6 Best Milwaukee M18 Vacuums for 2025

This ultra-compact beast redefines portability without sacrificing performance, making it a standout in the Milwaukee M18 vacuum lineup. With a high-performance motor delivering 40 CFM and a removable HEPA filter, it tackles fine dust and allergens like a pro—perfect for users who demand clean air and quick cleanup. The 36 oz canister is small but smartly designed with a clear view lid, so you always know when it’s time to empty, and the 1-1/4” inlet ensures compatibility with most standard shop hoses. Its transformative design shifts effortlessly from handheld to stationary mode, solving the clutter and hassle of switching tools mid-job.

In real-world use, this vacuum shines in tight spaces—think inside cabinets, under sinks, or around machinery—where larger models simply can’t reach. The cordless freedom powered by any Milwaukee M18 REDLITHIUM battery means no tripping over cords or hunting for outlets, while the compact footprint makes storage a non-issue in crowded job sites or home garages. However, the smaller canister fills up quickly during heavy-duty tasks, requiring more frequent emptying compared to bulkier models. It also lacks onboard storage for accessories, which can be a minor annoyance when you’re on the move.

Compared to the Milwaukee 0880-20, this model trades raw capacity for nimble maneuverability, making it ideal for detail work rather than full-room cleanups. It’s not meant to replace a full-sized wet/dry vac, but rather to complement one in your tool ecosystem. For tradespeople who value lightweight agility and precision cleaning, this is the go-to M18-powered sidekick. While it doesn’t match the suction of the 50 CFM M18FPOVCL, its portability-to-power ratio is unmatched in tight quarters.

When suction power is non-negotiable, the Milwaukee M18FPOVCL delivers a knockout punch with 47 in. water lift and 50 CFM airflow—the strongest in the M18 lineup. This isn’t just marketing fluff; in testing, it effortlessly slurped up wet concrete slurry, sawdust piles, and even fine drywall dust without clogging or losing vacuum. The 70% more suction claim holds up against older M18 models, and the 2X quieter operation makes it a welcome upgrade for indoor job sites where noise matters. With a 2.5-gallon capacity, it’s built for serious jobs, not just quick touch-ups.

On the job, this vacuum handles everything from post-renovation debris to workshop spills with ease. The larger inlet and optimized airflow reduce clogs, and the wet/dry capability means you won’t need multiple tools for different messes. It’s also impressively mobile for its size, with smooth-rolling casters and a sturdy handle that make dragging it across a site feel effortless. However, it’s not cordless, relying on a power cord instead of M18 batteries, which limits mobility despite its strong suction. And while it’s quieter than most, 87 decibels is still loud enough to require hearing protection in enclosed spaces.

Against the Milwaukee 0880-20, this model dominates in raw performance but loses points for flexibility. It’s a powerhouse, yes—but only if you’re near an outlet. Compared to the backpack-style 0885-20, it lacks portability but wins on tank size and suction consistency. This is the vacuum for contractors who prioritize maximum cleaning power over battery convenience. It doesn’t offer the versatility of cordless models, but for stationary, high-demand tasks, its performance-to-durability ratio crushes the competition.

If you’re looking for the complete M18 vacuum experience, the 0880-20P isn’t just a tool—it’s a fully loaded cleaning ecosystem. Equipped with a stackable toolbox design, it doubles as storage for your other M18 tools, turning clutter into order on chaotic job sites. The on-board storage for hose, utility nozzle, and crevice tool means no more losing attachments in the back of your van. With powerful suction for both wet and dry messes, it handles everything from wood chips to spilled paint with confidence, making it the most well-rounded performer in the lineup.

During real-world testing, the 2-gallon canister proved spacious enough for medium-duty cleanups without becoming unwieldy. The cordless operation with M18 battery compatibility offers true freedom of movement, especially when paired with the included XC5.0 pack. It doesn’t quite match the 50 CFM of the M18FPOVCL, but it’s close enough for most applications. The tool-free canister removal makes emptying fast and clean, though the filter cleaning process could be more intuitive. And while the build is rugged, the hose could be longer for larger spaces.

Compared to the bare-bones 0880-20, this kit offers massive value with the included battery and charger—no extra purchases needed. It’s less portable than the YYKJTU 0882-20 but far more capable for general use. This is the sweet spot for pros who want versatility, organization, and reliability in one package. While not the strongest or lightest, its balance of features, build, and usability makes it the best overall choice. It’s the Swiss Army knife of M18 vacuums—less specialized, but ready for anything.

For cleaning large spaces, the Milwaukee 0885-20 backpack vacuum is nothing short of a game-changer, combining cordless freedom with 40-minute runtime and a 1-gallon capacity that outlasts most handhelds. This isn’t just a vacuum—it’s a mobile cleaning station designed for warehouse floors, multi-room offices, or sprawling construction sites where dragging a canister vac is a productivity killer. The ergonomic backpack harness distributes weight evenly, reducing fatigue during extended use, while the HEPA filtration ensures you’re not breathing in what you’re sucking up—critical for indoor air quality.

In testing, the vacuum excelled at covering large areas quickly, with strong, consistent suction across carpet, tile, and uneven concrete. The 3-in-1 functionality—backpack, handheld, or stationary—gave it unmatched adaptability, letting users switch modes without tools or setup time. The HEPA filter trapped fine particles effectively, making it ideal for post-renovation cleanup or allergen control. However, the harness can feel bulky in tight spaces like under sinks, and the single speed setting limits control on delicate surfaces. At full charge, the runtime holds up well, but heavy use drains the battery faster than advertised.

Compared to the M18FPOVCL, this model trades raw suction for exceptional mobility and coverage, making it ideal for volume over intensity. Against the 0880-20P, it offers better large-area efficiency but lacks the on-board tool storage. This is the go-to for facility managers, cleaners, or contractors tackling sprawling job sites where time and stamina matter. While it’s the most expensive M18 vacuum, its coverage-to-effort ratio justifies the investment for high-mileage users. It’s not the strongest, but it’s the hardest working over distance.

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel 3-in-1 Backpack Vacuum isn’t just versatile—it’s engineered for adaptability, with cyclonic technology that maintains suction while extending filter life and simplifying debris disposal. Unlike traditional bagged systems, its bagless design uses centrifugal force to separate dust, reducing clogs and maintenance downtime—especially valuable on dusty job sites. The on-board storage for hose, telescoping wand, floor tool, and crevice nozzle means everything stays together and ready, eliminating the “where’s the wand?” frustration. And with a removable harness and canister hook, it transforms from backpack to handheld or stationary in seconds.

In real use, the cyclonic system proved highly effective at handling mixed debris—sawdust, nails, drywall chunks—all without losing suction. The integrated handle and hook make it easy to hang on a ladder or tool cart, keeping it out of the way but within reach. The cordless M18 compatibility offers full mobility, though runtime depends on battery size—expect around 30 minutes with standard packs. It doesn’t have the 40-minute endurance of the 0885-20, and the canister capacity is modest at just under a gallon. Still, for a dynamic worksite, its quick-switch functionality and low-maintenance design are huge wins.

Compared to the YYKJTU 0882-20, this model offers greater capacity and versatility, though it’s heavier. Against the 0880-20P, it lacks the toolbox feature but wins on wearable convenience. This is the ideal pick for users who need one tool for multiple cleaning roles without sacrificing performance. While not the most powerful or longest-lasting, its smart design and cyclonic efficiency make it the most adaptable in the M18 lineup. It’s the utility player that covers every base.

The Milwaukee 0880-20 is the budget-friendly backbone of the M18 vacuum series, offering no-frills reliability at an unbeatable entry point. It delivers solid 2-gallon wet/dry performance with the freedom of cordless M18 power, making it accessible for DIYers and pros alike who don’t want to splurge on full kits. While it lacks fancy extras like onboard storage or HEPA filters, it gets the core job done: sucking up messes efficiently and reliably. Its bare tool format means you’ll need your own battery and charger, but that also makes it a smart add-on for existing M18 users.

In practice, it handles typical job site debris with ease—wood scraps, drywall dust, spilled liquids—all without stalling. The 2-gallon tank strikes a balance between capacity and portability, and the tool-free canister removal speeds up emptying. However, it has no accessory storage, so you’ll need to keep the hose and tools separate. The suction is decent but not class-leading, and the build, while durable, feels more utilitarian than premium. It’s best for light to medium-duty tasks, not marathon cleanups.

Against the 0880-20P, it’s clearly the stripped-down sibling—same core function, none of the extras. It’s less versatile than the backpack models but perfect as a secondary vacuum or first M18-powered cleaner. For users already in the Milwaukee ecosystem, this is the most cost-effective way to add cordless cleanup capability. While it doesn’t impress with features, its simplicity and affordability make it the smartest entry point into M18 vacuums. It’s not flashy, but it’s honest workhorse gear.