Make Tough Jobs Easy With the Best Air Compressor
Air compressors are an incredibly versatile and helpful tool for any home (even beyond filling tires). From inflating tires and air mattresses to power tools and cleaning jobs, air compressors are an essential tool for any DIY-er or professional. But with so many manufacturers, models, and sizes to choose from, it can be difficult to find the best air compressor that fits your needs.
In this article, we’ll share our top picks for the best air compressors of 2023, so you can find the ideal machine for all of your tasks. We’ve reviewed compressors from a variety of manufacturers, for both residential and industrial applications. Whether you’re looking for something light and portable or something more powerful, we’ve got you covered.
Comparing the Highest-Rated Air Compressors
Craftsman Air Compressor
– Best OverallThe unique Craftsman 6-gallon air compressor ranks among the company’s best products in their lineup. The compressor has enough power to pump compressed air into high-pressure tires. The compressor also does a decent job on bicycles, van tires, and other tires. The oil free pump is made for low maintenance and a long life of heavy duty work. Its large size and versatility make this pick the best overall on our list.
- It has an oil free pump
- It comes with enough power to inflate high-pressure passenger vans tires
- Made using durable materials
- It’s not bulky and sports a portable design
- It is very loud
BOSTITCH Air Compressor
– Quietest ModelBOSTITCH holds an outstanding reputation for making top-quality tools. This tool comes with exceptional power and portability features. The compressor is cordless, which means you don’t have to bother about tripping things off. It is also equipped with an impressive 6 gallon tank, which means you can keep going till the job is done. It operates on maximum pressure of 150 PSI, which suffices for different workflows.
In addition, this portable air compressor has a pair of brad nailers which makes it easier to use it anywhere. This compressor is eco-friendly and produces little noise, making it the perfect tool for long-term work.
- It comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty
- It is lightweight and has a portable design
- This air compressor is not noisy
- It is a bit expensive
AstroAI Air Compressor
– High QualityFill your tires in a flash with the AstroAI Air Compressor. This air compressor’s high-quality cylinder can deliver 25 liters per minute of inflation, filling your tire from 30 to 36 PSO in under a minute. It’s intuitive and super easy to use, with the LED light and real-time digital screen so you can read the screen and use it day or night. The auto-shutoff feature also prevents you from over-inflating your tires by shutting the air compressor off after it reaches the preset value.
The integrated storage compartment at the back allows for easy accessory storage and portability. The small body and compact design allow almost anyone to lift it out of the car and onto the ground by your tire for ease of use. The ultra-long power cord gives you convenient access to all your tires, no matter where in your garage you plug it in.
- Fast inflation
- Easy to operate
- Includes storage compartment
- Case design is cheap
DEWALT Air Compressor
– Most PortableThe DEWALT Pancake Air Compressor is a small yet heavy duty portable device that packs a lot of power in its slight size. If you are looking for a compressor for tire inflators, nail guns, and blowing dust from tools, this tool will be your jam! The device has a maximum PSI of 165, which gives you more air in the tank. The added PSI means you will have added capacity for other jobs. Also, it can reach an air delivery rate of 2.6 CFM at 90 PSI. You can easily control the air pressure by simply turning the regulator knob either counterclockwise or clockwise.
If you are bothered about the noise produced by your compressor, note that this oil-free air compressor only has 75.5 dBa of noise, which means it is pretty enough. With a tank capacity of 6 gallons, the air produced is enough to fill a mattress or big truck tire. It works easily with an extension cord.
- It’s low-maintenance and oil free
- It doesn’t break your bank; an economical choice
- This air compressor doesn’t make a lot of noise
- It’s small and portable, yet works like a beast
- It doesn’t come with an air hose
- It is not meant for demanding jobs
California Air Tools Air Compressor
– Most Unique LookThe California Air Tools 8010 ranks as one of the top air compressors out there for several reasons. One of the outstanding features of this compressor is that it comes with an electric dual-piston motor. The motor is rated at 1 horsepower when operating and hits a peak of 2 horsepower, which gives it a maximum pressure of 120 PSI. This air compressor may not be the most powerful out there, but it sure does have enough power to get the job done.
Also, it does not need any fuel to operate, meaning a safer and healthier ecosystem. With this compressor, you will get the job done with less noise and in a healthy manner!
- It’s lightweight and comes with a wheel kit
- It’s an eco-friendly product
- Its operation is quiet
- It’s a decent product but needs a packaging upgrade for shipping
EPAuto Air Compressor
– Best Auto-ShutoffThis 12-volt DC portable air compressor pump by EPAuto operates at 120 watts and has an inflation speed of 1.06 CFM. The pump has peak working pressure of 100 PSI. You will also find a digital gauge that reads in 4 distinct display units: the KPA, PSI, Kg/cm, and BAR. This unique device comes with an auto-shutoff function once the compressed air attains a specific pressure rating.
The compressor does a decent job inflating tires on bikes, cars, sedans, and mid-sized SUVs. However, this portable air compressor is not meant for any kind of truck tires.
- This air compressor has an auto-shutoff feature
- Comes with a digital gauge
- It also has a flashlight; bright torch
- Not suitable for any sort of truck tires
Avid Power Air Compressor
– Best Electronic FeaturesAmong portable air compressors, this Avid Power model is fitted with a rechargeable battery and a USB plug which makes it ideal for charging. The compressor also has a cigarette lighter plug, which creates more versatility on how it can be used. There are four distinct pressure measurement units in this device: the KPA, PSI, BAR, and Kg/cm2. There is also a digital display where you can see the compressor’s battery life and inflator status.
The inflator doesn’t weigh much and comes with a carrying bag, making it easy to move around. It is also environmentally friendly and does a decent job of delivering compressed air without creating much noise.
- Multi-purpose use: inflating tires, sports balls, and pool toys
- It sports a highly portable design
- It comes with an auto-stop function
- The inflator may not work in very cold conditions
VIAIR Air Compressor
– Most BasicOur final pick is the VIAIR portable air compressor, and it makes our list for several reasons. Firstly, it offers a basic pump functionality with an analog gauge and power from the car battery using clamps. Also, it has a compact size with a weight of just 4.5 pounds and a length of 10.75 inches. It also has a 16 foot air hose which makes it easy to fill up tires.
Additionally, it has a carrying bag made from durable materials, making it easy to store in a large SUV trunk or a truck bed. It has a maximum pressure of 150 PSI, which is enough to make you go about all the relevant applications. It’s an amazing choice for tires up to 33 inches.
- It has an LED power indicator that saves you from any on/off hassle
- It has a very slim, portable design
- It’s good for tires up to 33 inches – great for trucks, SUVs, sedans… you name it
- It’s very loud
- It bags only one source of power
Buying Guide to the Top Air Compressors
Air compressors can be used for several purposes, like inflating tires or specific tools in your workshop through the usage of compressed air. Air compressors come in diverse sizes and shapes, such as the ones reviewed in this article. Choosing one of the compressors outlined in this piece will save you money and help you make the best choice.
Knowing what to look for when scouting for air compressors will help you further narrow down your selection. This section will list some essential tips that should help you make an informed decision! Let’s get started.
What Makes Air Compressors Unique?
Air tools are generally smaller and lighter than those made using mains or battery power because they usually do not need a heavy motor or battery. Electric air compressors can provide portable air wherever you may need it. While they’re powered with an electric source, the energy is at once converted into kinetic energy, similar to how a combustion engine works.
The use of electric-powered tools is discouraged in some places due to the risk of electrocution or electrically triggered fires. Air compressors are generally safer because they don’t use any power unless they’re on and running, which means little can go wrong electrically. If your work environment is such that it has combustible gases, the compressor will help keep working conditions ideal.
Another unique benefit of air compressors is that they are more affordable than hydraulic or electric tools. Furthermore, air systems are cost-effective to install, and they have lesser maintenance requirements.
For a simple visual explanation on how to use a standard style of air compressor effectively, check out this video from Around the Home:
What Should You Look Out for When Buying Air Compressors?
Before you go out hunting for an ideal air compressor, there are a few things you should be on top of. With a plethora of options out there in the market, choosing the right one requires being armed with the right level of information.
Portability vs. tank size
If you get a bigger tank size, you will be able to operate different air tools simultaneously for an extended period before the pressure falls to refill more air. But with more giant tanks, the compressors are bulkier and heavier, making it quite complicated to maneuver. Using a smaller tank will limit your ability to operate for long because it stores less air. However, smaller tanks offer more portability or movability because you can attach rubber wheels, making them easier to convey around. The point is: weigh your requirements well so you can pin on the right air compressor accordingly.
Free air delivery
Free air delivery determines the air volume produced by the compressor, and it is measured in CFM. If you are someone that has many pneumatic tools and you want to use multiple devices at the same time, it is required that you stack up the CFM requirements from the air tools. Ensure that your compressor-free air delivery surpasses or equals it for a seamless experience.
Petrol vs. electric compressors
Ideally, it would help if you used a petrol compressor outdoors or moved the compressor from one worksite to the other where there is a shortage of electricity. But note that it is not entirely safe to use a petrol compressor in an enclosed area for the sake of safety.
The electric motor compressor is usually the top pick for most industries because it costs less to buy and maintain. The electric option comes in triple or single phases, so you be sure of the power source you are using.
PSI
Each PSI compressor comes with a different PSI level. The PSI will determine the level of power the air being produced is. For instance, if the air tool comes with a requirement of 150PSI, the compressor needs to pressurize a minimum of 150 PSI for it to optimally. You also need to ensure that your air tools are not working with an excessive PSI because it can adversely affect your air tools.
Duty cycle
The duty cycle represents the ratio between when your compressor is cooling and when it is being operated. If you want to optimize the compressor, you shouldn’t let it work for more than 60% of the time. Also, if you observe that your compressor quickly runs out of air, you may need to get a bigger tank!
Ability to withstand moisture problems
The longer you use your compressor, the hotter it will become, leading to increased moisture problems. When the air gets compressed, it heats up, and water gets released when it is compressed. Also, when the air becomes hotter, the condensed water from the system will increase, thereby causing more moisture in the compressor. The ideal way to eliminate the moisture issues associated with your compressor is to buy a larger one to reduce the workload.
Compressor life expectancy
One other important factor you should consider when selecting a compressor is life expectancy. You may become disappointed if you buy a compressor that only lasts for half the time it is promised. There are several brands of compressors out there that are created to last more than five times the span of regular compressors.
You should find out the life expectancy of the compressor before you pay for it – we suggest scouring through customer reviews.
People Also Asked
A: To correctly calculate the CFM of your compressor, multiply the tool's required SCFM by 1.2. This will give you an accurate estimate.
A: You will need to periodically change the oil, as neglecting the maintenance will lead to irreversible damage and affect the product warranty.
A: The standard compressors are usually quieter than the oil-less option. The reason for this is that they are liquid lubricated.
A: There are loads of air tools – this includes nail guns, impact wrenches, paint sprayers, and more! You'll need a good air compressor to run everything. In most cases, you'll find an air compressor powering the tools that fall in the 10-110 CFM range.
A: Air compressors can be used for various projects including painting/staining furniture, sandblasting surfaces, cleaning carpets/upholstery, inflating tires/tubes/mattresses/pool toys/etc., operating pneumatic tools such as nail guns/spray guns/grinders/etc., powering HVAC systems, powering hydraulic systems/equipment and much more.
