For large garage cleanups, the CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 offers the largest listed tank at 16 gallons and a 6.5 peak HP motor for $149.99. For routine garage messes at a lower price, the CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17590 costs $109.99 and has a 9-gallon tank, blower port, and oversized drain. Need compact storage instead? The wall-mounted Shop-Vac has a 3.5-gallon tank and 18-foot hose for $109.99.
Specifications and features below come from the supplied product descriptions; they are not results of hands-on testing. Check current price and exact-model instructions before buying.
Compare garage wet/dry vacuums under $150
| Model | Capacity and motor | Useful garage details |
|---|---|---|
| CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 16 Gallon 6.5 Peak HP Wet | 16 gallons; 6.5 peak HP | Oversized drain, blower port, 7-foot hose, 3-year limited warranty |
| DEWALT 12 Gallon Poly Wet/Dry Vac | 12 gallons; 5.5 HP | 20-foot power cord, large drain, blower port, onboard accessory storage |
| Shop-Vac 5 Gallon 4.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vacuum | 5 gallons; 4.5 peak HP | Stainless steel tank, blower function, 7-foot hose, caster system |
| CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17590 9 Gallon 4.25 Peak HP Wet | 9 gallons; 4.25 peak HP | Oversized drain, blower port, 7-foot hose, 3-year limited warranty |
| DEWALT DXV06P 4 Peak HP Shop Vacuums | 6 gallons; 4 HP | 10-foot power cord, blower port, rubberized casters |
| Shop-Vac 3.5 Gallon Wall-Mounted Shop Vacuum Wet | 3.5 gallons; 4.5 peak HP | 18-foot hose, 6-foot cord, wall mount, 12.6-pound listed weight |
Best fit by garage cleanup task
For bulky debris or frequent liquid pickup: 16-gallon CRAFTSMAN
The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 has the biggest listed tank and highest stated peak HP among these options. Its 2-1/2-inch-diameter, 7-foot hose and oversized drain suit larger cleanups where capacity and liquid disposal matter. It costs $149.99, leaving little room under the stated budget. Its 3-year limited warranty is listed in the product information.
Skip this larger model if storage space or easy carrying matters more than capacity. The supplied details do not give its weight or dimensions.
For long reach without frequent outlet changes: 12-gallon DEWALT
The DEWALT 12 Gallon Poly Wet/Dry Vac costs $139 and pairs a 12-gallon tank with a 20-foot power cord. That cord is the longest listed here, useful when garage outlets are not close to the work area. It also has a large drain, blower port, and onboard accessory storage. Hose length and included attachments are not specified in the supplied details, so confirm those before purchase.
For regular garage jobs at a lower price: 9-gallon CRAFTSMAN
At $109.99, the CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17590 provides a 9-gallon tank, 4.25 peak HP motor, oversized drain, and blower port. Its listed 7-foot hose and car, utility, and wet nozzles cover a mix of floor, vehicle, and liquid cleanup tasks. The product information lists a 3-year limited warranty.
For compact storage: wall-mounted Shop-Vac
The Shop-Vac 3.5 Gallon Wall-Mounted Shop Vacuum Wet costs $109.99 and includes an 18-foot hose, 6-foot cord, three extension wands, and floor, utility, crevice, and round-brush tools. Its mount and hose storage can reduce floor clutter. At 3.5 gallons, its tank is the smallest in this comparison, so it may mean more frequent emptying during larger jobs. The listed weight is 12.6 pounds.
For a smaller, mobile option: 6-gallon DEWALT
The DEWALT DXV06P costs $109.99 and has a 6-gallon tank, 10-foot power cord, rubberized casters, and blower port. Its product details describe it as suitable for small cleanup jobs. The supplied information mentions a washable, reusable filter and a crevice nozzle, but does not provide hose length or a full accessory list.
For a stainless steel tank and included tool set: 5-gallon Shop-Vac
The Shop-Vac 5 Gallon 4.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vacuum costs $129.99. Its listed kit includes a 7-foot hose, three extension wands, wet/dry nozzle, gulper nozzle, crevice tool, round brush, cartridge filter, disposable filter bag, and foam sleeve. It also has a blower function and caster system. Its 5-gallon capacity is modest compared with the larger CRAFTSMAN and DEWALT models.
What to check before buying
- Tank size: Larger tanks reduce how often you stop to empty the vacuum, but take more room to store. Listed capacities range from 3.5 to 16 gallons.
- Reach: Compare hose and cord lengths separately. The wall-mounted Shop-Vac lists an 18-foot hose; the 12-gallon DEWALT lists a 20-foot cord. Longer reach can reduce repositioning, but does not guarantee access around every garage layout.
- Wet and dry setup: Wet pickup may require a different filter or configuration than dry debris. Follow the exact model’s instructions; the supplied descriptions do not give a complete changeover procedure for every vacuum.
- Dust control: For fine debris, check which filter and bag are included and whether they suit the material. Do not assume a shop vacuum captures every hazardous dust type; verify the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific material.
- Emptying and storage: Oversized drains appear on both CRAFTSMAN models and the 12-gallon DEWALT. The wall-mounted Shop-Vac prioritizes storage; wheeled models prioritize moving the vacuum around.
For related cleaning-equipment guidance, see commercial vacuum maintenance and the Cleaning & Floor Care category.
FAQ
Which option has the largest tank under $150?
The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 has a 16-gallon tank.
Which listed vacuum has the longest power cord?
The DEWALT 12 Gallon Poly Wet/Dry Vac lists a 20-foot power cord. The wall-mounted Shop-Vac lists the longest hose at 18 feet, but its cord is 6 feet.
Can these vacuums pick up water and dry debris?
Each product is described as a wet/dry vacuum. Check its manual for filter changes and setup before switching between liquid and dry pickup.
Pros
- Versatile for both wet and dry applications in home renovations
- Convenient blower port for clearing yard debris without additional tools
Cons
- The large 16-gallon capacity may occupy significant space in smaller workshops
- Some users might find the included hose length limiting for extended reach
Specifications
| Other Special Features of the Product | Blowing Port; Wet/Dry; Casters; Portable; Drain; Onboard Storage |
|---|---|
| Filter Type | Cartridge |
| Surface Recommendation | All floors |
| Capacity | 16 gallons |
| Maximum Suction | 46 Inches |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Outdoor |
| Color | Red |
| Noise Level | 69 Decibels |
| Number of Speeds | 1 |
| Portable | No |
Verify the current product variation before purchase; specifications may change.
Best For / Avoid If
Best for buyers prioritizing
- Versatile for both wet and dry applications in home renovations
- Convenient blower port for clearing yard debris without additional tools
- Compatible with a range of genuine CRAFTSMAN filters and bags for ongoing use
Consider another option if
- The large 16-gallon capacity may occupy significant space in smaller workshops
- Some users might find the included hose length limiting for extended reach
- Requires compatible accessories for specialized tasks beyond the provided set
Pros
- 4.5 peak HP motor powers effective suction and blower conversion
- Stainless steel tank adds resilience for repeated garage and workshop use
Cons
- Five gallon capacity may not suit users who need contractor grade volume for heavy jobs
- Six foot power cord could require an extension cord in larger spaces
Specifications
| Other Special Features of the Product | Portable |
|---|---|
| Filter Type | Foam |
| Surface Recommendation | Dual Action, Hard Floor |
| Capacity | 5 gallons |
| Maximum Suction | 70 Feet |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Hard Floor, Garage, Workshop, Car, Truck, Van |
| Noise Level | 78 Decibels |
| Style Name | Canister |
| Portable | Yes |
| Number of Power Levels | 1 |
Verify the current product variation before purchase; specifications may change.
Best For / Avoid If
Best for buyers prioritizing
- 4.5 peak HP motor powers effective suction and blower conversion
- Stainless steel tank adds resilience for repeated garage and workshop use
- Portable casters and collapsible handle improve mobility around job sites
Consider another option if
- Five gallon capacity may not suit users who need contractor grade volume for heavy jobs
- Six foot power cord could require an extension cord in larger spaces
- Standard accessories cover common needs but advanced users may want more specialized attachments
Pros
- Versatile for wet and dry applications in home settings.
- Strong motor suction handles demanding pickup tasks.
Cons
- Requires prior filter installation to prevent sudden stops.
- May not suffice for very large volume cleanups due to tank size.
Specifications
| Other Special Features of the Product | Portable |
|---|---|
| Filter Type | Cartridge |
| Surface Recommendation | Hard Floor |
| Capacity | 6 gallons |
| Maximum Suction | 50 Inches |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Hard Floor |
| Color | Yellow |
| Noise Level | 77 Decibels |
| Style Name | DeWALT 6 Gallon Poly Wet/Dry Vac |
| Number of Speeds | 1 |
Verify the current product variation before purchase; specifications may change.
Best For / Avoid If
Best for buyers prioritizing
- Versatile for wet and dry applications in home settings.
- Strong motor suction handles demanding pickup tasks.
- Convenient long cord with wrap for storage and reach.
Consider another option if
- Requires prior filter installation to prevent sudden stops.
- May not suffice for very large volume cleanups due to tank size.
Pros
- Secure wall storage keeps the vacuum accessible without cluttering floors
- Long hose and extensions limit the need to relocate the unit often
Cons
- 3.5-gallon tank may need more frequent emptying on bigger messes
- 6 ft power cord can restrict placement without an extension cord
Specifications
| Other Special Features of the Product | High Power, Wall-Mounted, Washable Filter, Wet/Dry |
|---|---|
| Filter Type | Cartridge, Foam |
| Surface Recommendation | All floors |
| Capacity | 3.5 gallons |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Car, Garage, Workshop |
| Color | Red&black |
| Portable | Yes |
| Indoor Outdoor Usage | Indoor, Outdoor |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Is Product Cordless | No |
Verify the current product variation before purchase; specifications may change.
Best For / Avoid If
Best for buyers prioritizing
- Secure wall storage keeps the vacuum accessible without cluttering floors
- Long hose and extensions limit the need to relocate the unit often
- Versatile nozzle set covers wet spills and dry debris in mixed settings
Consider another option if
- 3.5-gallon tank may need more frequent emptying on bigger messes
- 6 ft power cord can restrict placement without an extension cord
- Capacity suits home and light DIY use more than continuous heavy jobs
Pros
- Wet and dry versatility with dedicated wet nozzle for home emergencies and garage messes
- Complete accessory set covers automotive, utility, and extension needs out of the box
Cons
- Nine gallon capacity may not suit users needing contractor-grade volume for extensive debris
- Ten foot cord length could require an extension for larger work areas
Best For / Avoid If
Best for buyers prioritizing
- Wet and dry versatility with dedicated wet nozzle for home emergencies and garage messes
- Complete accessory set covers automotive, utility, and extension needs out of the box
- Convenient oversized drain and Qwik Lock system ease liquid disposal and filter maintenance
Consider another option if
- Nine gallon capacity may not suit users needing contractor-grade volume for extensive debris
- Ten foot cord length could require an extension for larger work areas
- Eighty dB sound level may feel loud during extended indoor sessions
Pros
- Handles both wet and dry messes with strong suction power
- Offers ample capacity for extended cleaning sessions without frequent stops
Cons
- Requires regular exterior cleaning to preserve appearance
- May take up significant space in smaller workshops or garages
Specifications
| Brand | DEWALT |
|---|---|
| Special Feature | Big Capacity, Corded, Large Drain Port, Wet/Dry/Blower |
| Filter Type | Cartridge |
| Surface Recommendation | Carpet, Hard Floor, Upholstery |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
Verify the current product variation before purchase; specifications may change.
Best For / Avoid If
Best for buyers prioritizing
- Handles both wet and dry messes with strong suction power
- Offers ample capacity for extended cleaning sessions without frequent stops
- Features convenient elements like storage and a long power cord
Consider another option if
- Requires regular exterior cleaning to preserve appearance
- May take up significant space in smaller workshops or garages
