Top-5 Best 30-gallon air compressors 2020

What is the best 30-gallon air compressor? The 30-gallon air compressor is designed for the heavy-duty operations in a privately-owned garage or the commercial workshop. The machine comes with reliable and durable components to fulfill its duties even under the most demanding conditions. The air flow supplied by these machines is considerably higher in comparison with the smaller tank compressors. Thus 30-gallon machines ensure faster and more convenient operation.

Generally, bigger units tend to have more powerful motors, better CFM and PSI rates and durable constructions. In my point of view the NorthStar Portable Gas Powered Air Compressor has the very right features to handle any workshop jobs.

Why have I chosen this model? Although the NorthStar is more expensive than other air compressors in the class, it represents the utmost features for the most efficient operation.

This heavy-duty air compressor is designed with an ASME-certified tank with weather-resistant powder-coated finish. A full cast iron pump with dual crankshaft bearings and low vibration technology considerably contribute to the safe operation of the equipment. Besides, it comes with the extensive cooling and high-ratio compression systems.

NorthStar's Honda GX390 OHV gas engine generates incredible power at your service. The air compressor delivers 175 PSI max pressure output with 100% duty cycle for the continuous and uninterrupted use. At 90psi, it can deliver 24.4 CFM flow rate, thus running the most heavy-duty pneumatic tools.

Summarizing the above, if the cost fits your budget, then the NorthStar 30-gallon air compressor is definitely an option to choose.

30-gallon air compressors | General Specifications

Nowadays the time, people live in, makes it necessary to take as much efficiency from any project we are involved in, as possible, and with this, put as less efforts as possible. In the same manner, more and more people are trying to switch from manual to machine, hand-free processes, thus contributing considerably to the efficiency and time-saving of any operation. An air compressor is a bright example of the advanced tool which helps people to move the needle of the current progress in industries, businesses or local DIY crafts.

It helps saving time as it powers pneumatic tools that complete multiple daily tasks like hammering, nailing, spraying, and sanding within a short time. Pneumatic driven mechanisms are slowly substituting the electrically powered tools due to the high capacity and effectiveness they can provide. The operation of an air compressor ensures with the right pneumatic tool the successful and fast result of any work you are engaged in.

Here we are going to learn about one of the heavy-duty representatives of a big compressors' family. It is a 30-gallon air compressor namely. This powerful machine is used both for household and industrial applications, depending on a task to be fulfilled. Its capacity allows accumulating more air and running more tools with a regular refilling of the tank to maintain an adequate pressure level in the system.

Besides, the 30-gallon air compressor is capable to ensure a high CFM (cubic feet per minute, that is how much air is produced by the compressor), a durable design, and a powerful motor.

Most compressors have a plenty of features and a high versatility. Thus it is important to choose the right one fitting perfectly your needs. Let’s try to clarify the major differences between them.

Horizontal vs. Vertical Air Compressors

In general vertical machines have a smaller footprint area. This could be one of the crucial aspects when choosing an air compressor to be operated in a private workshop or a garage with a limited space. This type of compressors has a tank mounted on the motor and the base which can be both stationary and wheeled. All this makes it a space saving option.

The biggest advantage of the horizontal models is in their portability. Horizontal air compressors are more cumbersome and need more floor space because of their design. But exactly to these peculiarities it is a steadier option which will not fall over during its movement from one location to another.

Electric vs. Gas Powered Air Compressors

Another important aspect you should bear in mind is the power source for operation of your future compressor. And here you can consider two options - the one driven by the electrical motor or another powered by the gas engine.

Electric compressors

These compressors are light-weight, compact, and less expensive in comparison with the gas powered models.

Electric compressors have plenty other benefits. They are easy and safe in operation, besides the risk of gas exposure is eliminated. The operating temperatures of these machines are considerably lower. They are environmentally-friendly and create less noise during operation than gas powered counterparts.

They have an automatic on / off switch, which will start the compressor as soon as the pressure level is getting lower. And vice versa, if the pressure is becoming too high, the switch will stop it.

The main drawback of these machines is inability to run them using extension cords. So if there’s no power outlet in a direct proximity, any electric compressor is going to be useless. They're also less efficient in handling the heavier-duty work. But they are great for smaller indoor DIY and crafts jobs. Thus, they are definitely to be purchased if you need a smaller and cheaper compressor for indoor needs.

Gas compressors

In case of absence of the electrical outlet, gas power compressors would be the way to go as they are independent tools in terms of power source. You just need to check the level in the gas tank in advance to be able to use it for any heavy-duty outdoor jobs before refilling.

Gas compressors are not equipped with on / off switches, instead they come with the pilot unloading valves which will open and close depending on pressure volume rest in the tank. So, they operate on a continuous basis, and suit the tasks which require a constant and long-lasting air flow, for example, sprayers, grinders or sanding tools.

Don’t forget that it is prohibited to operate gas compressors indoors due to the amount of noise and fumes that they emit. Thus, when working with the gas powered compressor all the required safety precautions must be followed.

Single Stage vs. Two Stage Air Compressors

When selecting specific models of air compressing equipment you will most probably face another alternative whether to get a single- or two-stage air compressor. Each of them has its benefits, which could be successfully implemented for a particular application. Knowing the most suited features and specifications for your needs will ensure selection of the right tool. The single-stage machines compress the air just once before its storage. A two-stage machine compresses the air twice to double its pressure. That means that the two-stage air compressors are more powerful than the single-stage counterparts.

Power difference

The biggest question is what power you will need for your purposes. The process within a single-stage compressor consists of air trapping and its compression in a single stroke with a piston. Then the uncooled air is fed to the storage tank ready to power the tools. The single-stage units deliver less energy. However that’s enough to run most hand tools, although if you use it continuously, you’ll have to make breaks for pressure accumulation.

The process within a two-stage compressor is similar to that of a single-stage, except the fact that compressed air isn’t sent to a storage tank directly. It’s instead sent to a smaller piston for a second stroke. Then the double – pressurized air is cooled down and fed to a storage tank. This pressure still can be used to power hand tools and a wide range of heavy-duty equipment.

Portability & Price

As a single-stage air compressor is less powerful, it's also lighter and more portable. It would mostly suit the household needs in a home workshop, for instance.

However, the bigger, cumbersome two-stage compressors would be more suitable for the commercial and industrial facilities.

A single-stage air compressor is less expensive. But if you need higher pressure ratings to run heavy-duty equipment, you’ll be willing to spend more for the powerful two-stage option.

What tank volume do you need?

The capacity of air compressor tank is measured in gallons. There is a vast variety of volumes from less than 1 to 60 (could be more for the most heavy-duty industrial equipment) gallons of air to be stored in a compressor. The continuous operation of various tools depends on the amount of air which can be stored in a tank.

The tank size determines the time the air tools can run before the motor of the compressor is restarted for compressed air generation and filling up the tank. When the motor repeats this on / off cycles with the frequency it’s not designed for, it will burn out soon with a direct impact on the operation of the air compressor.

The air tools like grinders or sanders require a continuous flow of compressed air. Consequently the tank of the air compressor should be larger for such applications than for the tools, like staplers and nail guns. They are operated with the working intervals between the short runs and require less amount of air which can be delivered by the air compressor with a smaller tank.

I would recommend referring to the manufacturer's guidelines in order to specify the fields of application of a tool you are interested in.

Best 30-gallon air compressors

1. NorthStar Portable Gas Powered Air Compressor | Best overall

Northern Tool & Equipment Company Inc. is a family owned company established in 1981. They supply consumer goods and industrial equipment. In 1991, the NorthStar brand was created for manufacturing bigger and tougher products, including log splitters, generators, pressure washers, and air compressors. Currently Northern Tool & Equipment are well-recognized among the customers in the United States.

This extremely powerful NorthStar 30-gallon horizontal air compressor is run by a reliable Honda gas engine that ensures better fuel efficiency, quieter performance and easier operation. It comes with a belt-driven cast iron two-stage pump. The latter features V-type cylinder which provides consistent cooling, preventing overheat and increasing the life time of the pump.

Its Low Vibration Technology is designed for the smooth operation. This technology is stipulated by the dynamically balanced pump and a pressure gauge for maintenance of an operating pressure level, excluding overpressure, and of a higher accuracy level as well. The dual crankshaft bearings serve as solid supporting structures.

The NorthStar 30-Gallon Horizontal Gas-Powered Air Compressor is designed for the operation on remote job sites with no electrical power source. It has the built-in wheels with a handle for better maneuverability.

Features

• Pressure Max (PSI): 175
• Flow rate (CFM): 24.4
• Power source: Gas Honda GX390 OHV Engine
• Pump type: Two-stage
• Weight (lbs): 492
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 40 x 21 x 33

Pros & Cons

NorthStar GX390 is a combination of extra power and portability. I would recommend it mainly for professional use or serious large-scale DIY jobs. It will cope with any challenge, ensuring a reliable and trouble-free operation year after year. It is one of the most expensive in its class but the cost is grounded by the abilities it offers when dealing with the most heavy-duty and challenging projects.

NorthStar: Check the current price

2. Campbell Hausfeld VT6358 | Best value

Campbell Hausfeld, one of the oldest companies in Ohio, was founded in 1836 as a manufacturer of the farm equipment. Nowadays it is a manufacturer of consumer, industrial, and commercial, low priced air compressors and related products with its facilities in Harrison, Ohio. Since 2015 it is a major subsidiary of the Marmon Group which in its turn is part of Berkshire Hathaway.

The Campbell Hausfeld 30-gallon air compressor is capable to power a variety of air tools for the serious DIY, professional or commercial purposes. It comes with a heavy duty cast iron single-stage pump which is oil-lubricated and consists of two cylinders. Besides it is ASME certified and tested for thermal stability.

Dual voltage motor allows running the air compressor by the regular household 120V for serious DIY jobs or 240V for the business.

It has a vertical air tank with a drain valve at the base. Its maneuverability is ensured by two sturdy wheels.

Features

• Pressure Max (PSI): 135
• Flow rate (CFM): 5.5
• Power source: 2 HP Electric motor
• Pump type: Single-stage
• Weight (lbs): 175
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 28 x 28 x 59

Pros & Cons

To my mind the Campbell Hausfeld VT6358 is one of the best air compressors in its class. It ensures durability, versatility in use and it doesn’t require lot of maintenance.

Campbell Hausfeld: Check the current price

3. Ingersoll-Rand SS3F2-GM | Best belt driven

Ingersoll-Rand Inc. is an Irish manufacturing company formed in 1871 as a result of merging of Ingersoll-Sergeant Drill Company and Rand Drill Company. Now its headquarters are located in Swords, Ireland. Ingersoll Rand's products range includes complete air compressor systems, tools, pumps, material handling systems, etc.

The Ingersoll-Rand Garage Mate air compressor is designed for multiple purposes. It can be successfully used by the serious do-it-yourselfers and professionals both at home and industrial workshops. With a pressure it generates impact guns, grinders, drills, nailers, sprayers, sanders and other air tools can be sufficiently powered.

It comes with a cast-iron, oil-lubricated pump for the heavy-duty continuous operations. This model has a belt-driven design which reduces the noise level down to 80 dBA during its operation. Besides it is equipped with an automatic on / off pressure switch, pressure gauge, regulator, safety valve, manual drain and a six-foot power cord.

The portability of this model is ensured by a heavy-duty ergonomic handle and semi-pneumatic tires, plus the durable cast iron cylinder and frame.

Features

• Pressure Max (PSI): 135
• Flow rate (CFM): 5.7
• Power source: 2 HP Electric motor
• Pump type: Single-stage
• Weight (lbs): 185
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 46 x 25 x 35

Pros & Cons

I would recommend this excellent ergonomic and quiet option for those who deal with serious DIY crafts.

Ingersoll-Rand: Check the current price

4. DeWalt DXCMLA1983054 | Best performance

The original company was established in 1923 by Raymond E. DeWalt, the inventor of the radial arm saw. In 1947 the company was reincorporated in 1947 as DeWalt Inc. Nowadays DeWalt is highly recognized on the market. It is an American company which designs and manufactures hand tools, power tools, and air compressors for businesses and industrial purposes.

The DEWALT vertical air compressor is designed for tough conditions of operation for professional or serious DIY projects involving high consumption air tools. It is equipped with a high flow regulator which provides up to 20% more torque to tedious jobs like removing bolts and nuts. This model comes with a single-stage, oil lubricated pump. The latter has a V-twin cast iron structure with 1-piece cast iron crank case and cast iron cylinder body ensuring a higher durability.

The dual voltage motor is powered by 120 volt and can be converted for 240 volt applications. Thus the DEWALT 30 gallon air compressor is the perfect option to handle various household and workshop tasks.

This machine comes with the pneumatic wheels which simplify transferring your compressor from one location to the other. It also features a convenient handle. More than that, it is delivered with synthetic oil in the package, so you can start it right off the bat.

Features

• Pressure Max (PSI): 155
• Flow rate (CFM): 5.7
• Power source: 1.9 HP Electric motor
• Pump type: Single-stage
• Weight (lbs): 190
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 22 x 27 x 46.5

Pros & Cons

This DeWalt 30 gallon air compressor fits well into any workspace, and it is an essential machine to any serious DIY customers or professionals.

DeWalt: Check the current price

5. Industrial Air ILA188354 | Best quiet

Industrial Air brand belongs to the MAT Industries, LLC, which designs and markets a full range of air compressors, pneumatic driven air tools and pressure washers on the U.S. market.

For more than 25 years, MAT Holdings, Inc. has been a family owned company with a number of subsidiaries that manufacture, market, and distribute quality products and trusted brands. MAT Holdings, Inc. is currently headquartered in Long Grove, IL.

The Industrial Air ILA188354 30 Gallon air compressor is a versatile model as its heavy duty dual voltage induction motor can be easily adopted from a regular 120 to 240-Volt operation. The quick-set regulator simplifies the setting of the desired pressure level depending on your specific application. The working pressure gauges and automatic on / off switch contribute to better convenience of its operation.

This model features a cast iron, twin cylinder, oil lubricated pump of the belt driven design. The heavy duty induction motor allows obtaining higher performance and efficiency.

A significant benefit of this model is its relatively quiet operation. Many people left positive reviews regarding this specific feature.

Features

• Pressure Max (PSI): 155
• Flow rate (CFM): 5.7
• Power source: 1 HP Electric motor
• Pump type: Single-stage
• Weight (lbs): 185
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 24 x 24 x 49

Pros & Cons

It's a great unit capable to manage its duties in a garage or a small workshop. It's pretty quiet, with a fancy design. Thus there’s no need to hide it in your closet.

Industrial Air: Check the current price