10 Best Shop Vacs 2025 in the United States

The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 is a heavy-duty shop vacuum designed for those who need power and versatility for various cleaning projects. With a substantial 16-gallon tank and a powerful 6.5 Peak HP motor, this vacuum can handle both wet and dry messes, making it ideal for home renovations, garage cleanups, or even outdoor tasks like blowing leaves. The built-in blower port adds to its utility, allowing for easy cleanup of debris outside. The Dual-Flex hose is a notable feature, providing excellent maneuverability without kinking, which many users appreciate during use.

One of the major strengths of this shop vac is the inclusion of various accessories, such as multiple nozzles and extension wands, catering to different cleaning needs. The oversized drain makes emptying liquids quick and hassle-free, which is a big plus for those dealing with spills.

Despite its strengths, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The vacuum is not cordless, which limits mobility and may be inconvenient for some users who prefer the flexibility of a cordless option. Additionally, its weight of 26 pounds and lack of built-in portability features like wheels can make it somewhat cumbersome to move around, especially in larger spaces. While the noise level is reasonable at 69 dB, it might still be louder than some users would prefer for indoor cleaning tasks. The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 is a solid choice for those needing a robust shop vac for heavy-duty applications, but potential buyers should consider its weight and lack of cordless functionality when making their decision.

The Stanley SL18116P Wet/Dry Vacuum is a solid choice for those looking for a versatile and powerful shop-vac. With a 6-gallon tank capacity, it allows for extended cleaning sessions without frequent emptying, making it suitable for small to medium clean-up tasks around the house, garage, workshop, or job site. The 4 peak horsepower motor provides ample suction power to handle wet and dry debris efficiently.

Additionally, its 3-in-1 functionality enables it to vacuum liquid spills, dry debris, and even function as a blower for leaves and other lightweight materials. This versatility makes it handy for various cleaning tasks. The vacuum comes with a range of attachments, including a super flexible hose, extension wands, multiple nozzles, and filters, enhancing its usability across different cleaning scenarios. The 16 feet of cleaning reach (6-foot hose and 10-foot power cord) and four swivel casters make maneuvering and reaching distant areas more convenient.

At 80 decibels, it is relatively noisy, which might be a consideration for some users. Additionally, while it is labeled as portable, its 13.4-pound weight and larger size can make it slightly cumbersome to move around for extended periods or in tight spaces. The vacuum is not cordless, so you will need to be near a power outlet during use. With a 12-month warranty and a robust build quality, the Stanley SL18116P offers reliability and peace of mind. This shop-vac is best suited for users needing a powerful and versatile cleaning tool for various wet and dry tasks, provided they can accommodate its noise level and size.

The Vacmaster Professional Beast Series 5-Gallon 5.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vacuum is a robust and versatile cleaning tool suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. With a 5-gallon tank capacity, it's well-suited for medium-sized cleanup tasks. The powerful 5.5 peak horsepower motor offers strong suction, making it efficient for both wet and dry debris. Its high-efficiency cartridge filter and dust bag can capture fine dust particles down to 1 micron, making it a good choice for environments where air quality is a concern.

At 15.4 pounds, it is relatively lightweight and portable, and with its 25 feet of cleaning reach through a kink-resistant hose and power cord, it's easy to move around without frequently changing outlets. The unit includes 9 different accessories, such as a car, utility, and crevice tool, which enhance its versatility for various cleaning tasks. The on-board hose, cord, and accessory storage help keep everything organized. Additionally, it can easily convert into a blower, adding another layer of functionality.

One downside is the noise level, which at 72 dB can be fairly loud, though this is common for shop-vacs. The build quality, including oversized latches and a large dust-sealed on/off switch, adds to its durability and ease of use. This shop-vac would be particularly beneficial for users needing a powerful, multi-functional vacuum for both household and commercial tasks.