10 Best Shop Vacs 2025 in the United States

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.

The Armor All AA255W Wet/Dry Utility Vac is a compact and portable vacuum designed for tackling both wet and dry messes, making it a great option for home users and car enthusiasts alike. With a 2.5-gallon tank and 2 Peak HP motor, it offers strong suction to quickly clean up spills and debris, which is ideal for small spaces or quick clean-ups. The vacuum's lightweight design (under 11 pounds) and integrated handle and wheel base enhance its portability, allowing you to move it easily around the home or garage.

One of the standout features is its versatility; it easily converts to a blower to clear leaves or debris, and it comes with 13 different accessories, including various nozzles and brushes, catering to multiple cleaning needs. This comprehensive accessory kit adds significant value, making it suitable for interior and outdoor use.

The Armor All AA255W is a solid choice for those who need a reliable and portable shop-vac for light to moderate cleaning tasks. It’s particularly well-suited for users who frequently clean vehicles or small indoor/outdoor spaces.

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.