Guides
Practical shop vacuum buying content — airflow math, filter types, and capacity matching. No brand fluff.
Why this page exists
Shop vacuum reviews focus almost entirely on brand and price. The specs that predict whether a shop vac will actually pick up the debris you generate — CFM airflow, water lift, filter micron rating — are rarely explained. Neither tells you why a 16-gallon vac with low CFM cleans a concrete floor worse than a 5-gallon with high CFM.
A 6.5-peak-HP shop vac and a 3-peak-HP shop vac from different brands may or may not perform similarly in your workshop — because peak horsepower is a marketing number, not an airflow spec. This page explains which numbers do the work.
Shop vacuums worth searching on eBay
Wet/dry vacs, filters, and accessories from established brands. We earn a small commission on qualifying sales; your price is unchanged. Full disclosure.
Shop vacuum wet dry
The main category. Filter by gallon size and check that the listing specifies wet/dry capability — dry-only vacs cannot handle liquid pickup.
Shop vac 5 gallon
Compact size for smaller workshops, job-site cleanup, or tight spaces. Easier to carry; empties faster. Good balance of capacity vs portability for most homeowners.
Shop vac filter
Filter type determines what you can pick up safely. Fine-dust filters (1–5 micron) for dry sawdust; foam sleeves for wet pickup; HEPA-rated for hazardous dust. Match to your brand/model.
Shop vac hose kit
Replacement and extension hoses, crevice tools, floor nozzles, and brush attachments. Check hose diameter (1-7/8", 2-1/2") — not all accessories fit all vacs.
Portable shop vac
Compact, lightweight, often cordless or with short cords. Good for job-site use, car detailing, and quick cleanups. Look for 2.5–4 gallon units with an included carry handle.