Woodworking can be a messy business and if you want to keep your workspace looking neat and orderly, it is important to have some tools to help clean and maintain your workshop. Learn what is the best shop vac for woodworking.
With woodworking comes wood shavings and plenty of dust which you will need to get rid of and while the old fashion broom could work, a good quality vacuum will be so much quicker.
We have found the best shop vacs for woodworking so that you can choose the ideal one to keep your woodworking area as tidy as possible. Not all vacuums are made equal and especially not for this application so we will highlight the key features that make these vacuums ideal for getting dust and wood shavings off your woodshop floor and surfaces in record time.
You will be spoilt for choice with our top vacuums for woodworking.
COMPARISON CHART
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WORKSHOP WS1600VA High Capacity Wet Dry Vacuum
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Stanley – SL18116P Wet/Dry Vacuum
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CRAFTSMAN Heavy-Duty Shop Vacuum
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Vacmaster VBV1210 Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum with Detachable Blower
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DEWALT DXV04T Portable 4 gallon Wet/Dry Vaccum
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Shop-Vac 5989300 5-Gallon Wet Dry Vacuum
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DeWALT DXV10P 10 gallon Quiet Poly Wet Dry Vacuum
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Features
- Backed by a 5-year limited warranty, this shop vacuum cleaner is a durable option
- Qwik Lock Filter Fastening System allows quick and easy wet dry vacuum filter changes
- Accessory storage on the feet and top keeps vacuum attachments secure and within reach
- Integrated Blowing Port provides added versatility allowing a user to blow unwanted debris out of the workshop
This 16-gallon wet/dry vacuum cleaner is the Jobsite workhorse and has the power, durability, and collection capacity. This vacuum contains an integrated blowing port for added versatility, a large drain at the drum’s lowest point for easier liquid disposal, and a large carrying handle for easy transport.
WHAT WE LIKE
This vacuum sucks up fine dust without any trouble. Only go over areas one time, with no blow-out of fine dust from the back. It not only sucks dust-up with minimal effort, but it also holds all the dust within the container.
The cord is of a good length, and the attachments made the vacuum so versatile. It is easy to clean the bin and change or clean the filter after you are done vacuuming. The unit is stable and doesn’t tip over easily because the castors are widely spaced.
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
The unit is a little heavy and awkward to handle and also on the bigger side which means it takes up more space than the average vacuum. Unfortunately, the hose is on the shorter side, which requires it to be pulled closer to the area in need of cleaning, which can be frustrating.
PROS
- Good suction even for fine dust
- Versatile accessories
- Keeps dust in the unit
- Easy to clean and maintain
- A stable and mobile unit
CONS
- Large and heavy unit
- Takes up a lot of space
- Short hose
2. Stanley – SL18116P Wet/Dry Vacuum – Best Budget
Features
- A larger capacity over 22 L, makes clean-up jobs a breeze
- Powerful enough suction is needed for almost any cleanup job
- A versatile vacuum that can clean both wet and dry debris, or blow dirt away
- 16 ft of cleaning reach it is easy to do a farther cleanup
Stanley’s SL18116P Wet/Dry Vacuum, 6-Gallon, 4. 0-Peak HP Wet/Dry Vacuum, comes with a powerful heavy-duty motor for industry-leading performance and provides maximum suction power for heavy-duty pickup.
The powerful rear blower port instantly converts a vacuum to a power blower. Swiveling casters provide ease of movement in any direction.
WHAT WE LIKE
This vacuum rolls easily from place to place with well-placed and sturdy castors. It has strong suction and picks up pretty much anything that it needs from small to big pieces. It is fairly light as far as vacuums go.
The blower function works well and adds to its versatility. This is a reasonably priced workshop vac that can overall get the job done.
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
Despite coming with a wet attachment this does not work well at all. The length of the cord is on the shorter side which means it needs to be used with an extension cord to reach certain areas. It is clumsy and awkward when you need to carry it from place to place in areas it cannot roll.
PROS
- Well placed castors make it easy to roll
- Strong suction
- The blower function adds the versatility
- Reasonably priced
CONS
- The wet function does not work well
- Short cord
- Awkward to carry
3. CRAFTSMAN Heavy-Duty Shop Vacuum – Best Heavy-Duty
Features
- A heavy-duty vacuum that has extra power with a 6.5 peak HP motor
- The rear blowing port on this wet/dry vac allows for quick cleaning
- Built-in oversized drain on the wet/dry vac allows for convenient emptying of liquids
- The vacuum hose features Dual-Flex technology for 180-degree mobility at each end to resist kinking
This 16-gallon wet/dry vacuum features a powerful 6.5 Peak HP motor and is ideal for tackling large cleanup projects in the garage or your workshop that need the most power.
Large-scale renovations build, or floods are an easy task for this large shop vacuum. Complete with added features make this vacuum is versatile and really is up to a range of tasks.
WHAT WE LIKE
This vacuum has the strongest suction in a vacuum compared to other units on the market. There is a place for all attachments on the vacuum which adds to its versatility. It has the stability of a low and wide profile. The hose holds its shape even through the strong suction.
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
The huge bulky design makes it hard to use in smaller areas. Castors are small and make them not functional when trying to roll the unit through your shop. When using the top handle the whole top comes off.
PROS
- Strongest suction
- Attachments have a place
- Stabile unit
- Sturdy hose
CONS
- Bulky design
- Castors are too small
- The top handle is not functional
4. Vacmaster VBV1210 Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum with Detachable Blower – Best Multi-Purpose
Features
- Easily convert from wet/dry vacuum to 210 mph handheld blower
- 19-foot cleaning reach with hose and power cord
- Integrated accessory storage
- Extra-large drain port. power cord length- 12 feet
The Vacmaster VBV1210 is a unique 2-in-1 unit that allows users to switch between a wet/dry vacuum and a high-powered, handheld blower.
This 12-Gallon Wet/Dry Vac is the perfect size for a variety of tasks around the home or shop. With a 5 Peak HP, this vacuum makes cleanup easy, whether it’s dust collection in the shop or liquid spills at home.
WHAT WE LIKE
The unit is easy to assemble, works well, and has plenty of power to handle a wide variety of work applications. Overall attachments work great and make it versatile. The positive locking feature of the hose is a nice touch.
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
This unit does not come with a brush attachment which could be useful. The power cord is way too short and suction could be better. The blower works ok but makes sure attachments are firmly pushed in.
PROS
- Easy to assemble
- Works for a variety of applications
- Versatile attachments
- Positive locking feature on the hose
CONS
- No brush attachment
- Short power cord
- The blower attachment does not fit securely
5. DEWALT DXV04T Portable 4 gallon Wet/Dry Vaccum – Best for Wide-Reach
Features
- The Portable 4 gallon toolbox design makes it convenient to take to any job
- Onboard vac accessory storage provides an easy location for all attachments
- A powerful 5 peak horsepower motor provides just the amount of suction needed for most cleanups
- Washable and reusable cartridge filter for both wet or dry pick up
The 4-gallon wet dry vac is portable and easy to bring to any job with its convenient toolbox shape and easy carry handle. With a powerful heavy-duty motor for industry-leading performance, this vac provides maximum suction power for heavy-duty pickup.
WHAT WE LIKE
This vac is easy to set up. The paper filter goes right on and works perfectly. The hose is about 7 feet long, and it not only stretches and contracts nicely, but it is also very flexible, yet heavy-duty.
The construction is robust, the plastic components use high quality very durable materials and have a solid, beefy feel to them.
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
This vac doesn’t come with a brush attachment. No wheels mean it is not as portable as other vacs. Attachments are not great and may require some replacements.
PROS
- Easy to set up
- Versatile and flexible hose
- Robust construction
- High quality and durable
CONS
- No brush attachment
- No wheels
- Attachments not ideal
6. Shop-Vac 5989300 5-Gallon Wet Dry Vacuum – Best for High-Airflow
Features
- This wet/dry vacuum has a 5-gallon stainless steel tank & a 4.5 peak horsepower motor
- Maneuverable full circumference dolly, & top side carry handles enhance its portability
- Includes a full range of accessories for added versatility
- 3-year warranty for added peace of mind
The Shop-Vac 5 Gallon 4.5 Peak HP Stainless Steel Wet / Dry Vacuum features a durable, easy to clean, stainless steel tank. This vacuum provides you with powerful cleaning for picking up wet or dry messes in your garage, workshop, or basement.
Attach the hose to the rear blower port to blow dirt out of those hard-to-reach places or grass clippings from your sidewalk.
WHAT WE LIKE
Portable unit with good suction power. It has a good capacity and lower than expected motor noise. The easy-rolling castors add to its mobility and the carrying handle on top is helpful.
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
Unfortunately, it comes with a short power cord. The storage locations for accessories are not thought out well. The air hose occasionally pops out of the vac, especially in the blower mode.
PROS
- Portable and easy to move
- Good capacity and suction
- Lower motor noise
- Helpful carrying handle
CONS
- Short power cord
- Storage of accessories not ideal
- Air hose pops out
7. DeWALT DXV10P 10 gallon Quiet Poly Wet Dry Vacuum – Best for Quiet Cleanup
Features
- Sturdy 10 gallon dual-stage wet/dry Vac has quieter operation for clean-up applications
- A powerful 5.5 peak horsepower motor provides just the amount of suction needed for most cleanups
- Built-in blower port powerful enough to blow sawdust and debris from most any workshop
- Built-in accessory storage bag conveniently attached to the backside of the vac to keep all accessories neatly organized
The 10-gallon wet/dry vac features a quiet 2-stage motor, for up to 50% quieter operation and 2 longer life.
Complete with a dust cartridge filter for small, dry debris and wet materials, strong handle for easy carrying, large on/off switch with water-resistant design for safe and quick access, convenient, built-in 10 feet power cord, and accessory bag to get all your accessories/tools organized.
WHAT WE LIKE
Good suction at the wand of this vac. Adequate attachments and good storage for accessories. Easy to use and service with the top that is easily removed with 2 latches. Wheels allow the unit to roll freely.
WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
This vac is noisier than most. The hose attachment point protrudes about 6″ from the power head and tends to cause you to knock yourself while using the unit.
There is no upholstery brush included and you need to buy this separately at an extra cost.
PROS
- Good suction in wand
- Adequate attachments with storage
- Easy to use and service
- Wheels allow ease of movement
CONS
- Noisy unit
- Hose attachment protrudes
- No brush attachment
FINAL VERDICT
We have given you plenty of quality vac options that will clean up your workshop in flash but our top recommendation has to be the WORKSHOP WS1600VA High Capacity Wet Dry Vacuum. The excellent suction on this vac means that even the finest dust will be no match for it. Once the dust has been sucked in it stays put which adds to its efficiency.
The attachments that come with this vac add to its versatility making it useful for a variety of cleanups in your shop. The maintenance and cleaning of this vac are seamless and you will be back to vacuuming at top capacity in no time.
Overall this shop vac is real value for money and has all the features you need and more. You won’t be sorry if you add this to your shop cleanup tools.
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I am a woodworker with over 19 years of experience crafting everything from furniture to ornamental pieces. I take pride in my ability to bring out the beauty of the wood I work with, creating unique and lasting objects. My passion for woodworking has been a life-long pursuit and I strive to push myself further and further with each new project. I am dedicated to the craft and take great satisfaction in the final product that I create.Read More.
