When it comes to construction shop vacs, Ridgid vacs are at the top of the list in terms of quality and affordability. In this article, we compare two popular 16-gallon, 6.5 HP models: the stainless WD1956 and the plastic WD1851.
Weight
Believe it or not, the stainless steel model is half a pound lighter than the plastic version, coming in at only 27.8 lbs without accessories. Scroll to the next photo to see the weight with accessories.
Height
Both models have large back wheels, but the stainless has taller front casters giving it more ground clearance. This lets the drain plug sit higher allowing for more knuckle clearance when draining or attaching a pump.
Power
At 6.5 HP the these vacs have plenty of suction. Both have a 20′ cord, the same 16 gal. capacity, and come with the same accessories. Although, the plastic model comes with a rear air diffuser, which you can buy separately for the stainless. I didn’t.
Rust
Some “people” have reported rust issues with the stainless, which is not covered under Ridgid’s warranty. However, after six years of sucking water, rocks, and mud mine is still rust free.
(Update – Nov 10 2021 – Hey folks, it’s going on 10 years and I’m still on this same RIDGID stainless vacuum. Love this thing!)
Update #2 – Jan 7, 2025: So, a couple of weeks ago, I left water in the stainless steel drum for two or three days, and the bottom did get some rust, which I cleaned off with Bar Keepers Friend. Then today, I was changing the bag and broke the top handle by carelessly dropping it onto the ground. So, if I can’t get a new handle, it’s time for a new unit, which we’ll review and compare to see how the 14-year-old motor performs against the new one.
Bonus
The 16 gallon’s, tough as heck, 2.5” pull-hose works across models down to Ridgid’s 4 Gal, 5 HP shop-vac shown above. Just thought I’d thrown in that fact. I was really excited when I figured that out. #toolnerd
Storage
In the photo above, notice the larger storage bag on the stainless model. Within the large bag, I carry the wands, attachments, a dustpan, and a dust broom. During cleanup, I use the storage bag to hold trash too big for the hose. I even coil up the 20-foot cord and throw it in the bag.
The small bag on the plastic model does not hold the wands securely, nor do the rear wheel mounts hold the wands very well, which is how they are shown in the advertisements.
Bottom Line
Ridgid’s stainless steel 16-gallon wet/dry vacuum is taller, lighter, and has better storage than the 16-gallon plastic model. If you don’t care about the tool storage bag, the plastic model is cheaper, dent-resistant, smaller, and will never rust.
If you get one these shop vacs I hope you enjoy it. Please share any thoughts or questions in the comments below.
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