Wet-dry vacuums aren't the smartest tools in the shop until you need their specialized versatility. They are simple in operation, with a motor, a tank and a hose. Most also have a filter of some type. All can be modified to pick up liquids or solids, such as sawdust, drywall dust, scraps, etc. Oftentimes, you can buy optional accessories to do everything from inflating an air mattress to blowing leaves from your driveway. There are dozens of wet-dry vac models available in the stores. How can you choose among them? Here's a summary of the models we've reviewed.


RIDGID WD1246 Wet-Dry Vacuum

For many shops and homes, all you need is a handy wet-dry vac that's easy to use and simple to alternate between the two primary tasks. What you'd like is a unit that also is easy to move around and will last you a while. In our research, the model that best fits these criteria is the RIDGID WD1246. Powered by a 10-amp electric motor, this unit has a 12-gallon tank that's sufficient for the majority of jobs. It has a cartridge filter to keep the exhaust air clean and to prevent debris from getting to the motor. These are good basic features for a wet-dry vac. What impressed us was the affordable price tag ($69.97) and the solid warranty (lifetime). This model is our Best Buy for your typical work shop.

Rigid WD1246 Wet-Dry Vacuum

Shop-Vac 934-20-11 Wet-Dry Vacuum

Need a little more power, capacity, and tools? The Shop-Vac 934-20-11 is about twice the price of the RIDGID WD1246, but it is still a good value for what you get. We rate it as our Best Buy for bigger work shops. It has a 12-amp motor and a larger 20-gallon tank. In addition to a cartridge filter, this model has a disposable collection bag for cleaning up drywall and other fine dust. It's a semi-pro model, built to last. Add to this a 5-year limited warranty and you have a pretty good shop vacuum at a good price.


RIDGID WD0635 Wet-Dry Vacuum

Looking for a bargain in a wet-dry vac? Take a look at the RIDGID WD0635. Powered by a 7.3-amp motor, it has a 6-gallon capacity tank and a utility nozzle. It's a smaller wet-dry vac than some models, but it's adequate for smaller work shops -- and it's priced at just $39.97. Yet it offers a cartridge filter that typically isn't found in low-priced models. Add to this a lifetime warranty and you have a wet-dry vac that's earned our Budget Buy designation.


Craftsman Wet-Dry Vacuums

We reviewed three of the most popular Craftsman shop vacuums: the 17741, 17762 and 17765. Each are very good tools that are dependable and solidly built. We rate them well, too, but found that the RIDGID WD1246, the Shop-Vac 934-20-11, and the RIDGID WD0635 had a feature or two that made them a little more desirable to us. Even so, you won't go wrong with these three Craftsman models. Read our reviews for specifics. After some comparison shopping, you may find that these models are the best wet-dry vacs for your shop or garage.


RIDGID WD1950 Wet-Dry Vacuum

Are you rough on shop tools? Do you need a steel wet-dry vac rather than one made of polypropylene plastic? Then the RIDGID WD1950 might be your best investment. It has a 12-amp motor, 7-foot hose, two nozzles and a crevice tool, but its biggest difference is the stainless-steel tank that can take more abuse than your average wet-dry vac. It's an especially good model for those who use their vacuum to clean up messy spills. It is easier to clean out and minimizes bacteria growth inside the tank. The WD1950 is more expensive, of course, but may be right for your rough-and-tumble shop.

Shop-Vac Hang Up Pro 952-02-62

Shop-Vac Hang Up Pro 952-02-62 Wet-Dry Vacuum

One model we reviewed deserves special mention. It isn't portable. In fact, you hang it up on the wall. The power cord is short, but the hose is long -- 18 feet. The motor is just 4.5 amps, and the tank is relatively small at 5 gallons, but that should be adequate for many shops. It's especially handy for folks who want a wet-dry vacuum to quickly clean out their car of debris. It's priced a little higher than comparable roll-around models, but the Shop-Vac Hang Up Pro 952-02-62 is a smart idea.