Mullet Cyclone Dust Collector versus Kreg Dust Separator

Two great choices for dust collection in a small workshop, but which is better? Let's compare the Mullet and Kreg dust collection systems!

If you work in a small garage workshop like I do, you don't have room for all the bells and whistles you might wish you did.

One of the big things I wish I had space for was a dust collection system. Unfortunately, the size of my shop just doesn't allow for that.

Instead, I've been using a couple of smaller, mobile dust collection systems to help with my woodworking projects. I've specifically been using the Mullet M5 Dust Cyclone and the Kreg Dust Separator.

Mullet vs Kreg Dust Collectors

The Mullet Dust Cyclone and Kreg Dust Separator both serve the purpose of collecting sawdust and wood chips from your projects and filtering them out. They both attach to your shop vac and use the suction power of the vacuum to work, but separate out the sawdust from clogging your shop vac filter.

However, they are very different tools. Let's break down the best things about each of these and how they differ from each other and help make a decision on which you should buy.

Best things about the Mullet Dust Cyclone

I've previously written an entire review of the Mullet M5 Dust Cyclone, so you should really read that if you're considering this tool. But, there are a few key aspects to it that I like.

The Mullet is very mobile, including four rolling castors on the bottom to help keep it rolling with your vacuum. It's also very light, despite its size, so it moves easily.

The Mullet dust collector works extremely well. It separates out almost everything with its unique design, and you can see the sawdust spinning while the vacuum is on, then dropping down into the basin when you cut it off.

The Mullet also has several really nice attachments now that make work a little easier. There's a flexible boom arm that can be locked into position where you need it to go for dust output. They also just released their FitsAll system that includes silicone attachments for each of your tools so you can easily swap out the hose without having the lose any suction anywhere.

Best things about the Kreg Dust Separator

The Kreg Dust Separator is less of a standalone tool than the Mullet, in that it is a topper for a standard five gallon bucket. It's the same in that it has to use the shop vac to pull power.

The Kreg Dust Separator takes up very little room on its own and is very lightweight, but you do need to have a separate bucket to work it. It has a flexible hose that attaches to your vacuum, so it doesn't have to be as close to the vacuum as the Mullet does.

However, the dust separation does have some room for improvement. While it definitely does separate sawdust from getting into your shop vac, it doesn't stop as much as the Mullet does.

But, the best thing about the Kreg Dust Separator is the price. At only $60 at the time of this post, it's much more affordable than the $275 that a Mullet Dust Collector will set you back.

Which is better?

So which is actually better- the Mullet Cyclone Dust Collector or the Kreg Dust Separator?

If we're talking function of dust separation and collection, I have to give the nod to the Mullet. It simply works better at it's job.

However, a Mullet is way way way more expensive than the Kreg. If you're working in a small shop and you don't have the space or money for a big dust collection system, the Kreg Dust Separator is a great choice.

So which is better is really a matter of what you personally want to prioritize- function or cost? Both are great options and suitable for different people!