Best Craftsman Vacuums in 2026: 15 Picks Compared on Specs
The Craftsman 20-gallon wet/dry with cart is our best overall pick for most workshops, combining the largest capacity in this roundup with a 6.5 peak HP motor and a built-in cart for easy moving. We compared 16 Craftsman models using only published specifications and live price data from the catalog, covering corded and cordless options from compact handhelds to large shop vacs.
15 picks from 18 vacuums that match this guide with a price we can quote today. The prices below are current and each carries its read time.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- For large workshops: Need to handle big debris and move around a garage or shop. The 20-gallon with cart gives you the largest capacity and a movable base. See pick 1
- For quick cleanups: Want a small, grab-and-go vacuum for spills, car interiors, or tight spaces. The 6-gallon compact model balances portability with suction. See pick 9
- For cordless convenience: Prefer to avoid cords and need a vacuum that can reach under furniture or into a car. The V20 stick and handheld models run on the same battery platform. See pick 15
- For small apartments: Limited storage and light duty. The 2.5-gallon bundle or the 4-gallon model fits in a closet and handles minor messes. See pick 12
Our 15 picks
1 Best overall
CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17656 20 Gallon 6.5 Peak HP Wet Dry Shop Vacuum
- Type
- Wet-dry
$239.99 price as of 2026-10-03 05:31 UTC (Details)
The largest capacity in this list at 20 gallons, with a 6.5 peak HP motor that equals the highest peak HP among the corded models. The integrated cart adds practical mobility for moving it around a shop.
Pros
- 20-gallon capacity, the most in this list
- 6.5 peak HP, tied for the highest peak HP here
- Built-in cart for easy transport
- Wet/dry capability for liquid spills
Cons
- Large footprint requires storage space
- Power source not stated by the seller
- No dedicated blower feature listed
Good fit if
- Garage and workshop cleanups with large debris
- Users who need to move the vacuum between areas
Skip if
- You need a cordless model
- You have limited storage space
Verdict: The best all-around Craftsman for heavy-duty wet/dry duties when size is not a constraint.
2 Best for stationary use
CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17596 20 Gallon 6.5 Peak HP Wet Dry Shop Vacuum
- Type
- Wet-dry
$169.99 price as of 2026-10-03 05:31 UTC (Details) Typical price: $179.99, 6% off
Same 20-gallon capacity and 6.5 peak HP as the cart version but without the cart, making it slightly more compact for fixed locations like a workbench.
Pros
- 20-gallon capacity, tied for largest in this list
- 6.5 peak HP, top value
- Simpler design with fewer moving parts
Cons
- No cart for mobility
- Power source not stated
- No blower feature
Good fit if
- Permanent placement in a shop
- Users who don't need to move the vacuum
Skip if
- You need to move the vacuum across a garage
- You want a blower function
Verdict: A solid stationary choice for large jobs, though it duplicates the cart version's specs with less convenience.
3 Best with blower
CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17607 16 Gal. 6.5 Peak HP Wet Dry Vac
- Type
- Wet-dry
$169.99 price as of 2026-10-03 05:31 UTC (Details)
Combines a 16-gallon capacity with 6.5 peak HP and a detachable blower, letting you switch from vacuuming to blowing leaves or sawdust without a second tool.
Pros
- Detachable blower for multi-use
- 16-gallon capacity, above average in this list
- 6.5 peak HP, top tier
- Wet/dry function
Cons
- Slightly smaller capacity than the 20-gallon models
- Power source not stated
- Blower adds weight
Good fit if
- Users who need to blow debris as well as vacuum
- Medium to large workshop cleanup
Skip if
- You need maximum capacity
- You prefer a separate blower tool
Verdict: The most versatile Craftsman here if you regularly need both suction and airflow.
4 Best mid-large capacity
CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 16 Gallon 6.5 Peak HP Wet Dry Shop Vacuum
- Type
- Wet-dry
$149.99 price as of 2026-10-03 05:31 UTC (Details)
A straightforward 16-gallon wet/dry with 6.5 peak HP, offering the same power as larger models in a slightly smaller shell.
Pros
- 16-gallon capacity
- 6.5 peak HP
- Simpler design
- Wet/dry
Cons
- No blower or cart
- Power source not stated
- Capacity smaller than 20-gallon options
Good fit if
- Users who want a balance of size and power
- Workshops with moderate debris
Skip if
- You need a blower
- You need the largest capacity
Verdict: A dependable mid-large wet/dry with strong suction, but without extra features.
5 Best mid-size
CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17594 12 Gallon 6.0 Peak HP Wet Dry Shop Vacuum
- Type
- Wet-dry
$129.99 price as of 2026-10-03 05:31 UTC (Details)
At 12 gallons and 6.0 peak HP, this model fits typical workshop needs without taking up as much space as the larger units.
Pros
- 12-gallon capacity is average for this list
- 6.0 peak HP
- Compact enough for smaller spaces
- Wet/dry
Cons
- Peak HP slightly below the 6.5 models
- No cart or blower
- Power source not stated
Good fit if
- Garages and basements with occasional heavy cleanups
- Users who need a middle ground
Skip if
- You need the highest peak HP
- You require a cordless option
Verdict: A well-rounded mid-size wet/dry for most home and shop tasks.
6 Best blower bundle
CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17606 12 Gallon 6.0 Peak HP Wet Dry Blower Vacuum
- Type
- Wet-dry
$206.38 price as of 2026-10-03 05:31 UTC (Details)
A 12-gallon wet/dry with 6.0 peak HP that comes with a blower, giving you two functions in one bundle.
Pros
- Includes blower attachment
- 12-gallon capacity
- 6.0 peak HP
- Wet/dry
Cons
- Blower reduces capacity to 12 gallons
- Peak HP lower than 6.5 models
- Power source not stated
Good fit if
- Users who want both vacuum and blower without buying separately
- Small to medium workshops
Skip if
- You need the largest capacity
- You already own a blower
Verdict: A practical bundle for combined vacuuming and blowing at a mid-size capacity.
7 Best stainless steel
CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17155 10 Gallon 6.0 Peak HP Stainless Steel Wet Dry Vac
- Type
- Wet-dry
$149.99 price as of 2026-10-03 05:31 UTC (Details)
A 10-gallon wet/dry with a stainless steel tank, offering corrosion resistance for wet pickups and a more durable body than plastic.
Pros
- Stainless steel tank resists rust and dents
- 10-gallon capacity
- 6.0 peak HP
- Wet/dry
Cons
- Smaller capacity than many in this list
- Heavier than plastic equivalents
- Power source not stated
Good fit if
- Users who frequently pick up water or chemicals
- Shops with corrosive materials
Skip if
- You need a larger capacity
- You prefer a lightweight unit
Verdict: The best choice if you need a tank that can handle moisture without corroding.
8 Best 9-gallon
CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17590 9 Gallon 4.25 Peak HP Wet Dry Shop Vacuum
- Type
- Wet-dry
$99.99 price as of 2026-10-03 05:31 UTC (Details)
A 9-gallon wet/dry with 4.25 peak HP gives enough capacity for small jobs while staying more compact than the 10- and 12-gallon models.
Pros
- Compact size
- 9-gallon capacity
- 4.25 peak HP
- Wet/dry
Cons
- Lower peak HP than most in this list
- No cart or blower
- Power source not stated
Good fit if
- Small cleanup tasks
- Storage in tight spaces
Skip if
- You need extensive suction power
- You handle large volumes of debris
Verdict: A compact option for light to moderate use, though peak HP is modest.
9 Best compact
CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17584 6 Gallon 3.5 Peak HP Wet Dry Shop Vacuum
- Type
- Wet-dry
$84.99 price as of 2026-10-03 05:31 UTC (Details) Typical price: $89.99, 6% off
At 6 gallons and 3.5 peak HP, this is one of the smallest corded models here, easy to store and carry for quick cleanups.
Pros
- Very compact and portable
- 6-gallon capacity
- 3.5 peak HP
- Wet/dry
Cons
- Peak HP is among the lowest in this list
- Small capacity limits large jobs
- Power source not stated
Good fit if
- Cars, small apartments, and quick spill cleanups
- Users with limited storage
Skip if
- You need to handle wet/dry heavy debris
- You require high suction
Verdict: A handy little wet/dry for everyday small messes, but not for heavy duty.
10 Best 5-gallon portability
CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17925 5 Gallon 5.0 Peak HP Wet Dry Shop Vacuum
- Type
- Wet-dry
$129.99 price as of 2026-10-03 05:31 UTC (Details)
With 5 gallons and 5.0 peak HP, this model offers a good power-to-size ratio for a small footprint.
Pros
- 5.0 peak HP is respectable for its size
- 5-gallon capacity
- Compact
- Wet/dry
Cons
- Capacity limits large jobs
- No cart or blower
- Power source not stated
Good fit if
- Workshop details, stairs, and tight spaces
- Users who want more power than a 6-gallon compact
Skip if
- You need to vacuum large spills
- You prefer a cordless option
Verdict: A compact 5-gallon that delivers more peak HP than its small size suggests.
11 Best small capacity
CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17040 4 Gallon 5.0 Peak HP Wet Dry Shop Vacuum
- Type
- Wet-dry
$119.99 price as of 2026-10-03 05:31 UTC (Details)
The 4-gallon tank with 5.0 peak HP makes this a strong performer for its size, ideal for areas where space is at a premium.
Pros
- 5.0 peak HP
- 4-gallon capacity
- Smallest tank in this list
- Wet/dry
Cons
- Very small capacity requires frequent emptying
- No extra features
- Power source not stated
Good fit if
- Workshop benches, closets, and occasional spills
- Users who empty often
Skip if
- You handle large debris
- You need a longer runtime (if cordless)
Verdict: A tiny but powerful wet/dry for narrowly defined tasks.
12 Best ultra-compact
CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250 2.5 Gallon 2.5 Peak HP Wet Dry Shop Vacuum Bundle
- Type
- Wet-dry
$61.98 price as of 2026-10-03 05:31 UTC (Details)
At 2.5 gallons and 2.5 peak HP, this is the smallest and least powerful in the list, suited for the lightest cleanups.
Pros
- Ultra-compact and lightweight
- 2.5-gallon capacity
- Bundle includes accessories
- Wet/dry
Cons
- Peak HP is the lowest here
- Capacity requires frequent emptying
- Power source not stated
Good fit if
- Apartment dwellers
- Users who need a vacuum for tiny spills
Skip if
- You need serious suction
- You have moderate to large cleanup areas
Verdict: A bare-bones entry-level wet/dry for basic tidying only.
13 Best cordless wet/dry
Craftsman V20 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
- Type
- Wet-dry
- Power
- Cordless
$98.00 price as of 2026-10-03 05:31 UTC (Details)
The only battery-powered wet/dry in the list at 2 gallons, offering freedom from cords while retaining the ability to pick up liquids.
Pros
- Cordless operation
- Wet/dry capability
- Compact 2-gallon size
- Part of the V20 battery family
Cons
- Small capacity
- Peak HP not stated
- Battery and charger not stated by the seller
Good fit if
- Portable quick pickups without a cord
- Users already invested in the V20 system
Skip if
- You need a large capacity
- You prefer staying in the corded ecosystem
Verdict: The best cordless wet/dry for small jobs, but capacity is limiting.
14 Best handheld
CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hand Vacuum
- Type
- Handheld
- Power
- Cordless
$79.00 price as of 2026-10-03 05:31 UTC (Details)
A cordless handheld vacuum with 45 CFM airflow, making it suitable for car interiors and tight spaces. The inclusion of a battery and charger in this listing sets it apart.
Pros
- Handheld form factor
- 45 CFM airflow
- Battery and charger included
- 2-stage filtration
Cons
- Very small capacity
- No wet/dry ability
- Peak HP not stated
Good fit if
- Cars, stairs, and furniture
- Users who want a quick grab-and-go vacuum
Skip if
- You need to pick up liquids
- You need to cover large floor areas
Verdict: A practical cordless handheld for spot cleaning, not for whole-house tasks.
15 Best cordless stick
CRAFTSMAN V20 Stick Vacuum Cordless Rechargeable
- Type
- Stick
- Power
- Cordless
$199.00 price as of 2026-10-03 05:31 UTC (Details)
A cordless stick vacuum with three speeds and a brushless motor, designed for everyday floor cleanup. Its lightweight and extended runtime claims make it a versatile home vacuum.
Pros
- Cordless with brushless motor
- 3 speed settings
- Lightweight
- Extended runtime stated
Cons
- Not a wet/dry model
- No stated capacity or peak HP
- Requires charging
Good fit if
- Quick floor cleanups in homes
- Users who prefer a stick format
Skip if
- You need to vacuum liquids
- You need a shop vac for heavy debris
Verdict: The best cordless stick for routine household vacuuming, if not for wet messes.
Specifications side by side
| # | Vacuum | Type | Power | Dust collection | Suction | Pet hair | Mopping |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17656 20 Gallon 6.5 Peak HP Wet Dry Shop Vacuum | Wet-dry | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 2 | CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17596 20 Gallon 6.5 Peak HP Wet Dry Shop Vacuum | Wet-dry | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 3 | CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17607 16 Gal. 6.5 Peak HP Wet Dry Vac | Wet-dry | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 4 | CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 16 Gallon 6.5 Peak HP Wet Dry Shop Vacuum | Wet-dry | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 5 | CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17594 12 Gallon 6.0 Peak HP Wet Dry Shop Vacuum | Wet-dry | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 6 | CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17606 12 Gallon 6.0 Peak HP Wet Dry Blower Vacuum | Wet-dry | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 7 | CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17155 10 Gallon 6.0 Peak HP Stainless Steel Wet Dry Vac | Wet-dry | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 8 | CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17590 9 Gallon 4.25 Peak HP Wet Dry Shop Vacuum | Wet-dry | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 9 | CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17584 6 Gallon 3.5 Peak HP Wet Dry Shop Vacuum | Wet-dry | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 10 | CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17925 5 Gallon 5.0 Peak HP Wet Dry Shop Vacuum | Wet-dry | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 11 | CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17040 4 Gallon 5.0 Peak HP Wet Dry Shop Vacuum | Wet-dry | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 12 | CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250 2.5 Gallon 2.5 Peak HP Wet Dry Shop Vacuum Bundle | Wet-dry | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 13 | Craftsman V20 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner | Wet-dry | Cordless | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 14 | CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hand Vacuum | Handheld | Cordless | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 15 | CRAFTSMAN V20 Stick Vacuum Cordless Rechargeable | Stick | Cordless | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
How the picks were chosen
We built this guide from a pool of 16 Craftsman vacuums listed on the site at the time of writing. We compared each model by its stated capacity in gallons, peak horsepower, power source (corded or cordless), and additional features such as blowers, carts, stainless steel construction, and filter types. Prices shown are live from the catalog and may change. We do not test units; all claims come from the manufacturer's published specifications and product descriptions. We selected 15 picks that represent the spread of sizes, power levels, and use cases, avoiding near-duplicate listings.
Picking the right one for you
Capacity: Match the tank to your debris volume
Wet/dry vacuum capacity is measured in gallons and directly affects how often you need to empty the tank. For occasional car cleaning or small workshop spills, a 2.5 to 6 gallon model suffices. Daily heavy use, such as sawdust from a miter saw or construction debris, benefits from a 10 to 20 gallon tank. The 20-gallon models in this list hold the most, while the 4-gallon and 2.5-gallon units require frequent emptying but take up less space.
Peak horsepower: what the number tells you
Peak horsepower is a manufacturer's advertised figure that reflects the motor's maximum output, not sustained suction. In Craftsman wet/dry vacuums, peak HP ranges from 2.5 to 6.5. Higher peak HP generally means better airflow for heavy debris, but the difference between 6.0 and 6.5 is small in practice. For basic tasks, any motor above 4.0 peak HP will handle typical workshop dust. The 3.5 and 2.5 peak HP models are best for light duty.
Corded vs. cordless
Corded vacuums provide unlimited runtime and consistent power, but they tie you to an outlet and a cord. Cordless models, such as the V20 stick and handheld, offer portability and convenience for quick pickups, but they run on batteries and may lack the sustained suction of corded units. If you need to vacuum large areas or wet messes without recharging, a corded shop vac is the safer choice. For small cleanups on a car or stairs, cordless is ideal.
Wet/dry capability and filtration
All but two picks in this list are wet/dry, meaning they can handle both solids and liquids. The cordless stick and handheld are dry-only, which limits their use. For wet pickups, a stainless steel tank (like the 10-gallon model) resists corrosion better than plastic. Filtration varies; the V20 handheld has a 2-stage filtration system. If you are concerned about fine dust, look for models that can accept a HEPA filter. The U.S. EPA notes that HEPA filters can remove at least 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns, which is important if you vacuum near people with allergies.
Extra features: blowers, carts, and bundles
Some Craftsman models come with a detachable blower, letting you blow leaves or sawdust without a second tool. The 16-gallon with blower and the 12-gallon blower bundle are examples. Carts, as on the 20-gallon model, make moving a heavy tank easier. Bundle packs, like the 2.5-gallon, may include extra hoses and nozzles, which can save you from buying accessories separately. Consider how often you will move the vacuum and whether a blower is a necessary addition.
Questions
Can I use a Craftsman wet/dry vacuum to pick up water?
Yes, most of the picks labeled wet/dry in this list can handle both dry debris and liquid spills. Always remove the filter before picking up liquids, as specified in the manual. Models with a stainless steel tank, like the 10-gallon version, are more corrosion-resistant than plastic tanks when used for wet pickups.
What is the difference between peak HP and air watts?
Peak HP is a measure of the motor's maximum output, often tested with no load. Air watts measure actual cleaning power, but this specification is not consistently published by all manufacturers. For Craftsman shop vacs, peak HP is the main published spec, so it is used in this guide for comparison. Higher peak HP generally indicates a stronger motor, but actual suction depends on hose and filter design.
Are Craftsman cordless vacuums interchangeable with other V20 tools?
Yes, the Craftsman V20 cordless stick, handheld, and wet/dry models use the same 20-volt battery platform as other Craftsman V20 tools. If you already own V20 batteries, you can purchase a bare tool to save money. The listings for some cordless vacuums may not include a battery or charger, so check the product page for what is included.
How often should I replace the filter on a Craftsman shop vacuum?
Replace the cartridge filter every 3 to 6 months for regular use, or whenever you notice a decrease in suction. The EPA recommends changing filters according to the manufacturer's instructions. For dusty work, clean the filter more frequently and consider using a HEPA filter to trap fine particles like drywall dust, which can be harmful if inhaled.
Can I use a Craftsman shop vacuum as a blower?
Some Craftsman models, such as the 16-gallon with detachable blower and the 12-gallon blower bundle, include a blower function. By connecting the hose to the exhaust port, you can blow sawdust, leaves, or debris. Other models without this feature are not designed for blowing, so check the product description before purchasing if you need that capability.
Revision notes
- : First published.