An air compressor, along with portable generators, can be quite an elaborate machine and if you need one it means you are minding some serious business. There is a variety of different air compressors available on the market but it is always good to be able to have a little deeper analysis of the product before the purchase.
Hopefully, this article will ease your choosing process and the selected 11 air compressors will fit every kind of need and taste you may have.
The ultimate leader:
While choosing a decent air compressor, look for the following criteria: weight, power source, dimensions, noise level, capacity, and of course, power.
Apart from that, there are individual features of each model of the air compressor that might suit your needs specifically. The full list can be found down below.
Other great portable air compressors:
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1. Bostitch Air Compressor
BOSTITCH cordless air compressors come with a combo kit of air hose with fittings. Those include 18 GA brad nailer that drives 18 GA brad nails from 5/8 into 2 in. 16 GA straight finish nailer drives 16 GA straight finish nails from 1-1/4 into 2-1/2 in. and a heavy-duty crown stapler.
It is a heavyweight compressor but it can run up to 150 PSI and 15 amps. 6-gallon tank and 2.6 SCFM delivered 90 PSI pump allows long tool run time with quick recovery. It is perfect for both interior and exterior finishing or trimming project works. BOSTITCH’ high-efficiency motor enables easy start-up in cold weather.
Why we choose it:
- High capacity
- 3-tool/ compressor combo kit
- Low noise level of 78.5 DBA
- 1 year limited warranty coverage
2. CRAFTSMAN Air compressor by Craftsman
The Craftsman 6 gallon air compressor manufactured in the United States poses an oil-free pump that enables maintenance-free operation. While it’s lightweight enough to enable a woman to handle, the UL rating of this compressor is 120 volts, i.e. 10 amps or 60 herts.
It comes with a 13 piece accessory kit for its price. Apart from that, the kit includes: 25′ X 1/4inches PVC air Hose with coupler and assembled plug, tire chuck with plug, blow gun with plug, tire gauge, blow gun with OSHA safety nozzle, rubber tip, three inflator adaptors. Max PSI of 150 that ensures adequate cut-in pressure for a variety of applications.
However if you are looking for an air tank to fill up a few tires without being plugged in, the requirement is to minimize any moisture (air condensate) in the tank to avoid corrosion or weakening of the tank.
Why we choose it:
- Has 2 couplers which supports 2 users at once.
- High capacity for long run time and quick recovery
- Quiet performance at 78.5 DBA
- Can be set to PSI of 150.
- 1 year limited warranty
3. Kensun AC/DC Rapid Portable Air Compressor
Kensun offers unique AC/DC switching: the home plug needs 110 V AC while the car plug uses 12V DC. The item includes a solid metal motor that gives it extra power which in turn eases tire inflation. There are also pieces that come with it include 1 car DC cord, 1 AC cord, 3 types of nozzles, and 1 carry case.
Why we choose it:
- Multi-purpose AC/DC capabilities (due to 2 plugs, it can be used anywhere)
- Super light and compact
- Can be set on up to 100 PSI
- Manufacturer warranty for 2 years
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4. California Air Tools Air compressor
Here we have a California Air Tools compressor that is an oil-free pump for less maintenance and costs just as Air compressor by Craftsman. However, it has much less capacity – 1 gallon vs 6 gallons on Craftsman. The Piston pump is made to have a life cycle before wear of 3000+ hours while other air compressors have life cycles over 250 hours.
Moreover, it is rated to be one of the quietest air compressors in the industry with only just 56 db making it perfect for anyone working inside where noise is a great issue. Although the tank is made of steel, the weight of the whole construction is just below 40 pounds. California Air Tool compressor is perfect for cleaning tires, beds, toys, and sports balls.
Why we choose it:
- Ultra-quiet performance 56 decibels
- Can go to a maximum of 120 PSI
- Life cycle before wear of 3000+ hours
- 1-year Limited Warranty
5. Ryobi Portable power inflator for tires
If you are looking for an air compressor for tire inflation only –a portable power inflator by Ryobi is perfect for you. You save money and time on purchasing extra accessories, the Ryobi has 2 high-pressure nozzles, sports equipment needs, and a new onboard digital pressure gauge.
The ergonomic pistol grip handle makes it easy to use and transport. It can inflate not only tires but most of the other small inflatables in your house. But beware that battery is not included, only the power tool.
Why we choose it:
- Economy on extra accessories.
- Battery-powered
- Smaller than most inflators
6. SencoPC 1010 compressor
Standard air hose allows it to be connected with most available couplers, both ¼ inch or 3/8 inch inside diameter hoses can be used.
For a bigger version, check Senco PC 1130. The DBA is not stated but most reviews recall it for a very quiet performance in comparison to most other analogs.
Why we choose it:
- Lightweight
- Ultra-quiet
- 1-year warranty
7. Industrial Air Contractor compressor
If you are looking for something for your business but still want it to be portable and movable or just a more featured compressor for personal use, the air contractor from Industrial Air Contractor is what you need.
Patented two-piece cooling system with increased cooling efficiency extends the life of the low maintenance, oil-free, direct-drive pump.
Despite the heavyweight of over 70 pounds, the Pontoon style tank with two 2 gallon tanks allows for job-site portability. The pump features a regulator, gauges, quick connect, and cushioned handle grips.
Air compressor by Industrial Air Contractor can be used in airbrushing, blow cleaning, bolting, wrenching, brad nailing/stapling, inflation, and many more. Can reach up to 155 PSI being the highest among other listed alternatives.
Honda premium engine provides easy start, smooth engine performance, lower fuel consumption, and therefore lower emission. The engine also provides air throttle cylinder and separate pilot and check valves.
Why we choose it:
- Patented 2 piece cooling system
- Honda premium residential gas engine
- One of the highest maximum PSI of 155
- 2-year Limited Warranty
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8. Briggs & Stratton Quiet Power technology Air Compressor
If you don’t want a typical noise accompanying your use of pneumatic tools, this is the right one for you. The Quiet Power Technology (QPT) allows it to perform at a level no louder than a regular freezer condenser.
Although Briggs & Stratton offer a range of sizes and styles, the QPT air compressor has qualified to x3 longer motor life than other Briggs & Stratton air compressors with a standard induction motor.
Despite its weight and dimensions, this 4.5-gallon air compressor has rugged wheels and a collapsible handle for easier transport and storage. A large regulator knob and integrated control panel allow more comfortable exploitation together with a built-in accessory box.
Why we choose it:
- Ultra-quiet performance
- Limited vibration
- Large regulation knob
- 1-year warranty
9. Stealth Portable Air Compressor
Stealth portable air compressor features an easy start even in cold weather and low voltage while allowing tank recovery from empty to full in just 70 seconds. The twin air tank provides quicker refilling It is both durable and powerful, exactly what is needed for professionals.
Despite its weight, it has an upright design, and 6-inch rubber wheels allow quick and easy transport from one site to another as well as taking less workspace. Along with that, you get 80% quieter performance in comparison to standard induction motors. It comes with a 6-inch electric cord. Stealth provides a range of compressors from 1 to 20 gallons.
Why we choose it:
- Ultra-quiet performance at 64 dB
- Easy start under low temperature and voltage
- Limited lifetime warranty
10. Air Compressor Tire Inflator by SKEY
SKEY portable air compressor is cordless, compact, and rechargeable – ideal for keeping in the car for travel. It automatically measures the tire pressure and pre-set the tire pressure and automatically shuts off as it reaches the pre-set value. The display shows several positions from the current pressure value to the condition of progress.
The bright LED lamp ensures safe work in dark space or emergency situations at night. The availability of USB cord recharge makes it perfect for traveling. SKEY air compressor comes with a carry-on bag and 4 additional nozzles. Not only great for car tires, motorcycles, and bicycles but also balls, inflatable boats and etc.
Beware: it can be powered only by the 20V DC battery, USB cord, or 12V DC Car adaptor.
Why we choose it:
- Auto shut off
- Dual power supply
- Multipurpose display
- 4 ft air hose as a gift
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11. Portable Air compressor by WEN
Air compressor by WEN features an easy-to-reach quick drain valve and ¼ inch NPT coupler and 2 pressure gauges. The auto shut down function prevents the compressor from passing the maximum pressure and allows safe and reliable compressing. The hot dog style and rubber foot legs provide maximum stability in use.
Why we choose it:
- Compact and lightweight
- Easy-to-reach quick drain valve
- Auto shut down function
- 2 year limited warranty
FAQ for air compressors buyers
1. Can I use each air compressor to fill the tires of my car?
Not every air compressor is suitable for that. Thus, if you’re planning to use it for these purposes, read the instruction before purchase.
2. Does each air compressor come with a deflator?
No, it depends on the model and configurations.
3. Are air compressors noisy?
The latest technology in building the air compressor machines allows making them quieter than they were even several years ago. It depends on the technical features and the quality of the compressor, but there are some fine models that make a little noise while working.
4. How expensive it is to repair an air compressor?
Repair costs vary by part but tend to range in the $125 to $450 on average. General HVAC repairs cost $150 to $550. Some repairs might hit or exceed $1,000 at which point you might want to consider simply upgrading to a new unit.