EGO’s Latest 56V Tool is a Compact Wet-Dry Vacuum

EGO’s Second-Iteration Wet-Dry Vac Offers a More Compact 3-Gallon Solution

In 2024, EGO released its first wet-dry vacuum, the 9-gallon WDV0900. It received very high marks in our review, with the strongest overall performance we had seen from a cordless vacuum thus far. Now, EGO is releasing the newest addition to the lineup, the 3-gallon WDV0300 wet-dry vacuum. I’m looking at this vac ahead of its release to help you decide if it’s a good fit for your home or shop.

EGO 3-Gallon Wet-Dry Vacuum: Overview

The EGO 3-gallon wet-dry vacuum is the second of its kind in the 56V Power+ series. It features a brushless motor that delivers up to 85 CFM of suction and 60 inches of water lift. EGO claims this is the most powerful cordless wet-dry vacuum in its class.

On paper, we can confirm that it does have higher CFM and IOW levels than 3-gallon models from other brands, like Ridgid, Ryobi, and Greenworks. This can be partly attributed to EGO’s larger 56V battery, which allows for a higher power draw that gives it a boost in performance.

For runtimes, EGO estimates up to 90 minutes using the recommended 5.0Ah battery (sold separately). There are two power modes (ECO and Turbo), which you can toggle between to prioritize longer runtimes or higher performance.

While EGO nixed the wheels we saw in the 9-gallon vac, it may not necessarily need them with this more portable model. The design team stuck with a compact frame with the 3-gallon WDV0300. It features a built-in handle for easy transport, and at 11.7 lbs bare, it shouldn’t be too difficult for most people to carry between work areas.

Wireless Remote

Taking a cue from some of the more advanced shop vacs we’ve reviewed, the EGO WDV0300 includes a wireless remote that attaches to the end of the 7-foot vacuum hose. This lets you activate the vacuum without stopping your workflow to press the on/off button on the vacuum itself.

Interestingly, the remote is equipped with an LED light to make dust, dirt, and liquid messes more visible. This is a feature we haven’t seen before in a wireless vacuum remote. I can see it being useful for catching hidden debris in dark areas like seat cushion crevices, car floorboards, and more.

How Does it Compare?

Earlier, I mentioned that EGO’s 3-gallon wet-dry vacuum offers higher performance metrics than models from several other cordless brands. Here’s a look at those models side-by-side so you can compare them at a glance.

EGO 3-Gallon Wet-Dry Vacuum Price

This vacuum retails for $249 as a bare tool. Currently, there are no kit options available, so be sure to pick up an EGO 56V battery and charger if you’re not already on this platform. EGO backs your purchase with a 5-year warranty.

Should You Buy It?

For EGO users looking for a truly compact wet-dry vacuum for medium-duty cleaning, the new 3-gallon model is worth considering. Its performance level is higher than what we typically see with this class of vacuum, and EGO’s cordless design means you won’t need to manage a power cable while you clean.

There are some trade-offs to consider, namely in price. It’s more expensive than other models in its class for the bare tool. For example, the EGO 9-gallon wet-dry vacuum is only around $50 more at the time of writing, and it comes with more of the premium bells and whistles we like seeing in shop vacs—plus it’s triple the capacity. However, if you don’t need the larger model and you’d like to keep the budget lower while expanding your EGO roster, the 3-gallon model should serve you just fine.

Specifications

• Model: EGO WDV0300
• Tank capacity: 3 gallons
• Motor type: brushless
• Max air volume: 85 CFM
• Max water lift: 60 inches
• Max runtime: 90 minutes (with 5.0Ah battery)
• Two power modes
• Remote-compatible
• Hose length: 7 ft