10 Best Most Powerful Small Shop Vac 2026 in the United States

The Craftsman CMXEVBE17250 is a lightweight and portable wet/dry vacuum with a 2.5-gallon tank and 2.5 peak horsepower. Its compact size and carry handle make it easy to move around and store, which is great for small jobs in your home, garage, or vehicle. It comes with a good variety of attachments including a filter bag and a micro cleaning kit, which help with detailed cleaning in tight spots. The vacuum also doubles as a blower, adding versatility for different tasks.

The 2.5 HP motor is decent for small messes but may not be powerful enough for heavy-duty or larger workshop cleanups. The 2.5-gallon capacity is suitable for quick cleanups but means you’ll need to empty it more often compared to bigger models. The product highlights portability and convenience over raw power and large capacity. It includes a reliable filtration system with a genuine Craftsman filter bag, keeping debris contained well. The build quality appears solid with a 3-year warranty, reassuring durability for the price and size.

This Craftsman vacuum is well suited for those needing a handy, easy-to-store small shop vacuum for light to moderate cleaning tasks, especially in confined areas, but it won’t replace larger, more powerful shop vacs for heavy messes.

The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 is a heavy-duty wet/dry vacuum that stands out with its strong 6.5 Peak HP motor, making it a powerful choice for shop projects and home renovations. With a substantial 16-gallon tank, it offers plenty of capacity for large clean-up tasks, whether dealing with wet spills or dry debris. The inclusion of a rear blower port adds convenience, allowing users to quickly clear leaves and grass clippings from outdoor areas. The vacuum's Dual-Flex hose is another advantage, providing flexibility and durability to prevent kinks during use.

In terms of accessories, this vacuum comes with a variety of attachments, including multiple nozzles and extension wands, which enhance its versatility for different cleaning scenarios. The 3-year limited warranty also reflects the manufacturer's confidence in its durability and build quality.

This vacuum is not cordless, which might limit its portability. At 26 pounds, it may be somewhat cumbersome to transport, especially for those looking for a lightweight option. Noise levels can also be a consideration, with a sound rating of 69 dB, which may be on the louder side for sensitive environments. The vacuum is designed for both indoor and outdoor use, but its size and weight might not appeal to everyone, particularly those with limited storage space or who need a more compact tool. Despite these drawbacks, the CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 is a great choice for anyone in need of a powerful, reliable vacuum for heavy-duty tasks in a small shop or workshop setting.

The DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Wet-Dry Vacuum offers some solid features for a small shop vac. Its cordless operation, powered by a 20V MAX battery, makes it highly portable, which is a huge plus for users who need to move around freely without being tethered to an outlet. The 2-gallon tank capacity is sufficient for smaller tasks, such as emptying a toilet or clearing a clogged pipe, though it may require more frequent emptying for larger jobs.

The vacuum includes a washable and reusable HEPA filter that traps dust as fine as 0.3 microns, ensuring good filtration and making it suitable for allergy sufferers or environments needing clean air. However, the battery and charger are sold separately, which adds to the cost. The vacuum comes with useful attachments like a wide nozzle and crevice tool, and the onboard storage for these accessories is a convenient feature.

The 5-foot crush-resistant hose is durable and flexible, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. At 31 CFM, the suction power may not be as strong as some corded models, which could affect performance for more demanding tasks. Durability appears to be a strong point, with a heavy-duty build quality that should withstand regular use. This DEWALT model is best suited for users who prioritize portability and convenience, and are willing to invest in additional batteries and chargers.