[2023 Updated] Best Portable Air Compressors

An Air Compressor comes in different sizes and styles but many people prefer a compact and portable air compressor which can be easily transported from one place to another during their work without much issue.

But as there are various types of portable air compressors available in the market making it hard to pick the right one.

So, here we have written a detailed review on some of the best portable air compressors with each of their features and pros and cons.

Here is a quick table if you are in a hurry!!

Best Portable Air Compressors 2023:

Here are the detailed reviews and specifications of each portable air compressors.

1. Makita Big Bore (MAC5200) 3.0 HP Air Compressor:

This compressor features a piston and big bore cylinder which is designed to provide a faster recovery time and to increase the job site performance.

The Makita (MAC5200) comes with a powerful 3.0 HP motor and has a roll cage construction for extra protection.

This model has a great tank capacity of 5.2 gallons having a maximum pressure of 140 PSI and it delivers 6.5 CFM at 90 PSI and 6.9 CFM at 40PSI.

Because of its cast iron construction, it is quite durable and comes with built-in thermal overload protection which protects it from overheating.

Furthermore, the compressor features an oil-lubricated pump which reduces wear and provides cooler running temperatures, and its large automotive style filter for increasing its air intake and for greater efficiency. 

Features list:

• Weight: 88 Pounds
• Dimensions: 29 x 19.5 x 19 Inches
• Max Pressure: 140 PSI
• Horsepower: 3.00
• Capacity: 5.2 Gallons 
• Power Source: Electric-Powered
• Voltage: 120 Volts
• Folding Handle
• 1/4 inches Universal Quick Coupler
• CFM: 6.5 at 90 PSI

Pros:

• Compact And Durable Design
• Thermal Overload Protection
• Rugged Wheel For Portability
• Powerful 3.0 HP engine
• Oil Lubricated Pump
• Copper Finned Discharge Tubing (for quick heat dissipation)

Cons:

• A Bit Louder
• Heavy 
• Can Be Difficult To Start In Cold Weather

2. BOSTITCH (BTFP02012) Pancake Air Compressor:

Starting an air compressor in cold weather can be difficult but as for this model, it comes with a high-efficiency motor which allows it to be quickly start up during cold conditions.

This unit is oil-free which means no daily maintenance will be required by you and during work, it has a sound level between 78.5 dBA or 80 dBA.

As this unit has a lightweight and portable design so transporting it from one place to another is easy for you and it has two universal couplers so it can be utilized by two users and for maximizing the air tool performance it comes with a high flow regulator. 

Note: (This does not include a hose or gun kit)

Feature list:

• Dimensions: 17 x 17 x 19.25 Inches
• Weight: 31 Pounds
• Maximum Pressure: 150 PSI
• Tank Capacity: 6.0 Gallons
• Noise Level: (78.5 – 80) dBA
• Measurement System: Metric
• Power Source: Electric Powered
• 2.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI

Pros:

• Oil-Free Pump
• Two Universal Couplers
• Has A Great Tank Size Of 6.0 Gallons
• High-Efficiency Motor

Cons:

• Regulator May Be Faulty
• User Reports Of Getting A Defective Model 

3. VIAIR (400P) Portable Air Compressor: (best portable air compressor 12v)

It features thermal overload protection which shuts offs the air compressor when it gets too hot and because of its moisture and dust resistance it is quite durable.

To improve the performance of the compressor it has built-in high-performance pistons as it helps to spread out the maximum quantity of the air as quickly as possible.

Furthermore, this compressor contains stainless steel valves that are very resistant to rust and corrosion and comes with different accessories such as heavy-duty battery clamps, heavy-duty sand tray having vibration isolators, eight’ power cables, etc.

Features List:

• Dimensions: 13 x 11 x 9.5 Inches
• Weight: 8.5 Pounds
• Max Pressure: 150 PSI 
• Duty Cycle: 33% @ 100 PSI
• Motor Type: Permanent Magnetic
• Voltage: 12 Volt
• Air Hose Length: 30 Ft.
• Power Cord Length: 8 Ft.
• CFM: 2.3 CFM

Pros:

• Thermal Overload Protection
• Moisture & Dust Resistant
• Compact Design
• Stainless Steel Valves

Cons:

• Is Designed To Run For Short Tasks
• Not Recommended For Industrial Projects

4. PORTER-CABLE (C2002) Pancake Air Compressor:

The weight of this unit is 34 pounds and has a great tank capacity of 6 gallons.

To protect the compressor from overloading it comes with a built-in automatic thermal overload protection.

Additionally, for stability, it comes with rubber feet which is great for shock-absorbing and a water drain valve.

Furthermore, the console cover ensures protection for its vital components, the shroud handle provides portability and also includes a cord wrap. 

Features List:

• Weight: 34 Pounds
• Dimensions: 19 x 19 x 18 Inches
• Max Pressure: 150 PSI
• Horsepower: 1.00 HP
• Tank Capacity: 6 Gallons
• Material: Aluminum
• Power Source: Electric Powered
• Voltage: 120 volts
• 2.6 SCFM at 90

Pros:

• Oil-Free Pump
• Automatic Thermal Overload Protection
• Great Tank Size Of 6 Gallons
• Easy To Use

Cons:

• Loud
• The Accessories May Not Have Good Quality
• Some User Reports On Getting A Defective Model

5. California Air Tools 8010 Air Compressor:

The CAT (8010) comes with a large capacity 8.0 gallons steel air tank which has a wheel kit for portability so transporting this compressor from one place to another is easy.

It features a maximum working pressure of 120 PSI and it delivers 2.20 CFM at 90 PSI, 3.00 CFM at 40 PSI. It has a 1.0 Horsepower motor that operates at 1680 RPM which ensures that it creates less noise and less wear.

The manufacturer of this model says that the oil-free twin-piston pump design is to have a life cycle before wear of 3000 Plus hours when compared to other air compressors.

This air compressor has an oil-free pump due to this you can use it in a variety of temperatures, uneven terrains, and also helps in increasing its performance and durability.

If you think that the noise is the main issue for you then this compressor will be a good choice for you. 

Features List:

• Weight: 54 Pounds
• Dimensions: 26 x 14 x 23 Inches
• Maximum Pressure: 120 PSI
• Horsepower: 1.0 HP
• Tank Size: 8 Gallons
• Sound Level: 60 dB
• Material: Steel
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Voltage: 110 Volts
• 3.00 CFM At 40 PSI  
• 2.20 CFM At 90 PSI

Pros:

• Has A Wheel Kit For Easy Transport
• Large 8.0 Gallon Steel Air Tank
• Oil-Free Pump
• Sound Level Of 60 dB

Cons:

• May Overheat Quickly
• Some User Reports Of Getting A Defective Unit 

6. DEWALT (DWFP55126) Pancake Air Compressor:

The weight of this unit is 30 pounds and comes with a great tank size of 6 gallons.

The noise level of this unit is just about 75.5 dBA.

For durability and protection, this unit comes with a protective rubber leg and has two universal couplers that allow support for two users.

This air compressor also has an oil-free pump, so it does not require daily maintenance by you.

Additionally, it also has a console cover which can be removed easily if you want to repair it and it also protects the controls and a ball drain valve for quick tank draining.

Note: (Make sure that the drain valve is fully closed before you use the compressor)

Feature list:

• Weight: 30 Pounds
• Dimensions: 17.2 x 16.6 x 20.1 Inches
• Maximum Pressure: 165 PSI
• Tank Capacity: 6 Gallons
• Noise Level: 75.5 dBA
• Universal Couplers: 2
• Power Supply: 120V
• 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI
• 3.7 SCFM at 40 PSI

Pros:

• Noise Level Of 75.5 dBA
• Oil-Free Pump.
• Two Hose Connectors
• High Flow Regulator.

Cons:

• Pressure Level Reduces After Continue Use
• Fittings May Not Be Durable
• Is Not Suitable For Big Spraying Jobs
• Some User Reports Leakage Of Air
• Users Also Report Of Getting A Defective Model

7. PORTER-CABLE (CMB15) Air Compressor:

Because of It’s low Amp 120V motor it can be easily started in cold weather and because of the oil-free pump it does not require daily maintenance and increases its life span.

This compressor is fully enclosed which means it is protected from hot or moving parts.

The noise level of this unit is estimated to be about 79 dBA. Additionally, it also includes a 25-Feet coil hose and 8 pc accessory kits.

Features List:

• Weight: 20 Pounds
• Dimensions: 15.5 x 13.25 x 20.5 Inches
• Maximum Pressure: 150 PSI
• Capacity: 1.5 Gallon
• Material: Plastic
• Power Source: Electric Powered
• Voltage: 120 volts
• Amperage Capacity:10 A
• Noise Level: 79 dB
• Hose Length: 25 Feet
• 2.0 SCFM at 90 PSI

Pros:

• Easy To Use
• Oil-Free Pump
• Lightweight And Portable
• Quick Recovery Time
• ​Easy Startup In Cold Weather

Cons:

• Not Suitable For Heavy Duty Or Heavy Air Tools
• Some User Reports Of Getting A Defective Model

Conclusion:

We hope that in this review you will be able to find the right portable air compressor for yourself. If you are having a hard time deciding that look at the specs and features of each compressor and then check your requirements and also what is your budget. By doing this you will be able to pick the right compressor for your home or vehicle needs. 

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