Whether you’re using a nail gun on a construction site all day or you’re looking for an easy way to keep your RV tires at full pressure, you know you can’t do it alone—you need an air compressor. It seems like there are countless products available, but not all air compressors are the same. Depending on your application, it’s easy to over- or under-power your tools, and that can be costly and frustrating. If you’re in the market for the best air compressor let us help you decide by introducing you to some of the best products available. We’ve even chosen a Top Pick to put your mind at ease.
Before you buy, take a minute to read about our findings so you make sure you’re getting the best air compressor. An informed purchase is a smart purchase!
Product FAQ
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1. What Is an Air Compressor?
An air compressor uses a motor or an engine to force air into a storage tank that increases in pressure (compresses) as more air is added to the tank. Air is released through a coupler and can be used to inflate tires, sports balls, and power washers as well as powering air tools such as nail guns and staplers.
2. What Features Should I Look for in an Air Compressor?
The main features to compare in air compressors are the PSI rating, the tank size, and the decibel level. The best air compressors will pressurize air up to 165 PSI. If you’re looking for a compressor that you can use for extended periods you’ll want to look for a compressor with a tank size of 6 gallons or more. If you’re just filling tires and sports balls, select a unit that has a tank of 1 or 2 gallons. If you’re planning to use the compressor indoors, you’ll want to consider a unit that operates under 70dB.
3. Where Can I Buy the Best Air Compressor?
The best air compressors can be purchased at big box stores, hardware stores, lumber stores, and online. The air compressors we reviewed for this article are available on Amazon.com and we have provided links to them.
How We Reviewed
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We reviewed the features of each air compressor on the list, comparing PSI ratings, decibel ratings, price, and customer satisfaction. We analyzed each unit’s portability, durability, and value. We selected the best air compressor based on versatility, ease of use, and overall quality.
Overall Price Range
Prices for the air compressors we reviewed in this article range from just over $30 to $600. The less expensive air compressors have smaller tanks, lower PSI, and are made of lower quality materials. Frequently the lower priced items are made offshore. The best air compressors are made of higher quality materials such as cast iron, have higher quality couplings and hoses, and feature larger tanks and more powerful motors.
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DEWALT DWFP55130 Heavy Duty 200 PSI Quiet Trim Compressor
- 3.0 SCFM delivered at 90 PSI pump, 2.5 gallon tank and 200 max PSI ; Pump Speed 2,300 rpm
- Durable oil Free pump provides extended maintenance Free operation
- Low 71.5 dB allows for quieter operation;High flow regulator for increased Performance
Features
The Dewalt Heavy Duty Compressor will support multiple pneumatic and air tools. The pump is oil free, and it delivers 33.0SCFM @ 90 PSA. The unit operates at a quiet 71.5dB. It has a high flow regulator to increase its performance. The motor only draws 12 amps so it won’t trip breakers. Store the unit vertically or horizontally to save space in the garage or on the job site.
Pros
Cons
Warranty
This product carries a one-year limited warranty.
Campbell Hausfeld Portable Quiet Air Compressor
- QUIET: The DC080500 air compressor is up to 50% quieter than comparable compressors, producing just 68 dBA which it...
- VERSATILE: This compressor is perfect for inflation, hobby painting, stapling, fastening, nailing, and bolting projects
- DURABLE: The compressor's key components last up to four times longer due to its oil-free, maintenace free, dual piston...
Features
The Campbell Hausfeld Portable Quiet Air Compressor operates at a whisper-quiet 68dB which is up to 50% quieter than other compressors. It is perfect for use indoors or outdoors. The dual piston pump is oil free and maintenance free. The unit features a heavy duty steel handle with a rubber grip and large wheels that make it easy to move the compressor from one area to another.
Pros
Cons
Warranty
This product carries a one-year limited warranty.
DEWALT DWFP55126 6-Gallon 165 PSI Pancake Compressor
- 165 max PSI 6.0 gallon tank (22.7 L) and 2.6 SCFM delivered at 90 PSI pump. SCFM @ 40 PSI 3.7 scfm
- High efficiency motor for easy start up in cold weather or extension cord application. [14 ga or larger, 50 ft. (15.2 m)...
- 75.5 dBA noise level for a quiet work setting
Features
The Dewalt Pancake Compressor features high flow regulators and couplers that maximize performance of air tools. It delivers 165 max PSI from the 6 gallon tank and it operates at 75.5dB for use indoors or outdoors. It features two universal couplers to support two users simultaneously. The high efficiency motor operates at 120 volts and will easily start on an extension cord or in cold weather. The unit only weighs 30 pounds, so it’s easy to transport.
Pros
Cons
Warranty
This product carries a one-year warranty.
Bostitch BTFP02012 6 Gallon 150 PSI Oil-Free Compressor
- Note:Item does not includes hose or gun kit
- 150 max PSI 6.0 gallon tank (22.7 L) and 2.6 SCFM* delivered @ 90 PSI pump
- High efficiency motor for easy start up in cold weather
Features
The Bostitch 6 Gallon Oil Free Compressor features a 6 gallon tank and 150 max PSI. The unit is lightweight and portable. It has a durable, oil-free pump that is maintenance free and built to last. The pump will deliver 2.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI that will power tools for an extended time and will recover quickly. The unit operates quietly at 78.5dB. Air tool performance is maximized by the high flow regulator and couplers. The compressor will support two users with its two universal couplers.
Pros
Cons
Warranty
This product carries a one-year limited warranty.
Industrial Air Contractor CTA5090412 4-Gallon Grade Direct Drive Pontoon Air Compressor
- Low maintenance, oil free, direct drive pump has a patented two piece cooling system which extends the life of the pump
- 5-Horsepower Honda OHC/OHV premium residential gas engine
- 155 PSI max pressure for optimum tool performance. Application Use-Air Brushing,Blow Cleaning,Bolting/Wrenching,Brad...
Features
The Industrial Air Contractor 4 Gallon Compressor is powered by a 5HP Honda residential gas engine. The life of the pump is extended by the patented pump design that increases cooling efficiencies and lowers operating temperatures with a two piece cooling system. The pump provides 155 PSI max pressure for optimum tool performance. The unit has a pontoon style tank with (2) 2-gallon tanks and is equipped with regulator, quick connect, gauges, and cushioned grips.
Pros
Cons
Warranty
This product carries a one-year limited warranty.
Viair 00073 70P Heavy Duty Portable Compressor
- 12 VOLT - 100 PSI Maximum Working Pressure, engine must be running during use.
- 1.06CFM Free Flow @ 0 PSI
- Deluxe carry bag included
Features
The Viair Heavy Duty Portable Compressor is powered by your car’s cigarette lighter. Tires expand as they heat up, so making sure they are completely full before you begin driving will help make your tires last longer, get better gas mileage, and provide a smooth, safe ride. The unit has a max 100 PSI. It includes a brass tire chuck and a deluxe carrying bag.
Pros
Cons
Warranty
This product carries a one-year limited warranty.
PORTER-CABLE CMB15 (1.5 Gallon) Oil-Free Fully Shrouded
- 2.0 SCFM at 90 psi allows for quick compressor recovery time, per ISO1217
- 1.5 gal tank in shroud is easy to carry, includes water drain valve and rubber feet
- 150 psi max tank pressure stores more air in the tank for longer tool runtimes
Features
The Porter-Cable Fully Shrouded Compressor runs a 2.0 SCFM @ 90 PSI, so it recovers quickly. The fully shrouded 1.5 gallon tank is easy to transport. The tank has rubber feet and a water drain valve. The max 150 PSI tank pressure allows for extended tool run times. The oil free pump doesn’t require any maintenance. The motor is low Amp 120V and starts easily, even in cold weather. At 20 pounds, this unit is easily transportable.
Pros
Cons
Warranty
This product carries a one-year limited warranty.
PORTER-CABLE C2002 Oil-Free UMC Pancake Compressor
- 150 psi max tank pressure stores more air in the tank for longer tool run times
- 2.6 SCFM at 90 psi allows for quick compressor recovery time, per ISO1217
- Six-gallon pancake-style tank for stability, includes water drain valve and rubber feet
Features
The Porter-Cable Pancake Compressor features a max 150 PSI tank that provides 2.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI, giving this unit a quick recovery time. The pancake style tank has a low center of gravity and rubber feet for stability. The motor starts on an extension cord or in cold weather due to its low-amp 120 volt motor. Components are protected with the shroud, handle, and console cover. The unit includes dual air couplers that will support two users. At 30 pounds, the compressor is easy to transport.
Pros
Cons
Warranty
This product carries a one-year limited warranty.
Senco PC1010 1-Horsepower Peak
- Lightweight and portable--easy to carry from site to site as you work
- One horsepower peak ,1/2 horsepower runningand one-gallon capacity
- Ideal for a range of renovation and home improvement jobs, as well as for hobbies and crafts
Features
The Senco PC1010 Electric Compressor is ultra-lightweight at just 20 pounds. This oil free compressor features a direct drive induction motor that operates efficiently. The aluminum tank has a one gallon capacity with 120 PSI maximum output. It has a 1/4 inch quick disconnect coupler and separate gauges for tank pressure and output pressure.
Pros
Cons
Warranty
This product carries a one-year limited warranty.
Makita MAC700 Big Bore 2.0 HP Air Compressor
- Cast iron pump with big bore cylinder and piston, combined with greater bore and stroke, delivers maximum performance
- Substantially lower noise levels with a large 1,720 RPM pump, enabling greater displacement at lower RPM
- Low amp draw reduces incidences of tripped breakers and voltage drop that can cause premature motor failure
Features
The Makita Big Bore Air Compressor features a cast iron pump with a big bore cylinder and piston to deliver optimum performance. The 1720 RPM pump delivers substantially lower noise levels because it operates at a lower RPM than other compressors. The motor prevents voltage loss and tripped breakers due to its low amp draw. The pump runs cooler than oil free pumps.
Pros
Cons
Warranty
This product carries a one-year limited warranty.
The Verdict
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Based on our research we believe the best air compressor is the PORTER-CABLE Oil-Free Fully Shrouded / Hand Carry Compressor Kit with 25′ Hose. It is the only unit we reviewed that is both contained in a single housing and is compact and lightweight enough to move easily from place to place. This unit outperforms both top SCFM and PSI of much larger units. It comes with a professional grade car tire inflator, adapters to inflate mattresses, sports balls, etc., and a 25 foot hose that easily wraps around the unit for storage.
It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for an air compressor that will keep the tires on your cars and RVs inflated or you’re looking for a unit that will power your air tools: the Porter-Cable unit will provide maximum efficiency at an affordable price.
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