10 Best Powerful Shop Vac 2025 in the United States

The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17656 is a powerful wet/dry shop vacuum designed for heavy-duty cleanup in garages, workshops, and jobsites. It features a strong 6.5 peak horsepower motor, which makes it capable of handling tough messes, both wet and dry. The large 20-gallon tank means you can clean for longer without needing to empty it frequently, which is great for bigger tasks. It comes with a 10-foot long, 1-7/8 inch diameter professional-grade hose that’s four times more durable than standard hoses, giving you reliable suction and flexibility while you work.

The vac also includes a fine dust filter and a dust collection bag, helping you trap even small particles and keep the air cleaner. Its blowing port adds versatility by allowing you to direct air to blow debris away, useful for outdoor cleaning like patios or sidewalks. The integrated cart system with four wheels and a handle offers excellent mobility, making it easy to move around on rough surfaces or stairs.

The vacuum operates with a cord, which might limit how far you can move without changing outlets. It’s also relatively heavy at over 32 pounds, meaning it’s portable but may require some effort to lift or carry. Noise level is about 82 decibels, so it’s on the louder side, typical for powerful shop vacs. If you need a robust, versatile vacuum with a large capacity and sturdy build for demanding cleaning jobs, this Craftsman model is a strong candidate. However, if you prefer something lighter or cordless, you might want to look elsewhere.

The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17596 is a heavy-duty wet/dry shop vacuum designed for tackling tough cleanup jobs in your garage, workshop, or outdoor areas. Its standout feature is the strong 6.5 peak horsepower motor, which delivers plenty of suction power for both wet and dry messes. The large 20-gallon tank means you won't have to stop often to empty it, making it suitable for bigger projects or job sites. It includes useful accessories like a 7-foot hose, various nozzles, and a dust bag, covering most cleaning needs from tight crevices to wet spills. It also has a built-in blower port, allowing it to double as a leaf blower for yard work, which adds versatility.

The cartridge filter system is effective for capturing dust, and the included muffler helps reduce noise somewhat, though at about 80 dB, it can still be fairly loud during operation. Portability is decent with four wheels for easy movement, but at over 30 inches tall and weighing around 31 pounds, it’s better suited for stationary use or rolling short distances rather than frequent heavy lifting. The oversized drain makes emptying liquids straightforward, a handy feature for wet cleanups. While the 7-foot hose might feel a bit short compared to some models with longer reach, the variety of attachments compensates well.

This Craftsman shop vac provides powerful suction, large capacity, and versatile cleaning options that suit serious DIYers, workshop users, or pros needing a reliable wet/dry vacuum. Users should be prepared for moderate noise levels and a somewhat bulky size.

The Armor All VBV809 is a strong and versatile wet/dry vacuum that fits well for anyone needing a powerful shop vac for garage or workshop cleanup. Its 4.5 peak horsepower motor delivers solid suction power with 145 air watts, making it effective at picking up both wet and dry messes. The 8-gallon tank is a good size, allowing you to clean longer without stopping to empty it often. This vacuum also comes with a detachable blower that can quickly move leaves or debris with a strong 190 MPH airflow, adding extra usefulness around outdoor chores.

Portability is a clear plus here, with 360-degree swivel wheels and a balanced handle that make moving it around easy, even in tight spaces. The compact design and built-in storage for accessories help keep everything organized and ready to go. Speaking of accessories, the included 7-foot hose and 10-foot cord provide good reach for various tasks without needing extra parts.

On the downside, this model runs on a single fixed power level, so you can’t adjust the suction strength for delicate jobs, which might be a limitation if you want more control. Also, even though the cartridge filter is decent, it may require regular maintenance to keep performance up. The vacuum weighs 17.2 pounds, which is manageable but not ultra-light, so it’s best if you don’t have to carry it up and down stairs frequently. For those seeking a reliable, powerful shop vac with extra blower functionality and easy mobility, this Armor All model offers a strong balance of strength and convenience suited for most general cleaning needs.