Top 10 Dust Collectors For A Cleaner Workspace

Woodworking projects are one of the jobs which generate high volumes of sawdust. And when safety measures aren't taken into account, the dust can get inside your eyes, ears and even your breathing system affecting how these body parts function. Installing a dust collector will trap dust particles and debris leaving a nearly dust free environment. Whether working on your wood pieces, drywall, carrying out chemical process or working with dust generating a machine, these equipment's are a must have for your workplace. Though they are designed to keep you safe and prevent dust particles from entering your body system, some brands may not be sufficient enough to trap some of the fine particles which mean they will find their way out exposing you to health risks. To make sure you keep yourself safe, we have gone that extra mile to compile for you quality brands to aid you in shopping the best dust collector for your workshop.

Best Pick

After taking a keen comparison on all the models, the Shop Fox W1666 Dust Collector managed to stand out from the competition. The unit captures dust and other contaminants in your working area with its 2.5-micron filter bag for a nearly dust free environment. Its powerful 2HP motor and 12-inch impeller catch 1550CFM which is excellent for hungry woodworking machines. Its heavy-duty design, performance, and value offer you years of trouble-free operation.

​Budget Pick

When on a budget, this Oneida Air Systems Dust Deputy Deluxe Cyclone Separator Kit is the go-to model. The unit relies on a centrifugal force to capture and eliminate 99% of dust and contaminants before reaching the filter preventing any chances of blocking it. It’s simple and convenient design makes it easy to customize to suit different models, size wet or dry making it our best budget pick.

Quick Comparison Between The Best Dust Collectors

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1. Shop Fox W1666 Dust Collector 

Highlighted Features

• 1550CFM air suction capacity
• 5.4 cubic feet bag volume
• 12.3” static pressure
• 21-1/2 by 33-1/2 portable base
• 12” heavy duty steel impeller
• Two horsepower motor
• Steel base with casters
• Safety lock
• Great performance

This W1666 dust collector will keep your workplace free from sawdust and any other contaminants. The 78-inch collector is equipped with a powerful 2-horsepower motor and a strong 12"impeller with a capability of sucking 1550 CFM. The suction rate is high enough which means no dust or any contaminants will find its way or escape giving you time to focus on your project. The W1666 series has a 6-inch intake port featuring a removable Y-fitting with two 4” opening collector. This feature is excellent if you are looking for an efficient multi-machine set up and makes the unit the best dust collection system. The collector is designed to be operated either as a mobile unit or a stationary unit which allows you to move it when needed. For increased safety, the collector is equipped with a safety lock for preventing any unauthorized or unprofessional users from interfering with your machine. Overall, the Shop Fox dust collector is one of its kinds. It has been professionally designed to offer years of trouble-free performance. Its features, value, and performance standout from its peers, making it the best dust collector on the market.

2. Oneida Air Systems Dust Deputy Deluxe Cyclone Separator Kit

Highlighted Features

• Durable
• Affordable
• High suction power for effective dust collection and disposal
• Versatile
• Handy
• 50 to 150 CFM air flow rate
• 5-gallon waste capacity

If on a budget, this Oneida air system is the best dust collector for the money. Featuring a patented design, this kit uses a centrifugal force to get rid of 99% of the dust particles and debris from airstream barring it from finding its way to the vacuum filter preventing suction loss and clogged filters. This means your filter will stay longer before clogging which gives you the freedom to work longer and safer. When dust and debris are collected, the Deputy Cyclone kit channels it into the bucket allowing you to empty it without having to open the vacuum. One thing that makes this Oneida cyclone dust collector stand out is its simple and convenient design which can accommodate any make, size or model dry or wet. The collector is equipped with tapered 2.0 fitting ports which are specially designed to accommodate different sized dust collection hoses. So regardless of whether you are looking forward to collecting wood dust, blasting soda, drywall dust, baking flour, concrete dust, clay dust, metal shavings, pharmaceutical waste and much more, this kit will offer you high performance. The fact that the package comes with the entire requirement needed to convert it into a two-stage dust-free system makes the installation process simple. It's easy to dispose of waste design makes it an excellent pick for keeping dust and debris safely disposed of.

3. Shop Fox W1826 Wall Dust Collector

Highlighted Features

• One horsepower motor with dual voltage (120/240)
• 2.5-micron filter bag
• 537CFm air capacity
• 4” single intake hole
• Dust window gauge
• Efficient

The W1826 series is a wall mounted dust collection unit with 537CFM capacity for handling even the hungriest woodworking machines. The collector is designed to collect the waste from the source which eliminates slowed efficiency of a duct system. Equipped with 1-horsepower motor this W1825 series delivers excellent performance keeping your workplace free from dust and contaminants. The dust collector has a transparent window for keeping track of your waste and a bottom zipper for disposing of garbage easily which makes it stand out from its competitors. Overall, the Shop Fox W1826 dust collector is simple, efficient with great features to make your woodworking waste disposal easy.

4. Jet DC-1100VX-CK Dust Collector

Highlighted Features

• Quiet operation
• Effective
• Powerful 1.5HP motor
• Portable
• Economical
• 5.3 cubic feet air collection capacity
• Industrial controls for unmatched performance
• Handy

Enjoy years of trouble-free dust collection with this Jet waste disposal kit. Boasting of an exclusive Vortex Cone which enhances chip separation, this Jet DC-1100VX-CK series prevents the filter from clogging while improving the packing efficiency of the collection bag, so you do not have to deal with premature clogging. Its high-velocity air design allows the kit to withstand even those projects which produce high waste volume without getting jammed. The motor is constantly lubricated with cooling fan motors for excellent performance. Its single stage construction facilitates quiet operation creating a serene working environment. The bags have an elastic rubber for safe connection and removal.  Included are four casters for easy portability and maneuverability when needed.

5. POWERTEC DC5370 Wall Dust Collector

Highlighted Features

• 2.5-micron filter bag
• 1 horsepower motor with dual voltage
• 537CFM
• Handy zipper
• Efficient
• Mounting hardware included
• 3450RPM motor speed

This POWERTEC dust collector is equipped with great features to optimize woodchip extraction, dust collection and work-room versatility. The kit is equipped with a strong one horsepower motor which delivers excellent performance. Unlike other standard models, this unit features a dual voltage (120V/240V) which gives you the freedom to choose your preferred voltage. Its 2.5-micron bag features a window for keeping track of the dust levels. On its bottom side of the bag is a zipper which allows you to empty the waste easily without having to remove the bag.  Its compact size makes it ideal for use on a hobby or small professional shops.

6. Central Machinery 2 HP Industrial Dust Collector

Highlighted Features

• Powerful 2HP motor
• 5-micron collection bag
• Four swiveling locking casters for easy portability
• 3450RPM motor speed
• Measures 33" L by 22" W by 75-1/2" H
• 1550 air suction capacity

This unit from Central Machinery features a two horsepower single phase powerful motor for trouble-free performance. With a motor speed of 3450RPM and air suction capacity of 1550CFM, this unit delivers excellent performance by trapping all the dust and debris from your woodworking machine. On its base are four swiveling locking casters which provide high portability and easy maneuverability when needed. Included are two collection bags with the bottom bag being clear for easy tracking of your waste. Overall, Central Machinery is a simple and effective unit designed to eliminate fine contaminants, debris and dust eliminating your clean up woes.

7. ​Powermatic PM1300TX-CK Dust Collector 

Highlighted Features

• Powerful 1-3/4HP motor
• Remote controlled digital timer
• Efficient
• Portable
• Easy to install
• 4” dual dust ports
• Sound level 75 to 90 dB
• 2-micron canister

This dust collector boasts of its powerful 1.75HP motor and a full metal duct design for increased strength and better air flow. The unit has a Turbo cone which helps improve the filter bag efficiency while preventing any chances of premature clogging giving you consistent and trouble-free performance. Its 2-micron canister dust collector offers six times filtering surface areas compared to standard models which make it stand out. Integrated into this unit is a digital timer which allows you to smoothly operate the unit by setting the run time up to 99minutes. By combining both power and simplicity, this dust collector will offer you peak performance generation after generation giving you peace of mind. On its bottom are four sturdy casters for easy maneuverability around your workplace.

8. Jet JCDC-3 Cyclone Dust Collector Kit

Highlighted Features

• Powerful 3 Hp motor
• 66-gallon dust collection drum
• Four integrated swivel casters
• Radio frequency remote control
• Better air flow
• Easy emptying
• Effective
• Built to last

In case you may be looking for the best portable cyclone dust collector then this could be the end of your searching. The unit features a direct mount filter which improves the airflow for increased efficiency. Its pleated material catches even the fine particles as low as 1 micron and below which guarantees you unmatched performance. With this unit, you do not have to make frequent stops in between to empty the system. Thanks to its large dust collection drum which offers enough space even for the hungry woodworking machines. The 66-gallon drum has independent casters and quick release levers for fast emptying. With its radio-frequency remote control, you can operate the unit while you are 50 ft away and customize your remote settings to 2, 4, 6, or 8 hours as preferred. Overall, this dust collection unit is unmatched to none. Its ability to capture even the finest dust particles and debris effectively make it stand out in performance and value.

9. Grizzly G0672 Industrial Dust Collector

Highlighted Features

• Powerful 5HP motor for a trouble-free performance
• 3961 CFM with 14 static pressure
• 15”impeller
• Effective
• Built to last
• 2.5-micron filter
• Runs four work wood machines simultaneously
• Detachable base

This Grizzly unit is probably the best industrial dust collector you can get in the market today. Boasting of a 5HP motor and its vast 15" impeller the unit has the power to handle massive industrial dust collection process effectively. For maximum productivity, the powerhouse has four connection ports which allow you to connect and operate four woodworking machines. With a static pressure of 14 and air suction capacity of 3961CFM, this unit will handle any dust collection task thrown to it. Its 2.5-micron filter bag captures dust and debris effectively which guarantees you a trouble-free working environment.

10. Powermatic PM1900TX-CK1 Dust Collector

Highlighted Features

• 3HP motor
• 2-micron canister filter
• 75 to 90dB sound rating
• High efficiency
• Programmable digital timer
• 4 Heavy duty casters for smooth movement
• Durable

From its powerful 3HP motor to its Turbo Cone, this unit offers you effective dust collection in your workshop day in day out. With this unit, you can now say goodbye to the entire premature filter clogging and the hassles of having to stop in between tasks to unclog the system. Thanks to its Cone which ensures consistent dust collection while eliminating any chances of filter clogging. Its 2-micron canister filters offer large surface area six times more than standard units, a feature which saves you time and improves your productivity. Featuring an all metal duct construction this powerhouse offers great strength and increased airflow for improved efficiency. At the bottom are four heavy-duty casters for better mobility which allows you to move the unit around the workshop quickly. Overall, the Powermatic PM1900TX-CK1 is strong and powerful enough to use not only with wood-working machines but also with wide belt sanders, table saws, and planners giving you versatility in your workshop.

Benefits of Using a Dust Collection System

Dust collection systems offer significant benefits to businesses and homeowner and here is what you will enjoy for owning one.

Improves safety

Working on a dusty area can put your safety and health at risk which may eventually trigger health complications which are too costly to manage. However, with a dust collection system, you can enhance your safety and health by trapping all the fine wood dust and debris that may contaminate the air giving you peace of mind while working. Better still; when you are settled your productivity levels go high.

High production quality

Dust can ruin the quality of your products which can impact your brand image and sales. Investing in a dust collector will provide nearly a dust free environment which means high-quality products which excites your customers.

Economical

Dust is not only harmful to you and your products but also your woodworking machines. When dust particles and debris find their way into your machine, they deteriorate its quality which will call for regular and un-necessary costly maintenance which would have been avoided by using a dust collection unit. Worse still; you will also be required to perform regular circulation of air in your workshop when dust takes a toll. However, installing a dust collector will keep your operational costs low and giving you ample time to concentrate on your projects.

Enhances employee morale

Unfavorable working conditions will always demotivate your employees and expose them to health risks. Worse still; this may lead to increased absenteeism which will eventually impact the output. With a quality dust collector, you can improve your working condition and enhance your employee's morale altogether.

Wide application

Dust extraction and collection systems have a wide area of use ranging from woodworking industry, metal industry, the pharmaceutical industry, mineral production industry, chemical process among others. They are equipped with great features to suit the designed purpose with high efficiency.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Dust Collector

While installing a dust collector in your workshop will help you keep dust and contaminants at bay, investing in a low-quality model will not trap the particles efficiently. This means some may find their way into your system posing you to health risks. To avoid making such mistakes, here is what you should look for in the best dust collector.

Dust collector size

Modern dust collection units feature different installation processes. Some units are designed to be mounted on the wall while others to be placed on the floor. No matter which installation type your model calls for, you will need enough space to install it. This, however, will vary depending on the model you choose. However, before making your purchase, you need to measure the available space on your floor or wall to determine whether your preferred unit will fit.

Type of dust generated

Dust collectors are designed to be used in different industries. While some have great features to suit various applications, some are designed specifically for a particular sector. Before you jump in and make a choice, you need to know the type of dust generated in your workshop. Check out how different models have been designed to help you achieve a safe working environment.

Working hours

When working the dust collection system needs to be up and running lest dust takes a toll on your workshop. Note that some systems in the market cannot withstand lengthy dust collection processes. For increased efficiency and safety, you will need a powerful unit which delivers trouble-free performance and can handle the type of dust thrown at it day in day out. As a rule of thumb, you need to choose a powerhouse which surpasses the daily equipment run time.

Dust collector type

Dust collectors have different systems which can either be a one or two stage unit. As the name suggests, single stage system capture dust and debris in one single stage while the two-stage unit involved two steps. In regards to cost, the single stage models are less costly but may from time to time get clogged. Though they may filter dust particles and contaminants, they are not as effective as the two stage systems. In most cases, single stage dust capturing systems are ideal for small shops or for use with less hungry machines or equipment. On the other hand, the two-stage systems cost higher as compared to their counterparts and are highly efficient in filtering dust and any contaminants. They are recommended for use on high industrial production.

Micron filtering capability

The number of microns measures the efficiency of a dust collector. Though each model will feature a particular micron level, you should know which one suits your needs. Typically, cheaper microns tend to have high micron level which most people think that they are highly effective. This is not true. The number of microns indicated on each model represents the size of dust particles it can capture. Models with small micron levels mean they have the capability of capturing even the tiniest dust particles from contaminating the environment and are incredibly effective. However, the number of microns you settle for will depend on the type of application and the type of dust your equipment generates. To be on the safer side, go for brands which have the capability of trapping all the dust and debris produced for trouble-free operation.

Collector bag size

When your machines generate dust, it is sent into the collection bag which is later emptied when full. The size of your collector bag will dictate how long it will take before you stop in between tasks to offload it. In case your machines produce high volumes of waste, this will require you to invest in a model with a large collection bag. Failure to do so, you will lose valuable time and reduce your productivity levels.

Collection bag type

Most dust collectors have a plastic, durable cloth material, semi-disposal or transparent bags. All these materials are useful in capturing dust particles of different sizes, but a transparent one will have an added advantage in that it enables you to keep track of the quantity of waste disposed of.

Sound rating

Different systems may produce different sound levels, but most models will range from 70 to 90 decibels. This is not quite loud, but anything louder than this will require you to protect your ears.

Number of ports

Some duct collectors have numerous ports while others have few. The number of connection ports available will determine the number of machines you can connect to the system. There is no recommended number of ports, but in case you may be planning to increase the number of equipment's in the future, investing in a model with more ports is recommended. However, get to know if the unit can run all the connected machines simultaneously to avoid any disappointments.

Ease of use

When your collector bag is full, you will be required to empty it. Some may require you to remove the bag while others have a bottom zipper for easy disposal without any need of removing the bag. Whatever works for you, ensure you settle for a model which is easy to use.

Installation hardware

To get the system up and functioning, you will be required to install it by either mounting or connecting it with your machines. To achieve this, you will require installation hardware. Before spending on any system, ensure it comes with everything you may need to set it up or else you will end up spending more than you had budgeted.

Final Verdict

With the increased rates of air contamination nowadays, you can never risk working in a dusty environment without a dust collector. These powerhouses have proved and remain the best and recommended way of trapping all the dust, debris and any contaminants from your machines, which may find their way into the air. However, every unit out there is designed for different application and choosing the best dust collector will require you to analyze your needs and compare how different models suit your dust production. All the above review products are suitable for different applications and are excellent picks if chosen appropriately.