CRAFTSMAN Cordless Vacuums: 3 Picks Ranked by Specs

Quick picks

Our 3 picks

1 Best overall

CRAFTSMAN 2.5 Gallon Wet Dry Shop Vacuum

Best for: small messes in cars and garages

Capacity

2.5 Gallon

Weight

6.7 pounds

Features

Wet/Dry

Dimensions

13.1 × 12.6 × 14.7 inches

View on Amazon: CRAFTSMAN 2.5 Gallon Wet Dry Shop Vacuum Affiliate link

This Craftsman wet dry shop vac offers 2.5-gallon capacity and 2.5 peak HP motor power. It weighs 6.7 pounds and measures 12.6 by 13.1 by 14.7 inches. The unit doubles as a blower for added versatility. You will get a 5-foot hose and basic tools included. It suits small messes in garages or cars. The compact design allows for easy storage with its built-in cord wrap.

Pros

• 2.5-gallon capacity handles small messes
• 2.5 peak HP motor power
• Functions as a vacuum and blower
• Lightweight 6.7-pound build
• Includes 5-foot hose and crevice tool

Cons

• Small 2.5-gallon capacity limits continuous use
• No HEPA filtration listed in specs
• Uses friction-fit accessories which may loosen

Good fit if

• You need a compact vacuum for cars or small garages
• You want a tool that blows and vacuums
• You prefer lightweight equipment under 7 pounds

Skip if

• You require large debris capacity for heavy construction
• You need HEPA filtration for allergens
• You want a full-size shop vacuum

Verdict: Craftsman 2.5 Gal Wet Dry Shop Vac is a compact, versatile tool for light cleanup tasks. It fits users who need portability and dual vacuum-blower functions in a small footprint.

2 Best premium

CRAFTSMAN V20 2-Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum

Best for: small wet and dry cleanup tasks

Power Source

Cordless

Capacity

2 Gallon

Weight

9.25 pounds

Voltage

20V

Features

Wet/Dry

Dimensions

16.8 × 13.9 × 11.4 inches

View on Amazon: CRAFTSMAN V20 2-Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum Affiliate link

This CRAFTSMAN V20 cordless shop vac offers 2 gallons of wet and dry capacity. It delivers 35 CFM of suction power through a 7 ft 8-inch hose. The unit weighs 9.25 pounds and measures 16.8 inches long. You get on-board storage for the hose and accessories. Note that the battery and charger are sold separately.

Pros

• 2 Gallon wet and dry capacity
• 35 CFM suction power
• 7 ft 8-inch hose for extended reach
• On-board hose and accessory storage

Cons

• Battery and charger sold separately
• Lighter suction than larger 2.5 Peak HP models
• Smaller 2 Gallon tank capacity

Good fit if

• You need a portable wet and dry vacuum
• You want on-board storage for accessories
• You already own CRAFTSMAN V20 batteries

Skip if

• You need a vacuum with included battery
• You require suction power above 35 CFM
• You need more than 2 gallons of capacity

Verdict: CRAFTSMAN V20 2 Gal Wet Dry provides a compact wet and dry solution for users with existing V20 batteries. It fits those who prioritize portability and on-board storage over maximum suction power.

3 Best budget

Craftsman V20 Cordless Hand Vacuum

Best for: Quick cleanups in cars and tight spaces

Power Source

Cordless

Battery Voltage

V20

Filtration Type

2-stage filtration

Dimensions

17.9 × 5.1 × 7.6 inches

View on Amazon: Craftsman V20 Cordless Hand Vacuum Affiliate link

This CRAFTSMAN V20 handheld vacuum is a portable cleaning tool designed for quick debris removal. It delivers 45 CFM of airflow and claims 50% more suction power than previous models. The 2-stage filtration helps maintain suction as the dust bowl fills. It measures 17.9 inches in length and includes on-board storage for a crevice tool. It is ideal for users who need a lightweight, cordless solution for cars or tight spaces.

Pros

• 45 CFM airflow for picking up large and small debris
• 2-stage filtration maintains suction power as the bowl fills
• Claims 50% more suction power for effective cleaning
• On-board storage for the included crevice tool

Cons

• Requires frequent filter washing and 24-hour drying time
• Filter replacement needed every 6-9 months
• No wet/dry capability unlike other CRAFTSMAN models on this list

Good fit if

• You need a compact tool for car interiors
• You want on-board tool storage for convenience
• You prefer cordless operation for quick cleanups

Skip if

• You need to vacuum wet spills
• You require a large capacity dust bowl
• You want a full-size stick vacuum

Verdict: CRAFTSMAN V20 Handheld Vacuum is a focused option for users who prioritize portability and maintained suction in tight spaces. It suits those who clean vehicles or small areas frequently and do not need wet-dry functionality.

Specifications side by side

CRAFTSMAN Cordless Vacuums at a Glance

The CRAFTSMAN lineup offers distinct options for different needs. The 2.5 Gallon Wet Dry Shop Vacuum serves as the best overall choice for small car or garage messes. Its compact 6.7-pound frame and 5-gallon capacity provide versatility. For those with existing V20 batteries, the 2-Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum is a strong budget pick. It weighs 9.25 pounds and includes on-board storage.

If you need portability for tight spaces, the V20 Cordless Hand Vacuum is ideal. It features a lightweight design for quick vehicle cleanups. Shoppers should compare capacity and voltage to match their tasks. The 20V models suit users prioritizing battery compatibility. The larger shop vacs offer more storage for heavier debris. Choose based on whether you need wet/dry function or handheld convenience.

Who CRAFTSMAN Vacuums Suit

CRAFTSMAN’s current lineup focuses on compact, portable cleaning tools for specific tasks. You will find two wet/dry shop vacs and one handheld unit. The range spans from the lightweight 6.7-pound 2.5-gallon model to the 9.25-pound 2-gallon V20 vacuum. The handheld option offers a smaller footprint for tight spaces like car interiors. All units operate on the V20 battery system, ensuring compatibility if you already own tools in this ecosystem. The list lacks larger, heavy-duty shop vacs or high-capacity canister models. You also will not find dedicated stick vacuums for whole-home carpet cleaning here. This brand suits users who need quick cleanup for garages, vehicles, or small spills rather than deep cleaning for large living areas.

How to Choose the Right One

1. Check Battery Compatibility

   If you already own CRAFTSMAN V20 tools, the 2-Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum and the V20 Hand Vacuum share the same power system. This allows you to use existing batteries, saving you from buying new ones. The top-rated 2.5 Gallon Wet Dry Shop Vacuum does not list a voltage, so it likely uses a standard corded plug. Verify your current tool ecosystem before purchasing a cordless option to ensure seamless integration with your existing gear.

2. Match Capacity to Messes

   Consider how much debris you typically clean up. The 2.5 Gallon Wet Dry Shop Vacuum offers a 5-gallon capacity, making it suitable for larger garage or shop messes. In contrast, the 2-Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum holds only 2 gallons, which is better for small spills or light dust. The handheld unit has no listed capacity, indicating it is designed for quick, small-scale cleanups rather than bulk removal. Choose a larger tank if you tackle heavy debris regularly.

3. Prioritize Portability

   Weight matters if you move the vacuum often. The 2.5 Gallon Wet Dry Shop Vacuum is the lightest at 6.7 pounds, making it easy to carry to your car or up stairs. The 2-Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum is heavier at 9.25 pounds due to its motor and tank. The handheld unit is designed for one-handed use, though its exact weight is not listed. If you need to lift the unit frequently, the lighter shop vac is the most practical choice for your needs.

4. Select Wet/Dry Functionality

   Determine if you need to clean up liquids. Both the 2.5 Gallon Wet Dry Shop Vacuum and the 2-Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum support wet and dry use. This dual capability is essential for cleaning spills, oil, or water in garages and workshops. The V20 Cordless Hand Vacuum is described as not needing wet-dry functionality, meaning it is likely for dry debris only. If you deal with liquids, stick to the dedicated wet/dry models.

5. Evaluate Physical Footprint

   Measure your storage space before buying. The handheld vacuum is compact, measuring roughly 17.9 inches in length and 5.1 inches in width, fitting easily into tight spaces or small drawers. The 2.5 Gallon Wet Dry Shop Vacuum is wider at 12.6 inches but shorter in height. The 2-Gallon model is the longest at 16.8 inches. If you have limited garage or trunk space, the smaller handheld unit or the compact shop vac will fit better.

Frequently asked questions

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