5 Best Milwaukee Cordless Vacuums of 2025

Don’t let its compact size fool you—this pocket-sized powerhouse delivers serious suction in a form factor that redefines portability. The Milwaukee 0960-20 packs a 42 in. water lift and brushless motor efficiency, making it a standout among M12-powered vacs. It’s engineered for contractors who need a lightweight cleanup solution that fits in a corner of their bag, not a truck bed. Whether you’re clearing sawdust from a tight cabinet or vacuuming up drywall debris after a retrofit, this tool answers the call with M12 FUEL reliability and real-world versatility.

In real-world testing, the 1.6-gallon capacity proved just right for spot cleanups, though heavy-duty jobs require frequent emptying. It handles both wet spills and fine dust with ease, thanks to its fleece dust bag compatibility and reusable filter system. The on-board accessory storage keeps nozzles and hoses secure, while the stackable design lets it nest neatly with other M12 tools—ideal for ladder climbs or crowded job sites. It doesn’t match the airflow of larger models, but for precision cleanups and daily maintenance, it’s unmatched in mobility.

Compared to the M18 FPOVCL, this model sacrifices raw power for ultra-portability and M12 ecosystem integration, making it perfect for electricians, HVAC techs, or finish carpenters. It’s not meant to replace a full-size shop vac, but as a dedicated cordless sidekick, it outshines competitors in convenience. For those already invested in M12 tools, it delivers exceptional synergy and space-saving performance in a way the bulkier M18 models simply can’t.

This is the definitive cordless workhorse—a suction monster that raises the bar for what a cordless vacuum can do. With 47 in. water lift and 50 CFM airflow, the M18FPOVCL doesn’t just clean floors; it dominates them. Milwaukee claims up to 70% more suction than prior models, and in real-world use, that power is immediately obvious when tackling nails, wood shavings, or wet concrete slurry. It’s engineered for endurance and quiet operation, running up to 2X quieter than rivals, which means you can clean active job sites without disturbing others.

During testing, it powered through mixed debris with ease, maintaining strong suction even as the 2.5-gallon bin filled. The optimized airflow path minimizes clogs, and the dual filtration system handles both fine dust and larger particles without breaking a sweat. It’s best suited for contractors doing demolition, framing, or post-renovation cleanup where mobility and sustained performance matter. While it’s not backpack-grade, its ergonomic carry handle and balanced weight make it easy to lug across floors. The only caveat? It’s not ideal for overhead or tight-space cleaning due to its size.

Against the M12 0960-20, this model is in a different league—more power, more capacity, more runtime. It’s also quieter and more efficient than the older 0880-20, making it the best all-around performer in Milwaukee’s lineup. For professionals who need maximum cleaning power without the cord, this is the gold standard. It doesn’t offer the reach of a backpack vac, but for shop and site-wide cleanup, it strikes the perfect balance between brawn and usability.

Meet the ultimate endurance machine—a cordless backpack vacuum built for marathon cleanups, not sprints. The Milwaukee 0885-20 redefines large-area efficiency with its 40-minute runtime and ergonomic harness system, letting you vacuum an entire floor without fatigue. With HEPA filtration, it doesn’t just collect dust—it traps it, making it ideal for allergy-sensitive environments or post-renovation cleanup where air quality matters. This isn’t just a vacuum; it’s a mobile air purification system for professionals.

In real-world use, the 1-gallon capacity may seem modest, but the backpack design makes frequent emptying a non-issue. It excels in open spaces like warehouses, gyms, or multi-room offices, where hands-free operation lets you move faster and clean more. The 3-in-1 functionality—backpack, handheld, or upright—adds unmatched versatility, letting you transition from floor to ceiling without swapping tools. However, the lower bin capacity means it struggles on jobs with heavy debris loads compared to larger canister models.

Compared to the M18FPOVCL, this model trades bin size for mobility and endurance, making it the clear choice for large, open-area cleaning. It’s significantly more expensive, but the HEPA filter and wearable design justify the investment for commercial cleaners or facility managers. While the M12 0960-20 is better for quick touch-ups, this is the go-to for all-day, large-scale jobs. It delivers unmatched runtime and comfort, outperforming standalone vacs in coverage and efficiency.

This tool-box warrior is built for contractors who value practicality over frills—a no-nonsense vacuum that doubles as a mobile storage unit. With a 2-gallon capacity and tool-box style design, it’s perfect for hauling both tools and debris in one trip. The 2.8 Amp motor delivers solid suction for a cordless model, handling wet spills and dry debris with equal competence. It’s lightweight enough to carry up scaffolding yet rugged enough to survive a jobsite drop.

In testing, it proved ideal for mid-sized cleanups where portability and storage matter—think post-tiling cleanup or post-framing dust removal. The lightweight build makes it easy to tote, and the box design fits neatly in truck beds or against walls. While it lacks advanced features like HEPA filtration or onboard noise reduction, it compensates with simple, dependable performance. It’s not the most powerful or quiet, but for general-purpose use, it’s remarkably effective.

Compared to the M18FPOVCL, it offers less suction and airflow but wins on form factor and utility. It doesn’t have the same refinement as the FPOVCL, but its toolbox functionality makes it a smarter choice for tradespeople who need to consolidate gear. For those already using Milwaukee cases, it stacks and integrates seamlessly, enhancing workflow. It’s the best blend of vacuum and storage in the M18 lineup, trading high-end specs for real-world practicality.

This is the original trailblazer—a rugged, no-compromise cordless vacuum that helped define Milwaukee’s reputation for jobsite toughness. The 0880-20 stands out with its tool-box design, which isn’t just for looks—it’s a fully functional carry case that protects the vacuum and stores accessories. It runs on any Milwaukee 18V battery, giving unmatched flexibility whether you’re using Li-ion or legacy NiCd packs. With a HEPA-rated filter and built-in blower port, it’s one of the most versatile models in the lineup.

In real-world use, it handles both wet and dry messes with confidence, thanks to its reusable wet/dry filter and strong motor. The on-board hose and accessory storage keeps everything organized, and the compact footprint fits in tight spaces. However, it’s not as quiet or powerful as the newer M18FPOVCL, and the lack of modern efficiency upgrades shows in runtime and suction. It’s best for users who prioritize durability and compatibility over peak performance.

Compared to the M18 2-gallon toolbox model, it offers similar storage benefits but adds HEPA filtration and blower functionality, making it more capable. It’s not as advanced as the FPOVCL, but for budget-conscious pros who want maximum utility, it’s a smart pick. For those with older Milwaukee batteries, it delivers legacy support and solid performance, outlasting cheaper vacs in long-term reliability.