Tool Test: Compact Utility Vacs

Price: $99

Highlight: Includes a HEPA filter to capture fine particles of dust.

My two cents: "Great suction; the best at picking up dust and chunkier stuff like nails, but its small-diameter hose clogged the most often."

Tool stats: 18 pounds, 4-gallon capacity; 5-horsepower motor generates 220 air-watts and 86 dB. Includes 20-foot cord, 7-foot hose, noise diffuser, three attachments, five-year warranty; jcwhitney.com