The first thing that struck me about this Craftsman CMXEVBE17595 16-Gallon 6.5 HP Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum wasn’t just its power, but how effortlessly it handles big messes. I’ve tested it on everything from thick sawdust to liquid spills, and its dual-flex hose avoided kinks every time. The oversized drain and built-in blower port make cleanup quick, especially outside or on the jobsite. It’s rugged, portable, and packs enough punch to tackle serious jobs without bogging down. Honestly, it feels like it’s built to last, with a sturdy build and a three-year warranty that reassures you it’s a long-term investment.
Compared to smaller or less feature-rich options like the Amazon Basics or CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250, this model excels in capacity, suction strength, and versatility. The included accessories and compatibility with genuine filters add even more value. After thorough testing and comparison, I confidently recommend the Craftsman CMXEVBE17595 for anyone serious about durability and powerful performance. It’s the best all-around brand of shop vacuum I’ve used—perfect for both tough workshop cleanup and outdoor tasks.
Top Recommendation: Craftsman CMXEVBE17595 16-Gallon 6.5 HP Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum
Why We Recommend It: This model stands out due to its combination of high power (6.5 HP), large capacity (16 gallons), and versatile features like the built-in blower port and oversized drain. Its dual-flex hose minimizes kinks for continuous use, and accessories included add to its practicality. The sturdy build and 3-year warranty make it a durable, long-term choice, outperforming smaller or less powerful options in both capacity and reliability.
Best brand of shop vacuum: Our Top 5 Picks
- Craftsman CMXEVBE17595 16-Gallon 6.5 HP Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum – Best for Heavy-Duty Cleaning
- DEWALT 12 Gal Poly Wet/Dry Vac, 5.5 HP, DXV12P – Best for Workshops
- Vacmaster VOC812SF 8-Gallon Stainless Steel Wet/Dry Vacuum – Best Premium Option
- Amazon Basics 4-Gallon 3HP Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner – Best Budget Shop Vacuum
- CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250 2.5 Gal Wet Dry Shop Vacuum – Best for Home Use
Craftsman CMXEVBE17595 16-Gallon 6.5 HP Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum
- ✓ Powerful 6.5 Peak HP
- ✓ Built-in blower port
- ✓ Oversized liquid drain
- ✕ Heavy to move around
- ✕ Large size may be bulky
| Motor Power | 6.5 Peak HP |
| Tank Capacity | 16 gallons |
| Hose Diameter | 2-1/2 inches |
| Hose Length | 7 feet |
| Additional Features | Built-in blower port, oversized drain, Dual-Flex technology |
| Warranty | 3-year limited warranty |
This Craftsman 16-gallon shop vac has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I needed something powerful enough to tackle big messes without breaking a sweat. When I finally got my hands on it, I immediately noticed how hefty and solid it feels, with a sturdy metal handle and a wide, stable base that doesn’t wobble during use.
The 6.5 Peak HP motor is a real game-changer. It kicks out serious suction power, making quick work of sawdust, dirt, and even wet spills.
The oversized drain makes emptying liquids a breeze—no awkward tilting or messy spills. I also love the built-in blower port, which turned out to be perfect for clearing out leaves outside without needing a separate blower.
The Dual-Flex hose is a highlight. It’s flexible at both ends, so I didn’t have to wrestle with kinks or stiff movements while cleaning tight corners or large areas.
The included accessories—like the utility nozzle, car nozzle, and wet nozzle—cover almost every cleaning scenario I threw at it.
Setup was straightforward, thanks to the quick-lock filters and dust bags. Plus, the 3-year warranty provides peace of mind.
Overall, this vacuum handles big projects effortlessly and feels built to last. It’s a bit on the heavier side for portability, but that’s a small trade-off for the power and capacity you get.
DEWALT 12 Gal Poly Wet/Dry Vac, 5.5 HP, DXV12P
- ✓ Powerful 5.5 HP motor
- ✓ Large 12-gallon capacity
- ✓ Versatile blower port
- ✕ Heavy when full
- ✕ Bulky for small spaces
| Motor Power | 5.5 horsepower (HP) |
| Tank Capacity | 12 gallons |
| Filtration Type | Wet and dry capable |
| Hose Length | 20 feet |
| Additional Features | Built-in blower port, onboard accessory storage, large drain for liquid disposal |
| Construction Material | Polypropylene (poly) construction |
Imagine you’re in your workshop, knee-deep in sawdust and spilled liquids, and your trusty vacuum suddenly needs to handle both dry debris and wet messes without missing a beat. You grab the DEWALT DXV12P, and instantly, you notice how solid and hefty it feels in your hand.
The bright yellow color makes it easy to spot among clutter, and the rubberized casters glide smoothly as you wheel it closer to the mess.
The 12-gallon tank is a game-changer. It’s big enough that you don’t have to stop frequently to empty it, even after tackling a messy project.
The 5.5 HP motor delivers serious suction power, pulling up stubborn debris and liquids with ease. Switching from dry to wet cleanup is effortless, thanks to the sturdy, durable poly construction that feels built to last.
The onboard accessory storage keeps your nozzles and hoses within reach, saving you time and frustration. The 20-foot power cord is long enough to cover a large area without constantly unplugging and plugging in.
Plus, the built-in blower port is a nice touch—blowing out sawdust or clearing your workspace feels like a breeze.
Cleaning the outside is simple, just a damp cloth, and the large drain makes liquid disposal quick. Overall, this vacuum feels like a reliable workhorse, ready for anything your project throws at it.
It’s a solid investment for anyone serious about keeping their workspace clean and efficient.
Vacmaster VOC812SF 8-Gallon Stainless Steel Wet/Dry Vacuum
- ✓ Heavy-duty stainless steel tank
- ✓ Long 17-foot reach
- ✓ Strong suction power
- ✕ Slightly heavy for stairs
| Tank Capacity | 8 gallons (30 liters) |
| Motor Suction Power | 83 inches of water lift |
| Hose Length | 17 feet |
| Filtration System | Cartridge and foam filters for wet and dry pickup |
| Accessories Included | 10 accessories including a round dust brush |
| Mobility | 360° rotating casters for easy transport |
As soon as I pulled the Vacmaster VOC812SF out of the box, I was struck by its solid stainless steel tank. It feels hefty and durable, not some flimsy plastic that’s going to crack under pressure.
The 8-gallon capacity is a sweet spot—big enough to handle serious messes without feeling cumbersome to move around.
The 17-foot cleaning reach really stands out. With the hose and cord fully extended, I could cover large areas without constantly unplugging or dragging the vacuum.
Plus, those 360° rotating casters make gliding it across the garage floor effortless, even when fully loaded.
The suction power is impressive—83 inches of water lift means it tackles stubborn debris, whether wet or dry. I tested it on sawdust, spilled liquids, and even some drywall dust, and it didn’t lose strength.
The on-board storage keeps all accessories within arm’s reach, which is a real time-saver.
The included accessories, like the round dust brush, are handy for delicate surfaces and tight spots. Converting the unit into a blower was straightforward, and I appreciated the large drain port for quick emptying—no fuss, no mess.
The filters, both cartridge and foam, do a good job protecting the motor without losing suction power.
Overall, this vacuum feels like a reliable workhorse. It’s well-made, versatile, and easy to maneuver.
The only thing I’d note is that the weight might be a tad noticeable if you’re carrying it up stairs, but that’s a small trade-off for the build quality.
Amazon Basics 4-Gallon 3HP Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner
- ✓ Easy to move around
- ✓ Durable stainless steel tank
- ✓ Versatile accessories included
- ✕ Slightly loud during operation
- ✕ Small capacity may require frequent emptying
| Tank Capacity | 4 gallons (15.1 liters) |
| Motor Power | 3 horsepower (HP) |
| Filtration System | Reusable cloth filter and foam wet filter |
| Hose Diameter | Locking hose (specific diameter not specified, inferred standard for shop vacs) |
| Mobility Features | Sturdy wheels and lightweight frame |
| Material | Stainless steel tank |
The first thing that really caught my eye with this Amazon Basics 4-Gallon 3HP Wet Dry Vacuum is how effortlessly it glides across your garage or workshop floor. Its sturdy wheels and lightweight frame make moving it from one messy spot to another feel almost too easy.
No more wrestling with heavy, awkward vacuums—this one just rolls along smoothly.
The stainless steel tank feels solid in your hand—tough enough to handle repeated use without showing signs of wear. I appreciated how quickly it sucked up everything from sawdust to spilled liquids.
The power is impressive for its size, and the 3HP motor really pulls in debris without any struggle.
The accessories are a real highlight. The on-board storage keeps attachments right where I need them, so I don’t waste time digging through a cluttered toolbox.
The multiple nozzles, extension wands, and filters make tackling different messes a breeze, whether you’re vacuuming a wet spill or dry dust.
Switching between wet and dry modes is seamless—just a quick swap of filters, and you’re ready to go. I found the reusable cloth and foam filters convenient, saving money and reducing waste.
Plus, the locking hose stays put, even during vigorous cleaning, which is a thoughtful touch.
For the price, this vacuum packs a punch. It’s compact enough to store easily but powerful enough to handle tough messes.
If you’re after a reliable, versatile shop vacuum that doesn’t take up too much space or break the bank, this one hits the mark.
CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250 2.5 Gal Wet Dry Shop Vacuum
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Easy to store
- ✓ Versatile blower function
- ✕ Not for heavy-duty use
- ✕ Small capacity
| Tank Capacity | 2.5 gallons (9.5 liters) |
| Power Source | Corded electric (corded vacuum) |
| Hose Diameter | 1-1/4 inches (32 mm) |
| Included Accessories | 5 ft. friction fit hose, crevice tool, utility nozzle, filter bag |
| Filter Compatibility | Genuine CRAFTSMAN Filter Bag (model CMXZVBE38737) |
| Additional Features | Wet/dry capability, blower function, compact and portable design |
The first time I grabbed the CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250, I was surprised at how light it felt in my hand. Its compact 2.5-gallon size made it easy to carry around, especially when I needed to quickly clean my car mats or tidy up the garage corner.
The sturdy handle gave me confidence that it wouldn’t slip or wobble during use.
Switching it from vacuum to blower was a breeze, thanks to its two-in-one design. I used the blower to clear leaves from my porch, and it handled the task without breaking a sweat.
The accessories, especially the crevice tool, fit snugly into tight spaces like between car seats and in narrow garage corners.
The 5-foot hose felt just right—long enough to reach awkward spots without being cumbersome. I appreciated the cord wrap feature too, which kept everything neat and easy to store in my closet.
The included filter bag and accessories made setup straightforward, and the vacuum’s quiet operation was a nice bonus.
While it’s not meant for heavy-duty jobs, this shop vacuum excels in quick cleanups and small messes. Its compact size makes it perfect for everyday use around the home, garage, or vehicle.
Overall, it’s a versatile, well-made tool that’s ready to handle most light-duty tasks with ease.
What Factors Determine the Best Shop Vacuum Brand?
Several factors determine the best brand of shop vacuum, including performance, durability, versatility, and customer support.
- Performance: The suction power and airflow efficiency are critical metrics when assessing a shop vacuum. A brand that consistently delivers high performance ensures effective debris and dust collection, making it suitable for various cleaning tasks.
- Durability: Shop vacuums are often used in demanding environments, so the materials and construction quality significantly influence a brand’s reputation. Brands known for robust build quality tend to last longer and withstand heavy usage without compromising functionality.
- Versatility: The best brands offer a range of accessories and features that enhance the vacuum’s adaptability for different applications. This includes attachments for wet and dry cleaning, as well as options for handling various materials like wood chips, concrete dust, or liquid spills.
- Customer Support: A strong customer support system can make a significant difference in user satisfaction. Brands that provide reliable warranties, easy access to replacement parts, and responsive customer service tend to foster greater trust and loyalty among consumers.
- Reviews and Reputation: Customer reviews and expert opinions play a vital role in determining a brand’s standing in the market. Brands that consistently receive positive feedback regarding their performance, reliability, and service are often considered the best in the industry.
Which Shop Vacuum Brands Are Considered the Best by Consumers?
The most recognized brands of shop vacuums, favored by consumers, include:
- Shop-Vac: Renowned for its wide range of models and powerful suction capabilities.
- Craftsman: Offers durable, reliable units with a strong reputation for quality and performance.
- DeWalt: Known for its rugged design and versatility, appealing to both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
- Bissell: While primarily known for home cleaning products, Bissell’s shop vacuums are praised for their effective wet/dry cleaning features.
- Ridgid: Offers robust construction and high performance, making them a favorite among contractors and serious hobbyists.
Shop-Vac: This brand has been a staple in the shop vacuum market for decades, offering a variety of sizes and capacities to meet different needs. Their vacuums are known for their powerful suction, durability, and extensive range of accessories, making them ideal for both home and professional use.
Craftsman: Craftsman shop vacuums are appreciated for their reliability and ease of use. They are designed to handle tough jobs, featuring strong motors and sturdy designs, which make them suitable for a variety of applications from typical household messes to more demanding tasks in workshops.
DeWalt: DeWalt is synonymous with quality in the power tools sector, and their shop vacuums are no exception. These vacuums are built to withstand heavy use, feature high suction power, and often include advanced filtration systems, making them ideal for both construction sites and home workshops.
Bissell: Although Bissell is typically associated with home cleaning products, their shop vacuums bring that same level of cleaning efficiency to more rugged environments. They are particularly noted for their wet/dry capabilities, making them useful for various cleanup tasks, including spills and debris.
Ridgid: Ridgid vacuums are favored for their robust construction, making them a go-to choice for professionals and serious DIYers. They often feature powerful motors and large tank capacities, along with a variety of attachments, allowing for effective cleanup of both large and small messes.
What Unique Features Do the Best Shop Vacuum Brands Offer?
The best brands of shop vacuums offer unique features that enhance performance, usability, and durability.
- Powerful Suction: Leading shop vacuum brands like Shop-Vac and Craftsman provide high horsepower motors, ensuring exceptional suction power that can handle heavy debris, wet materials, and fine dust particles with ease.
- Multiple Attachments: Brands such as Milwaukee and DeWalt often include a variety of attachments, such as crevice tools, floor nozzles, and dusting brushes, allowing users to adapt the vacuum for different cleaning tasks and surfaces.
- Durability and Build Quality: Top brands like Ridgid and Makita are known for their robust construction, often using high-quality materials that withstand heavy use in demanding environments, such as workshops and job sites.
- HEPA Filtration: Many leading brands offer HEPA filtration options, effectively trapping allergens and fine dust particles, making them suitable for users with respiratory issues and ensuring cleaner air in the workspace.
- Tank Capacity: Brands like Bosch and Fein provide a range of tank sizes, allowing users to choose a vacuum that fits their specific needs, whether it’s a compact model for small jobs or a larger capacity model for extensive clean-up tasks.
- Noise Levels: Some brands, including Festool, focus on noise reduction technologies, making their shop vacuums quieter during operation, which is particularly beneficial in residential or noise-sensitive environments.
- Portability: Brands like Ryobi and Bissell design their vacuums with portability in mind, incorporating features such as lightweight builds, wheels, and carrying handles, allowing for easy transport between job sites.
- Smart Features: Advanced models from brands like Hoover and Samsung may include smart technology integrations, such as Bluetooth connectivity or app controls, allowing users to monitor performance and filter life remotely.
How Do Shop Vacuum Brands Compare in Terms of Customer Satisfaction?
| Brand | Customer Rating | Durability | Price Range | Warranty | Customer Feedback Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand A | 4.5/5 – Highly rated for performance | Very durable – Built to last for heavy use | $100 – $200 – Mid to high price range | 3 years | Users appreciate its suction power and reliability. |
| Brand B | 4.0/5 – Good overall satisfaction | Moderately durable – Suitable for regular use | $80 – $150 – Affordable options available | 2 years | Good for home use, but some find it less powerful. |
| Brand C | 4.7/5 – Excellent reviews from users | Highly durable – Ideal for tough cleaning tasks | $150 – $250 – Premium pricing for top features | 5 years | Users love its performance on heavy debris. |
| Brand D | 3.8/5 – Mixed reviews, some issues reported | Less durable – Not recommended for heavy-duty work | $70 – $120 – Budget-friendly choices | 1 year | Good price point but has recurring issues with longevity. |
| Brand E | 4.2/5 – Solid performance and features | Durable – Suitable for various applications | $90 – $180 – Reasonable price range | 3 years | Users highlight its versatility and ease of use. |
| Brand F | 4.1/5 – Reliable with good suction | Very durable – Good for extensive use | $120 – $220 – Mid-range pricing | 2 years | Appreciated for its powerful suction and quiet operation. |
Which Shop Vacuum Brands Are Most Recommended by Experts?
Several shop vacuum brands are frequently recommended by experts for their reliability, performance, and features.
- Shop-Vac: Renowned for its wide range of models, Shop-Vac is a leading brand in the shop vacuum market. They offer powerful suction and innovative features like multiple filtration options, making them suitable for both heavy-duty and light-duty tasks.
- Festool: Known for its high-quality tools, Festool produces premium shop vacuums that are favored by professionals. Their vacuums are designed for optimal dust extraction, have advanced filtration systems, and often offer compatibility with their woodworking tools, enhancing performance and efficiency.
- DeWalt: DeWalt is a trusted name in power tools, and their shop vacuums are no exception. They provide robust construction and powerful suction capabilities, often featuring built-in accessories and versatile designs that cater to various job site needs.
- Ridgid: Ridgid vacuums are popular among DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. Their models are known for their durability and strong suction power, with many options equipped with convenient features like auto shut-off and large capacity tanks.
- Milwaukee: Milwaukee’s shop vacuums are designed with the professional user in mind, offering high performance and innovative features. Their models typically include HEPA filtration, durable construction, and smart design elements for easy transport and storage.
What Price Ranges Are Associated with the Best Shop Vacuum Brands?
The best brands of shop vacuums often fall within specific price ranges that reflect their quality and features.
- Shop-Vac: Prices typically range from $50 to $400 depending on size and features.
- Festool: Generally falls between $300 and $800, known for its high-end performance and design.
- DeWalt: Commonly priced between $100 and $400, offers a good balance between cost and durability.
- Ridgid: Ranges from $60 to $300, recognized for its reliability and ease of use.
- Makita: Priced around $200 to $500, provides excellent suction power and innovative features.
Shop-Vac is a well-known brand that offers a variety of models catering to different needs, from light-duty to heavy-duty tasks, making it a popular choice for homeowners and professionals alike.
Festool vacuums are premium products that are engineered for serious woodworkers and contractors, emphasizing dust extraction efficiency, portability, and compatibility with other Festool tools.
DeWalt is recognized for its robust construction and versatility, often featuring powerful motors and easy-to-manage designs, making it suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals.
Ridgid shop vacuums are celebrated for their durability and effectiveness, often coming with a range of accessories and attachments that enhance their functionality for various cleaning tasks.
Makita vacuums are designed for high performance, especially in construction settings, featuring advanced filtration systems and options for quiet operation, which is ideal for job sites where noise is a concern.
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