Best Dust Extractors (2024)
The best dust extractor to buy depends on a few different factors, especially your woodworking shop's needs. Buying a HEPA dust extractor significantly improved my time in the shop and minimized the amount of dust in the air. This article compares all the current dust extractors currently available on the market to help you find the model specifically for your needs. By the end of this article, you will know which extractor is best for your dust collection needs.
Festool CT Dust Extractor
By far the best dust collector you can purchase today that will last a long time.
Bosch 9 Gallon Dust Extractor
The best choice if you are not already invested in the Festool ecosystem.
Festool CT Midi I Dust Extractor
The best compact dust collector that is packed with high end features.
Fein Turbo I Dust Extractor
Great value for the money to get you started with out all the bells and whisles.
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Table Of Contents
1. Festool CT Dust Extractor
Best Overall
9.8 out of 10
My Take
The Festool CT line of dust extractors is in my opinion the best dust extractor for woodworking. I personally have the CT 36 dust extractor which I have used for over 3 years and reviewed in a separate article. From my experience, the high suction power nearly eliminates all dust when sanding or hooked up to other power tools. Even though Festool dust extractors can be expensive, I still think there are worth the money and the best option for a woodworker.
Key Features
Automatic tool outlet for remote start
Includes a high-quality anti-static hose
Integrates with all Festool systainers for a mobile base
Highly durable and high-quality construction
Pros:
High Suction Power
HEPA Filtration
Systainer Integration
Cons:
Expensive
Large Footprint
Expensive Accessories
Specs
CFM: 137
Capacity: 36L or 9.5gal
Weight: 31.75 lbs
Hose Length: 11.5 ft
Warranty: 3 years
Performance & Capability
The Festool CT models are the best dust extractors in 2023 for a few reasons. First, they come standard with a HEPA filter to capture smaller dust particles. They are available in 3 different sizes, 26, 36, and 48 liters, and with the option of an auto-clean feature. The CT models can move 137 cubic feet per minute of air, near the top of the class, and you can adjust the power for different applications. I have also found that the noise level is always less than the power tool itself.
What's Included
Festool dust extractors also come with a high-quality anti-static hose, dust bag, and a ton of great features. One of the best features is the automatic outlet that turns the extractor on when you start your power tool, eliminating the need to remember to turn it on. They also come with a HEPA filter and storage for the hose and cord. The only thing I bought in addition to the extractor is the standard cleaning set to clean up around the shop.
Portability
While the CT models are rather large especially the CT 36 and CT 48 they can still make great portable dust extractors. They have large rear wheels that help when moving over debris and a foot brake to keep it in place while you work. The extractor also has dedicated storage for the hose on the top rather than wrapped around the extractor. Also if you're already invested in the Festool ecosystem your sustainers can lock on top making the extractor into a mobile workstation.
Warranty and Support
One thing that sets Festool apart from other brands is there warranty and support system. Festool dust extractors come with a one-month money-back guarantee and also a comprehensive three-year warranty. Festool also offers free shipping to and from their service department for three years and they promise a standard two-day turnaround for any repairs. Festool USA also ensures that replacement parts will be available for at least 10 years, making sure that your investment will last a long time.
If you're still unsure about the Festool CT dust extractor you can check out my full review. However, in my opinion, it is by far the best dust extractor currently on the market.
2. Bosch 9 Gallon Dust Extractor
Runner Up
9.5 out of 10
My Take
The Bosch 9-gallon extractor is a great runner-up with a lot of good features. It has one of the highest CFM available and comes standard with an autoclean function all at a lower cost. However, that does come with less customer support and a much shorter warranty.
Key Features
Automatic filter cleaning every 15 seconds
Adjustable suction control
Power tool activated outlet for remote start
Included HEPA filter and fleece filter bag
Pros
Auto Filter Cleaning
High Suction Power
HEPA Filtration
Cons
Cheaper Construction
Loud Autoclean
Poor Customer Support
Specs
CFM: 150
Capacity: 9 gal
Weight: 28 lbs
Hose Length: 9.85 ft
Sound Level: 60 dB
Warranty: 1 year
Performance & Capability
The Bosch extractor has one of the highest CFM ratings of 150 and can be adjusted. The bag capacity is 9 gallons which is slightly less than the Festool CT 36 but enough for the average shop. The extractor also comes standard with an auto-cleaning mechanism that shakes the filter. However, a lot of users noticed the noise was very loud. The dust extractor also has a HEPA filter which makes it OSHA-compliant.
What's Included
The Bosh extractor comes with a 9-foot vacuum hose, filter, dustbag, bend nozzle, and tool adapter. The vacuum hose is similar to what you would get on a standard shop vac and some customers noted it left black marks on projects and floors. Similar to the Festool, you will likely need to buy a cleaning set to go with the extractor. If you're not using Bosh tools you will also need to purchase adapters for the hose.
Portability
The Bosch 9-gallon extractor is not really suited for a jobsite or portability in comparison to the Festool for a few reasons. It does have large rear wheels but some customers were having issues with the front wheels coming off. Also, the cord and hose are wrapped around the extractor and secured with a bungee cord which makes the extractor larger for transport and could get caught. Overall the Festool CT models are more suited for a jobsite.
Warranty and Support
One of the downsides of the Bosch dust extractor is the company's customer service and support. The extractor only comes with a limited one-year warranty and a few people had issues with Bosh not willing to repair or fix any of their issues. So even though the extractor is a lot cheaper than Festool it comes with the downside of a limited warranty and minimal support for the extractor.
The Bosch dust extractor is a great option if you're looking to save some money and don't plan on buying other Festool tools.
3. Makita VC4210L 11 Gallon
9.0 out of 10
My Take
The Makita dust extractor is a great option if you need HEPA filtration as well as a lot of dust storage capacity. I personally think the 11 gallons is a lot for a home workshop but ideal for a jobsite extractor.
Key Features
Tool-activated power outlet starts and stops the vacuum
2-stage HEPA filtration system
Automatic filter cleaning system
Variable suction power with a maximum of 148 CFM
Pros
HEPA Filtration
Larger Capacity
Variable Speed Suction
Cons
Cheap Hose
Poor Hose Storage
Loud Autoclean Thump
Specs
CFM: 148
Capacity: 11 gal
Weight: 35.3 lbs
Hose Length: 13 ft
Sound Level: 60 dB
Warranty: 1 year
Performance & Capability
One of the big benefits of the Makita vc 4210L is the higher capacity of 11 gallons. This would be helpful if you plan to use the extractor for miter saws or any large tool on a job site. The Makita also offers great suction power of 148 CFM which is near the top end of the market. The extractor also has a 2 stage HEPA filtration system that includes a flat filter and collection bag. The Makita comes standard with an automatic filter cleaning system that knocks the filter every so often but a lot of users experience a loud popping or thump.
What's Included
The Makita dust extractor comes with nearly everything you need to get started, with a fleece filter bag, HEPA filter, and main flat filter. The extractor also included a 13-foot-long anti-static hose as well as a few adapters. Unlike other extractors, it does come with a crevice tool however you will still likely want to buy the additional cleaning set.
Portability
The Makita is not designed specifically for portability, but it can be used on a jobsite. It includes heavy-duty job-site casters for maneuverability and a bracket to wrap up the hose. One benefit of the Makita is the ability to integrate the Festool systainers on top as well as Makita's storage cases. One downside is the Makita doesn't have a dedicated hose garage like the Festool models, and only has a bracket to help you wrap the hose around the extractor.
Warranty and Support
Similar to the Bosche the Makita VC4210L only comes with a 1-year warranty for defects or manufacturing issues. Makita does include a 30-day money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied with the extractor. If a good warranty and support are important considerations, I would look at other options like the Festool models.
If you need an extractor that can capture a lot of dust the 11-gallon Makita would be the ideal dust extractor.
4. Dewalt 10 Gallon Dust Extractor
9 out of 10
My Take
The Dewalt dust extractor is best suited in my opinion on a job site rather than a woodworking shop. The extractor is large and bulky but has an integrated handle and large wheels for each maneuverability over debris.
Key Features
Power tool activated outlet for quick start-ups
Integrated telescoping handle for portability
Dual filter HEPA filtration system
Pros
Large Wheels
Telescoping handle
HEPA Filtration
Cons
Noisy Operation
Limited Hose Storage
Need Adapters For Tools
Specs
CFM: 155
Capacity: 10 gal
Weight: 33.1 lbs
Hose Length: 15 ft
Sound Level: 80 dB
Warranty: 1 year
Performance & Capability
On paper, the Dewalt is one of the top dust extractors available with the highest suction power of 155 CFM. The higher CFM the easier it is to pick up larger wood chips or debris, while also capturing a larger volume of dust from smaller tools. The 10-gallon capacity is comparable with other dust extractors and will allow you to go a long time between bag changes. The Dewalt extractor is also equipped with HEPA filters to capture dust that is 0.3 microns and larger.
What's Included
The Dewalt dust extractor comes with only the basics which are the internal filters and a 15-foot hose. However, the extractor also features a telescoping handle that is not included in many other models. If you choose the Dewalt, you will likely need to buy some adapters for your tools and a cleaning kit.
Portability
The Dewalt extractor has some features that make it a great extractor for a job site, however, it also has a few downsides. The telescoping handle will make moving around the extractor very easy, especially with the larger rear wheels. However, the tool is almost like a shop vacuum on steroids making the footprint very large in comparison to other similarly sized extractors. Also, the hose doesn't have dedicated storage which could make transporting the extractor difficult.
Warranty and Support
One of the major downsides to the Dewalt dust extractor is the 1-year warranty. Most manufacturers with similarly priced tools offer a 3-year warranty. However, Dewalt is known for tools that hold up while used in construction and I doubt this dust extractor would be any different.
The Dewalt dust extractor is the best dust extractor on the market for construction or job site work where you need durability, maneuverability, and capacity.
5. Bosch 14 Gallon Dust Extractor
8.4 out of 10
My Take
If you need a dust extractor with a large capacity and HEPA filtration the Bosche 14 Gallon is one of the best dust collectors you can buy, but it does come with some downsides.
Key Features
Large 14-gallon capacity for extended use
Automatic start power tool outlet
Auto-clean feature every 15 seconds
Pros
Large Capacity
Auto-Clean Function
HEPA Filtration
Cons
Bulky Design
Expensive
Poor Hose Storage
Specs
CFM: 150
Capacity: 14 gal
Weight: 38 lbs
Hose Length: 9.85 ft
Warranty: 1 year
Performance & Capability
The Bosch 14-gallon dust extractor is one of the most capable dust extractors available in terms of size and suction. The 14-gallon capacity will mean in the long run you would save money on fleece bags and spend less time maintaining the extractor. The Bosch also is equipped with an auto-clean feature that helps clean dust from the filter allowing you to continue sanding with full suction. The extractor also has the ability to dial in the amount of suction with a max of 150 CFM.
What's Included
Similar to other dust extractors the Bosch comes with the standard HEPA filers but it only includes a 9.85-foot dust collection hose. However, the dust extractor does include a power tool adapter and a bend nozzle, which is more than other brands.
Portability
The Bosch 14-gallon dust extractor is probably the least portable extractor on the market. The design is essentially a trash can on heavy-duty wheels with a HEPA filtration unit on top. Transporting the extractor to and from a job site may be difficult but once it's there you won't have any issues collecting dust and debris.
Warranty and Support
Similar to the Bosch 9-gallon dust extractor the 14-gallon only has a 1 year limited warranty. In comparison to other Festool products that have a 3-year warranty and great service and guaranteed parts, it's hard to justify spending the same amount of money for a lesser warranty.
If your looking for the largest dust extraction system the Bosch 14-gallon extractor would be a great investment.
6. Fein Turbo II HEPA Dust Extractor
8.2 out of 10
My Take
If you need a compact wet and dry dust extractor the Fein Turbo II is a good option that also is equipped with HEPA filtration and back by a reliable brand.
Key Features
Powerful suction with quiet operation
Auto-start outlet for each on/off
Built-in accessory storage
High quality HEPA filtration
Pros
High Quality
HEPA Filtration
Small Design
Cons
Limited Capacity
No Hose Storage
Adapters Needed
Specs
CFM: 151
Capacity: 8.5 gal
Weight: 20.06 lbs
Hose Length: 13.12 ft
Sound Level: 67 dB
Warranty: 3 years
Performance & Capability
The Fein Turbo II combines a compact lightweight design with high suction power with 151 CFM and only weighs 20.06 pounds and has 8.5 gallons of capacity. The extractor is also capable of 98.4 inches of static water lift and allows it to be used in a wet environment. Personally, I see the Fein extractor as a standard shop vac but with more power and HEPA filtration. Unfortunately, the Turbo II isn't a self-cleaning dust extractor or adjustable suction power.
What's Included
One of the downsides to the Fein dust extractor is that it doesn't come with any accessories, adapters, or nozzles. The only items included are the basic HEPA filters and the 13-foot hose. So will almost definitely need to buy adapters to fit your tools and accessories to be able to use the extractor. One good thing is that Fein is a professional dust extractor company and offers a lot of individual accessories.
Portability
The Fein Turbo II would be a good choice if you're looking for a smaller lightweight dust extractor. The Fein only weighs 20.06 pounds which will make it easy to transport, but it does lack storage for the hose and cord which need to be wrapped around the extractor. Also, the wheels on the bottom are very small in comparison to other models that have large rear wheels.
Warranty and Support
Similar to the Festool extractors the Fein Turbo II comes with a 3-year warranty. Fein also offers very similar repair services with fast turnaround times and a 6-month warranty on repaired parts.
The Fein Turbo II is the perfect choice if you're looking for a powerful lightweight dust extractor without any unnecessary features.
7. Festool CT Midi I Dust Extractor
Best Compact
7.6 out of 10
My Take
The Festool CT MIDI is the best compact mobile dust extractor that is packed with features and quality construction. The only downside is the limited capacity and the initial cost.
Key Features
Compact design with systainer compatibility
Built-in cord and hose storage for easy transport
High-quality construction and great warranty
Pros
Compact Design
Hose Storage
High Suction
Cons
Expensive
Small Capacity
Costly Accessories
Specs
CFM: 130
Capacity: 3.9 gal
Weight: 24.91 lbs
Hose Length: 11.5 ft
Warranty: 3 years
Performance & Capability
The CT MIDI may not have the highest power rating at 130 CFM. However, users have noticed it is a more consistent and reliable suction than other extractors. The extractor also is equipped with an integrated Bluetooth module that allows you to use a remote control to turn on and off the extractor. The only downside is the limited size of only 3.9 gallons.
What's Included
Similar to the other Festool dust extractors, the CT MIDI only comes with the standard HEPA filters and the 11.5-foot premium anti-static hose. However, the CT MIDI model comes standard with the integrated Bluetooth module which is an add-on for other Festool models and not available with other brands.
Portability
The CT MIDI is designed to be a portable dust collector with its onboard hose storage, large rear wheels, and compact size. The extractor can also act as a mobile base for Festool systainers with mounting points on top of the hose garage.
Warranty and Support
Similar to the Festool CT models the CT MIDI comes with a one-month money-back guarantee and a comprehensive three-year warranty. Festool also offers free shipping to and from their service department for three years and they promise a standard two-day turnaround for any repairs. Festool USA also ensures that replacement parts will be available for at least 10 years, making sure that your investment will last a long time.
If you need high-quality compact dust extraction the Festool CT MIDI is a feature-packed extractor that is worth the money.
8. Metabo ASR 35 9 Gallon Dust Extractor
7.4 out of 10
My Take
The Metabo 9-gallon dust extractor is an affordable option with all the same features as other brands but at a lower cost and a 3-year warranty.
Key Features
Large rear wheels for easy maneuverability
Adjustable suction power for various tools
Automatic start/stop power outlet
Compatible with both liquids and dry solids
Pros
Auto-clean Feature
Compact Design
HEPA Filtration
Cons
No Hose Storage
Expensive
Loud Operation
Specs
CFM: 137
Capacity: 9 gal
Weight: 35.3 lbs
Hose Length: 10.5 ft
Sound Level: 80 dB
Warranty: 3 years
Performance & Capability
Even though the Metabo comes in cheaper than its competition it still includes nearly all the best features and a capacity of 9 gallons. The extractor has both adjustable suction up to 137 CFM and an autostart outlet to turn on the vacuum with your tool. The Metabo also is equipped with an autoclean feature that periodically knocks the filter to prevent dust build-up and loss of suction. The extractor also has HEPA-rated filters to capture any hazardous dust and fine particles.
What's Included
The Metabo ASR 35 doesn't come with much from the factory and finding accessories for the Metabo could be challenging. The extractor comes standard with a standard 10.5 suction hose and 2 HEPA filters. If you need something with attachments or cleaning sets the Metabo is probably not your best option.
Portability
One of the major downsides to the Metabo ASR 35 is the portability and storage. The Metabo doesn't have any storage options or mounting hardware on top of the extractor. The extractor doesn't have a good way to store the hose with the only option of wrapping it around the handle unsecured.
Warranty and Support
The Metabo comes with a 3-year warranty and a 30-day performance guarantee which is more than most other dust extractors. However, when it comes to repairing your tools Metabo only offers what they call the OneRate tool repair program. The OneRate program charges you a single fee to fix your tool and a 48-hour turnaround which can be nice. However, the price is astronomically expensive and it doesn't matter if they only replace a single part you will still be charged the full amount.
If you need a good dust extractor for a small shop and don't need portability the Metabo ARS 35 is a great option.
9. Fein Turbo I Dust Extractor
Best Budget
7.0 out of 10
My Take
The Fein Turbo 1 is a great budget dust extractor for a small woodworking shop. However, for the lower cost, it does come with a few downsides.
Key Features
Quiet operations for in-home use
Powerful 151 CFM suction
Compact design for portability
Autostart outlet with power-on delay
Pros
Cheap
Quiet Operation
Compact
Cons
No HEPA Filter
Limited Capacity
No Autoclean Feature
Specs
CFM: 151
Capacity: 5.8 gal
Weight: 17.9 lbs
Hose Length: 13 ft
Sound Level: 67 dB
Warranty: 3 years
Performance & Capability
The Fein Turbo I has a similar suction power to more expensive dust extractors with a CFM of 151. However, the extractor doesn't have adjustable suction power which may cause issues if you hook up a sander. The Turbo I only has a 5.8-gallon capacity which is okay for smaller tools and requires your to replace the filter bags often. One of the major downsides of the extractor is that it does not have HEPA filters to capture the fine dust you normally find in a woodworking shop. This extractor will capture your standard wood dust but for the small particles created during sanding, you really need a HEPA filter.
What's Included
Similar to the other Fein dust extractors it only comes with the 13-foot hose and the Turbo 1 is only equipped with standard dust filters. However, Fein does offer quite a few accessories that can make the Turbo 1 more versatile and used for more than just woodworking.
Portability
If you need a simple and small dust extractor for duct control on construction sites the Fein Turbo I may be a good option, its relatively compact and light making it easy to transport. One downside is that if you need to move it around debris or uneven surfaces the small wheels could make it difficult.
Warranty and Support
Similar to the other Fein dust extractor the Fein Turbo I comes with a 3-year warranty. Fein also has fast repair services with quick turnaround times and includes a 6-month warranty on any of the repaired parts.
If you’re looking for an affordable dust extractor without HEPA Filters the Fein Turbo I is a good investment.
10. Festool CTC MIDI I
6.8 out of 10
My Take
The Festool CTC MIDI I is the best cordless dust extractor packed with great features. The extractor gives you corded power, suction, and capability in a cordless mobile form.
Key Features
Compact and mobile design for portability
Integrated hose garage and systainer integration
Battery operated for easy jobsite cleanup
Pros
Battery Operated
Compact Design & Hose Storage
HEPA Filtration
Cons
Expensive
Small Capacity
Limited Run Time
Specs
CFM: 109
Capacity: 3.9 gal
Weight: 22.48 lbs
Hose Length: 11.5 ft
Warranty: 3 years
Performance & Capability
The Festool CTC MIDI I is nearly identical to the CT MIDI but with slightly less suction power of 109 CFM. The extractor has a capacity of 3.9 gallons making it very versatile and compact. It also is equipped with HEPA filters to minimize exposure to dust and a manual filter cleaning mechanism. The extractor also comes standard with a Bluetooth module to allow for remote dust collection.
What's Included
The CTC MIDI comes in two packages with the first including the dust extractor, HEPA filters, and a 11.5-foot premium anti-static hose. The other package is the plus version which comes with the same components but adds two 18-volt battery packs and a rapid charger. Both versions also come with a Bluetooth remote control that can be attached to the hose for quick access.
Portability
The Festool CTC MIDI I is by far the best cordless woodworking dust extractor on the market with the same capability as a standard model. The extractor has large rear wheels and a foot-activated wheel stop to make things easier. It also has mounting options on the top of the extractor for Festool's systainers.
Warranty and Support
Similar to the other Festool models the CTC MIDI has a one-month money-back guarantee and a comprehensive three-year warranty. Festool also guarantees that they will have parts available for their tools for at least 10 years, making sure you can always repair the extractor. Also, they have a service department that promises a 2-day turnaround for repairs and free shipping to and from.
If you need a cordless dust extractor with the capabilities and suction power of a corded version the CTC MIDI I is the only option available.
11. Festool CTC SYS I Dust Extractor
6.2 out of 10
My Take
The Festool CTC SYS I is a highly unique portable dust extractor that integrates into your Festool Systainers and is perfect for small jobsite cleanups.
Key Features
Compact design that integrates with systainers
Battery-operated for wireless dust collection
Lightweight design that can be carried over your shoulder
Pros
Great Portability
Battery Operated
Hose & Cord Storage
Cons
Limited Capacity
Lower Suction Power
Awkward Size
Specs
CFM: 85
Capacity: 1.2 gal
Weight: 15.65 lbs
Hose Length: 11.5 ft
Warranty: 3 years
Performance & Capability
The Festool CTC SYS I dust extractor combines both the performance of a regular dust extractor with a small lightweight design. The extractor is capable of up to 85 CFM of suction with three levels of suction power. The CTC SYS is also a two-stage filtration dust extractor with HEPA filters and a total capacity of 1.2 gallons. The extractor also comes with Bluetooth functionality as well as a remote control for easy on-off. The only thing missing from the extractor is a power tool outlet but it's really designed to work with other cordless power tools.
What's Included
The CTC SYS I comes with more than most extractors, but has the standard HEPA filters and an 11.5-foot anti-static hose. The extractor also comes with a shoulder strap that can be used to easily carry the extractor. It also comes with an upholstery nozzle and crevice tool. The CTC SYS also has integrated storage for the hose, cord, and attachments at the top of the extractor.
Portability
The CTC SYS was specifically designed to be the most compact cordless dust extractor on the market. The extractor is highly portable and can be used on your shoulder with the included shoulder strap or integrated into your Festool systainers. The CTC SYS would be a good choice if you're doing small jobs onsite and don't need the full power or capacity of the CTC MIDI.
Warranty and Support
What distinguishes Festool from its competitors is the robust warranty and support they provide. Festool's dust extractors are backed by a one-month money-back guarantee, coupled with a three-year warranty. Festool also provides cost-free shipping to their service department and guarantees a two-day repair turnaround. Festool USA also pledges a minimum 10-year availability of replacement parts, ensuring the longevity of your investment.
If you need a cordless option that is also lightweight and highly portable the Festool CTC SYS is the best option.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, I was able to help you decide on the best dust extractor for your needs with this article. Whichever dust extractor you choose to buy will make for a great investment. I personally think the best choice overall is the Festool CT 36 which I personally use. If you need more of a portable and compact extractor the Festool CT MIDI with all the additional features would be my choice. Overall to pick the best dust extractor you need to identify the most important factors and pick the best one for your needs.
To sum things up here are my top picks and overall recommendations based on specific needs:
If you have any questions, comment below.
Let’s talk about it!
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