10 Best Shop Vacs 2025 in the United States

The Stanley 12 Gallon 5.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vacuum is a solid choice for those needing a versatile and powerful shop vac. Its 5.5 peak horsepower motor delivers strong suction, making it effective for cleaning dust, debris, and wet messes alike. The 12-gallon tank is fairly large, allowing for longer cleaning sessions without frequent emptying, which is great for garage or workshop use. One standout feature is the 3-in-1 functionality—besides vacuuming wet or dry materials, it can switch to a blower to clear leaves or hard-to-reach dirt.

Portability is well-thought-out with a compact, lightweight design and a sturdy handle, plus the on-board accessory storage helps keep attachments organized. The hose and cord length give you a decent 22-foot reach, so you can move around freely without changing outlets often. Safety buoy technology is a helpful addition, automatically shutting off the vacuum if the water level gets too high to prevent damage. The included attachments like floor brushes, nozzles, and extension wands cover most cleaning needs.

A few considerations include the cartridge filter, which is good for general use but may not capture very fine dust as efficiently as HEPA filters, potentially important for those with allergies or requiring very clean air. The vacuum is corded only, requiring a nearby power source, which limits mobility compared to cordless models. Also, weighing about 19.4 pounds, it is lightweight for a shop vac but might still be somewhat cumbersome for frequent carrying over long distances. This Stanley vacuum suits homeowners or DIYers seeking a powerful, multi-purpose wet/dry vacuum with good capacity and handy features at a reasonable price, while it may be less appropriate for users needing ultra-fine dust filtration or wireless convenience.

The STANLEY Wet/Dry Vacuum SL18191P is a solid choice for home use, especially in garages, laundry rooms, or workshops, thanks to its strong 4 horsepower motor and a generous 10-gallon tank. This allows it to efficiently handle both wet and dry messes without needing frequent emptying. Its HEPA filter adds value by trapping fine dust, which helps keep the air cleaner during use.

This vacuum offers good mobility with four swiveling casters and a sturdy handle. Although it weighs around 16.6 pounds, it remains manageable. With a 10-foot power cord, a 6-foot hose, and extension wands, it provides a cleaning range of over 16 feet, enabling users to reach wider areas without unplugging frequently. It also includes various useful attachments, such as crevice and floor nozzles, which help tackle different surfaces and tight spots, increasing its versatility.

A notable feature is the rear blower port that converts the vacuum into a blower, adding extra functionality. Some users might find the power cord a bit short compared to cordless models, and while the vacuum is not lightweight, its built-in storage for tools and accessories helps keep everything organized. This shop-vac suits homeowners who need a reliable, powerful vacuum for mixed wet and dry cleanup tasks, offering a good range of accessories and strong suction power.

The DEWALT 5 Gallon STEALTHSONIC Shop Vacuum offers a solid blend of power and portability, making it a versatile choice for various settings such as homes, garages, workshops, and jobsites. With a 4 HP motor, it delivers robust suction power to tackle both wet and dry debris efficiently. The 5-gallon tank capacity is ample, reducing the need for frequent emptying during extensive cleaning tasks. Its standout feature is the quiet operation, significantly quieter than other models, which makes it more pleasant to use in enclosed spaces.

The vacuum is designed with a 17 ft cleaning reach, including a 10 ft power cord and a 7 ft hose, providing ample range without needing to constantly switch power outlets. The variety of included attachments, like the floor brush and crevice nozzle, enhance its versatility for different cleaning needs. Portability is another strength, with rubberized casters and a top handle allowing for easy movement across surfaces. However, at 16.19 pounds, it may be slightly heavy for some users to carry over longer distances. The noise level of 65 dB is relatively low, but still noticeable in quiet environments.

One potential downside is that it is not cordless, which can limit mobility somewhat, and the 7 ft hose, while useful, may not be long enough for certain tasks without extensions. This shop vac is a robust and practical choice for anyone needing a reliable option with a balance of power, capacity, and relative quietness.