The Milwaukee 0880-20 18-volt wet/dry vacuum is a winner when it comes to power and suction that removes everything from fine dust and large debris to liquid spills and water mishaps. About the size of a small tool box, the 2-gallon unit is totally portable, easy to transport and a cinch to store.

The design is terrific, with just the right balance between convenience, portability, practicality and performance. Its cordless feature takes convenience to a new level as the vacuum works on all 18-volt Milwaukee slide-on batteries, including NiCd and lithium-ion. Everything you need to vac the whack out of messes is contained in this tool box. Lift the lid for onboard accessory storage (crevice tool and utility nozzle) and dual battery connector blocks will house your battery pack of choice. Outside the box is onboard storage for the super extension hose (extends to 5.5 feet). Release the side tank latches to access the 2-gallon tank below.

Practical features include a stackable toolbox design and a wet/dry high efficiency HEPA filter (traps 99.7 percent of fine dust) that you can wash and reuse again and again. This bulldog of a vac really performs, with strong suction power and airflow. In fact it sucked up spilt water on carpet that another unit we tested left behind. We were already won over, but get this -- the vacuum also doubles as a blower. The wet/dry vac comes with a washable filter, hose, crevice tool and utility nozzle; optional 18-volt battery pack runs about $69 for NiCd, $119 for lithium-ion and $60 for the charger.

When it comes to portable convenience, practicality and performance in an easy to carry wet/dry vac, we feel the Milwaukee 18-Volt 0880-20 is a sure bet for a Best Buy.


Pros: Compact and totally portable, easy to carry and store, cordless convenience, works on all 18-volt Milwaukee slide-on batteries, great warranty, everything you need is contained within the tool box design, high efficiency wet/dry filter, strong suction power and air flow, vacuum also doubles as a blower
Cons: Tank lip could be designed a bit better to eliminate liquids when emptying the tank

Warranty
5 years