration System
Portability

Most important from
5271 reviews

Power (Horsepower or Amps)
The suction power is phenomenal, even better than other shop vacs, making it perfect for chip extraction and various cleanup tasks.
Filtration System
Using bags with the vacuum keeps suction strong and makes maintenance easier, especially for fine dust like drywall and stone dust.
Portability
The wheels are sturdy and rubberized, making them quiet and preventing scratches on hardwood floors.
Noise Level
Sound level is adequately quiet, comparable to professional versions, thanks to the integrated silencing muffler.
Attachments and Accessories
The hose storage system with a heavy soft rubber strap is cleverly designed and compact for storage.

Buying Guide for the Best Industrial Shop Vac

Choosing the right industrial shop vac can make a significant difference in maintaining cleanliness and efficiency in your workspace. Industrial shop vacs are designed to handle heavy-duty cleaning tasks, including picking up large debris, liquids, and fine dust. To find the best fit for your needs, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they relate to your specific requirements. Here are the main specs to consider when selecting an industrial shop vac.
Power (Horsepower or Amps)Power is a crucial spec as it determines the suction strength of the shop vac. Higher power means better suction, which is essential for picking up heavy debris and liquids. Industrial shop vacs typically range from 5 to 10 horsepower or 10 to 15 amps. For heavy-duty tasks, such as construction site cleanup, opt for higher power. For lighter tasks, like general workshop cleaning, a lower power rating may suffice.
Tank CapacityTank capacity indicates how much debris or liquid the shop vac can hold before needing to be emptied. This is important for efficiency, as a larger tank means fewer interruptions. Capacities can range from 10 to 20 gallons or more. For large-scale cleanups or continuous use, a larger tank is beneficial. For smaller, occasional tasks, a smaller tank may be more manageable and easier to store.
Filtration SystemThe filtration system is vital for capturing fine dust and preventing it from being released back into the air. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are the best for capturing tiny particles and are essential in environments where air quality is a concern. For general use, a standard filter may be sufficient, but for environments with fine dust or allergens, a HEPA filter is recommended.
Hose Length and DiameterThe hose length and diameter affect the reach and efficiency of the shop vac. A longer hose allows you to clean larger areas without moving the unit, while a wider diameter can handle larger debris. Hoses typically range from 6 to 12 feet in length and 1.25 to 2.5 inches in diameter. Choose a longer hose for larger workspaces and a wider diameter for heavy debris.
PortabilityPortability is important if you need to move the shop vac around frequently. Consider the weight, wheels, and handle design. Lighter models with sturdy wheels and ergonomic handles are easier to maneuver. If your tasks require moving the vac over rough terrain or up and down stairs, prioritize models with larger, durable wheels and a comfortable handle.
Noise LevelNoise level can be a significant factor, especially in indoor or noise-sensitive environments. Industrial shop vacs can be quite loud, but some models come with noise-reduction features. Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB), with lower numbers indicating quieter operation. If noise is a concern, look for models with a noise level of 70 dB or lower.
Attachments and AccessoriesAttachments and accessories enhance the versatility of the shop vac. Common attachments include crevice tools, brush nozzles, and extension wands. These can help you tackle specific cleaning tasks more effectively. Consider the types of debris and surfaces you'll be cleaning to determine which attachments are most useful for you.

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