Say goodbye to noisy dust collectors and hello to a more efficient and quieter way of cleaning and woodworking – there’s another option that can help you out: the Quiet Shop Vac. This type of vacuum is specifically designed to be quieter than traditional dust collectors while still providing plenty of suction power to get the job done.
To make your life easier, we’ve rounded up the top six quiet shop vacs available on the market, so you can choose the perfect one that will suit your specific needs. Whether you’re using it in your home workshop or garage, we’ve got you covered. Each of these vacuums has its unique features, such as a large capacity or specialized attachments, so keep reading to discover the features of each of these quiet shop vacs and find the one that suits you best.
Types of Shop Vacs
First, let’s take a look at the types of shop vacs you will find on the market, each with their own set of features and benefits. The most common type is the standard shop vac, which is designed for general cleaning applications. These vacuums typically have a single stage motor and can be used to clean up wet or dry messes. The next type is the HEPA shop vac, which is designed for use in environments where air quality is a concern. These vacuums have a two-stage motor and use filters that meet HEPA standards, meaning they can remove 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns or larger from the air. The last type is the industrial shop vac, which is designed for heavy-duty cleaning applications. These vacuums have a powerful motor and can usually be used to clean up wet or dry messes. Industrial shop vacs are typically the most expensive type of vacuum, but they’re also the most powerful.
If we talk about the standard shop vacuums, there are three primary types of shop vacuums to choose from when shopping for one – Wet Dry Shop Vacs, Wall Mountable Vacuums, and Cordless/Portable Shop Vacs. Let’s briefly go over each of them so you have a better idea of what they are and how they work.
1. Wet Dry Shop Vac
This type is best for both wet and dry pickup. They are typically used for spills that need to be picked up immediately, as the dirt cannot sit in water. Keep in mind that this will not prevent mold growth if leftover wet debris for over 48 hours. This type is best used in garages with spills and messes that need to be attended to right away.
2. Wall Mountable Shop Vac
This type of vacuum is typically mounted on the wall, so you can easily store it when not in use. They are often smaller than most shop vacuums but still deliver great suction. You can usually find wall mountable shop vacs in workshops with limited storage space.
3. Cordless/Portable Shop Vac
Another type is the cordless or portable shop vacuum. This one gives you maximum convenience with the ability to carry it around without worrying about cords, outlets, or batteries running out of charge. This type is great for garages or light cleaning tasks.
Benefits of a Quiet Shop Vac
Now that you know the three types of shop vacs, it’s time to discuss the benefits of owning one. There are many reasons why having a quiet shop vacuum is ideal for any garage or workshop. Here are some key benefits:
1. Suction Power
A powerful suction can make all the difference when picking up debris. Since shop vacuums are attached to a long hose, the suction power is more powerful than most household vacuums. Throwing out your old vacuum and getting a new one with better suction can be very beneficial for those who use their garage as a workshop or for larger projects that require ample debris pick up.
2. Convenience
Another major benefit of owning a shop vacuum is its convenience. With one, it’s very easy to clean up spills or do light cleaning without having to haul out big, bulky upright vacuums or push around heavy wet dry vacs. All you need to do is plug your shop vacuum in and start cleaning! Shop vacuums plus offer portability and convenience, making them ideal for garages or workshops that need to quickly clean up messes.
3. Ease of Use
A shop vacuum is very easy to use. There’s no assembly required and they are typically very lightweight and portable. You can easily store your shop vac in a corner when not in use.
What Shop Vacs are Quiet?
When looking for a shop vac, noise level is an important consideration. The industry noise standard for vacuum cleaners is 75 dB, and models with a noise level above this threshold can potentially cause hearing damage. It is recommended to select a shop vac with a noise level below 75 dB to protect your hearing while still getting the job done.
The type of vacuum you use can make a difference in noise levels. For instance, if your workshop is small and tight on space then it might be best to get one with lower suction power so as not have loud noises that could bother others around you while cleaning or working. Moreover, vacuum cleaners come equipped with various settings that allow for different degrees of noisiness depending on what’s needed at any given time.
5 peak HP motor and 4-gallon polypropylene tank. 2-stage motor which makes cleanup easy and quiet. The on-board hose and accessory storage.
wet/dry vacuums comes with connection for power tools, available 5.8, 8.4, or 9.2-gallon capacities for strong, adjustable suction. A protective filter cartridge and fully certified HEPA units
127 CFM and 96" water lift of suction using corded power. 74 CFM and 36" water lift of suction using two 18V LXT Lithium-Ion batteries. Up to 65 minutes of continuous run time on low setting and 30 minutes on high setting.
Non-antistatic suction hose with a measurement of 1-1/16-Inch x 11-1/2-Feet. A disposable filter bag. A crevice nozzle for tight spaces and hard-to-reach areas. An upholstery tool for efficient cleaning of furniture.
wet/dry vacuums comes with connection for power tools, available 5.8, 8.4, or 9.2-gallon capacities for strong, adjustable suction. A protective filter cartridge and fully certified HEPA units
127 CFM and 96" water lift of suction using corded power. 74 CFM and 36" water lift of suction using two 18V LXT Lithium-Ion batteries. Up to 65 minutes of continuous run time on low setting and 30 minutes on high setting.
Non-antistatic suction hose with a measurement of 1-1/16-Inch x 11-1/2-Feet. A disposable filter bag. A crevice nozzle for tight spaces and hard-to-reach areas. An upholstery tool for efficient cleaning of furniture.
A quiet vacuum refers to a shop vacuum that does not have a high decibel rating. This means that it will produce less noise when in use, which can be beneficial if you’re working or living in an apartment building or want to keep your peace and quiet intact while cleaning up messes around your home.
What is Shop Vacs Used For?
A shop vacuum is useful for cleaning up messes of all kinds, ranging from spills to dirt and dust. It can be used in garages or workshops to clean cars, on boats to suck up water, or for household tasks like cleaning your carpet/rugs/floors.
Why Should I Buy a Shop Vac?
A shop vac is extremely convenient as it allows you to clean up messes in bathrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, cars, garages, or even boats without having to worry about making a huge mess while cleaning. You can use the vacuum on its own or attach tools for specific tasks.
How do I Know if My Shop Vac is Full?
A shop vac will automatically shut off when the tank is full, which is beneficial in preventing damage to your vacuum. You’ll know that it’s full because the water inside the tank will be murky and dirty, thus indicating that it is time for you to dump out all of the contents.
Which Shop Vac is Right for Me?
There are many factors that determine the type of shop vac you should get, including if you need one for wet or dry messes, how often it will be used, etc. You can use this guide to figure out which shop vac is best suited to your needs!
Tips & Tricks: Make your Shop-Vac Quieter
Shop vacuums are extremely useful and convenient, but the noise level can be problematic for some people. If you’re one of those individuals who cannot stand loud noises, there’s no need to worry! There are ways to make your shop vacuum quieter.
1. Insulate the Noise
The best way to do this is by purchasing a tank sleeve. This will help trap the noise and vibration inside the tank, reducing the sound levels significantly. You can choose to insulate your shop vacuum or purchase tank sleeves separately.
You can also consider getting a shop vac with an isolation collar. These collars are designed to reduce vibration and noise, making your shop vac much quieter when in use.
Place your shop vac on a padded surface, such as a piece of carpet or a rug. This will help to muffle any noise coming from the vacuum.
You can also put a piece of duct tape over the exhaust port on the back of the vacuum. This will help to redirect some of the noise away from you and make the vacuum quieter overall.
2. Reduce Dust from Entering The Shop Vac
Since dust particles are what make a shop vacuum loud, it’s best to reduce as much of it from entering the shop vac. One way to do this is by purchasing a bag or a container that clips onto the top of your vac and seals in all the particles, preventing them from disrupting your peace and quiet.
3. Check Your Vacuum’s Settings
Sometimes, checking your shop vacuum’s settings can make a significant difference in the noise level. For example, if you don’t need it to be on max power, turn down the settings until it’s at a comfortable volume for you.
4. Ensure Proper Air Flow
Airflow is crucial when running your shop vac. If there is improper airflow due to blockages or clogs, it can make your shop vacuum significantly louder. Take the time to inspect the hoses, ensure that they are rid of any clogs or blockages, and clean them if necessary.
5. Perform Regular Maintenance on Your Vacuum
If you want it to run at peak performance without making too much noise, then you must perform regular maintenance. This includes cleaning or replacing filters on a regular basis and getting rid of any dust buildups on the exterior of your vacuum.
Quiet Shop Vac: Main Features of a Right One for You
There are many features to consider when choosing the right shop vacuum for your needs. Some of these include capacity, power source, hose length/diameter, accessory kit, etc. Here is a list of all the main features you should keep in mind while searching.
1. Type of Shop Vac
There are several types of shop vacs: wet/dry, auto detailer, and central vacuum system. Wet/dry shop vacs are best used for liquid messes as they can handle liquids without spilling them. Auto detailer shop vacuums are made for cleaning your car and picking up large particles like dirt and rocks. Finally, central vacuum systems are designed to be attached to your home’s main system for vacuuming out the home.
2. Power Source
Shop vacs can run on batteries, corded power, or an electrical outlet. Corded shop vacs usually have a longer reach and cleaner suction as you don’t have to worry about battery life or it dying. On the other hand, cordless shop vacs are much more convenient as you don’t have to worry about dealing with a cord while cleaning up messes. Lastly, a power outlet without a cord is beneficial for those who want a cleaner look to their shop vac or prefer less clutter.
3. Materials Used
Shop vacs can be made out of a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and even glass. Plastic shop vacs are much lighter than their metal counterparts and tend to have a longer lifespan. However, they aren’t as durable and might not handle temperature changes well. Metal shop vacs are built for durability but tend to be on the heavier side. They’re also more likely to have switches and caps that rust over time. On the other hand, glass shop vacs are made out of glass instead of plastic or metal and often have a sleek, transparent look to them.
Shop vac capacities vary from 1 gallon to 10 gallons or more. A smaller capacity shop vac is more convenient for light tasks like cleaning a desktop or small appliances. However, a larger capacity shop vac can hold more water and dry materials, making it ideal for bigger messes.
5. Suction Power
Vacuum cleaners come with different power ratings, but it’s important to consider both HP and CFM when comparing them. The higher the peak HP rating of your machine-the more suction force you can expect from its motors! Water lifts are a measurement of how high the shop vac will lift water in tubes. The best indicator for suction power, SP counts toward your overall rating but 75′ or higher is ideal.
6. Accessories
Shop vacs come with many different types of accessories that you can change out depending on your needs. Some of these include different types of nozzles, extension wands, tools for cleaning carpets or cars, etc.
Price Shop vacs vary in price by hundreds of dollars depending on the type and size you get. Unless you’re looking for a specific type of shop vac, it’s best to go with a mid-range unit so you don’t have to worry about paying too much or getting a cheap model that doesn’t work.
7. Noise Level
The noise level of a shop vac is measured in decibels or dB. Usual shop vacs can be anywhere from 70 to 100+ dB so consider getting earplugs if you’re going to be using one for an extended period of time. But now me are speaking about Quiet Shop Vacs, and their noise level is at 60-80 dB.
8. Dimensions and Weight
Shop vacs have different dimensions and weights depending on the type and amount of material used. Plastic shop vacs tend to be lighter than metal models, while a larger capacity shop vac is going to be heavier as well.
9. Hose Size
Hose size can vary from shop vac to shop vac and you want to make sure that the hose diameter is wide enough for the accessories you’re using. You also want a long, flexible hose so that it’s easier to use and less likely to get in your way.
10. Filters
Shop vacs use a variety of filters depending on the type and model, but most have a primary filter that you can wash and reuse. Some also have secondary filters made from foam or felt that further restrict particles for cleaner suction.
11. Cord Length
The length of a shop vac’s cord will affect how long you can use it before needing to switch outlets. A shorter cord isn’t as useful, but if the outlet is close enough or in an easily accessible location then it shouldn’t be too much of a problem. However, having a longer cord makes for more convenience while cleaning.
12. Blowers
Shop vacs have a variety of blower options depending on the type and model. For example, some only have high suction but no blowers, while others may offer both. In general, most shop vacs do not include a blower feature as that is usually considered an extra accessory.
13. Warranty
Shop vacs come with different warranty lengths, from as short as a few months to as long as 5 years. The longer the warranty length, the better chance you have of being covered should anything go wrong. However, it’s important to note that not all warranties cover everything so be sure to read the fine print before getting your shop vac.
1. Fein Turbo I Compact Wet/Dry Dust Extractor – Professional Suction Strength
Outstanding Performance - The dust extractor is very effective at dust collection when attached...
Further Reach - The Turbo II has a large range due to its 19 ft power cord, 13 ft long reach...
Fein Turbo I Specifications
Product Dimensions
15.5 x 15 x 18.5 inches
Item Weight
26.5 pounds
Capacity
5.8 Gallon
Power Source
Corded Electric
Voltage
120 Volts
Wattage
1100 watts
Noise Level
66 dB
Suction Capacity
151 CFM
Static Water Lift
98 PSI
Power Cord
19.7 ft cable with plug
Vacuum Hose
13 ft.
Warranty
1 year
The Fein Turbo I Compact Wet/Dry Dust Extractor (official website) is a powerful shop vac with a 66 dB noise level and 5 HP motor. The all-steel body has a weight of only 31 pounds making it easy to carry while the 1.25-gallon tank can hold enough dry or wet material for small projects around the house.
Outstanding Performance
The Fein Turbo I Compact Wet/Dry Dust Extractor is a powerful and effective dust extractor that’s perfect for woodworking tools, car detailing, or keeping your carpet and upholstery clean. Its 66 dB noise level ensures quiet operation, while the compact size makes it easy to take with you wherever you go.
Impressive Safety Features
The Fein Turbo I Compact Wet/Dry Dust Extractor has a built-in automatic thermal cut-off that prevents overheating and damaging the motor. It also features an electronically monitored powder-coated metal fan system, as well as a double protection filter to further prevent overloading.
Overall
The Fein Turbo I Compact Wet/Dry Dust Extractor is a fantastic shop vac that comes highly recommended. Its all-steel construction and impressive safety features make it safe and powerful enough to keep your home clean and tidy without costing too much or taking up too much space. Check price at Homedepot.com, Walmart.com, Sears.com.
Video: Fein Turbo I Compact Wet/Dry Dust Extractor Review
The FESTOOL CT 15 HEPA Dust Extractor (official website) is a 65 dB shop vac with 3 HP and an impressive 4.2-gallon capacity. It’s also cordless and battery-powered, making it easy to move around while its 5 liters per second airflow keeps your workspace clean and dust-free.
Ideal for Finer Debris
The FESTOOL CT 15 HEPA Dust Extractor is a fantastic vacuum for those looking to keep their workspace clean and free of dust. While it can hold up to 4.2 gallons worth of debris from larger projects, its high flow rate also makes it ideal for smaller jobs as well as collect finer dust particles too.
Portable Convenience
The FESTOOL CT 15 HEPA Dust Extractor comes with a 6.4-Ah lithium-ion battery that runs for 2.5 hours on a single charge, allowing you to take it anywhere your work takes you without needing to worry about carrying it around long cords or finding new power outlets.
Overall
The FESTOOL CT 15 HEPA Dust Extractor is a versatile and powerful vacuum that’s perfect for keeping your workspace clean and dust-free. Its battery power makes it easy to carry around wherever you need, while its high flow rate tends to even the finest debris as well.
【4 Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum】This shop vacuum is equipped with a 5 peak HP motor and 4-gallon...
【Powerful Performance】This vacuum has a 2-stage motor which makes cleanup easy and quiet.
FESTOOL CT 15 Specifications
Product Dimensions
17 x 17 x 13 inches
Item Weight
20.5 pounds
Amperage
7A
Water Lift
64″
CFM
65
Noise
<72dB
Power Cord Length
15Ft.
Nozzle Width
1-1/4″
Box Contents
Caster Assemblies, Cartridge Filter, Foam Wet Filter,HEPA Filter,Hose Storage Brackets, 7 ft. x 1-1/4 in. Secure Fit Hose, Extension Wands, 2-in-1 Utility Nozzle, Car Nozzle,Turbo Nozzle,Floor Nozzle, Operator’s Manual
The Vacmaster VF408 4 Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner with 2-Stage Motor (official website) is a 72 dB shop vac that includes a powerful 1 HP motor and 3.5-gallon tank. It also comes with a variety of attachments to help you get the most out of your vacuum while keeping any messes away from you.
Ideal for Larger Projects
The Vacmaster VF408 4 Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner comes with a 3.5-gallon tank that holds enough material to quickly vacuum up debris without having to worry about stopping frequently. It also comes with a variety of attachments, including an 8-foot hose, crevice tool, dusting brush, and upholstery/dusting brush.
Versatile Attachments
The Vacmaster VF408 4 Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner comes with a variety of versatile accessories that are perfect for keeping your workspace clean. You’ll find an 8-foot hose that lets you easily reach all corners of a room, as well as a crevice tool and dusting brush.
Overall
The Vacmaster VF408 4 Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner is a great shop vac for those looking to quickly clean up any messes or dry spills in their workspace. While its 3.5-gallon tank might be small, its powerful motor and range of attachments are more than enough to get the job done. Check price at Walmart.com, Lowes.com.
HEAVY-DUTY: Powerful 6.5 Peak HP provides extra power for large projects in the garage, shop...
BUILT-IN BLOWER PORT: Rear blowing port on this wet dry vac allows for quick cleaning of leaves...
CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 Specifications
Product Dimensions
21.03 x 23.8 x 26.7 inches
Item Weight
26 pounds
Capacity
16 Gallon
Peak Horsepower
6.5 Peak HP
Accessory Diameter
2-1/2-in
Hose Length
7-ft
Cord Length
20-ft
Blowing Port
✓
Drain
✓
Included Filtration
Cartridge Filter & Dust Bag
Included Accessories
Hose, Two Extension Wands, Car Nozzle, Wet Nozzle, Utility Nozzle
Best For
Home Projects & Renovations
The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 16 Gallon 6.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner (official website) is a 73 dB shop vac with an impressive 7-gallon tank, as well as built-in storage for all of its included accessories. It’s also designed with additional access points to make it easy to empty or clean when it comes time to empty its tank.
Extra-Wide Opening
The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 16 Gallon 6.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner comes with a large opening that lets you clean up larger messes without making a huge mess itself. It also makes it easy to both dump and cleans its tank when the time comes.
Built-In Storage
The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 16 Gallon 6.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner includes a variety of built-in storage spots for all of its accessories, keeping them organized and within easy reach whenever you need to use them.
Overall
This Vacuum Cleaner is a great shop vac for those looking to clean up larger messes on the regular, thanks to its large 7-gallon tank and easy-access opening. Its built-in storage for its accessories is an added bonus. Check price at Lowes.com, Walmart.com, Sears.com.
Powerful Makita-built motor delivers 127 CFM and 96" water lift of suction using corded power
Powerful Makita-built motor delivers 74 CFM and 36" water lift of suction using two 18V LXT...
Makita XCV04Z Specifications
Product Dimensions
20.3 x 24.3 x 15.2 inches
Item Weight
32.5 pounds
Capacity
2.1 gallon
Power Source
Battery Powered
Voltage
36 Volts
Wattage
180 watts
Special Features
Cordless/corded power option
Anti-Static Hose
1-1/2” X 8’
Plastic Disposal Bag
10/pk
Power
Delivers 127 CFM and 96″ water lift
Run Time
Up to 65 minutes of continuous run time using two 18V LXT® 5.0Ah batteries (batteries not included)
Efficiency
Three stage HEPA filtration system captures 99.97% of particulates .3 microns and larger
Versatility
18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion cordless and corded options for convenience
Includes
(2) Anti-static hose, crevice tool, nozzle, curved pipe, straight pipe, main filter, damper and pre-filter (battery and charger not included)
The Makita XCV04Z 36V (18V X2) LXT®/Corded 2.1 Gallon HEPA Filter Dry Dust Extractor/Vacuum Cleaner (official website) is a 75 dB(A) shop vac that includes both 18-volt and 36-volt battery packs, as well as a variety of attachments and accessories to keep your workplace as clean as possible.
Optimum Suction Efficiency and Longer Filter Life
The Makita XCV04Z 36V (18V X2) LXT®/Corded 2.1 Gallon HEPA Filter Dry Dust Extractor/Vacuum Cleaner includes an innovative brushless motor that delivers optimal suction efficiency and longer filter life.
Versatile Attachments
This unit comes with the tools you need to get any job done. You’ll find an 8-inch nozzle for getting into smaller spaces, as well as an extension tube and dusting brush.
Overall
If you’re looking for a shop vac to keep your workspace clean with minimal effort, the Makita shop vac is an excellent option. It comes with a variety of attachments and optimal suction efficiency for any messes you might encounter. Check price at Homedepot.com, Walmart.com.
【Sturdy Bucket Structure and 5 Gallon Big Capacity】DeWALT the global professional tools...
【Portable Size, Light Weight Benefit for Easy Transportation】 5 gallon capacity and only...
DEWALT DXV05P Specifications
Product Dimensions
15.04 x 14.53 x 19.69 inches
Item Weight
15.7 pounds
Tank Capacity
5 Gallon
Power
120 V / 60 Hz / 8 A
Motor
Single Stage 4 Peak HP
Air Flow
80 CFM
Hose
1-7/8 in. x 7 ft.
Power Cord Length
10 ft.
Noise Level
75 dBA
Water Suction Volume
2.96 Gallon
Dust Suction Volume
3.96 Gallon
Warranty Description
3 years distributer and manufacturer warranty
The DEWALT DXV05P 5Gallon Poly Wet/Dry, 4 Peak HP Shop Vacuum is a 75 dB shop vac that comes with a number of tools and pieces to help keep your workspace spotless. This vacuum weighs just 12 pounds when it’s empty, making it easy to carry from room to room as needed.
Sturdy Bucket Structure and 5 Gallon Big Capacity
This shop vacuum has a 5-gallon capacity and 4 peak HP, making it perfect for tackling small job sites or commercial areas. Plus, its 75 dBA noise rating ensures that you can work without disturbing others. Don’t go another day struggling with a subpar vacuum – get yourself a DEWALT DXV05P today!
3 IN 1 Multi-Function Apply Vary Occasions
Clean up your worksite with this powerful DXV05P shop vacuum. With 4 peak HP and a 75 dBA noise level, it’s perfect for large debris or wet sewage. Plus, the 3-in-1 design means you can use it for a variety of applications. Blow leaves off your patio or cleans up sawdust in seconds – this vacuum has got you covered.
Overall
If you’re looking for a shop vac that can do it all, this is the vacuum cleaner for you. Its lightweight and convenient design make it easy to use on any mess, no matter how big or small. Plus, its 75 dB noise rating makes sure you won’t disturb others with the suction power it puts out. Check price at Homedepot.com, Walmart.com, Sears.com.
Hopefully, the above-provided product reviews help you narrow down your choice of Shop Vacuum Cleaner. If none of them are exactly what you’re looking for, check out our shop vac buying guide or head over to our homepage to see which cleaners we offer that can suit your individual needs!
I'm a 34-year-old freelance musician and soundproofing specialist, DIY enthusiast, blog author, and Silence Wiki founder originally from the Netherlands.
I've been a musician for over 15 years now - playing all sorts of instruments but especially guitar and saxophone. As a soundproofing specialist, I help people with their acoustic needs in order to make them happy! I also enjoy DIY projects around the house or wherever else they are needed - thanks to my wife who always has great ideas!
