8 Best Air Compressors 2023 (Buyers Guide)
Air Compressor is an amazing tool which can be used in many ways.
Air compressor can be used for Air brushing, Sandblasting, Cleaning, Auto Detailing, Construction, Home use and much more!
As newer and more models are being produced with time..it gets hard to find the Best Air Compressor with the right Specification, Features and Budget.
if you are in a hurry here is a quick list of Best Air Compressor for you.
Best Air Compressors for 2023:
PRODUCTS | WEIGHT | PRICE |
Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP Air Compressor | 81 Pounds | |
Quincy QT-54 Splash Lubricated Reciprocating Air Compressor | 475 Pounds | |
DEWALT (DXCM271) Portable Air Compressor | 136 Pounds | |
Viair 00088 88P Portable Air Compressor | 4.5 Pounds | |
California Air Tools 10020C Air Compressor | 82.5 Pounds | |
BOSTITCH (BTFP02012) Pancake Air Compressor | 31 Pounds | |
Makita, MAC700 Electric Air Compressor | 52 Pounds | |
PORTER-CABLE CMB15 Oil Free Fully Shrouded Compressor | 20 Pounds |
Here are detailed reviews of all Top Air Compressor choosen by us.
1. Makita MAC2400 Big Bore Air Compressor: (best value air compressor for money)
The Makita MAC2400 is top on the list for air compressors because of tons of features and is budget friendly.
This air compressor has a Powerful 2.5 HP motor with a maximum pressure of 130 PSI and it delivers 4.8 CFM at 40 PSI and 4.2 CFM at 90 PSI and has a 4.2-gallon twin-stacked tank.
Its roll bar handle provides protection and portability.
The Makita MAC2400 is equipped with a Big Bore engineered pump and piston which gives higher output for two nailers, improves the job site performance and reduces noise.
The Makita MAC2400 is equipped with a large automotive filter for increase air intake which results in greater efficiency and has an oil-lubricated pump.
The low AMP draw reduces the occurrence of incidents like voltage drop or tripped breakers which can cause premature motor failure.
The Pump runs at lower RPM (1,730) which improves pump durability, less noise (79dB) and great motor performance.
Furthermore, it includes additional features like a convenient oil drain, an oil sight glass, and a tank drain valve (makes maintenance easier) and a finned discharge tubing (which dissipates heat efficiently).
Features List:
- Weight: 81 Pounds
- Dimensions: 20 x 18 x 18.8 Inches
- Maximum Pressure: 130 PSI
- Capacity: 4.2 Gallon
- Material: Cast Iron
- Power Source: Electric Powered
- Voltage: 120 volts
- Horsepower: 2.50
- 4.8 CFM At 40 PSI
- 4.2 CFM At 90 PSI
Pros:
- Cast Iron Construction
- Oil Lubricated Motor
- Great Tank Capacity
- Low AMP Draw
- Finned Discharge Tubing
- Automotive Filter (For Increased Air Intake)
Cons:
- Heavy
- Some User Reports Of Getting A Defective Unit
2. Quincy QT-54 Splash Lubricated Reciprocating Air Compressor: (Best for Heavy Work)
The second air compressor on our list is by Quincy.
The Quincy QT-54 is a powerful air compressor so If you are looking for a compressor that can be used for heavy-duty work then this unit is the one for you.
It comes with a big tank capacity of about 60 gallons so you can run this compressor continuously without any kind of disturbance and features a horsepower motor of 5hp.
Out of all the air compressors in this list, it has the highest cfm rating and it can deliver 15.4 Cfm at 100 PSI and 15.2 CFM at 175 PSI.
It has a maximum working pressure of about 175 PSI and the capacitor start motor has a built-in thermal overload to protect the motor from overheating issues.
Additionally, to lower the operating cost as well as to increase efficiency this compressor runs at a lower RPM of 1310 which also helps to produce more compressed air even at low horsepower.
The downside of this air compressor is it’s weight which is 475 pounds making it quite heavy.
Feature list:
- Dimensions: 29 x 21 x 64 Inches
- Weight: 475 Pounds
- Working Pressure: 140 – 175 PSI
- Horsepower: 5 Hp
- Tank Capacity: 60 Gallons
- Pump RPM: 1310
- Style: Stationary
- Power Source: Electric
- Voltage: 230 Volts (AC)
- Air Outlet Size (in.): 1/2
- Motor Phase: Single
- CFM At 100 PSI: 15.4
- CFM at 175 PSI: 15.2
- CFM at 90 PSI: 15.4
Pros:
- Has Highest CFM Rating
- Comes With Built-in Thermal Overload
- Quiet Operation
- Tank Capacity Of 60 Gallons
Cons:
- No Low Oil Protection
- No, After Cooler Is Included
- Is Very Heavy
3. DEWALT (DXCM271) Portable Air Compressor:
If you are looking for an air compressor that is portable and has a compact vertical design then the DEWALT (DXCM271) is a great choice.
Due to its wheels, you can easily move it around for various tasks in your home or at the Jobsite.
The DEWALT (DXCM271) can pretty much handle normal automotive repairs or spray painting, as it delivers 5.1 SCFM at 90 PSI and 6.8 SCFM at 40 PSI which provides faster recovery time.
And it comes with high flow regulators and couplers to provide the maximum airflow to your air tools for better performance.
The manufacturer of this unit states that it has a sound level of 78dBA and because of the oil-free motor, this compressor does not require daily maintenance.
This unit has a horsepower motor of 1.7 hp with a maximum working pressure of 200 PSI and has a great tank size of 27 gallons.
For additional protection, it has dual robust handles and it can also be used as a hose wrap and a low volt easy start motor that operates with an extension cord.
Feature list:
- Dimensions: 54.5 x 26.8 x 23.5 Inches
- Weight: 136 Pounds
- Maximum Pressure: 200 PSI
- Horsepower: 1.7 HP
- Tank Capacity: 27.0 Gallons
- Noise: 78 dBA
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- 5.1 SCFM at 90 PSI
- 6.8 SCFM at 40 PSI
Pros:
- Comes With A High Flow Regulator
- Has Wheels For Portability
- Easy To Read 2 Inch Gauges
- Has A Noise Level Of 78 dBA
Cons:
- None
4. Viair 00088 88P Portable Air Compressor: (Best Portable Tire Inflator)
The Viair (00088 88P) is a portable and lightweight tire inflator having a weight of 4.5 pounds so you can easily carry it with you without any problems.
It has a maximum working pressure of 120 PSI with a CFM rating of 1.47 and it is powered via alligator clamps directly to the battery.
This air compressor comes with a 16 ft air hose and 10 ft power cord.
With the gauge mounted on top, you can measure the pressure of the tire.
It is great for trucks, SUVs, small ATVs, sedans, and it can inflate up to 33 inches of tires using the direct battery connection with the 2 battery terminal clamps.
Furthermore, this unit has a 3pc Inflation Tip Kit, and LED/Power indicator.
Feature list:
- Dimensions: 6.75 x 6.25 x 10.75 Inches
- Weight: 4.5 Pounds
- Maximum Pressure: 120 PSI
- Voltage: 12 Volts (DC)
- Power Cord: 10 Ft
- Air Hose: 16 Ft
- Solid Brass Twist On Tire Chuck
- Dual Battery Clamps
- LED / Power Indicator
- Amp Draw: 20 Amps
- 1.47 CFM
Pros:
- Is Easy To Use
- 1.47 CFM Rating
- LED/Power Indicator
- Powerful And Relatively Quiet
- Are Lightweight And Portable
- It Connects Directly To Vehicle Battery
Cons:
- The Hose Connection May Leaks
- The Pressure Gauge May Not Be Accurate
- It May blows fuses Or May Get Hot
- Users Reports Of Getting A Defective Unit
5. California Air Tools 2 HP (10020C) Air Compressor: (Best for Quiet Operation)
The California (10020C) air compressor comes with a maximum pressure of 125 PSI and it delivers 6.40 CFM at 40 PSI and 5.30 CFM at 90 PSI.
It is a quiet air compressor and the manufacturer’s claims it to have a sound level of about 70 dB.
The weight of this unit is 82.5 pounds but due to its wheel kit, it is quite portable and can easily move around in your workspace or at home.
It is oil-free so low maintenance is required by you and it allows it to easily start in cold weather.
This model features a 2.0 horsepower motor which runs at a lower RPM of 1680 which creates less wear, noise, and a big tank capacity of 10 gallons.
This unit has an oil-free single-piston pump design which provides durability and high performance.
It has a life cycle of 3000 Plus hours when it is compared to the other similar type of compressors which have a life cycle of about 250 hrs or less and has a thermal overload protector to protect it from overheating.
Additionally, it has an easy start valve which allows for an easy start-up, Teflon cylinder rings, stainless steel reed valves, two 1/4″ universal quick connectors, etc.
Feature list:
- Dimensions: 16 x 15.1 x 35.9 Inches
- Weight: 82.5 Pounds
- Maximum Pressure: 125 PSI
- Horsepower: 2.0 HP
- Tank Capacity: 10 Gallons
- Material: Metal
- Sound Level: 70 dB
- Power Source: Corded-Electric
- Voltage: 110 Volts
- Amperage Capacity: 14 Amps
- 6.40 CFM at 40 PSI
- 5.30 CFM at 90 PSI
Pros:
- Has Wheel Kit For Portability
- Thermal Overload Protector
- Has Sound Level Of 70 dB
- Tank Capacity Of 10 Gallons
- Has Oil-Free Pump
- Two Universal 1/4″ Quick Connector
Cons:
- User Reports Of Getting A Defective Model
6. BOSTITCH (BTFP02012) Pancake Air Compressor:(best air compressors for nail gun)
This Pancake Air Compressor has a maximum pressure of 150 PSI and a large capacity 6.0-gallon tank.
It is one of the top rated air compressors for nail gun and is a budget-friendly air compressor.
The Bostitch (BTFP02012) is great for the work environment as its operational noise is about 78.5 dBA.
It features an oil-free pump that does not require daily maintenance that delivers 2.6 SCFM* at a pressure of 90 PSI.
Because of its High-efficiency motor it is easy to start it up in cold weather. The two universal couplers come in quite handy allowing easy support for two users.
The Bostitch high flow regulator and couplers to ensure a maximum air tool performance.
(Note: It does not include hose or gun kit)
Features List:
- Weight: 31 Pounds
- Dimensions: 17 x 17 x 19.2 Inches
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Capacity: 6 Gallons
- Maximum Pressure: 150 PSI
- 2.6 SCFM* delivered At 90 PSI
- Noise Level: 78.5 dBA
Pros:
- Two Couplers
- Oil-Free Pump
- High-Efficiency Motor
Cons:
- Loud
- Some User Reports Of Getting A Defective Unit
7. Makita, MAC700 Electric Air Compressor:
Makita is quite a famous company and manufactures different industrial quality power tools.
Their air compressors are widely known for their durability and power.
This Makita MAC700 features a cast iron construction which increases its durability and has a tank capacity of 2.6 Gallon.
Because of the Oil-lubricated pump it increases its efficiency and makes the pump run cooler which minimizes wear.
The MAC700 has a maximum pressure of 130 PSI and it delivers 3.3 CFM at 90 PSI and 3.8 CFM at 40 PSI.
This compressor is equipped with a Big Bore engineered pump and piston providing faster recovery, higher output, improving job site performance, and less noise.
Also, the roll bar handle provides portability and additional protection.
Furthermore, they include additional features such as oil sight glass, oil drain, finned discharge tubing (dissipates heat more efficiently) and a tank drain valve (which supersedes standard petcock design for easier maintenance) and a large automotive style filter for increasing its air intake and providing greater efficiency.
Features List:
- Weight: 52 Pounds
- Dimensions: 18 x 22 x 10 Inches
- Maximum Pressure: 130 PSI
- Capacity: 2.6 Gallon
- 3.3 CFM At 90 PSI
- 3.8 CFM at 40 PSI
- Noise Level: 80 dB
- Power Source: Electric Powered
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Horsepower: 2.00
Pros:
- Durable And High-Quality Construction
- Oil-lubricated pump
- Easy to use
Cons:
- It Does Not Have Wheels So Maneuver Is Difficult
- Some User Reports Of Getting A Defective Unit
8. PORTER-CABLE CMB15 Oil-Free Fully Shrouded Compressor:(best lightweight air compressor)
PORTER-CABLE CMB15 is one of the lightweight compressors on our list.
Weighing only about 20 pounds.
It is a high-quality air compressor and it is one of the best air compressors for RV owners.
It has a 1.5 gal tank which is fully shrouded making the compressor easy to carry around and includes a water drain valve and rubber feet which provides stability and additional protection.
The CMB15 features a maximum pressure of 150 psi and it delivers a 2.0 SCFM at 90 psi for quick recovery time (per ISO1217).
It’s low Amp 120V motor starts easily in cold weather and because of the oil-free pump it does not require daily maintenance and increases its life span.
The CMB15 fully enclosed design ensures its protection from hot or moving parts and its noise level is estimated to be about 79 dBA.
Furthermore, it includes 8 pc accessory kits and a 25-Feet coil hose.
Features List:
- Weight: 20 Pounds
- Dimensions: 15.5 x 13.2 x 20.5 Inches
- Maximum Pressure: 150 PSI
- Capacity: 1.5 Gallon
- 2.0 SCFM at 90 PSI
- Material: Plastic
- Power Source: Electric Powered
- Voltage: 120 volts
- Amperage Capacity:10 A
- Noise Level: 79 dB
- Hose Length: 25 Feet
Pros:
- Portable
- Easy To Use
- Oil-Free Pump
- Quick Recovery Time
- Starts Easily In Cold Weather
Cons:
- Not Great For Heavy Duty Or Heavy Air Tools.
- Some User Reports Of Getting A Defective Unit
Air Compressor Buyer’s Guide:
In the above list, we have reviewed some of the best air compressors for you to use. But if you are still figuring out which air compressor will be good for you worry not.
Here are some things to consider when buying an air compressor. After all, this is a one time investment and it is recommended to study all available models before settling for the right one.
What Is PSI in Air Compressor:
PSI basically stands for pounds per square inch.
If an air compressor has a higher PSI then it will quickly refill your tank in a shorter time and it handles work faster and efficiently. But the PSI will act differently when considering the tank size of an air compressor.
What Does CFM Stand For Air Compressor:
CFM means cubic feet per minute.
This is used to describe the rate at which a compressor can fill. CFM varies on the weather as gases change the pressure at different temperatures.
If you are using the compressor to power your equipment or tools then go for higher CFM.
Oil vs Oilless Air Compressor:
The Oil-Free Air Compressor is great as they are quite durable and do not require daily maintenance. And they are a lot more cost-effective because you won’t have to buy oil or dispose of it at all.
Whereas, the Oil air compressors require more maintenance than oil-free because the oil has to be changed from time to time depending upon how much is consumed.
However, oil-free compressors don’t last as long as oil air compressors.
That’s why oil-less is great for home use or where your usage is minimum and oil air compressors are used for industrial purposes and long working hours.
Oil air compressors are much less noisy than oil-free compressors.
When choosing between oil or oil-free compressor keep in mind the amount of usage you want to do and weigh the pros and cons of it.
Tank size:
Air compressor features different tank sizes from 1 gallon to 80 gallons or more. The bigger tank is great if you want your air tools to run steadily for a long time.
As it will be able to quickly produce as much air as the tool needs.
Electric vs Gas Air Compressors:
Another factor to consider when buying a compressor is whether it should be Electric or Gas Powered.
Don’t stress on it too much as both of these will do their job efficiently and there are no major differences in terms of performance.
The gas air compressor is great for those situations where there is no electricity or the location where you need to use it is far away.
Also, they are very expensive and they should not be used indoors as that gas compressors produce fumes which are toxic and the Gasoline used in the compressor is highly flammable so you should do proper maintenance of it.
Whereas, the air electric air compressors are more common and they provide much quieter operation than gas compressors.
They are generally cheaper than the gas compressor and are easier to use. If the job site or the place where it has a power outlet then an electric compressor is a good choice. But the main downside of the electric compressor is that you can’t use it without an extension cord.
Which compressor is right for you?
To choose an Air Compressor you need to ask yourself How much power do I need, What kind of jobs can I do with it, Which will be suitable for me gas or electric-powered, and finally What is my budget. By doing this you will easily figure out which air compressor is best for you.
Recent Posts: