Milwaukee has finally answered the call: the PACKOUT-compatible wet/dry vacuum is here, and it brings more than just compatibility to the table. After years of field feedback, DIY modifications and a growing demand for better cordless cleanup solutions, the M18 FUEL NEXUS PACKOUT Wet/Dry Vacuum System (0914-20) has arrived and it’s everything tradespeople were asking for.
This launch isn’t just about checking a feature box. It’s a full-system overhaul that merges power, modularity, and PACKOUT integration into one jobsite-ready ecosystem. Compared to past models like the 0970-20, 0910-20, 0920-20, and even the heavy-duty 0930-22HD, NEXUS is more powerful, more flexible, and more intelligent than anything Milwaukee has built before.
From Zip Ties to Full Integration: A Community-Driven Innovation
Back in 2021, Nick asked what many were thinking: “Why isn’t Milwaukee’s vacuum PACKOUT compatible?” In a now-legendary video, he showed how you could rig a vacuum to snap onto PACKOUT using zip ties and sheer determination. The response was overwhelming. The message was clear: jobsite vacuums should be part of the PACKOUT family.
Milwaukee listened and then took it much further. Rather than retrofitting existing models, they rebuilt the entire system from scratch, launching the NEXUS Modular Vacuum Platform, designed for adaptability, power, and total mobility on the jobsite.
The NEXUS Modular Wet/Dry Vacuum System: Built for the Jobsite
NEXUS isn’t just a vacuum, it’s an ecosystem. Choose your motor head (single or dual battery), match it to the tank size (6, 9, or 12 gallon), mount it on the purpose-built NEXUS Cart, and lock it into your PACKOUT stack. It’s all interchangeable, configurable, and ready for real jobsite demands.
The Core Components:
NEXUS Motor Heads
Single Battery: 95 CFM / 63″ water lift
Runtime: ~44 minutes (M18 FORGE HD12.0)
Ideal for general cleanup, finish work, or fast tasks.
Dual Battery: 115 CFM / 80″ water lift
Runtime: ~49 minutes, 2,200 sq. ft. of coverage
Outperforms 4.25 peak HP corded vacs.
Both come VACLINK™ enabled, allowing wireless activation via hose or tool—no wasted runtime or backtracking.
NEXUS Tanks (6, 9, 12 Gallon)
The NEXUS tanks are fully sealed, built rugged for tough jobsite conditions, and designed for easy cleanup. They feature tool-free, quarter-turn access to filters for quick maintenance and are compatible with both HEPA and fleece dust bags for enhanced performance. Available in multiple sizes, the 6-gallon is ideal for trim and finish work, while the 12-gallon handles heavy debris from demo or large cleanup tasks.
NEXUS Cart
The NEXUS Cart isn’t just a dolly, it’s PACKOUT-grade transport engineered for the jobsite. It features four heavy-duty locking casters for stability, integrated storage for AIR-TIP™ and other accessories, and a reliable foot brake to keep your setup secure on slopes or loading docks. Its smooth, balanced design makes maneuvering across rough terrain effortless.
Performance That Punches Above Its Weight
NEXUS doesn’t just work; it works harder and smarter.
| Model | CFM | Suction (in) | Runtime (min) | PACKOUT Compatible | Modular | VACLINK |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0970-20 | 87 | 60″ | ~30 | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| 0910-20 | 90 | 63″ | ~31-47 | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
| 0920-20 | 95 | 63″ | ~34-49 | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
| 0930-22HD | 95 | 63″ | ~34-49 | ❌ (DIY only) | ✅ | ❌ |
| NEXUS 6 Gal | 95 | 63″ | 31–44 | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| NEXUS Dual-Batt | 115 | 80″ | 35–49 | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
The NEXUS system delivers corded-like performance with the convenience of cordless operation, while running quieter than most traditional shop vacs. It fully integrates with PACKOUT and M18 tools and is purpose-built for real jobsite conditions, eliminating the hassle of dragging cords across your workspace.
Game-Changing Add-Ons: Cleaning Smarter, Not Harder
Milwaukee introduced two key accessories that elevate jobsite efficiency to the next level:
NEXUS Filter Cleaner
The NEXUS Filter Cleaner (0991-20) offers fully enclosed, zero-dust filter cleaning in just five seconds, keeping filters securely in place with no shaking or exposure. It’s compatible with dual HEPA filtration and meets OSHA silica compliance for light-duty concrete applications.
NEXUS Debris Separator
The NEXUS Debris Separator (0990-20) removes up to 99% of debris before it reaches the filter, helping to prolong filter life, maintain strong suction, and minimize maintenance. It mounts seamlessly between the tank and motor with no need for extra hoses, clamps, or gimmicks.
Both accessories are designed to preserve the modularity and mobility of the system. No performance trade-offs, just smarter cleanup.
And What About the 0888-20?
Let’s not forget the 0888-20, another PACKOUT vac Milwaukee dropped earlier this year. It’s a 9-gallon, dual-battery vacuum that can also run on AC power, and it includes VACLINK and OSHA Table 1 compliance out of the box.
So, what’s the difference?
The 0888-20, priced around $800 as a bare tool, comes fully featured out of the box but lacks modularity, while the NEXUS system starts at approximately $250 and offers a customizable, build-your-own platform that’s both future-proof and highly adaptable to different jobsite needs.
Bottom line: Milwaukee started the year slow in vacs and ended with possibly the best shop vac lineup ever.
This isn’t just a new product. It’s a strategic shift in how cordless cleanup tools are designed.
NEXUS is a modular system designed for tradespeople who tackle a variety of tasks, built tough enough to withstand the harshest jobsite conditions. It’s smarter in both power usage and activation, and engineered not just to last, but to evolve with your needs.
Every inch of this vacuum reflects community feedback and on-site realities. It’s not just PACKOUT-compatible, it’s PACKOUT-optimized. Don’t hesitate to reach out at cs@ohiopowertool.com or 614-481-2111 with any questions, comments, or concerns, and be sure to follow us on all your favorite social media channels to stay in the know on all the latest announcements, deals, news, and more!
