Milwaukee PACKOUT™ 9 Gallon Dual-Battery Dust Extractor w/ VACLINK™ Kit

The Milwaukee PACKOUT™ 9 Gallon Dual-Battery Dust Extractor w/ VACLINK™ Kit might just be the most practical and versatile vacuum I've had the pleasure of using. As someone who has tested a wide array of shop vacuums, both corded and cordless, this model stands out for several reasons.

Design and Build Quality

First off, the rectangular design of this vacuum is a game-changer. Traditional round vacuums often wobble and tip over, especially when navigating tight spaces or uneven surfaces. The Milwaukee's rectangular shape offers improved stability and a lower center of gravity, making it much easier to maneuver. This design also allows it to fit snugly against walls or between workbenches, optimizing space in a crowded workshop.

The unit is mounted on a 4-wheel cart with reinforced casters and tread-patterned wheels that glide smoothly across different surfaces. The wheels even have individual brakes, allowing you to lock the vacuum in place when needed. This level of thoughtful engineering is what sets Milwaukee apart.

Cordless Convenience

One of the standout features is its dual-battery, cordless functionality. Running on M18 batteries, this vacuum eliminates the hassle of dealing with power cords. This is particularly useful for tasks in areas without readily available electrical outlets, such as cleaning out a flooded basement or a remote job site. The included dual rapid charger is a nice touch, capable of charging two batteries simultaneously in about 85 minutes.

Suction Power and Efficiency

The vacuum operates on two power modes: a low setting for extended run-time and a high setting for maximum suction. The suction power on the high setting is impressive, easily handling concrete dust, sawdust, and other debris. However, be prepared for a shorter runtime on this setting; I found that freshly charged 8.0Ah batteries lasted around 30 minutes on high. On the low setting, the vacuum still offers adequate suction for most tasks and significantly extends the runtime.

The automatic filter cleaning mechanism is another highlight. It maintains airflow efficiency by periodically shaking off dust from the filter, ensuring consistent performance without the need for frequent manual cleaning. The HEPA filters included also comply with OSHA regulations, making this vacuum suitable for professional environments.

User Experience

Using the Milwaukee vacuum is straightforward. The hose locks into place with a simple twist, ensuring it won't disconnect during use. This secure connection is particularly beneficial when you're moving the vacuum around or switching between suction and blower modes. The hose can also be connected to the exhaust to use the vacuum as a blower, adding another layer of versatility.

The accessory storage on the cart is convenient, allowing you to keep everything you need within arm's reach. The tools, including a crevice tool, utility nozzle, and two extension wands, all fit securely thanks to the smartly designed storage system. The fold-down top handle makes it easy to pick up the unit or guide it around, further enhancing its portability.

Areas for Improvement

While the Milwaukee vacuum excels in many areas, there are a few drawbacks worth mentioning. Firstly, the vacuum requires both batteries to operate, which means you can't run it on a single battery if one dies. This could be a limitation if you're in the middle of a task and don't have spare batteries readily available.

Another minor inconvenience is the lack of a wet debris filter and vacuum bag in the kit. These accessories would have been useful for more specialized tasks and could have enhanced the overall versatility of the vacuum. Additionally, the charger uses a steady red light to indicate charging instead of a flashing green, which can be confusing if you're accustomed to other Milwaukee chargers.

Lastly, the noise level is somewhat high, especially on the high suction setting. While this may not be an issue in a workshop, it could be a bit disruptive if you're using it indoors or in a more confined space.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Milwaukee PACKOUT™ 9 Gallon Dual-Battery Dust Extractor w/ VACLINK™ Kit is an excellent tool for both professional craftsmen and avid DIYers. Its cordless functionality, strong suction power, and thoughtful design make it a versatile and practical addition to any workshop or job site. The automatic filter cleaning, HEPA compliance, and dual power modes add to its appeal, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

Despite a few minor drawbacks, such as the need for two batteries to operate and the absence of certain accessories, the benefits far outweigh these limitations. If you're in the market for a high-quality, cordless wet/dry vacuum, I highly recommend the Milwaukee PACKOUT™ 9 Gallon Dual-Battery Dust Extractor. Its ease of use, robust performance, and innovative features make it a standout choice in its category.