TOP-10 Best Air Compressors

What is the best air compressor? The majority of the modern air compressors with the advanced features are designed for powering a wide range of pneumatic tools. Besides they are offered with a numerous prominent functions which make them suitable for usage at the production and construction sites. Of course, a field of application is strictly determined by the capacity and type of the compressors. However the state-of-the-art options are highly versatile tools capable of satisfying the needs of both regular customers and professionals. Moreover, the modern air compressors can be operated in any weather conditions without compromising to the efficiency and quality of any particular job. Basing on my in-depth analysis of the modern air compressor industry, I’ve come to a conclusion that the DEWALT DWFP55126 is that versatile tool which can cover a really wide range of applications.

Why have I chosen this model? This pancake design air compressor from Dewalt comes with a powerful and reliable motor. That is, it starts up and performs well even under low temperatures. Besides, it doesn’t lose its efficiency with usage of any extension cords. The user-friendliness of this tool can be proved by an oil-free pump which doesn’t require any routine maintenance on a constant basis. One of the major benefits of this model is availability of two couplers for powering two tools simultaneously. And this is another proof of a great performance of this unit. Nevertheless, being a highly efficient tool, the DEWALT DWFP55126 is really quiet in operation, producing just 75dB of noise. An ultimate portability of this air compressor due to its lightweight and compact design made it a highly demanded option on the current market.

Introduction

This guide will focus on TOP-10 best air compressors, elaborating on their distinctions and main features.

It is true that air compressors power a wide range of pneumatic equipment and tools over multiple fields of application. In order to get an air compressor suitable for your needs, you'll welcome an opportunity to arm yourself with the right knowledge. Thus, this guide will answer the most common questions that arise when selecting a device for residential- or professional-grade purposes. You will get to know about such features like an overall capacity of the item and how to measure the amount of pressurized air a device can produce, transport and store. At the end, I hope, you’ll become a fully-aware person in this matter who knows all pros and cons of various types of the air compressors. And thus, you will be able to find your perfect tool in a flash.

Types of air compressors

There are a lot of classifications of air compressors. However, I would like to mention some of them to give you a general idea of ​​a big diversity of types and subtypes within the air compressor family.

First of all, air compressors are classified by the principle of operation. In particular, they can be distinguished by a pressurizing method which is actually the baseline. In this regard, there are two types available:

• Positive displacement - including reciprocating, rotary and diaphragm air compressors
• Dynamic air compressors - including centrifugal and axial flow air compressors.

During operation of a positive-displacement compressor, its chamber is gradually filled with air which is further compressed due to a forced volume reduction. Air reversing is prevented by subsequently opening and closing valves.

The principle of operation of the dynamic air compressors is in the rotor vane action. Pressurizing can be achieved by various methods which differ by compressed air properties, compression settings, etc. This allows adopting the unit for a particular task. The variety of dynamic air compressors are deemed as professional-grade equipment due to its higher capacity in comparison with positive displacement compressors.

Reciprocating piston compressors are the common most options on the mass market. They were the first type of the compressors developed, thus they are the best to demonstrate the principle of a positive displacement functioning. Its crankshaft assembly ensures a reciprocating motion of a piston inside a cylinder. Some air compressors are equipped with a dual piston setup for higher flow and / or pressure.

Besides, piston compressors come in single-stage and two-stage designs. The single-stage units pressurize the air in one pace before its storage. This type of compressors are suitable for powering most of pneumatic tools, caulking, spray and glue guns, and undoubtedly for inflating tires and rafts. Two-stage compressors pressurize the air in two stages, as the name implies, to double the pressure value. Thus, the two-stage units are more powerful and efficient in comparison with their single-stage counterparts. Consequently, they can be used for more challenging tasks like powering bigger pneumatic tools and for supplying various manufacturing facilities with compressed air.

Depending on a position of cylinders, the piston reciprocating compressors come in horizontal and vertical designs. A tank of a vertical air compressor is pre-assembled on its motor. The base of a vertical unit can be stationary and wheeled. This type of compressors require less space, thus it is more suitable for operation in some tight working area. In spite the fact that horizontal models have a bigger footprint, though they are highly maneuverable due to its well-balanced design. This configuration allows transferring a unit from one location to another easily and safely.

Besides, air compressors are distinguished by a cooling type. When a piston reciprocating unit is in operation, a friction between metallic elements occurs. The moving parts are located tightly in relation to each other, and an inevitable wear occurs as a result of their engagement. The easiest way out from this situation is usage of lubrication. That is, addition of oil. The latter create an invisible film between cylinder and piston walls. Oil also reduces friction, and prevents parts from an early wear and from corrosion. Overall, oil-basedcompressors are more reliable and durable in comparison with oil-free counterparts. In this regard, you could have a particular concern in relation of reasonability and applicability of oil-free air compressors. However, during operation of an oil-based compressor, particles of oil penetrate to the generated compressed air. It's fine with a pneumatic wrench, for instance. As oil drops will lubricate the joints. Thus, it will be easy to screw and unscrew them. But, the same situation is not admissible for a spray gun. Otherwise, you will have a deplorable result, as a car painted with a mixture of paint and oil will hardly represent a high-quality result. That is, oil-free compressors supply an absolute pure air to a pneumatic system. Overall, they will save you time, as they come in a maintenance –free design, and your money. However, they are less reliable due to lower life service, capacity and power than the oil-based compressors.

Also, air compressors can differ in a power source. There are three options available: - driven by an electrical motor or powered by a gas engine or a rechargeable battery.

As it is evident from the foregoing, there are lots and lots of classifications of the compressor equipment. However, I would like to give you a better insight of the most common types of air compressors to be considered when looking for an option suitable for your particular application.

• Portable air compressors for home garage. This type of equipment is distinguished by its mobility, medium capacity, and maintenance-free design. The residential-grade air compressors commonly generate the average pressure in the range of 90-120 PSI. Long-lasting and intensive operation of such tool may lead to its failure, and the costs for its repair will be similar to the cost of a new tool. This type of compressors is usually used in small workshops, garages and on some construction sites. Thus, you will be happy with the DEWALT DWFP55126 which is capable of tackling the residential-grade jobs and even more.
  
• Portable air compressor for car. Such compressors are also known as tire inflators. They are very compact and lightweight units. One of the distinguished features of the tire inflators is ability to run by various power supply sources. Thus, they can be powered by a standard electric outlet, DC outlet at your car and by means of a rechargeable battery. The latter makes this tool highly portable as it can be used anywhere, at home or on the way. With the help of this tool, you will inflate even a flat tire of your car easily and quickly. Besides, it will handle blowing up of various inflatables used in everyday life and on holidays. The cordless RYOBI P737 will become an indispensable tool for such daily-basis needs, with no restrictions to your freedom from the power outlet.
  
• Air compressor for truck tires. In general, these tools have the same concept of operation as the tire inflators for cars. However, they should work for tires within the wide pressure ranges and differ with a higher efficiency. You should bear in mind, that filling the truck tires requires PSI and CFM and considerable depends on a type of your vehicle, in particular, on its capacity. In average, the advanced models of such portable air compressor should be able to generate at least 1 - 2 CFM. The VIAIR 400P will do its job to meet the above-mentioned needs.
  
• 30 gallon air compressor. These compressors demonstrate greater performance in comparison with the above-mentioned tools. 30 gallon units are suitable for residential- and professional-grade applications. The capacity of its tank allows accumulating more air which is refilled on a constant basis for keeping a required pressure in a pneumatic system. Thus, the air flow generated by such units is significantly higher in comparison with air compressors of a smaller capacity. Overall, 30 gallon compressors ensure a highly-efficient operation of numerous pneumatic tools. I guess the NorthStar Portable Gas Powered Air Compressor has the very right features to generate the sufficient amount of air flow needed for multiple heavy-duty jobs.
  
• 60 gallon air compressor. This type of air compressors is very similar to 30 gallon units in the design and principles of operation depending on a model, of course. The advantage of the 60 gallon compressor is a higher tank and thus higher storage capacity needed to power higher CFM tools. The downside of it is the bigger size and weight in comparison with the 30 gallon counterparts. Also, it will be an issue to find a proper storage space in your garage or workshop due to its larger footprint. Thus, I would recommend 60 gallon air compressors for commercial- and industrial- grade applications, when simultaneous operation of several pneumatic tools is needed. Such compressor will handle similar tasks with no hassle. The DeWalt DXCMV5076055 two-stage air compressor is an awesome large air compressor even suitable for small industrial facilities.
  
• Commercial air compressor. Most commercial air compressors come in a bulky and heavyweight design, thus the majority of them belong to the class of stationary equipment. Commercial-grade units are more powerful capable of providing higher CFM at higher PSI rates, due to larger tanks with an increased storage capacity. The capacity and performance of such compressors will be suitable for those construction or production facilities, with multiple job locations to be moved frequently from one to another. In such cases portable commercial air compressors become an awesome option to meet your needs. These models are typically less powerful with lower storage capacity in comparison with the stationary counterparts, though the portable units offer a great opportunity of mobility. By the way, gas-powered models would be preferable for these purposes even if they are pricier than the electric compressors in this class. Thus the gas-powered Quincy QT-54 air compressor is built for efficiency and durability withstanding higher loads of operation.
  
• Industrial air compressor. Industrial air compressors are the most powerful class of compressors available on the current market. These compressors come in a robust design to withstand the heavy-duty projects of any industrial site for long periods of operation. This type of equipment is highly applicable at different process flows in various technical branches. The enterprises of light and heavy industries, auto services companies and large manufacturers. The Ingersoll Rand 2340N5-V is a bright example of industrial-grade equipment which can be also used for some large-scale projects in a home-base workshop or garage.
  

What Should You Know When Purchasing an Air Compressor? | Buyer's Guide

When purchasing your first air compressor you should look for a number of key features that will ensure the correctness of your choice which will contribute to achievement of successful results in any project. Below are some of the most common features the average consumer should consider before making a purchase.

Horsepower

Horsepower is a term that basically means how much output or power the device can produce. It is also useful for determining the overall capacity of the item. You want to make sure you have an air compressor that has enough horsepower for the tasks you will need without buying one that is significantly larger than what is needed.

Air Pressure

Air pressure I measured in PSI which represents pounds per square inch of pressure. PSI is used to measure the amount of air pressure the device can produce, transport and store.

Cubic Feet Per Minute

The cubic feet per minute, which is abbreviated as CFM which shows how much air a compressor can continuously produce in a particular period of time. A minimum 1-2 CFM rating of around 90 PSI is needed to successfully run most types of pneumatic tools on various job sites.

Storage Tank Size

Another important factor anyone planning to purchase an air compressor should consider is the size of the storage tank. The models with a larger tank have a larger reserve of air to be supplied, thus ensuring a continuous and uninterrupted operation of a pneumatic system. Therefore these units do not need to run as often as similar units with smaller tanks.

Duty Cycle

It determines the time needed for cooling down of an air compressor after each run. For instance, if your air compressor has a 100% duty cycle, then it can be continuously operated with no risk to be overheated.

Cost

Before making the final decision and getting a particular unit, you should carry over, so called, comparative analysis of what you want and what you really need. This is highly important, as the more powerful and versatile the air compressor is, the pricier it may be. Don’t forget that it’s better to primarily consider the models from the trusted manufacturers, as well as pay heed to the customers’ reviews, to your own experience and to this Guide.

TOP-10 Best Air Compressors

The below-mentioned models have different capacity and power suitable for different applications. Besides, such characteristics as design and weight are also important, which is why you will also find here portable and lightweight models that are easy to carry around.

1. DEWALT DWFP55126

Dewalt is the name that has been associated with the high quality and reliability in the world of power tools for a long time. The Dewalt DWFP55126 6-gallon pancake compressor is not an exception! This model is equipped with a powerful 10-Amp motor delivering 2.6 CFM at 90 PSI. The maximum pressure can reach 165 PSI, thus the unit should be arranged at least 12-inch away from the walls or other surfaces due to the high air flow. The unit is suitable for any ambient conditions, thus it could be easily started-up in cold weather.

The high flow regulator and couplers enhance the performance of this air compressor by adjusting the flow rate efficiently and quickly.

This model comes in a lightweight but sturdy design ensuring its reliable and durable operation. Besides, the noise level of the DWFP55126 is lower in comparison with the similar models in its class.

Features

• Pressure Max (PSI): 150
• Air flow (CFM): 2.6
• Type: Corded
• Weight (lbs): 32.5
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 16.5 x 16.5 x 17.9

DEWALT DWFP55126 has small dimensions but great performance! I bet, this is one of the best options among other 6-gallon tools, which pushes the upper limits in its class.

DEWALT: Check the current price

2. PORTER-CABLE C2002

This model from a reliable manufacturer has proven to provide good performance for a variety of tasks and needs for homeowners and small business owners. It is a 1-horsepower, oil-free compressor with a convenient short, compact design making it easier to use in a variety of locations that have limited space.

The unique design also makes transporting the item simpler and easier. With a 150 PSI capacity 6 gallon tank, the Porter-Cable C2002 allows for longer continuous usage time when using power tools. The 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI gives this unit a fast recovery time. It also has a water drain valve to rid the unit of any moisture buildup. The durable rubber feet keep the unit in place during transport or usage.

Features

• Pressure Max (PSI): 150
• Air flow (CFM): 2.6
• Type: Corded
• Weight (lbs): 31.3
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 19 x 19 x 18

The Porter-Cable C2002 model is an ideal product worth purchasing for most consumers due to a larger storage tank and higher flow rate than many similar products on the market.

PORTER-CABLE: Check the current price

3. BOSTITCH BTFP3KIT

This model is an impressive product indeed. With a 6-gallon tank and 150-PSI maximum capacity, this compact device packs quite a punch. The high-performance motor provides an impressive 2.6 CFM. The Brad Nailer has the ability to drive 5/8 ”- 2” nails allowing versatility for a whole range of different applications. The straight finish nailer can drive 1-¼ "- 2-½" nails. There is also an impressive heavy-duty crown stapler with the ability to sink 3/8 ”Crown staples that are ¼” - 9/16 ”.

Features

• Pressure Max (PSI): 150
• Air flow (CFM): 2.6
• Type: Corded
• Weight (lbs): 43.5
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 21.1 x 19.5 x 18

The Bostitch BTFP3KIT model comes with a versatile kit of pneumatic tools included. Thus it becomes a worthy tool set in one package.

BOSTITCH: Check the current price

4. CRAFTSMAN CMEC6150K

Craftsman is a highly recognizable brand in the U.S. with a big experience on the power equipment market. They have a broad selection of air compressors for various applications. The 6-gallon CMEC6150K is one of the awesome units which belong to the class of the high-capacity units. This air compressor generates 2.6 CFM at 90 PSI. The ability to deliver up to 150 PSI to ensures its suitability for various heavy-duty applications. This model features an oil-free pump which considerably simplifies its maintenance and increases the overall service life.

This comes in a lightweight and a compact pancake design, thus making it portable and convenient in use. It is a highly resistant compressor to the ambient conditions. Therefore, it starts up quickly in cold weather with no hassle.

One of the main benefits of this model is the 13-piece accessory kit delivered together with the device. The set comprises an air hose with plug and coupler, blow gun, rubber tip, three inflator adapters, tire gauge, etc. Overall, you’ll get all necessary stuff to proceed with your work immediately.

Features

• Pressure Max (PSI): 150
• Air flow (CFM): 2.6
• Type: Corded
• Weight (lbs): 32.5
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 16.5 x 16.5 x 17.9

The Craftsman CMEX6150 6-gallon air compressor offers an awesome performance and portability. This compressor becomes an indispensable tool in your garage or workshop for powering your pneumatics and blowing up different inflatables. And all this is at the reasonable price.

CRAFTSMAN: Check the current price

5. CALIFORNIA AIR TOOLS 10020C

California air tools is a small manufacturer of air compressors and accessories based in the U.S. The 8-gallon air compressor has enough storage capacity to provide a continuous airflow for operating of various pneumatic tools like sanders, wrenches, spray guns, etc.

The 10020C comes with a large 10-gallon steel tank enduring a sufficient air supply for numerous projects at your home-based workshop or garage.

This air compressor features a 2.0 HP motor with an overheating protection. The motor operates at only 1680 RPM thus creating less noise (70dB) and less wear. This unit is capable of delivering 6.40 CFM at 40 PSI and 5.30 CFM at 90 PSI. It also has an oil-free pump that requires less maintenance. Besides, it takes only 120 seconds to fill the tank from entirely empty to its full capacity.

In spite of its bulky and sturdy design, the unit has wheels to ensure its mobility around the job site. Moreover, this air compressor has integrated pressure control gauges, universal 1/4 ″ quick connectors and a Condor pressure switch, ensuring reliable monitoring and control over the entire process.

Features

• Pressure Max (PSI): 125
• Air flow (CFM): 6.4
• Type: Corded
• Weight (lbs): 82.5
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 16 x 15.1 x 35.9

If you are looking for a powerful compressor to run various pneumatic tools for construction, upholstery and other crafting around the house, the CALIFORNIA AIR TOOLS 10020C will be right what you need. I would recommend this unit as one of the best 10-gallon compressor for various applications with a considerably lower noise level in comparison with other counterparts.

California Air Tools 10020C: Check the current price

6. CALIFORNIA AIR TOOLS 8010

This model comes with a durable 1.0HP induction motor. It has an oil-free design which allows forgetting about frequent maintenance and facilitating its operation. This compressor is equipped with a large air filter and 2 sturdy pistons for a quick refilling of a tank, thus reducing the time for its recovery. Also, the motor of this air compressor ensures a high-rated performance of 2.2CFM at 90PSI.

It can be used for painting or nailing continuously without overheating. Its large tank also allows the air to cool, condensing all the moisture to reduce water problems in the pipes.

This unit demonstrates a robust design with its sturdy steel tank and iron-cast pistons. However, it is portable at the same time due to the wheels at the back and the front handle.

Features

• Pressure Max (PSI): 120
• Air flow (CFM): 3.1
• Type: Corded
• Weight (lbs): 54
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 26 x 14 x 23

This would be the best option if you are looking for a quiet-operation air compressor. Thus, it creates a favorable working environment without compromising its efficiency.

California Air Tools: Check the current price

7. CAMPBELL HAUSFELD FP209499AV

The FP209499AV operates on a standard 120-volt power outlet and can supply up to 110 PSI maximum, and 0.36 CFM at 90 PSI. Thus, it can ensure steady and uninterrupted airflow for various jobs around the house or small enterprises. The oil-free design provides quiet and maintenance-free operation over the life of this compressor. The duty cycle amounts to 0.75, meaning that this unit can be continuously operated for a long time without an obligatory break for cooling down.

The 3-gallon horizontal tank weighs only 20.7 lbs thus ensuring its portability for the projects requiring compressed air supply. This model also comes with integrated gauges allowing an easy monitoring of air pressure. The device also comes with a 10-piece accessory kit which includes a coiled 25-foot coiled hose, blow gun, inflation needles and fittings.

Features

• Pressure Max (PSI): 110
• Air flow (CFM): 0.36
• Type: Corded
• Weight (lbs): 20.7
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 15.7 x 7.9 x 19.6

This model would be a great assistance for any household or small business. The 10 piece accessory kit ensures its versatility for multiple projects, starting from blowing up tires and other inflatables to the possibility of powering various pneumatic tools.

Campbell Hausfeld: Check the current price

8. Makita MAC2400

Makita as a reliable manufacturer of power tools offers one more outstanding item among other portable job site air compressors. It outdoes the competition with a cast iron pump having a big bore piston and cylinder. The 2.5 Horsepower 4 Pole motor stands out above all the others with more power and smoother operation. The motor works at only 1730 RPM providing lower noise and improved reliability.

The Makita MAC2400 has a faster recovery time and better performance than the competition. The motor is also designed for low AMP startup to prevent tripping circuit breakers. The 4.2-gallon twin tank design can supply a stable 130 PSI and deliver 4.8 CFM at 40 PSI and 4.2 CFM at 90 PSI providing enough pressure to correctly use two nail guns simultaneously. The pump is oil-lubricated which prevents overheating and reduces wear on parts. Its motor also has thermal overload protection.

The device has a protective roll-cage for those unexpected incidents that are all too common on job sites. The unit has a large industrial type air filter which allows increased airflow and better efficiency. It was built for tough jobs with a durable cast iron cylinder that is oil cooled allowing decreased wear and will add years to the life of the pump.

Features

• Pressure Max (PSI): 130
• Air flow (CFM): 4.8
• Type: Corded
• Weight (lbs): 81
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 20 x 18 x 18.8

With its high performance the Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP is the best portable air compressor available for the money on today’s market. It can deliver industrial power and improved performance for those tough job site conditions.

Makita: Check the current price

9. VIAIR 400P

VIAIR Corporation is the U.S. based company which was founded in 1998. They offer a broad selection of DC air compressors and inflators for residential and industrial purposes.

400P Automatic is VIAIR's first portable tire inflator with a shut-off function. This powerful tool is capable of pressurizing up to 150 PSI. Thus, the 400P inflates tires of 35-inches maximum in a short period of time. The high efficiency is obtained due to its 33% duty cycle. The latter means 20-minute continuous and interrupted operation without risk of overheating or overloading the tool.

Being a user-friendly option, this model comes with a gas station-style gun for better convenience during tire inflation. Besides, this portable air compressor also comes with a 25-feet hose, durable dual battery clamps, 3 inflation tips, and a heavy duty tray. The latter has vibration isolators that control the level of vibrations generated by the tool.

Features

• Pressure Max (PSI): 150
• Power supply: 12v DC
• Type: Corded
• Weight (lbs): 8.50
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 11.25 x 4.00 x 7.00

In general, the VIAIR 400P is a reliable and powerful air compressor for on- and off-road applications. The efficiency it can grant will definitely outweigh the costs you’ve born.

VIAIR: Check the current price

10. RYOBI P737

The Ryobi Tools is a well-known brand worldwide. Currently it belongs to the Techtronic Industries, which owns a number of reliable equipment and tools manufacturers with a solid reputation like Craftsman, Milwaukee, AEG, etc.

The 18V RYOBI P737 cordless air compressor enhances your mobility with no restrictions by a power cable or extension cord. This battery-powered unit shares the Ryobi ONE + batteries with numerous tools of this range from this manufacturer.

This model comes with an integrated pressure gauge for better accuracy of measurements. This model is distinguished with its compact size from the counterparts in its class. It comes with an ergonomic pistol grip handle which is very convenient while operation and transportation. Besides, this inflator is delivered with high-pressure nozzles of different sizes to suit various applications.

Features

• Pressure Max (PSI): 150
• Air flow (CFM): 0.95
• Type: Cordless
• Weight (lbs): 2.5
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 9 x 2.9 x 6.4

The RYOBI P737 is the ideal option among other cordless air compressors for cars or other inflatables due to its light weight, ergonomics and affordability. It will suit your needs not only around the house but outdoor, at any remote locations or when being on the way.

Ryobi: Check the current price

10 Best Air Compressors Comparison Table

1DEWALT DEWALT Pancake Air Compressor, 6 Gallon, 165 PSI (DWFP55126) Find the best price

2ORTER-CABLE PORTER-CABLE C2002 Oil-Free UMC Pancake Compressor Find the best price

3BOSTITCH BOSTITCH Air Compressor Combo Kit, 3-Tool (BTFP3KIT) Find the best price

4CRAFTSMAN CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor, 6 gallon, Pancake, Oil-Free with 13 Piece Accessory Kit (CMEC6150K) Find the best price

5California air tools California Air Tools 10020C Ultra Quiet Oil-Free and Powerful Air Compressor, 2 hp Find the best price

6California air tools California Air Tools 8010 Ultra Quiet & Oil-Free 1.0 hp Steel Tank Air Compressor, 8 gal, Silver Find the best price

7Campbell hausfeld Campbell Air Compressor, Portable, 3 Gallon Horizontal, Oilless, w / 10 Piece Accessory Kit Including Air Hose & Inflation Gun (Campbell Hausfeld FP209499AV) Find the best price

8Makita Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP Air Compressor Find the best price

9VIAIR VIAIR 400P Portable Compressor Find the best price

10Ryobi Ryobi P737 18-Volt ONE + Portable Cordless Power Inflator for Tires (Battery Not Included, Power Tool Only) Find the best price