Portable two-stage wood dust collectors direct larger sawdust particles to a collection bag while directing air and small particles to be filtered through a felt filter bag. Filter bags are made of felt and can be cleaned and reused as needed. Portable dust collectors can be moved around a shop or taken to worksites. They're lighter and have a smaller capacity than mobile dust collectors.

Central cyclone-style wood dust collectors with a bag-style filter have an impeller that separates large and small dust particles. Large particles are dropped into a bag or drum for collection. Smaller particles are pulled into a bag-style air filter before air is returned to the workspace. Bag-style filter bags are made of felt and can be cleaned and reused as needed. Central cyclone dust collectors are installed in a convenient location that can be accessed by multiple tools.