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10 Best Shop Vac Vacuums 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

DEWALT 6 Gal Stealthsonic Shop Vacuum Wet and Dry, 5 Peak HP Poweful Suction Ultra-Quiet Vacuum Cleaner with Complete Accessory Kit and 6 Dust Bages, Shop Vac for Home, Jobsite, Workshop, Garage, Car

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,391
Tank Capacity
Horsepower (HP)
Hose Length and Diameter

Most important from
175 reviews

Tank Capacity
The 6-gallon size strikes an ideal balance—compact enough for easy use but large enough for thorough cleaning.
Horsepower (HP)
Delivers incredible suction power that handles a variety of cleaning tasks effectively.
Hose Length and Diameter
The hose locks securely in place and the wheels roll smoothly, enhancing overall usability.
Portability and Storage
Portability is excellent thanks to well-designed wheels, a sturdy handle, and a manageable weight.
Attachments and Accessories
Comes equipped with a comprehensive set of attachments that simplify tackling different surfaces and tight spots.

The DEWALT 6 Gal Stealthsonic Shop Vacuum is a solid choice for anyone needing a versatile wet/dry vacuum for home, jobsite, garage, or car cleaning. Its 6-gallon tank strikes a nice balance—big enough to handle moderate messes without being bulky. The 5 horsepower motor offers strong suction that can manage various debris types effectively, supported by an airflow of 90 CFM. One standout feature is its quiet operation at under 65 decibels, which is noticeably less noisy than many shop vacs, making it less disruptive during use.

Portability is well thought out with a light weight of about 19 pounds, five wheels for easy movement, and a sturdy handle. The 7-foot hose and 10-foot power cord provide decent reach for most cleaning tasks without being restrictive. The vacuum comes with a comprehensive set of attachments including brushes, nozzles, and filter bags, which help tackle different surfaces and tight spots. Storage solutions like an accessory bag and hose strap keep everything organized.

The filtration system uses cartridge filters and includes disposable dust bags and foam filters, offering flexibility depending on the cleaning job and making maintenance straightforward. It’s corded, so it requires access to power but avoids the hassle of battery life. The 6-gallon size might limit longer heavy-duty jobs before needing to empty the tank, and the hose length is average, so very large areas might require repositioning the vacuum more often. These features are typical for a vacuum in this mid-range size and price. The DEWALT Stealthsonic shines with its combination of power, quieter operation, and user-friendly design, making it a dependable tool for both occasional and regular shop cleaning tasks.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,391
Tank Capacity
Horsepower (HP)
Hose Length and Diameter

Most important from
175 reviews

Tank Capacity
The 6-gallon size strikes an ideal balance—compact enough for easy use but large enough for thorough cleaning.
Horsepower (HP)
Delivers incredible suction power that handles a variety of cleaning tasks effectively.
Hose Length and Diameter
The hose locks securely in place and the wheels roll smoothly, enhancing overall usability.
Portability and Storage
Portability is excellent thanks to well-designed wheels, a sturdy handle, and a manageable weight.
Attachments and Accessories
Comes equipped with a comprehensive set of attachments that simplify tackling different surfaces and tight spots.
#2

Shop-Vac 8 Gallon 6.0 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vacuum, Stainless Steel Tank, Portable Shop Vacuum with Multifunctional Attachments for Jobsite, Garage & Workshop. 5989400

Rating
9.8
Portability and Storage

Most important from
487 reviews

Portability and Storage
It's lightweight yet powerful, making it easy to maneuver, even in larger spaces like a horse barn.

The Shop-Vac 8 Gallon 6.0 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vacuum stands out for its powerful performance and versatility, making it suitable for a range of cleaning tasks around the home, garage, or workshop. With a robust 6.0 peak horsepower, this vacuum excels in both wet and dry cleaning, allowing users to tackle everything from dust and wood chips to liquids, thanks to its large built-in tank drain. One of the notable strengths is its 19-foot cleaning reach, which includes a 7-foot hose and a 12-foot power cord, minimizing the need to constantly move the unit during cleaning. The included multifunctional attachments also enhance its usability, making it adaptable for various surfaces and situations.

Portability is another highlight; the vacuum features a caster system and dual carry handles, which makes it easy to move around, whether you're working in the garage or cleaning your vehicle. However, being a corded model means you'll need an electrical outlet nearby, which could limit mobility in larger areas or outdoor spaces. Additionally, while it comes with many accessories, some users may find the hose diameter a bit narrow for certain heavier debris.

This vacuum is a great fit for DIY enthusiasts, homeowners, and professionals looking for a powerful and portable solution for diverse cleaning tasks, especially in workshop and garage environments. Those needing a cordless option or a vacuum specifically designed for heavy-duty construction cleanup might need to explore other products.

Rating
9.8
Portability and Storage

Most important from
487 reviews

Portability and Storage
It's lightweight yet powerful, making it easy to maneuver, even in larger spaces like a horse barn.
#3

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
9.7
Filtration System
Hose Length and Diameter
Portability and Storage

Most important from
615 reviews

Filtration System
Compatibility with older filter bags is a big plus, adding convenience for those upgrading from previous Shop-Vac models.
Hose Length and Diameter
Its long, durable hose allows for extensive reach, making it great for large spaces without needing to move the unit around.
Portability and Storage
Replacing a 35-year-old Craftsman shop vac, the new Shop-Vac offers better suction and a convenient wall-mountable design.

The Shop-Vac 5 Gallon 5.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vacuum is a solid choice for those seeking a versatile cleaning solution for various environments like garages, workshops, or job sites. One of its standout features is its powerful 5.5 horsepower motor, which provides strong suction for both wet and dry materials, making it efficient for cleaning everything from dust and debris to spilled liquids. The included 6-23' extendable hose significantly enhances its reach, allowing you to clean larger areas without having to move the vacuum frequently, which is a definite plus for users with bigger spaces to manage.

Portability is another strength, thanks to its wall-mountable design and lightweight build, weighing just under 15 pounds. This feature helps save floor space and makes storage convenient. Additionally, the vacuum comes with a comprehensive set of attachments, including various nozzles and brushes, enhancing its functionality for different cleaning tasks.

Rating
9.7
Filtration System
Hose Length and Diameter
Portability and Storage

Most important from
615 reviews

Filtration System
Compatibility with older filter bags is a big plus, adding convenience for those upgrading from previous Shop-Vac models.
Hose Length and Diameter
Its long, durable hose allows for extensive reach, making it great for large spaces without needing to move the unit around.
Portability and Storage
Replacing a 35-year-old Craftsman shop vac, the new Shop-Vac offers better suction and a convenient wall-mountable design.

Buying Guide for the Best Shop Vac Vacuums

Choosing the right shop-vac vacuum can make a significant difference in how efficiently you can clean up various types of messes, whether it's in your workshop, garage, or home. Shop-vacs are designed to handle both wet and dry debris, making them versatile tools for a variety of cleaning tasks. To find the best fit for your needs, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they relate to your specific requirements.
Tank CapacityTank capacity refers to the amount of debris or liquid the vacuum can hold before it needs to be emptied. This is important because a larger tank means you can clean for longer periods without interruption. Tank capacities typically range from 2 gallons to over 20 gallons. For small, quick cleanups, a smaller tank (2-6 gallons) is sufficient. For medium-sized tasks, a tank in the range of 7-14 gallons is ideal. For large-scale or heavy-duty cleaning, a tank capacity of 15 gallons or more is recommended. Consider the size of the area you will be cleaning and the frequency of use to determine the right tank capacity for you.
Horsepower (HP)Horsepower measures the power of the vacuum's motor. This spec is important because it directly affects the suction power and overall performance of the vacuum. Horsepower ratings can range from 1 HP to over 6 HP. For light-duty tasks like cleaning small spills or dust, a lower horsepower (1-2 HP) is adequate. For general use, including picking up larger debris and liquids, a mid-range horsepower (3-5 HP) is suitable. For heavy-duty tasks, such as construction site cleanup or large workshops, a higher horsepower (6 HP or more) is necessary. Assess the types of messes you will be dealing with to choose the appropriate horsepower.
Filtration SystemThe filtration system in a shop-vac determines how well it can trap dust and other fine particles, which is crucial for maintaining air quality and preventing clogs. There are different types of filters, including foam filters for wet debris, cartridge filters for dry debris, and HEPA filters for fine dust and allergens. If you are dealing with a lot of fine dust or allergens, a HEPA filter is the best choice. For general use, a standard cartridge filter will suffice. If you frequently clean up wet messes, ensure the vacuum has a suitable foam filter. Consider the types of debris you will be cleaning to select the right filtration system.
Hose Length and DiameterThe hose length and diameter affect the vacuum's reach and the size of debris it can handle. A longer hose allows you to clean larger areas without moving the vacuum, while a wider diameter can handle larger debris. Hose lengths typically range from 6 to 20 feet, and diameters range from 1.25 to 2.5 inches. For small, confined spaces, a shorter hose (6-10 feet) is sufficient. For larger areas, a longer hose (12-20 feet) is more convenient. A wider diameter (2-2.5 inches) is better for heavy-duty tasks, while a narrower diameter (1.25-1.75 inches) is suitable for general use. Consider the size of the area and the type of debris to choose the right hose specifications.
Portability and StoragePortability and storage are important factors, especially if you need to move the vacuum around frequently or have limited storage space. Features like wheels, handles, and compact design can make a vacuum easier to transport and store. Smaller, lightweight models are easier to carry and store but may have less capacity and power. Larger models may offer more power and capacity but can be cumbersome to move. Consider how often you will need to move the vacuum and where you will store it to determine the right balance between portability and capacity.
Attachments and AccessoriesAttachments and accessories can enhance the versatility of your shop-vac by allowing you to tackle a wider range of cleaning tasks. Common attachments include crevice tools, brush nozzles, and extension wands. These can help you clean tight spaces, delicate surfaces, and hard-to-reach areas. Some vacuums come with a variety of attachments, while others may require you to purchase them separately. Think about the specific cleaning tasks you will be performing and choose a vacuum that either comes with the necessary attachments or has compatible accessories available.

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