Over the years, portable air compressors have become a fixture in many workshops, garages, and construction sites all over the country. These lightweight pieces of equipment power air tools including impact wrenches, framing nailers, random orbital sanders, staplers, paint sprayers, and many more.
Portable air compressors are lightweight, compact, and affordable. They are also safer to use in hazardous environments compared to power tools powered by electricity.
Air compressor engines are powered by gas, electricity, and in some cases, diesel. Power is converted into potential energy when the engine stores pressurized air into the tank. The moment the air is released from the tank, this potential energy is then converted into kinetic energy which powers your air tools.
We’ve listed down some of the best portable air compressors you can find online to help you shop for the right piece of equipment for your jobsite or your home.
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Makita MAC5200 3.0 HP Big Bore Air Compressor Cast iron pump with Big Bore cylinder and piston is engineered to provide faster recovery time for improved performancePowerful 3.0 HP motor produces 6.5 CFM at 90 PSI for increased productivityPump is oil-lubricated for cooler running temperatures and reduced wearDurable cast iron cylinder reduces wear and increases pump life; removable for easy maintenanceFolding handle with low profile design for easy storage with handle foldedCheck Price Below
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ROLAIR 9 HP Honda, 20.1 CFM@90PSI, 20 ROLAIR (Publisher)Check Price Below
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NorthStar Portable Gas-Powered Air Compressor – Honda 163cc OHV Engine, 20-Gallon Horizontal Tank, 13.7 CFM at 90 PSI Honda GX160 OHV engine with low oil shutdownFull cast iron pump for long service lifeV-style cylinder design for superior coolingPump head made of FC35 Grade cast ironFloating-type Swedish steel valves deliver much longer valve lifeCheck Price Below
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PORTER-CABLE Compressor, Oil-Free, UMC Pancake, 13-Piece Accessory Kit, 6-Gallon, 150 PSI (C2002-WK) 150 psi max tank pressure of the portable air compressor allows more air in the tank for longer tool runtimes2.6 SCFM @ 90 psi of the electric air compressor allows for quick compressor recovery time, per ISO12176 gal Pancake style tank of the PORTER-CABLE air compressor is made for stability, includes water drain valve and rubber feetLow Amp 120V motor starts easily in cold weather or with extension cordDurable oil-free pump for long life and no maintenanceCheck Price Below
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Briggs & Stratton 8-Gallon Air Compressor, Hotdog 074025-00,Black 8-gallon horizontal tank with 150 max PSI; 4.8 CFM at 40 PSI, 3.7 CFM at 90 PSI1.5 horsepower induction motor, oil free pumpRugged Wheels and a removable handle for easy transportation and storage8-gallon horizontal tank with 150 max PSI; 4.8 CFM at 40 PSI, 3.7 CFM at 90 PSIPump and motor are fully shrouded for motor protection and less noiseCheck Price Below
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Thomas Compressors T-200ST 13 Amp 2-Horsepower 4-Gallon Oil-Free Twin Hot Dog Compressor 2-horsepower motor delivers 4.6 cfm at 100 psiQuiet, slow-turning 1700 rpm motor extends unit’s lifeLow amp draw–works on 15 Amp circuits and with extension cordsPatented LIFEGUARD dirt deflector keeps grit out of the compressor and improves cylinder coolingThe twin-stack tank design provides a 4-gallon air reservoirCheck Price Below
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California Air Tools CAT-4620AC-22060 Ultra Quiet & Oil-Free 2.0 hp 4.0 gallon Aluminum Twin Tank Electric Portable Air Compressor, Silver Ultra Quiet only 70 DecibelsOil-Free Pump for Less Maintenance & Costs4.6 Gallon (Rust Free) Aluminum Twin TankPowerful 2.0 HP (Rated / Running) Motor6.40 cfm @ 40 psi – 5.30 cfm @ 90 psiCheck Price Below
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1. Makita MAC5200 Big Bore 3.0 HP Air Compressor
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Pros:
It has a powerful 3 HP engine that produces as much as 6.5 CFM at 90 PSI and 6.9 CFM at 40 PSI.This Makita MAC5200 air compressor has a durable 5.2 gallon cast iron cylinder. The roll-cage protects the cylinder and the engine assembly.It has an ergonomic handle. You don’t need to bend to pick it up and wheel it around your jobsite.Two 1/4-inch universal couplers are already included.
Cons:
This is a heavy air compressor even with the wheels attached.
Sebring Tip:
The Makita MAC5200 Big Bore 3.0 HP Air Compressor is nothing short of impressive. This electric-powered air compressor has a good 3 HP engine that delivers as much as 6.5 CFM at 90 PSI. This is the ideal air compressor for your framing nailer and other heavy-duty air tools.
You have to hand it to Makita for the air compressor’s unique design. The tank is protected by a roll cage, while the wheels ensure that you can wheel it around the house or from your garage to your car to your jobsite.
Despite its size and sheer power, this is one of the less noisy air compressors we have on the list. It is a good choice for both regular homeowners who want to invest in a quality air compressor, as well as professionals who want a reliable workhorse.
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2. ROLAIR 8422HK30 Air Compressor
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Pros:
This is an efficient and reliable two-stage air compressor.It delivers a whopping 20.1 CFM at 90 PSI.It has a convenient wheelbarrow design.It has two durable cast-iron cylinders with a 9-gallon capacity. The engine is made of sturdy cast aluminum alloy with a cast iron sleeve.
Cons:
It is one of the heaviest air compressors on the list.
Sebring Tip:
The ROLAIR 8422HK30 Air Compressor is built for the professional woodworker and builder. This is not your ordinary portable air compressor as this is built to be used with professional air tools and designed for heavy-duty applications.
It has two high-capacity cast-iron tanks that allow you to work longer. You don’t need to deal with downtimes while you wait for your air compressor to fill up when you have this beast of a machine.
The engine performance exceeded expectations thanks to its 20.1 CFM at 90 PSI rating. You can connect it to your framing nailer or random orbital sander, and work all day long without worrying that it will run out of juice just when you need it most.
This portable air compressor is very expensive and is created specifically for professional applications. If you’re a hobbyist who wants a budget-friendly portable air compressor, then this is not for you.
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3. NorthStar 459392 Portable Gas-Powered Air Compressor
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Pros:
It has a powerful single-stage Honda GX160 OHV engine.It delivers 13.7 CFM at 90 PSI, and as much as 14.6 CFM at 40 PSI.It has a large 20-gallon horizontal tank.This is a portable horizontal air compressor. Great for home use or when you need to bring it to work.It has a low-oil oil shutdown to protect your engine.
Cons:
It is bulky and heavy (weight: 217 lbs; length: 40 in).
Sebring Tip:
The NorthStar 459392 Portable Air Compressor works like a dream. It has a powerful 48 HP engine that delivers as much as 14.6 CFM. This is ideal for powerful air tools, such as nailers and sanders.
Because it is gas-powered, you can bring it to your workshop without worrying if you’ll have access to an electrical outlet. The wheels are built into the ASME-certified tank, and the wide handle makes it easy to transport. The tank is powder-coated to ensure that it can withstand the elements for a long time without rusting or degrading.
The price can also make your eyes water, but if you want to invest in the long-term because you’re a professional, then this might be your ideal air compressor.
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4. PORTER-CABLE C2002 Pancake Compressor
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Pros:
This Porter-Cable pancake compressor is compact and lightweight. It has a 6-gallon pancake tank, while the overall weight is only 30 lbs.It has an oil-free pump design.You can hook two air tools into it thanks to its two factory-installed air couplers.It is an excellent but affordable air compressor.
Cons:
It only delivers 3.5 SCFM at 40 PSI and 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI.
Sebring Tip:
When it comes to portability, nothing beats the PORTER-CABLE C2002 Pancake Processor. It has a 6-gallon cylinder and an equally compact 8 HP motor that sits on top of it. It can be stored under your work table or on one of the shelves in your workshop.
This air compressor, despite its size, makes a lot of noise. Its air delivery only ranges from 2.6 to 3.5 SCFM, so consider that before hooking it up with your heavy-duty pneumatic tools or inflating your pick-up’s tire with it. For me, this is the best small air compressor on the list.
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5. Briggs & Stratton 074025-00 Air Compressor
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Pros:
It has a high-capacity 8-gallon hotdog tank.The 1.5 HP motor delivers 4.8 CFM at 40 PSI and as much as 3.7 CFM at 90 PSI.Easily portable with its heavy-duty wheels and collapsible handle.This is a compact air compressor. It can be stored in a nook in your garage or workshop.
Cons:
It is loud despite the manufacturer’s claims that it is quieter than other air compressors.
Sebring Tip:
Whether you’re inflating your RV tires or you’re using a framing nailer, you’ll definitely find this Briggs & Stratton 074025-00 Air Compressor a reliable partner. This is a mid-sized hotdog compressor that is great for occasional or even professional use thanks to its powerful motor and more-than-adequate 8-gallon tank.
It is designed to be portable thanks to its double front wheels and steel handle. This air compressor is powered by electricity, so make sure that you have access to an outlet first before bringing it to your jobsite.
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6. Thomas Compressors T-200ST Air Compressor
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Pros:
Its high-capacity twin-stack tanks are great for those who don’t want to deal with downtimes while at work.It can deliver as much as 4.6 CFM at 100 PSI.This is a compact and relatively lightweight air compressor.It produces less noise than the other compressors on the list.
Cons:
This air compressor has a hefty price tag.
Sebring Tip:
Building decks or inflating your pickup’s tires can be an easy task with this Thomas Compressors T-200ST Compressor. This twin-stack air compressor offers two 4-gallon hotdog tanks that allow you to work harder longer.
The 2 HP motor produces 4.6 CFM at 100 PSI. This is good enough for most professional tasks, but the good news is that it is not as loud as other air compressors we’ve reviewed so far.
The price can be a deterrent for homeowners who just want a reliable air compressor at home. If you’re a professional, however, this can be considered a good investment.
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7. California Air Tools CAT-4620AC-22060 Air Compressor
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Pros:
This twin-stack air compressor has two 4.6-gallon aluminum cylinders.Its 2 HP engine delivers 5.30 CFM at 90 PSI and 6.40 CFM at 40 PSI.Its dual-piston pump system works efficiently and in different temperatures even though it is oil-free.It is relatively lightweight compared to other air compressors on the list.It only takes sixty seconds before an empty tank is filled to capacity.
Cons:
You have to carry it from one part of the room to another. It is lightweight, but a set of wheels could have helped in making it more portable.
Sebring Tip:
The California Air Tools CAT-4620AC-22060 Air Compressor performed well when used with air tools. It is marketed as an ‘Ultra Quiet Air Compressor.’ No one expects air compressors to be quiet, but it’s true that this one’s a little less noisy than most. You can still hear yourself and the person you’re talking to even when this is turned on.
The twin-stack cylinders are adequate for most tasks. Although it lacks a set of wheels for easy transport, the whole unit is set on a nice and stable platform. You can also pick it up from the floor using one hand with its strategically positioned handle.
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Types Of Portable Air Compressors
ir Inflators
These are compact and portable pieces of equipment that are commonly used to inflate toys, tires of smaller vehicles, and bike tires. These have corded versions and cordless battery-powered ones. Keep in mind that air inflators are not designed to be used with air tools or used to inflate tires of larger vehicles.
Pancake Air Compressors
These small air compressors are characterized by a pancake-like metal tank or cylinder. They are light, easy to use, and portable. Pancake air compressors are used to power small air tools and for minor projects at home.
While it is useful for minor household use, keep in mind that its tank has a low capacity owing to its small size. You might need to wait for the tank to refill repeatedly if you’re working for several hours.
Hotdog Air Compressors
You can tell hotdog air compressors with their elongated metal tanks that look like… well, hot dogs. The size of these hot dog tanks ranges between 1 and 7 gallons.
They are ideal for most minor household projects, and commonly used for powering most pneumatic tools. Get the largest hot dog compressor tank you can afford if you plan to use it with heavy-duty air tools.
Twin-Stack Air Compressors
If you’re using heavy-duty pneumatic tools in professional settings and you don’t want to wait for the tank to fill up before you can use it again, then a twin-stack air compressor is the ideal equipment for you.
This is characterized by one elongated tank stacked against another. These, too, are portable, but they are not as lightweight or as compact as pancake or hotdog air compressors.
Portable Vertical and Horizontal Tank Air Compressors
These air compressors come with larger tanks and are ideal for heavy-duty and professional use. If you are remodeling your kitchen or adding a new section to your home and using it with tools that demand plenty and continuous airflow, then these are the ideal air compressors for you.
The tanks are oriented vertically or horizontally. The wheels at the base ensure that they are portable.
Wheelbarrow Air Compressors
Wheelbarrow air compressors are ideal for large jobsites or ones with uneven terrain. They are portable and durable with handles that resemble that of wheelbarrows.
Remodeling your home soon? Then check out our blog for inspiration and the latest remodeling ideas.
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Portable Air Compressor Buying Guide
irflow Capacity
Cubic feet per minute (CFM) indicates the maximum airflow supplied by an air compressor during its operation. All air tools have a required airflow for them to operate, that’s why the most important information you should look for when choosing the best portable air compressor is its CFM or specifically, its SCFM.
Before heading to the hardware store or before you click that checkout button, it is best to check the CFM airflow requirements of your air tools and choose an air compressor that exceeds its airflow requirements. If you can’t find the air tool’s required CFM on your user’s manual, you can go to the manufacturer’s website and check the information there.
Let’s say your air tool runs at 6 CFM. Multiply it by 1.2 or 1.5 to get the air compressor with the right CFM for your air tool. This is to make sure that the air compressor can deliver the required CFM and the tool will not be under-powered.
ir Pressure
Air pressure is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). The majority of air tools in the market require 90 PSI for optimum performance. But to make sure that the pressure is maintained at 90 PSI, make sure that you have a compressor with a high shut-off pressure.
Single-stage pumps rise to around 125 to 155 PSI before they shut off. Heavy-duty air compressors often have two-stage pumps that first shut off at around 90 PSI, and then at 175 PSI or more.
Tank Size
Portable air compressors with smaller tanks are ideal for tasks that need short bursts of air during operation. If you’re using a pneumatic framing nailer or a ratchet wrench, then a good-sized hotdog or twin-stack air compressor will suffice.
If you’re using a sander, for example, and you’re using it continuously, then you’re better off getting a portable air compressor with a larger tank.
Power Source
Some quality air compressors are powered by electricity, while others are powered by gas. If you have access to an electrical outlet and you’re going to do a lot of your tasks indoors, then an electric-powered portable air compressor is ideal for your application.
Gas-powered air compressors, on the other hand, have the advantage of portability and versatility. They are ideal for outdoor jobsites or those that don’t have access to electricity.
Check out this video to learn more about how air compressors work.
Conclusion:
I hope that you’ve learned a lot from our review and air compressor buying guide. But no review is complete without giving you the best portable compressor you can purchase right now.
And the best portable air compressor is the Makita MAC5200 Big Bore 3.0 HP Air Compressor. I was torn between this and the ROLAIR 8422HK30 Air Compressor with its robust 20.1 CFM at 90 PSI, but the latter proved to be too large to be portable and too expensive for many users. So why the Makita MAC5200 Big Bore 3.0 HP Air Compressor?
First is its 3 HP engine that delivers as much as 6.5 CFM at 90 PSI and 6.9 CFM at 40 PSI. Most air tools you own right now are compatible with this mighty air compressor. Plus, it is compact yet completely portable. Just wheel it wherever you want around your garage or work site, and you’re good to go. You can even fold the handle forward for easy storage.
The 5.2-gallon tank is enough whether you’re using a brad nailer or a paint sprayer.
One of the things I like about it is its roll cage that protects the tank and the motor, as well as its large and durable wheels. The price is also not bad at all for a top-rated air compressor like this.
Overall, the Makita MAC5200 Big Bore 3.0 HP Air Compressor is one of the best air compressors for home use. It is also a good investment for professional builders and woodworkers.
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