There are several pressure tools available in the tool market, and air compressors are one of them. It is a machine designed to provide power for various pneumatic tools. It operates by storing enough air in a tank and forcing it out with high pressure through a regulated opening.
Most gardeners, engineers, and other artisans are familiar with various types of air compressors. But if you are a newbie, don't get confused. To understand how air compressors work, think of an inflated balloon. The air in there is compressed, and it is released with force. This energy from the air release is useful for various work types, particularly to power various pneumatic tools.
Air compressors are useful in various fields and crafts, including gardening. It helps in spray painting, heating, ventilation, pressure washing, manufacturing, agriculture, energy sector, construction, and other similar fields. With the best air compressor, you can provide suitable energy for several tools via the same energy source.
However, many people get frustrated with air compressors because they fail to get the product of the right quality. It is not enough to enter the market and pick any air compressor at random. It is essential to know what you want in a product before navigating the highly saturated tool market.
This review provides an insight into some of the features and specifications to look out for in a quality air compressor. Similarly, it highlights the top 8 air compressors, their features, pros, and cons, all to make your product acquisition process hassle-free.
Product | Features |
|---|---|
Ultra-Quiet Air Compressor: California Air Tools 8010A | ● Tank Capacity: 8 gallons |
Combo Kit Air Compressor: BOSTITCH Air Compressor | ● Tank Capacity: 6 gallons |
Portable Air Compressor: CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor | ● Tank Capacity: 6 gallons |
High-Pressure Air Compressor: DEWALT DWFP55126 | ● Tank Capacity: 6 gallons |
Electric Air Compressor: Makita MAC210Q Quiet Series | ● Tank Capacity: 2 gallons |
Efficient Air Compressor: BOSTITCH BTFP02012 | ● Tank Capacity: 6 gallons |
UMC Pancake Air Compressor: PORTER CABLE C2002-WK | ● Tank Capacity: 6 gallons |
Lightweight Air Compressor: Senco PC1010 | ● Tank Capacity: 1 gallon |
The California air tools 8010A is a highly efficient air compressor that provides an ultra-quiet and low noise level of 60dB. It uses a corded electric power source type, and it exhibits a lightweight property that makes it easy to move from one place to another.
The air compressor has an 8-gallon capacity and an air delivery rate of 3.1 CFM at 40 PSI and 2.2 CFM at 90 PSI. It has a wheel kit that makes it easy to transport from one place to another. The electric air compressor uses an oil-free pump for low cost and high maintenance of its operations.
The air compressor can work for a continuous-time of about 30 to 60 minutes and has a low current requirement of 8.5 amps, making it suitable for low electricity usage. It also has an easy means for you to connect your hose for the action of pressurized and dense air. The portable air compressor has a compact design and structure that makes it ready for any use.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Rust-free aluminum tank | It is relatively expensive |
Complete wheel kit for transportation | It might overheat after a long connection to the power source |
Ultra-quiet operation sound | |
Outstanding pressure and air delivery rate | |
Indoor use compatibility |
The BOSTITCH air compressor is a cordless air compressor that uses an alternating current power source for expulsion of pressurized air for various uses. It has a 6-gallon tank capacity allowing it to work for an extended period before needing a refill. It delivers a maximum pressure of 150 PSI and an air flow rate of 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI for optimum performance.
The BOSTITCH air compressor has a 15-foot air hose with several fittings offer for extensive lengths to allow maneuverability. It has a highly efficient motor that aids the proper and optimum propulsion of air for several functions. The portable air compressor has a compact size that makes it easy to handle and operate.
The air compressor combo kit consists of 3 tools that ensure the efficient use of pressurized air. It also uses a long-free, oil-free pump that ensures convenient service and also requires low maintenance. It delivers an operational noise level of 78.5dB.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
High-flow regulator | It is relatively expensive |
Oil-free features reduce the stress of daily maintenance |
Operational noise level is relatively high |
Impressive air delivery rate | |
Features different accessories for high performance |
The CRAFTSMAN air compressor is a top-notch illustration of portability. It features a 6-gallon air compressor tank that ensures extended work time over a long period. The electric air compressor is one of the best air compressors you can get because it works regardless of the weather condition.
The compressor delivers a maximum pressure of 150 PSI and an air flow rate of 2.8 SCFM at 90 PSI and 3.7 SCFM. This air compressor pack includes 13-piece accessories that consist of a blowgun, tire chuck, tire gauge, etc. for high performance.
The electric air compressor uses an oil-free pump for low maintenance and long life of the machine. The 120V electric air compressor uses a high-quality motor to ensure easy start-up in cold weather.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
High air pressure delivery | It might require frequent refilling |
Lightweight and portable |
You might need a continuous action to keep pressure high |
Accessory kit for improved performance | |
Automatic light control feature | |
Highly durable oil-free pump |
The DEWALT pancake air compressor is an efficient air compressor that produces a moderate noise level of about 75.5dB, making it suitable for work in quiet environments. The DEWALT air compressor has couplers and a high flow regulator that maximizes the air tool’s performance.
The compressor delivers a maximum air pressure of 165 PSI. This model’s air delivery rate is 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI and 3.7 SCFM at 40 PSI. These specifications ensure top-notch efficiency and performance. The motor of the DEWALT compressor provides easy start-up in cold weather and extension cord application. The compressor has an easy to fill air compressor tank of 6.0 gallons.
The portable compressor has a removable console cover that protects the control and ensures easy repair. It also has a ball drain valve that provides thorough and quick tank draining.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Lightweight and portable | Relatively high operational noise level |
Has universal couplers for users support | It might have oversized ball bearings |
Ball drain valve for quick tank draining | |
Protective rubber legs to prevent marring | |
Outstanding air pressure delivery |
The Makita air compressor is a quiet air compressor with top-notch efficiency and performance. It has a design and structure that only produces a low operational sound of 60dB, making it suitable for work in a quiet environment. It also has an easy and quick to refill 2 gallons air compressor tank.
The compressor runs on a corded electric power source and has a low RPM of 1750 that ensures a high pump and motor life. The air compressor has a complete roll-cage structure that protects the machine to withstand tough jobs. It has an air flow rate delivery of 2 CFM at 90 PSI and 3 CFM at 40 PSI with a maximum pressure of 135 PSI.
The compressor has an oil-free dual-piston pump structured for low or no maintenance operation. The machine is suitable for indoor use as it doesn’t cause noise pollution.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Ultra-quiet feature for indoor use | Inappropriate assemble can result in operational difficulty |
Low operational noise level | Low tank capacity |
Complete roll-cage structure | |
Easy tank draining and refill | |
Dual-piston pump design |
The BOSTITCH pancake air compressor uses an oil-free pump for convenient use and maintenance-free operation. It has an efficient motor that ensures easy start-up in cold weather and extension cord application. It has an air compressor tank capacity of 6 gallons and delivers an operational noise level of 78.5dB.
The BOSTITCH air compressor features couplers and a high flow regulator that maximizes the machine’s air tool performance. The small air compressor has a maximum pressure of 150 PSI and an air delivery rate of 2.6 SCFM. The electric air compressor is very portable and compact.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
High portability and compactness | No gun kit or hose inclusion |
High flow regulator |
Relatively high operational noise level |
Highly affordable | |
Oil-free pump for enhanced efficiency | |
Standard pressure delivery |
The PORTER-CABLE C2002 is a powerful air compressor that provides longer and extended air tool performance. It has a compact dimension and weighs 34lbs, making it very easy to transport from one point to another. The material used in the compressor’s manufacturing process is plated steel, ensuring high durability and a longer life span.
This air compressor model has a maximum pressure delivery of 150 PSI. It has an operational air delivery rate of 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI and a 3.5 SCFM at 40 PSI which ensures an optimum performance for an air compressor.
The corded electric air compressor has an air compressor tank capacity of 6 gallons, which you can easily refill. The compressor kit includes 13 pieces of accessories kit for enhanced performance of the compressor.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Optimal stability with pancake style | It sends vibration around work area |
Swift recovery time | It has a very high operational noise |
Maximal air tool performance | |
Low maintenance and long-life span | |
Portable and easy to carry |
The Senco PC1010 is a portable and lightweight version of an air compressor. The compressor delivers about 20 to 44 drives every minute and is suitable for home improvement jobs that include crafts and hobbies. It has a peak horsepower of 1HP and a running horsepower of 1/2HP.
The small air compressor has a 1-gallon air compressor tank. The corded electric compressor has a maximum pressure 120 PSI and an air delivery rate of 1.4 SCFM at 90 PSI. It has 20lbs weight which ensures its lightweight and compactness.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Noiseless operation | Low tank capacity |
Easy to carry and control | Relatively low air delivery rate |
Lightweight and efficient | |
Fast tank refill feature |
Extras
Powermate PX P018-0084SP Air Compressor Oil
YOTOO Heavy Duty Air Compressor Accessories Kit 20 Pieces
Frequently Asked Questions
The best air compressor size for running air tools is a minimum of 2 CFM, depending on your air tools' size. Smaller air tools will function well with an air compressor of 2 to 5 CFM at 70 to 90 PSI. More extensive air tools will require more than 10 CFM between 100 to 120 PSI.
Leaving air in your air compressor is dependent on when you need it. If you plan to use the air in the compressor within 24 hours, you can leave the compressor's air.
Quiet air compressors only give off little or no sound disturbance. The quietest air compressors include various products from DEWALT, Makita, California air tools, and other notable brands.
Typical air compressors have HP within the range of 1.5 and 6.5, which is suitable for regular tasks. You only need an HP compressor of 2 HP or less if you are using electrical outlets because an AC cord only functions on low voltage.
PSI measures pressure while CFM measures volume. Both CFM and PSI are useful to measure an air compressor's performance.
It would be best to choose an air compressor based on your project size, considering the PSI and CFM of the product you intend to choose. The specifications of the air compressor must match your needs.
Conclusion
There are different types of air compressors with unique specifications. Choosing the best air compressor for you might seem a hassle, especially if you don't know what you want or what to look out for in the right product. This review provides an insight into some of the best air compressors available in the tool market.