10 Best Shop Vacuums 2025 in the United States

The Stanley Wet/Dry Vacuum SL18191P is a solid choice for home or garage cleaning tasks that need strong suction and versatility. With a 4 horsepower motor and a large 10-gallon tank, it can handle heavy-duty wet and dry pickups without frequent emptying. It uses a HEPA filtration system, which is good for trapping fine dust and keeping the air cleaner. This model is corded, offering a reliable power source, and comes with a total cleaning reach of over 16 feet thanks to a 10-foot power cord, 6-foot hose, and extension wands. This makes it easier to move around without constantly unplugging.

The vacuum has multiple attachments included—like crevice, floor, and gulper nozzles—making it versatile for different surfaces and tight spots. It’s designed with user convenience in mind, featuring onboard storage for tools and a sturdy handle for carrying. On the downside, it weighs around 16.6 pounds, which is somewhat heavy, especially if you need to carry it up stairs frequently. Also, being corded means you need access to a power outlet and might find the cord limiting in some large spaces.

If you want a robust, easy-to-use wet/dry vacuum with good filtration and a range of accessories primarily for home or garage use, this Stanley model is a dependable pick.

The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 is a powerful 16-gallon wet/dry vacuum that stands out in the shop vacuum category, making it a solid choice for both home projects and professional use. With a robust 6.5 peak HP motor, this vacuum delivers impressive suction power, ideal for tackling heavy-duty tasks such as cleaning up debris and liquids. The built-in blower port adds versatility, allowing you to quickly clear leaves and grass clippings—a handy feature for outdoor maintenance.

Maneuverability is a plus with its Dual-Flex technology hose, which provides flexibility and prevents kinking, making it easier to navigate around corners and tight spaces. The vacuum also includes a variety of attachments like extension wands, utility nozzles, and a wet nozzle, ensuring you have the right tool for different cleaning needs.

There are some drawbacks. Being corded, it limits mobility compared to cordless models, which might be a concern for those who prefer the freedom of movement without being tethered to an outlet. Weighing in at 26 pounds, it may be a bit cumbersome for some users to lift or transport. Additionally, while the filtration system is effective, some users may prefer a more advanced filtration system for finer dust particles, especially if used indoors. With a noise level of 69 dB, it operates reasonably quietly for a shop vacuum, but still may be noticeable in quiet environments. The 3-year limited warranty is reassuring, reflecting CRAFTSMAN's commitment to quality. If you're looking for a heavy-duty vacuum that excels in suction power and includes useful accessories for various tasks, the CMXEVBE17595 is a strong contender, particularly for home workshops and outdoor clean-up projects.

The STANLEY Shop Vac SL18115P is a compact yet powerful wet/dry vacuum designed for use in garages, workshops, cars, and carpet cleaning. With a 5-gallon container and a 4.0 peak horsepower motor, it delivers strong suction at 85 CFM, which is enough for most routine cleaning tasks like picking up dust, debris, and small wet spills. It features a rear blower port, adding versatility by allowing you to blow away leaves or dust in tight spots.

This vacuum uses a cartridge filter system and offers both a cloth bag with clamp ring and a dust bag, helping to manage fine dust effectively and making cleanup easier. Being bagged can be a plus for users wanting less mess when emptying the vacuum. It is corded with a 10-foot power cord, so it requires a nearby outlet, but the built-in cord wrap helps keep storage tidy. The vacuum weighs about 12 pounds and has swiveling casters, making it fairly easy to move around despite its size.

Included attachments like a crevice nozzle, gulper nozzle, floor brush, extension wands, and a foam filter cover a variety of cleaning needs from tight corners to carpets and wet surfaces. However, it is not cordless, which might limit mobility compared to battery-powered models. This vacuum suits homeowners or DIYers needing a reliable, multi-function shop vac for light to medium cleaning tasks. It may fall short for heavy industrial use or very large spaces, but its balance of power, portability, and attachments makes it a solid choice for everyday garage or car detailing jobs.