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Woodworking projects can generate a lot of sawdust, which is not only difficult to clean up, but according to OSHA, it’s potentially harmful to your respiratory health. A dedicated dust collection system captures and collects the majority of wood and dust particles as you work, saving you hours of cleanup time and ensuring that you’re not exposing yourself or others to unnecessary airborne hazards. In fact, if you have employees, a dust collection system may be required in order to comply with regulatory standards.
Dust collection systems come in a wide range of sizes and types, so we made sure to include a variety of options in our recommendations below. Whether you’re looking for a heavy-duty unit that’s powerful enough to handle a busy table saw, or a portable version to connect to a miter saw, you’ll find an option that’s compatible with your specific situation, making your workshop, garage, or toolshed a safer place to work.
Best Dust-Collecting Systems
- Best Overall: Shop Fox W1666 Dust Collector System
- Best Budget: WEN DC3401 Rolling Dust Collector
- Most Lightweight: Shop Fox W1826 Wall Dust Collector System
- Best Midsized: Shop Fox W1727 Portable Dust Collector
- Biggest Capacity: Powermatic PM1900TX-CK1 2-Canister Dust Collector
What to Consider
Tool Compatibility
If you have more than one or two tools that create lots of dust, consider a system that can connect to multiple machines at once. It’s possible to reconnect the system hose to each machine as you go, but that can be inconvenient for some, and impractical if you have a busy workshop. Though they are more expensive, a system that works with multiple tools can save you a lot of time.
Make sure the hose of the dust collection system fits the tool you plan on using it with, too. The hose diameter can vary from 1.5 to as large as eight inches, so reference the dust port on your tool to make sure it’s compatible before you buy.
Storage Capacity
Take some time to think about your workload and the amount of dust storage you need. Calculating your dust output isn’t an exact science, and depends on both the size and quantity of your tools, as well as how frequently you use them.
If you have a large shop with multiple machines that you use often, opt for system that provides at least five cubic feet of dust storage. DIYers with just a few tools that they use on the weekends can choose a lower capacity model.
A single hand tool can usually be connected to your shop vac for quick and easy dust collection, which is a great option if you only ever use one tool at a time.
Power and Suction
The system’s motor strength is measured in horsepower (HP), and dust collector motors range from 0.5 to 3 HP. One- or 1.5-HP models are sufficient for most power tools, but if you plan on connecting your system to duct work or multiple tools, go with 2 HP or more.
The dust collection system’s suction ability is measured in CFM (cubic feet per minute), and ranges from 400 to up to 2,000 CFM. The higher the CFM, the more air suction it provides, and the more tools you can connect at the same time.
Size and Mobility
Consider the size of your workspace when choosing a dust collection system. Larger units provide more power and storage capacity, but if you don’t have the space, they’ll be a bulky inconvenience. Smaller, wheeled units can roll from tool to tool, but may lack the power to handle your workload.
Shop Vac Attachments
If you’re on a budget, or don’t require the power of a self-contained system, a model that uses your existing shop vac is a great option. These portable, affordable units collect dust without ever putting the dust inside your vacuum bag, so you won’t have to bother with cleaning out dust filters. They also have hard-bodied storage containers that make them more durable than soft bags, and they can be used on a wider range of dust types.
How We Selected
Proper dust collection was paramount during my time working in woodshops, and I have extensive experience using and maintaining a variety of models and sizes. I've used this experience to put together this list of options, making sure to include a good range of units that would be useful to the residential woodworker. I decided to exclude any extra-large commercial options because of their high price point and their impracticality for folks working out of their home garage or workshops. I also kept storage capacity, power, and suction capacity in mind when deciding on these final seven picks, so regardless of your dust output or workshop needs, you’ll find a compatible option.
1
Best Overall
Shop Fox W1666 Dust Collector System
1
Best Overall
Shop Fox W1666 Dust Collector System
Pros
Powerful motor- 2 connectors
- Wheeled base
Cons
- 107-pound weight may require an extra set of hands to set up
If you’re a productive woodworker and have more projects than the average DIY-er, this Shop Fox system and its two-horsepower motor is the perfect fit. The removable Y-fitting on the intake port makes it so you can attach two four-inch hoses, and have a pair of machines connected at the same time.
It’s more expensive than our other recommendations, but if you have the budget for it, this system could be worth it in terms of cleanup time, which can be substantial in busy shops.
Key Specs
| Capacity | 5.4 cu. ft. |
|---|---|
| Air Suction Capacity | 1,550 CFM |
| Hose Port Diameter | 6-in. single, 4-in. double |
2
Best Budget
WEN DC3401 Rolling Dust Collector
Pros
- Ergonomic carrying handle
- Lockable casters
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Bag is not transparent
This WEN tool is a great fit for those who don’t have a large budget, but still want a reliable, powerful dust collection system. For less than $200, you’re getting an impressive 537 CFM capacity, as well as 5.7 AMP motor, all at a low 18.5 pound weight.
We’re big fans of the portability of this model as well, as it features four rolling casters and a carrying handle, making it easy to wheel around or simply carry it from one place to another. Or, if you prefer a fixed version, you can remove the base and mount it to the wall.
While WEN does not list the horsepower of this unit, the 660 CFM is a good indicator of its capability.
Key Specs
| Capacity | 12 gal. |
|---|---|
| Air Suction Capacity | 660 CFM |
| Hose Port Diameter | 4 in. |
3
Best Midsized
Shop Fox W1727 Portable Dust Collector
Pros
- Long 20-foot hose
- Comfortable to move around
- Safety switch prevents accidental operation
Cons
- Not ideal for a busy shop that requires more intake ports
The four casters and large steering handle make this model more portable than similar-sized options, and the 20 foot hose—reinforced with steel wire—safely moves around without risk of damage.
Its impressive 800 CFM suction capacity handles most projects without issue, and though the 2.1 cubic feet of storage isn’t the most spacious, it does contribute to the relatively compact size of this unit. We appreciate the transparent bag as well, so you can easily monitor your dust level and separation, a task that is less convenient with most other bags.
Key Specs
| Capacity | 2.1 cubic feet |
|---|---|
| Air Suction Capacity | 800 CFM |
| Hose Port Diameter | 4 in. |
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4
Lightest
Shop Fox W1826 Wall Dust Collector System
4
Lightest
Shop Fox W1826 Wall Dust Collector System
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Pros
- Zippered bottom of bag is easy to empty
- Window in bag so you can see when it’s time to empty it
Cons
- May be too small for workshops that create a ton of dust
This model is a good choice for those who want the convenience of a self-powered system but don’t have a ton of space for it.
It’s just 44 inches high when fully inflated, but still provides a decent amount of power with 537 CFM suction capacity and 1-HP motor. It includes a bracket that makes it easy to mount it directly to the wall, and it comes with all the hardware needed to set it up.
The collection bag has a storage capacity of 2 cu. ft., and also features a transparent window so you can always see when it’s time to empty it out.
Key Specs
| Capacity | 2 cu. ft. |
|---|---|
| Air Suction Capacity | 537 CFM |
| Hose Port Diameter | 4 in. |
5
Biggest Capacity
Powermatic PM1900TX-CK1 2-Canister Dust Collector
5
Biggest Capacity
Powermatic PM1900TX-CK1 2-Canister Dust Collector
Pros
- Large storage capacity
- Powerful three-horsepower motor
Cons
- Takes up more space than our other options
If you have a large workshop with multiple machines that require dust collection, this powerful Powermatic model is a great choice. Its three, four-inch intake ports quickly connect your table saws and planers, or you can adjust it to a single eight-inch port for your bigger machines.
The twin, 10-cu.-ft. collection bags are well-suited for busy workshops, and give you a significant amount of time between emptying. A handy remote control also programs the unit for up to 99 minutes at a time.
Key Specs
| Capacity | 20 cubic feet |
|---|---|
| Air Suction Capacity | 1782 CFM |
| Hose Port Diameter | A single 8 in. or three 4 in. ports |
6
Best Shop Vac Attachment
Oneida Air Systems Deputy Deluxe Dust Collector
6
Best Shop Vac Attachment
Oneida Air Systems Deputy Deluxe Dust Collector
Pros
- Easy to use
- Available in multiple sizes
- Small ports ideal for handheld power tools
Cons
- Needs a shop vac to operate
- Less powerful than more expensive options
You need to provide your own suction system for this option–like a shop vac–but if you already have one on hand, this affordable option is a perfect options for the casual woodworker.
Its tapered ports are compatible with a range of vacuum hose sizes, and in addition to sawdust, is also useful for other materials like water, metal shavings, pet hair, or ash and soot.
Plus, by capturing these materials before they reach your vacuum, you increase your machine’s lifespan and save yourself time and energy cleaning its dust filter.
Key Specs
| Capacity | 5 gal. |
|---|---|
| Air Suction Capacity | 50-150 CFM |
| Hose Port Diameter | 1.5 to 2.5 in. |
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7
Best for Router Tables
Milescraft 1501 Dust Router System
7
Best for Router Tables
Milescraft 1501 Dust Router System
Pros
- Dust cup design fits most router tables
- Straightforward design is easy to use
- Durable enough for permanent use
Cons
- Requires separate vacuum source
Anyone who does a lot of routing work knows that these machines create a lot of dust. This system attaches to your router table, and uses two intakes to capture dust from above and below the tool, keeping your work area clear and reducing the chances of making costly errors due to low visibility.
It can be used with or without your router fence, and is easy to use as either a temporary or permanent system. Velcro mounting pads allow for a nice clean fit, and at just $30, could be great for those on a tight budget.
Key Specs
| Capacity | N/A |
|---|---|
| Air Suction Capacity | N/A |
| Hose Port Diameter | 1.5 in. |
8
Best for Miter Saws
Rousseau 5000 Miter Saw Dust Collector
8
Best for Miter Saws
Rousseau 5000 Miter Saw Dust Collector
Pros
- Folds up to compact size for storage
- Durable nylon construction
- Folds up for easy storage
Cons
- Limited to miter saw use
- Requires separate vacuum source
This system is designed to be used with a miter saw, and acts as a tent on the rear of the machine to capture dust and expel it through an exit port. You need to supply your own shop vac, but if you already have one, this is an effective, low-cost alternative to more expensive options.
It also includes a carrying bag, making it convenient to transport, and reduce the chances of damage when you’re not using it. This would also be a great choice for anyone short on shop space, like those with a small tool shed or corner of the garage.
Key Specs
| Capacity | N/A |
|---|---|
| Air Suction Capacity | N/A |
| Hose Port Diameter | 4 in. |
Alex Rennie
Alex Rennie is a freelance writer who specializes in the Home Improvement, DIY, and Tool space. As a former residential and commercial carpenter, Alex uses his hands-on experience to write practical buying guides, how-to articles, and product reviews. His work has also appeared in Business Insider's Insider Picks, and before his writing career, he was a full-time carpenter living in New York City. There, he worked as part of a team designing, building, and installing large furniture pieces, as well as performing a variety of home repair and maintenance projects. Alex currently lives in Los Angeles, CA, and spends his free time exploring the beaches and mountains with his fiancé and their dog Louie.
