Cordless shop vacs make cleanup faster, easier, and way less of a hassle. No cords to trip over, no hunting for outlets—just grab, go, and get the job done.
Today’s models pack serious suction, handle both wet and dry messes, and come in sizes suited for cars, garages, and job sites. This guide walks through standout options, key features to watch for, and how to get the most runtime from your batteries.
| Ecarke 2.5 Gal Cordless Wet/Dry Vacuum (Tool Only) |
| Compact Powerhouse | Power Source / Battery Compatibility: DeWALT 20V battery compatible (battery not included) | Wet/Dry Capability: Wet and dry pickup (3-in-1: dry, wet, blower) | Onboard/Included Accessories: Wide nozzle, crevice tool, sofa brush, round brush + 2 extension tubes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| 20V Cordless Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum (2.6 Gal) |
| Jobsite Workhorse | Power Source / Battery Compatibility: DeWALT 20V MAX battery compatible (battery not included) | Wet/Dry Capability: Wet and dry handling | Onboard/Included Accessories: Soft hose/connectors, multi-purpose nozzle, crevice tool, sofa brush, extra-long crevice tool | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless 2-Gallon Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum |
| Reliable Portable Pick | Power Source / Battery Compatibility: DeWALT/V20 (20V) battery system compatible (battery not included) | Wet/Dry Capability: Wet and dry debris cleanup | Onboard/Included Accessories: On-board hose and accessory storage (accessories included on-board) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| DEWALT 20V MAX 2-Gallon Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum |
| Pro-Grade Versatility | Power Source / Battery Compatibility: DEWALT 20V MAX compatible (battery not included) | Wet/Dry Capability: Wet and dry vacuuming | Onboard/Included Accessories: On-board accessory storage (accessories included) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| DEWALT 20V Cordless Handheld Vacuum (DCV501HB) |
| Best Handheld | Power Source / Battery Compatibility: DEWALT 20V battery compatible (DCB205 recommended; battery not included) | Wet/Dry Capability: Dry-only (handheld) — converts to stick (note: DRY only) | Onboard/Included Accessories: Extension tube, flexible hose, crevice nozzle, round/gulper brushes, floor nozzle, accessory bag | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| EGO Power+ 9 Gallon Cordless Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum |
| Maximum Capacity | Power Source / Battery Compatibility: EGO 56V ARC Lithium battery compatible (battery not included) | Wet/Dry Capability: Wet and dry shop vacuum | Onboard/Included Accessories: 2 extension tubes, crevice nozzle, round brush, large floor nozzle with brush bar, compact floor nozzle, hose, plus power tool adapter | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Hoteche 20V Cordless Shop Vacuum (10L) |
| Quiet & Lightweight | Power Source / Battery Compatibility: 20V Li-ion battery (integrated battery spec; charger included) | Wet/Dry Capability: Wet/dry implied (10L dust cup + blowing) — primarily shop vac style | Onboard/Included Accessories: Floor brush, round brush, crevice nozzle, small brush, 3-piece tube, hose | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| DEWALT 20V MAX 2-Gallon Cordless Wet/Dry Vac |
| HEPA Performance | Power Source / Battery Compatibility: DEWALT 20V MAX compatible (battery not included) | Wet/Dry Capability: Wet and dry (HEPA-rated wet-dry filter) | Onboard/Included Accessories: Crevice tool, flexible hose, on-board accessory storage | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ecarke 2.5 Gal Cordless Wet/Dry Vacuum (Tool Only)
Should you need a compact, truly cordless wet/dry vac that handles quick cleanups and occasional wet messes, the Ecarke 2.5 Gal is built for you—just add a DeWalt 20V battery (4.0Ah+ recommended) and you’ve got a brushless, 15KPa max-suction tool that switches between 9KPa for daily debris and 15KPa for stubborn dirt and pet hair, includes an auto shut-off for wet fills, and packs into a small, easy-to-store upright with a 7 ft extendable hose and four swivel wheels. You’ll appreciate the washable HEPA filter capturing 99.7% of fine dust, reusable tank (10L dry/3.6L wet), blower mode, shoulder strap, quick-release battery pull cord, and four attachments with two bonus extension tubes for targeted cleaning.
- Power Source / Battery Compatibility:DeWALT 20V battery compatible (battery not included)
- Wet/Dry Capability:Wet and dry pickup (3-in-1: dry, wet, blower)
- Onboard/Included Accessories:Wide nozzle, crevice tool, sofa brush, round brush + 2 extension tubes
- Filter Type / Washability:Washable HEPA filter (reusable; captures 99.7%)
- Portability / On-board Storage:Upright space-saving design, shoulder strap, four swivel wheels
- Blowing / Multi-function Air Feature:Blower function included (3-in-1 blower mode)
- Additional Feature:Brushless motor powerhouse
- Additional Feature:Quick-release battery pull-cord
- Additional Feature:7 ft extendable hose
20V Cordless Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum (2.6 Gal)
Should you need a compact, cordless vacuum that handles both wet spills and dry debris, the V Cordless Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum is built for DIYers and pros who move between job sites and vehicles. It runs on DeWALT 20V MAX batteries (sold separately), supports up to 5Ah for about 30 minutes, and comes as a bare tool. You get 45 cfm airflow, 12.1 kPa suction, and a 2.65‑gal collector. A 1¼” x 6.56ft hose, blowing mode, detachable body, and washable mini filter simplify cleaning. Included nozzle set and lightweight, durable build make it easy to carry and maintain.
- Power Source / Battery Compatibility:DeWALT 20V MAX battery compatible (battery not included)
- Wet/Dry Capability:Wet and dry handling
- Onboard/Included Accessories:Soft hose/connectors, multi-purpose nozzle, crevice tool, sofa brush, extra-long crevice tool
- Filter Type / Washability:Washable filter + mini filter cartridge included
- Portability / On-board Storage:Lightweight with carry handle for transport
- Blowing / Multi-function Air Feature:Blowing feature for dust removal
- Additional Feature:45 cfm airflow
- Additional Feature:Detachable body for dumping
- Additional Feature:Runtime up to 30 minutes
CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless 2-Gallon Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum
In case you need a compact, battery-powered vacuum for quick shop cleanups, the CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless 2-Gallon Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum is a solid pick — it pairs a 35 CFM motor with a portable 2‑gallon tank so you can tackle wet or dry messes without hauling cords. You’ll appreciate the HEPA-rated filter that traps 99.7% of filth and irritants, helping keep your workspace healthier. The 7 ft. 8 in. hose gives extended reach, and on-board storage keeps the hose and accessories organized. Take into account it’s a bare tool: battery and charger are sold separately.
- Power Source / Battery Compatibility:DeWALT/V20 (20V) battery system compatible (battery not included)
- Wet/Dry Capability:Wet and dry debris cleanup
- Onboard/Included Accessories:On-board hose and accessory storage (accessories included on-board)
- Filter Type / Washability:HEPA-rated filter (traps 99.7%)
- Portability / On-board Storage:Portable 2-gallon tank with on-board storage
- Blowing / Multi-function Air Feature:(No explicit blower listed) — primary function focused on vacuuming (hose reach for flexibility)
- Additional Feature:35 CFM suction
- Additional Feature:7 ft 8 in hose
- Additional Feature:On-board storage organizer
DEWALT 20V MAX 2-Gallon Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum
Provided that you need a compact, cordless vac that handles both wet and dry messes, the DEWALT 20V MAX 2-Gallon is a solid pick — it runs on 20V batteries (or corded power), so you’ll get portable cleanups without losing runtime whenever you plug in. You’ll appreciate the 2-gallon tank for clearing a toilet or clogged pipe and the versatile wet/dry capability. The washable HEPA filter is reusable and easy to access for maintenance, and the flexible 5 ft, 1-1/4 in hose reaches tight spots. On-board accessory storage keeps nozzles and fittings organized. Battery and charger aren’t included.
- Power Source / Battery Compatibility:DEWALT 20V MAX compatible (battery not included)
- Wet/Dry Capability:Wet and dry vacuuming
- Onboard/Included Accessories:On-board accessory storage (accessories included)
- Filter Type / Washability:Washable, reusable HEPA filter
- Portability / On-board Storage:On-board accessory storage and carryable design
- Blowing / Multi-function Air Feature:(No explicit blower listed) — wet/dry vacuuming (no blower specified)
- Additional Feature:Dual corded/cordless operation
- Additional Feature:Empties a toilet capacity
- Additional Feature:Flexible 5 ft hose
DEWALT 20V Cordless Handheld Vacuum (DCV501HB)
For pros who need a compact, jobsite-ready vacuum, the DEWALT 20V Handheld (DCV501HB) delivers powerful dry pickup and OSHA-compliant HEPA filtration in a lightweight, convertible design. You’ll get 46 CFM suction, a 0.7 L tank, and accessories like an extension tube, flexible hose, crevice and gulper nozzles, round brush, floor nozzle, and accessory bag. It converts to a stick vac, has an LED light and reversible belt clip, and the push-button canister makes emptying fast. Battery (DCB205) sells separately; with it you can expect long runtimes, a 3-year warranty, and solid jobsite durability.
- Power Source / Battery Compatibility:DEWALT 20V battery compatible (DCB205 recommended; battery not included)
- Wet/Dry Capability:Dry-only (handheld) — converts to stick (note: DRY only)
- Onboard/Included Accessories:Extension tube, flexible hose, crevice nozzle, round/gulper brushes, floor nozzle, accessory bag
- Filter Type / Washability:HEPA cartridge filter
- Portability / On-board Storage:Compact handheld with belt clip and accessory bag
- Blowing / Multi-function Air Feature:(No blower) — handheld dry vacuum / stick conversion (no blower specified)
- Additional Feature:Converts to stick vacuum
- Additional Feature:Bright built-in LED
- Additional Feature:OSHA Table 1 compliant
EGO Power+ 9 Gallon Cordless Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum
Should you need a powerful cordless vac that can handle garage cleanup, car interiors, and wet spills without dragging a cord around, the EGO Power+ 9 Gallon wet/dry shop vacuum is a great pick — it’s built for pros and serious DIYers who want 110 CFM suction, a 100-inch lift, and up to 60 minutes of runtime on two 6.0Ah ARC Lithium batteries (sold separately). You’ll get brushless efficiency, selectable Low/High/Turbo modes (onboard or via remote), and a 9-gallon tank with drain plug. Comes with multiple nozzles, extension tubes, hose, onboard storage, power tool adapter, and a five-year warranty.
- Power Source / Battery Compatibility:EGO 56V ARC Lithium battery compatible (battery not included)
- Wet/Dry Capability:Wet and dry shop vacuum
- Onboard/Included Accessories:2 extension tubes, crevice nozzle, round brush, large floor nozzle with brush bar, compact floor nozzle, hose, plus power tool adapter
- Filter Type / Washability:Filter cleaning function (filter maintenance feature)
- Portability / On-board Storage:Onboard storage for nozzles/extension/hose; portable design
- Blowing / Multi-function Air Feature:Multiple power modes including Turbo (blower not explicitly listed but high CFM for powerful airflow)
- Additional Feature:110 CFM high flow
- Additional Feature:Wireless remote control
- Additional Feature:9-gallon drain plug
Hoteche 20V Cordless Shop Vacuum (10L)
Should you need a compact, truly portable vac for quick shop jobs or car cleaning, the Hoteche 20V cordless shop vacuum delivers—its 10 L tank, lightweight body and universal wheels make it easy to move and store, while the 20V Li‑ion battery and 20‑minute run time give you enough cordless power for small to medium tasks. You’ll appreciate ≥7.3 KPA suction, a one‑hour charge, and a blowing function for clearing debris. The mini design hides a handle and stores accessories onboard. It’s quiet (≤75 dB), includes multiple nozzles, a cloth filter, and a small brush for easy maintenance.
- Power Source / Battery Compatibility:20V Li-ion battery (integrated battery spec; charger included)
- Wet/Dry Capability:Wet/dry implied (10L dust cup + blowing) — primarily shop vac style
- Onboard/Included Accessories:Floor brush, round brush, crevice nozzle, small brush, 3-piece tube, hose
- Filter Type / Washability:Cloth filter (cleaning brush included)
- Portability / On-board Storage:Mini-size, lightweight, hidden handle, universal wheels
- Blowing / Multi-function Air Feature:Blowing function included
- Additional Feature:Quiet operation ≤75 dB
- Additional Feature:20-minute runtime
- Additional Feature:Includes UL charger
DEWALT 20V MAX 2-Gallon Cordless Wet/Dry Vac
Should you need a compact, powerful wet/dry vac for jobs where mobility matters, the DEWALT 20V MAX 2-Gallon is a smart pick — it delivers HEPA-rated filtration (99.97% at 0.3 microns) and strong suction in a 2-gallon body that’s easy to carry and stash in a truck or garage. You’ll appreciate the washable, reusable filter and the crush-resistant 5 ft x 1-1/4 in hose for tough spots. The crevice tool is Airlock compatible, and on-board storage plus a mounted handle keep accessories tidy. It’s tool-only (battery/charger sold separately) and backed with a 3-year limited warranty.
- Power Source / Battery Compatibility:DEWALT 20V MAX compatible (battery not included)
- Wet/Dry Capability:Wet and dry (HEPA-rated wet-dry filter)
- Onboard/Included Accessories:Crevice tool, flexible hose, on-board accessory storage
- Filter Type / Washability:HEPA-rated wet-dry filter (washable/reusable)
- Portability / On-board Storage:Mounted handle and on-board accessory storage
- Blowing / Multi-function Air Feature:(No explicit blower listed) — flexible hose and crevice tool for similar tasks
- Additional Feature:HEPA 99.97% filtration
- Additional Feature:Crush-resistant hose
- Additional Feature:Can empty a toilet
Factors to Consider When Choosing Cordless Shop Vacs
Choosing the right cordless shop vac requires balancing key specifications against intended use. Crucial considerations include suction power levels, battery compatibility and run time estimates, tank capacity, and filtration quality. Evaluating these factors together helps determine which model will perform reliably for specific cleanup tasks.
Suction Power Levels
Assess suction power through looking beyond peak numbers to sustained airflow and lift: specifications like kPa, CFM, or inches of water lift give a quick sense of capability (values above roughly 10 kPa or 40 CFM indicate strong performance), but practical effectiveness depends on factors such as multiple suction modes, battery charge state, filter and tank condition, motor type, and battery size. Cordless vacs with selectable low/eco and high/turbo modes let users trade runtime for cleaning force.
Real-world suction falls as batteries discharge and as filters or tanks clog, so sustained airflow matters more than short peak readings—especially for wet pick-up and large debris where clogs are likely. Brushless motors and higher-capacity battery platforms better maintain suction under load.
Battery Compatibility
Battery compatibility is a practical bridge between a cordless shop vac’s promised performance and its real-world use: matching voltage, connector type, and chemistry guarantees the vacuum runs safely and delivers expected runtime. Buyers should confirm voltage (e.g., 20V vs 56V) since motors and electronics are engineered for a specific system; incorrect voltage can prevent operation or cause damage. Matching recommended battery capacity (Ah) to usage needs balances runtime against added weight and cost.
Verify chemistry and connector type—Lithium‑ion versus other chemistries and the specific plug/interface—to make certain both physical and electrical compatibility. Check whether the vac accepts multiple battery sizes (2Ah–5Ah) and provided larger cells are advised for peak suction or turbo modes. Prefer units compatible with an existing battery platform to reduce extra chargers and expense.
Run Time Estimates
Estimate runtime based on battery capacity, motor power, and intended use: typical cordless shop vacs run roughly 20 minutes on high or turbo settings and can exceed an hour on low/eco modes with larger batteries. Runtime depends strongly on suction level—turbo or max modes can reduce operating time from 2–3× compared with normal settings.
Manufacturers’ claims usually specify a particular battery; compare runtime per Ah to predict performance with different packs. Intermittent use and lower-power modes extend effective runtime through allowing motor cooling between bursts. Tasks and accessories change current draw: motorized brush heads, long blower runs, or high-resistance hoses decrease total operating minutes. Buyers should match expected job profiles and battery size to acceptable runtime rather than rely on a single quoted number.
Tank Capacity
Tank capacity is a key practical choice for cordless shop vacs because it dictates how much debris or liquid can be collected before emptying and influences weight, portability, and storage.
Capacity typically ranges from about 2–3 gallons for compact units up to 6–9+ gallons for workshop models. For wet pickup, separate wet/dry capacities or drain features matter because liquids fill and add weight faster than dry debris. Larger tanks reduce emptying frequency but increase bulk and transport difficulty for jobsite or car cleaning. Match capacity to use: frequent small cleanups favor 1–3 gallon tanks; heavy workshop cleanup benefits from 6–9+ gallons. Tank material, shape, and removable designs affect emptying, cleaning, and filter access whenever full.
Filtration Quality
Upon controlling fine dust, allergens, or hazardous particulates, filtration quality becomes a primary selection criterion for cordless shop vacs; HEPA or HEPA‑rated filters (capturing ≥99.7% of particles down to 0.3 microns) are recommended, supplemented through washable pre‑filters and accessible replacement designs to balance performance, cost, and maintenance.
Preference should go to washable, reusable filters to reduce long‑term cost, ensuring complete drying before reuse to prevent mold. For wet/dry applications, dual‑stage or liquid‑sensing systems are crucial to stop liquids from bypassing the filter and to protect the motor. Secondary foam or cartridge pre‑filters that trap larger debris extend HEPA life and maintain airflow. Finally, check for easy access to replace filters and reliable availability of replacements to preserve filtration efficiency over the tool’s lifetime.
Portability & Storage
Because job sites and homes vary in layout and transport constraints, portability and storage are essential considerations whenever selecting a cordless shop vac. Weight and carry features matter: lighter units with integral handles or shoulder straps simplify moving between rooms or vehicles.
Mobility is aided through swivel wheels and compact footprints; upright or detachable-tank designs fit closets, trunks, and narrow storage spaces. Hose length, reach and extendable hoses reduce the need to reposition the main unit, improving access under furniture and to high surfaces. On-board accessory and hose storage keeps attachments organized and prevents loss during transport. Quick-deploy features — quick-release hoses, detachable bodies and strap or clip systems — speed stowing and retrieval, saving time on busy jobs.
Attachments & Accessories
After considering portability and storage, attention turns to the tools that determine what a cordless shop vac can actually clean: attachments and accessories. Buyers should check included nozzle types—crevice, floor, brush, round/nozzle head—since long crevice tools and soft‑bristled brushes improve reach and protect upholstery and delicate surfaces.
Confirm extension tube count and lengths to access under furniture, high shelves, or engine bays without awkward bending or aftermarket parts. Verify hose diameter and length (for example 1¼” vs 1‑7/8″, and 6–8 ft) to guarantee attachment compatibility and sustained airflow for heavy debris or long‑reach tasks. Look for on‑board storage or dedicated clips to secure hoses and tools during transport and prevent loss. Finally, confirm filter types and accessory compatibility to safeguard against damage and reduced filtration.
Wet vs. Dry
Which tasks will determine whether a wet/dry model is needed or a dry‑only unit will suffice? The choice hinges on expected messes: liquid cleanup, toilets, or workshop wet messes require wet/dry capability, while drywall dust, sawdust, and car interior debris are fine for dry‑only vacs.
Wet‑capable shop vacs feature sealed motors, float valves or automatic shut‑offs, washable or water‑resistant filters, and drainable tanks (commonly 2–9+ gallons) so liquids can be collected without removing filters. Dry‑only models, including many handhelds, use filtration for fine dust but lack water seals; exposing them to moisture risks shorting motors and ruining filters. Consider tank capacity and reliable float/auto‑stop sensors: larger tanks and secure shut‑offs reduce interruptions during substantial liquid jobs.
