2 Best CRAFTSMAN Shop Vacs with 6.5 HP, Compared
We compare 2 CRAFTSMAN shop vacs with 6.5 HP motors. This guide ranks models by tank capacity and suction power to help you select the right unit for your workshop.
By GaugeKit Editorial Team 5 min read
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You need reliable suction for heavy debris. This guide ranks the best CRAFTSMAN shop vacs with 6 5 hp based on specs from the listings. We compared 2 models to find the right tool for your workshop or garage.
The top pick is the CRAFTSMAN 20-Gallon 6.5 HP Wet Dry Vac. Its 20-gallon tank capacity leads the list for large volume debris cleanup. Read on to decide which model fits your workspace size and power needs.
Choose tank size for your needs
Pick the 20-gallon model for large volume debris in workshops. Choose the 16-gallon unit if you prioritize portability and a detachable blower for garage cleanup. Both feature 6.5 HP motors. The larger tank holds more dust but takes up more space. The smaller unit is easier to move. Select based on your storage and capacity requirements.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | CRAFTSMAN 20-Gallon 6.5 HP Wet Dry Vac Best overall | large volume debris cleanup in workshops | |
| 2 | Craftsman 16 Gal 6.5 HP Wet Dry Vac Best portable | Portable garage cleanup and jobsite debris removal |
The best fit for you
- You need the largest tank capacity for heavy debris – CRAFTSMAN 20-Gallon 6.5 HP Wet Dry Vac – The 20-gallon tank holds more volume than the 16-gallon alternative.
- You want the most compact model on the list – Craftsman 16 Gal 6.5 HP Wet Dry Vac – Its 24.5-inch height and 16-gallon capacity fit tighter spaces.
- You prioritize portability and detachable blower function – Craftsman 16 Gal 6.5 HP Wet Dry Vac – The portable form factor and blower feature aid quick cleanup.
CRAFTSMAN 20-Gallon 6.5 HP Wet Dry Vac
Best for: large volume debris cleanup in workshops
- Motor Power
- 6.5 HP
- Tank Capacity
- 20 Gallon
- Hose Length
- 7 ft.
- Filter Type
- Qwik Lock Filter
- Application
- Jobsite, Garage
- Dimensions
- 21 × 23.8 × 30 inches
This CRAFTSMAN wet dry vac features a 6.5 Peak HP motor and a 20-gallon tank capacity. It includes a 7-foot hose and a built-in blower port. The oversized drain simplifies liquid removal. You get a Qwik Lock filter and a dust bag. This unit suits large cleanup jobs in the garage or on the jobsite.
- 20-gallon tank capacity for large messes
- 6.5 Peak HP motor for heavy-duty cleanup
- Built-in blower port for outdoor debris
- Oversized drain for convenient liquid emptying
- Includes 7-foot hose and multiple tools
- 7-foot hose length is shorter than 20-foot options
- Standard cart configuration lacks the mobility of wheeled carts
- Single Qwik Lock filter requires separate purchase for extras
- You need a 20-gallon tank for large debris loads
- You require a 6.5 Peak HP motor for tough jobs
- You want a built-in blower for leaves and grass
- You need a hose longer than 7 feet
- You prefer a compact 12-gallon or 16-gallon unit
- You want a model with a dedicated wheeled cart
Verdict: CRAFTSMAN 20 Gal 6.5 HP Shop Vac delivers high capacity and power for serious cleanup tasks. It fits users who prioritize tank volume and motor strength over extended hose reach or integrated cart mobility.
Craftsman 16 Gal 6.5 HP Wet Dry Vac
Best for: Portable garage cleanup and jobsite debris removal
- Motor Power
- 6.5 HP
- Tank Capacity
- 16 Gallon
- Hose Length
- 7 ft
- Application
- Garage
- Form Factor
- Portable
- Dimensions
- 20.6 × 23.8 × 24.5 inches
This CRAFTSMAN shop vac offers 6.5 Peak HP motor power in a 16-gallon portable tank. It features a detachable blower function and a Dual-Flex hose with Pos-i-Lock for secure attachment. The oversized drain simplifies liquid removal. You get extension wands, a utility nozzle, and a dust bag included. Its compact 23.8-inch width suits garage or jobsite use where portability matters more than maximum capacity.
- 6.5 Peak HP motor for heavy-duty cleanup
- Detachable blower wand for clearing debris
- Dual-Flex hose with Pos-i-Lock secure attachment
- Oversized drain for convenient liquid emptying
- Includes dust bag and multiple nozzle accessories
- 16-gallon capacity is smaller than the 20-gallon option on this list
- 7-foot hose length is shorter than typical full-size shop vacs
- You need a portable vacuum for garage or jobsite use
- You want a detachable blower function for outdoor debris
- You prefer a 16-gallon tank for manageable weight and size
- You require a 20-gallon or larger tank capacity
- You need a longer hose than 7 feet for hard-to-reach areas
- You are looking for the largest available CRAFTSMAN shop vac model
Verdict: CRAFTSMAN 16 Gal 6.5 HP Portable Shop Vac fits users who prioritize portability and a detachable blower over maximum tank capacity. It is a practical tool for garage cleanup and jobsite debris removal where a 20-gallon unit would be too bulky.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | CRAFTSMAN 20-Gallon 6.5 HP Wet Dry Vac | Craftsman 16 Gal 6.5 HP Wet Dry Vac |
|---|---|---|
| Tank Capacity | 20 Gallon | 16 Gallon |
| Motor Power | 6.5 Peak HP | 6.5 Peak HP |
| Hose Length | 7 ft. | 7 ft |
| Filter Type | Qwik Lock Filter | – |
| Application | Jobsite, Garage | Garage |
| Form Factor | – | Portable |
| Capacity | – | 16 Gallon |
| Dimensions | 21 × 23.8 × 30 inches | 20.6 × 23.8 × 24.5 inches |
| Size | 20 Gallon 6.5 Peak HP w/Filter, Dust Bag, Hose | 16 Gallon 6.5 Peak Hp With Dust Bag |
| Color | Red | Red |
| Model | CMXEVBE17596 | CMXEVBE17607 |
How to Choose a 6.5 HP Shop Vac
Check tank volume needs
Tank capacity determines how often you must empty the unit. The 20-gallon CRAFTSMAN model suits large workshops where you handle high volumes of sawdust and debris. A larger tank reduces interruption during long cleanup sessions. The 16-gallon option offers less capacity but remains manageable. You should select the 20-gallon size if your primary goal is maximum storage for heavy jobsite waste. Choose the smaller tank if you prioritize easier handling over raw volume.
Consider physical dimensions
Measure your storage space before buying. The 20-gallon unit measures 30 inches in height and 23.8 inches in width. This footprint requires a dedicated corner in your garage. The 16-gallon model stands 24.5 inches tall with a length of 20.6 inches. It fits tighter spaces better. You should verify your available floor area matches the unit’s length and width. Height matters for overhead storage or low-ceiling sheds. Smaller dimensions aid maneuverability around tight workbenches.
Verify motor power rating
Both listed models feature a 6.5 peak horsepower motor. This rating indicates strong suction power for wet and dry debris. You should confirm the motor matches your heavy-duty requirements. Peak horsepower measures maximum output, not continuous running power. However, 6.5 HP is sufficient for most workshop tasks. You do not need to compare different motor sizes here since both options share this specification. Focus on how the motor pairs with the tank size for your specific debris volume.
Assess portability requirements
Portability depends on weight and handle design. The 16-gallon unit is labeled as portable. It is easier to carry up stairs or move between rooms. The 20-gallon model is heavier due to its larger tank. You should choose the portable option if you frequently move the vacuum. The larger unit stays better in one spot. Consider if you need to transport the tool to different jobsites. The smaller footprint of the 16-gallon version aids quick relocation.
Review included accessories
Check what comes in the box. The 20-gallon model includes a filter, dust bag, and hose. These items are essential for immediate use. You should verify if the hose length meets your reach needs. The 16-gallon unit also includes a dust bag. Accessories impact functionality more than the motor alone. You need a hose for distant debris. A dust bag helps keep the filter clean. Ensure the listed accessories match your cleanup style before finalizing your choice.
Frequently asked questions
Which CRAFTSMAN shop vac is best for large workshop debris?
The CRAFTSMAN 20-Gallon 6.5 HP Wet Dry Vac is the top choice. It offers the largest tank capacity on the list for heavy cleanup tasks. This model prioritizes volume and motor strength. It measures 23.8 inches wide and 30 inches tall. This size fits users who need to handle large amounts of dust and debris without frequent emptying.
Is there a more portable 6.5 HP CRAFTSMAN option?
Yes, the CRAFTSMAN 16 Gal 6.5 HP Wet Dry Vac is rated as the best portable option. It is smaller and lighter than the 20-gallon model. It stands 24.5 inches tall and includes a detachable blower function. This makes it ideal for garage cleanup where space is limited or you need to move the unit frequently.
What are the dimensions of the 20-gallon CRAFTSMAN shop vac?
The CRAFTSMAN 20-Gallon 6.5 HP Wet Dry Vac measures 21 inches in length, 23.8 inches in width, and 30 inches in height. These dimensions reflect its large tank capacity. The red finish is standard for this model. You should ensure you have adequate floor space in your workshop to accommodate this footprint.
What are the dimensions of the 16-gallon CRAFTSMAN shop vac?
The CRAFTSMAN 16 Gal 6.5 HP Wet Dry Vac measures 20.6 inches in length, 23.8 inches in width, and 24.5 inches in height. It is more compact than the 20-gallon alternative. This smaller profile helps it fit into tighter garage spaces. It also includes a dust bag for easier debris management.
Do these shop vacs include hoses and filters?
The 20-gallon model comes with a hose, filter, and dust bag included in the package. The 16-gallon model includes a dust bag. Both units feature 6.5 HP motors for strong suction. You should check the specific product listing for the exact hose length and filter type, as these are part of the standard accessory package.
Can the CRAFTSMAN 16-gallon vac be used as a blower?
Yes, the 16-gallon CRAFTSMAN model features a detachable blower function. This allows you to convert the unit from a vacuum to a blower for clearing leaves or dust. The 20-gallon model is not described as having this detachable feature. If you need both functions, the 16-gallon portable unit is the better choice.
What is the model number for the top-rated CRAFTSMAN shop vac?
The top-rated CRAFTSMAN 20-Gallon 6.5 HP Wet Dry Vac has the model number CMXEVBE17596. The 16-gallon portable model is identified as CMXEVBE17607. You can use these numbers to verify specifications or find replacement parts. Both models share the same 6.5 HP motor power rating.
See also
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