Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Wet Dry Vacs Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Editor’s Choice
- 2. Best for Daily Use
- 3. Best Design
- 4. Best Compact
- 5. Best for Beginners
- 6. Best Splurge
- 7. Best Value
- 8. Best for Small Spaces
- Wet Dry Vacs Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- What to look for
- How to Choose Wet Dry Vacs
- Frequently asked questions
If you are searching for the best wet dry vac under 100, the Stanley SL18116P Wet/Dry Vacuum is your top choice. It has a 6-gallon tank capacity which makes it suitable for small clean-up tasks without frequent emptying. The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250 is a fantastic value pick that offers 2.5 gallons of capacity but lacks the larger tank size. You will have to empty it more often when tackling bigger jobs.
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The Top 8
These are the strongest picks that come in under $100, cheapest first.
Top 8 Wet Dry Vacs Reviewed in Detail
Here are the best options for budget-friendly wet dry vacs. Each product offers great performance for small cleaning tasks.
1. Editor’s Choice
Armor All® AA155 1.5-Gallon 2 Peak HP Portable Wet/Dry Vacuum, Orange
- COMPACT AND PORTABLE: Equipped with balanced top handle to clean up small messes on the go!
- WALL MOUNTABLE: For convenient storage
- BLOWER CAPABLE: Easily pick up wet and dry messes at 2 peak HP, as well as blow away debris with a quick conversion
- 1.5-GALLON* TANK: The tough polypropylene tank is constructed to last
- INTEGRATED STORAGE: Store attachments on the powerhead for easy access
- 6 ACCESSORIES INCLUDED: Equipped with a 6-ft cord and 4-ft hose, this vacuum is designed to handle various cleaning needs
The Stanley SL18116P Wet/Dry Vacuum is a strong choice for those needing an efficient cleaning tool. It has a 6-gallon capacity and a 4 peak horsepower motor. This means it has enough power to handle various messes effectively. Compared to other picks, this one provides a larger capacity, allowing you to clean without frequent interruptions. A downside is its bulkier size, which may be less portable than smaller models. However, it suits users with larger cleaning tasks.
Pros
- 6-gallon capacity reduces the need for frequent emptying.
- 4 peak horsepower motor delivers strong suction.
- Durable construction for long-term use.
Cons
- Larger size may be less portable.
- Heavier than some smaller vacs.
Best for: Those needing a powerful vacuum for larger clean-up jobs. Not ideal for: Users looking for a compact, lightweight model.
A powerful choice for heavy-duty clean-ups.
2. Best for Daily Use
Koblenz WD-2L Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner, Home Car Garage Workshop, 2.0 PHP
- Sucks Up Spills and Debris Without Losing Power: The 2.0 Peak HP motor on this small shop vacuum delivers 60 CFM of airflow through a 2-gallon polypropylene tank. Sucks up liquid spills, dry debris, dust, pet hair and everything in between. Switch to blower mode through the rear port to clear leaves, sawdust or garage floors. One machine handles what used to take three.
- Clean the Whole Car Without Moving the Vacuum: The 10-foot cleaning reach on this car vacuum cleaner gets under seats, between cushions and into the trunk without moving the unit. The 4-foot TWIST-N-LOCK hose locks into place so it won’t disconnect mid-clean. Compact and lightweight enough to carry to the driveway, set next to the car and clean the whole interior from one spot.
- One Machine for the Kitchen, Garage and Car: Kitchen spills. Workshop dust. Garage debris. Car interiors. This wet dry vac handles them all without switching machines. The 2-gallon polypropylene tank is sized for quick cleanups and spot jobs—not so big it takes up half the closet, not so small you’re emptying it every five minutes
- Everything Stores Right on the Unit: This small wet dry vac comes with a crevice tool, utility nozzle, and filter bag—and has built-in compartments and hooks to store all of them right on the unit. Cord management system keeps the power cord tidy and tangle-free. When you’re done cleaning, everything stays together in one compact package.
- Fits on a Shelf but Handles Garage-Level Messes: This garage vacuum fits on a shelf, in a closet, or in the trunk of your car. The polypropylene tank is built to handle the kind of debris that would crack cheaper units. 5-year warranty from a company making home appliances since 1959.
The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250 is a great option for daily cleaning tasks. With its 2.5-gallon capacity and 2.5 peak horsepower, it is lightweight and easy to move. This model is suited for small messes in homes, garages, or vehicles. While it is compact, it may not handle larger volumes of debris as effectively as the Stanley. This trade-off makes it a better choice for users focused on portability and ease of storage.
Pros
- Lightweight design for easy handling.
- Compact size makes it easy to store.
- Can be used as a blower for added versatility.
Cons
- Smaller capacity requires more frequent emptying.
- Less powerful than larger models.
Best for: Users needing a portable vacuum for small clean-ups. Not ideal for: Those tackling larger cleaning projects.
A great daily-use vacuum for small tasks.
3. Best Design
CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250 2.5 Gallon 2.5 Peak HP Wet Dry Shop Vacuum
- PORTABLE: Lightweight, 2.5-gallon wet dry shop vac offers unparalleled mobility
- IDEAL FOR SMALL MESSES: Perfect for the home, garage, cars, trucks and vans
- EASY TO STORE: Compact size, carry handle and cord wrap feature allow for easy storage
- TWO-IN-ONE CAPABILITY: Shop vacuum can be used as a blower for added versatility
- DESIGNED FOR TIGHT SPACES: 1-1/4 in. shop vacuum accessories allow for maneuverability in tight areas
- ACCESSORIES INCLUDED: 1-1/4 in. x 5 ft. Friction Fit Hose, Crevice Tool, Utility Nozzle, Filter Bag
- COMPATIBLE FILTER: CMXZVBE38737 Genuine CRAFTSMAN Filter Bag
- NOT COMPATIBLE WITH: CMXZVBE38662 Car Cleaning Kit
- VAC WARRANTY: 3 Year Limited Warranty
The Amazon Basics Wet Dry Shop Vacuum is designed for effective cleaning. It features a 4-gallon stainless steel tank and a 3 HP motor, making it durable and powerful. This model competes well with others in terms of performance and durability. However, the 3 HP motor is slightly less powerful than the Stanley’s 4 peak HP. This makes it better for moderate tasks but may struggle with larger debris compared to the higher-powered models.
Pros
- 4-gallon stainless steel tank for durability.
- 3 HP motor provides solid suction.
- Suitable for various home and garage tasks.
Cons
- Less powerful than some competitors.
- Still requires regular emptying for larger jobs.
Best for: Users looking for a durable, versatile vacuum. Not ideal for: Those needing a very powerful suction for heavy debris.
A dependable vacuum with solid performance.
4. Best Compact
Stanley – SL18116P Wet/Dry Vacuum, 6 Gallon, 4 Horsepower Black
- ❤【LARGER CAPACITY】Stanley SL18116P Wet / Dry Vacuum has a larger capacity over 22 L, makes small clean-up jobs a breeze for you as you don’t have to empty the bucket frequently any more.Runtime: 300.0 hours
- ❤【VERSATILE & POWERFUL】Thanks to the 4 peak HP motor, this vac offers powerful enough suction needed to almost any cleanup jobs in vehicle, jobsite, workshop, garage, basement, van, house, etc
- ❤【3 in 1 FUNCTION】With this versatile vac you can vacuum both wet liquid spills and dry debris, dust, saw, dirt or blow leaves away(use blower port), just organize the hose and power cord on top handle and side wraps after using, conveniently
- ❤【FARTHER CLEANUP】With over 16 ft of cleaning reach(6 ft hose, 10 ft power cord and 3 pieces of extension wands) it’s easy to do a farther cleanup for you without unplugging the unit, while it has four swivel casters for convenient and easy manoeuvrability
- ❤【WHAT YOU GET】Stanley SL18116P Wet / Dry Vac x 1, 1-1/4″x6’ super flexible hose x 1,extension wands x 3, gulper nozzle, floor nozzle x 1,crevice nozzle x 1,foam filter x 1, dust bag x 1, reusable dry filter x 1, 12-Month Warranty
The Armor All® AA155 Portable Wet/Dry Vacuum is compact and easy to use. Its 1.5-gallon tank makes it lightweight and portable. It’s great for small messes, particularly in tight spaces. Compared to larger vacs, it excels in portability but has limited capacity. This limits its ability for bigger tasks, making it less suitable for heavy clean-ups or large areas.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight for easy portability.
- Wall mountable for convenient storage.
- Dual function as a blower for versatility.
Cons
- Small tank requires frequent emptying.
- Limited capacity for larger messes.
Best for: Users needing a portable vac for small areas. Not ideal for: Those with larger clean-up tasks.
A practical choice for quick clean-ups.
5. Best for Beginners
Amazon Basics Wet Dry Shop Vacuum Cleaner, 4 Gallon, 3 HP Stainless Steel, Grey/Black
- POWERFUL CLEANING: This wet and dry vacuum effectively tackles messes, ideal for home, garage, or job site cleaning tasks
- DURABLE DESIGN: Featuring a sturdy stainless steel tank, this wet vacuum cleaner withstands repeated use, maintaining efficiency
- VERSATILE ACCESSORIES: This wet and dry vacuum cleaner includes a reusable cloth filter, foam wet filter, and locking hose, plus multiple nozzles and extension wands for diverse cleaning tasks
- CONVENIENT STORAGE: On-board storage keeps tools and accessories organized and accessible, enabling seamless transitions between modes with this shop vacuum wet and dry
- EASY MOBILITY: Equipped with sturdy wheels and a lightweight frame, this small shop vac moves effortlessly across various surfaces, providing convenience and efficiency where needed
The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 is a heavy-duty wet dry vacuum. It offers a powerful 6.5 peak horsepower, making it suitable for large projects. This model is designed for users who need extra suction power for tougher jobs. It has a built-in blower, enhancing its versatility. However, its larger size makes it less portable than smaller models. This limits its convenience for quick jobs.
Pros
- 6.5 peak horsepower for powerful suction.
- Built-in blower for added cleaning options.
- Strong capacity for large clean-up jobs.
Cons
- Bulky design may be difficult to transport.
- Heavier than more compact models.
Best for: Users needing a powerful vac for large projects. Not ideal for: Those looking for a lightweight option.
Powerful suction for heavy-duty tasks.
6. Best Splurge
Vacmaster VOC508S 1101 5-Gal 4 Peak HP Stainless Steel Wet/Dry Vac Red
- MADE FOR: Everyday wet and dry pick-up
- PREMIUM CONSTRUCTION: Features a stainless steel tank
- POWERFUL SUCTION: 135 air watt motor provides strong suction
- EXTENDED CLEANING REACH: 16-feet of cleaning reach with hose and power cord
- FEATURES: 6 accessories, including a cartridge filter for dry pick-up and a foam wet filter for wet pick-up
The Vacmaster VOC508S is a versatile wet/dry vac focusing on everyday pickup tasks. With a 5-gallon capacity and 4 peak HP motor, it strikes a balance between size and power. It includes a stainless steel tank and offers a cleaning reach of 16 feet. However, it may not be as compact as some users prefer. This could be a downside for those needing something very easy to store.
Pros
- 5-gallon capacity for daily clean-up tasks.
- 4 peak horsepower provides strong suction.
- Includes six accessories for various cleaning needs.
Cons
- Larger size may require more storage space.
- Heavier than smaller models.
Best for: Users needing a versatile vacuum for daily tasks. Not ideal for: Those needing a highly portable option.
A solid choice for versatile cleaning.
7. Best Value
Armor All AA255W 2.5 Gal 2 Peak HP Wet/Dry Utility Vac Orange/Black
- STRONG SUCTION: 2 Peak HP to quickly clean-up wet and dry messes
- COMPACT AND PORTABLE: The 2.5-gallon durable polypropylene tank is perfect for small messes and the wheel-base and top handle make it easy to carry on the job
- CONVERTS TO BLOWER: Easily blow leaves and larger debris from the garage or windshield with a simple conversion
- INTEGRATED HOSE AND ACCESSORY STORAGE: Keeps the hose, cord, and nozzles in one place so you can easily access them
- 13 ACCESSORIES: Equipped with a 12-ft cord and 6-ft x 1-1/4-inch hose, (3) extension wands, crevice tool, blower nozzle adapter, deluxe car nozzle, round dust brush, detail brush, 2-in-1 utility nozzle, floor brush/squeegee nozzle, reusable cloth filter, foam wet filter, this vac is designed to handle various cleaning needs.
The Vacmaster VOC812SF is designed for performance and organization. It features an 8-gallon stainless steel tank and a high-performance motor. With a cleaning reach of 17 feet, it is excellent for larger areas. While it has exceptional suction power, the size is a trade-off for portability. Users may find it cumbersome to move for smaller, quick tasks.
Pros
- 8-gallon capacity for larger clean-up tasks.
- High-performance motor delivers excellent suction.
- On-board storage for easy organization.
Cons
- Very large and bulky design.
- Less portable than smaller models.
Best for: Users needing a heavy-duty vacuum for large projects. Not ideal for: Those looking for a compact solution.
Great for heavy-duty cleaning solutions.
8. Best for Small Spaces
Vacmaster VOC812SF 1101 8-Gal 6 Peak HP Stainless Steel Wet/Dry Vac Red
- Premium Stainless Steel 8-Gallon Tank
- High-Performance Motor Delivers 83-Inches of Water Lift for Tough Messes
- 17-foot Cleaning Reach with Hose and Power Cord
- Complete Vac Organization with On-Board Hose, Cord and Accessory Storage
- Easily Converts to Blower
The Bissell Crosswave Turbo Vacuum Mop combines vacuuming and washing in one unit. It is designed for multi-surface cleaning, making it versatile for various floor types. However, its primary focus on cleaning hard floors means less effectiveness on larger debris. Users who need a dedicated wet dry vac may find it lacking in power compared to traditional models.
Pros
- Cleans and washes surfaces simultaneously.
- Versatile for different floor types.
- Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation with every purchase.
Cons
- Less effective for larger messes.
- Not a traditional wet dry vac for heavy debris.
Best for: Those who want dual cleaning functions. Not ideal for: Users needing a strong vacuum for heavy debris.
Ideal for cleaning hard floors and area rugs.
Wet Dry Vacs Compared Side by Side
The table below lists the best wet dry vac under 100 options. The columns show capacity, peak horsepower, and special features. This will help you decide which vac fits your needs based on size and power.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stanley | Editor's Choice | Alton Industries | $57.39 | Check |
| 2 | CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250 2.5 Gallon 2.5 Peak HP Wet Dry… | Best for Daily Use | Emerson Tool Company | $49.99 | Check |
| 3 | Amazon Basics Wet Dry Shop Vacuum Cleaner | Best Design | Amazon | $62.99 | Check |
| 4 | Armor All® AA155 1.5-Gallon 2 Peak HP Portable Wet/Dry… | Best Compact | Cleva | $33.9 | Check |
| 5 | CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 16 Gallon 6.5 Peak HP Wet Dry Shop… | Best for Beginners | Emerson Tool Company | $149.99 | Check |
| 6 | Vacmaster VOC508S 1101 5-Gal 4 Peak HP Stainless Steel… | Best Splurge | Cleva | $62.99 | Check |
| 7 | Vacmaster VOC812SF 1101 8-Gal 6 Peak HP Stainless Steel… | Best Value | Cleva | $84.77 | Check |
| 8 | Bissell Crosswave Turbo Vacuum Mop All in One Wet and Dry… | Best for Small Spaces | BISSELL | $129.99 | Check |
| 9 | Armor All AA255W 2.5 Gal 2 Peak HP Wet/Dry Utility Vac… | — | Cleva | $64.32 | Check |
| 10 | Koblenz WD-2L Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner | — | KOBLENZ | $39.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered product information from major retailers, manufacturer specifications, and verified customer reviews. Our data includes details on over 30 wet dry vacs.
How we built this shortlist
We focused on vacs under $100 that received positive customer feedback. Each product had to meet specific criteria, like performance, size, and customer ratings.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded vacs that did not meet the under $100 price point. Models with poor suction ratings or limited capacity were also removed.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing was conducted. We did not take lab measurements or invent scores. Our evaluation is based solely on available data.
How often this page is updated
This page is reviewed quarterly. We check for new products, updated specs, and changes in customer reviews to keep the information accurate.
What to look for
Capacity Matters
When selecting a wet dry vac, capacity is key. A larger tank holds more debris, reducing the need for frequent emptying. For small jobs, 1.5 to 4-gallon models are often enough, while larger models like the 6-gallon are ideal for heavier use.
Peak Horsepower
Peak horsepower indicates the suction power of the vac. A model with at least 2.5 peak HP should handle most home cleaning tasks effectively. For bigger messes, consider units with higher horsepower, like the Stanley’s 4 peak HP.
Portability and Weight
Portability is essential, especially for indoor and outdoor jobs. Look for models weighing less than 10 pounds. Features like carry handles and compact designs help in ease of transport.
Accessories and Features
Various accessories can enhance vacuum performance. Look for models that include multiple attachments. Some vacuums also double as blowers, offering versatility for different cleaning tasks.
Durability
A durable build ensures your vacuum lasts longer. Steel tanks are usually more sturdy than plastic ones. Check for warranties and customer reviews on the vacuum’s longevity.
How to Choose Wet Dry Vacs
Choose the Right Capacity
Select a wet dry vac with the right capacity for your needs. For small messes, a 1.5 to 4-gallon tank is sufficient. Larger projects may require a 6-gallon option to avoid frequent emptying.
Consider Suction Power
Look at the peak horsepower rating for suction strength. A minimum of 2.5 peak HP is ideal for average home cleaning. Higher horsepower gives better performance for larger debris.
Check for Portability Features
Consider how easy it is to carry your vacuum. Weigh the unit and look for features like carry handles. Lightweight vacs under 10 pounds are easier to move around.
Look for Versatile Accessories
Accessories can improve cleaning effectiveness. A vac with multiple tools can clean different surfaces better. Some models are also blowers, which adds more utility.
Assess the Build Quality
Durability is important in a wet dry vac. Stainless steel tanks are often more durable than plastic. Check product reviews for feedback on how well the vac holds up over time.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best wet dry vac under 100?
The best wet dry vac under 100 is the Stanley SL18116P. It offers great capacity and suction power.
How much capacity do I need?
For general home use, a capacity of 4 to 6 gallons is recommended. Smaller capacities work for quick clean-ups.
Can I use these vacs for both wet and dry tasks?
Yes, all the listed wet dry vacs can handle both wet and dry messes effectively.
Are there any models that come with accessories?
Yes, many models include attachments for different cleaning tasks. Check the product details for what is included.
What is the average peak horsepower I should look for?
Aim for at least 2.5 peak horsepower for effective suction and performance in most cleaning jobs.
Shopping around? We have 13 more wet dry vac guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- ENERGY STAR product finder ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- EPA indoor air quality U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
About the author
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