Forbes Wheels independently tests and reviews cars and automotive accessories. We may earn an affiliate commission from links on our site. The analysis and opinions are our own.
A good portable air compressor is a jack-of-all-trades for your garage. If you’ve used pneumatic tools, you already know how that extra oomph of air pressure can make short work of tough jobs. A compressor
...Read More
A good portable air compressor is a jack-of-all-trades for your garage. If you’ve used pneumatic tools, you already know how that extra oomph of air pressure can make short work of tough jobs. A compressor is essential for spray painting anything from a car to a wooden fence. And they come in handy for everything from topping up tires and sports balls to pressure washing your driveway and remodeling your house.
There are different types of compressors, and the right one for you depends on your needs and budget. Here we’ve chosen the best models for a range of people. Keep in mind that you may need to buy accessories separately. For ease of comparison, all CFM (cubic feet per minute) specs are at 90 PSI. See the FAQs for more info.
Read Less
A good portable air compressor is a jack-of-all-trades for your garage. If you’ve used pneumatic tools, you already know how that extra oomph of air pressure can make short work of tough jobs. A compressor is essential for spray painting anything from a car to a wooden fence. And they come in handy for everything from topping up tires and sports balls to pressure washing your driveway and remodeling
...Read More
A good portable air compressor is a jack-of-all-trades for your garage. If you’ve used pneumatic tools, you already know how that extra oomph of air pressure can make short work of tough jobs. A compressor is essential for spray painting anything from a car to a wooden fence. And they come in handy for everything from topping up tires and sports balls to pressure washing your driveway and remodeling your house.
There are different types of compressors, and the right one for you depends on your needs and budget. Here we’ve chosen the best models for a range of people. Keep in mind that you may need to buy accessories separately. For ease of comparison, all CFM (cubic feet per minute) specs are at 90 PSI. See the FAQs for more info.
The 15020C is a great all-round air compressor that delivers plenty of power for a wide range of uses, yet it’s one of the quietest models in its range. This hot-dog style model has a generous 15-gallon tank and it outputs an ample 5.3 CFM and 130 PSI, which will keep you going whether you’re using air tools or spray painting around the house or yard. Yet, it operates at a low 70 dB, which is about half the sound volume of many similar models. In addition, its oil-free design means less maintenance.
Pros & Cons
Large 15-gallon tank allows you to work longer without interruptions
The 5.3 CFM air volume is plenty to operate most air tools
At 70 dB, it’s about half as loud as many other compressors in this range
More expensive than many smaller compressors
Even at 70 dB, it’s not what you call “quiet”
At 90 pounds, it’s heavier than smaller models (although its wheels help you move it around)
This oil-free, pancake-style compressor gives you a lot for its budget-friendly price. Its combination of a 6-gallon tank, 2.6 CFM, and 150 maximum PSI level will let you handle a wide variety of tasks around the garage, home, or yard. And, at only about 30 pounds, it’s easy to tout around. Adding to its value, this model comes with a 13-piece accessory kit that will help you get up and running quickly. All of this has made this Craftsman model one of the best-selling portable air compressors.
Pros & Cons
Affordable price for a compressor with these specs and features
Its pancake design is more space efficient than other designs
Two couplers let you use two tools at the same time
At 78.5 dB, it’s as loud as many heavier-duty models
The 8010A is an easy choice if you want a capable, high quality air compressor that won’t irritate the neighbors, and may even let you listen to music or a podcast while you’re working. Sure, there are some smaller compressors with slightly lower noise levels, but this oil-free model delivers the best overall package while emitting only 60 dB. That’s similar to normal conversation, and is a quarter of the sound volume of many other compressors, even ones that are smaller and less expensive. The 8010A includes a generous 8-gallon tank and has the capability to deliver air at 2.2 CFM and 120 PSI.
Pros & Cons
A great combination of low noise and strong performance
At 37 pounds, it’s easy to move around
Aluminum tank resists corrosion
Not designed to operate tools with high air-delivery demands
Some users say that the compressor is top heavy, which can make it tricky to move around
If you want to jump right into using air tools, this Bostitch compressor kit gives you a head start at an affordable price. This six-gallon, pancake-style model comes with a Bostitch brad nailer and finish nailer which are handy for a variety of around-the-house projects. An air hose and fittings are also included. This oil-free Bostitch also provides impressive performance, with the capability to deliver 2.6 CFM and 150 PSI. At about 40 pounds, the compressor is also light enough to easily tout around. All this is why it’s one of the best-selling portable air compressors.
Pros & Cons
Includes two pneumatic tools for general DIY home projects
Affordable price
Very portable, lightweight and space efficient
Not designed for heavier-duty jobs or operating more demanding tools
Some users complain about its high 80-dB sound level
Price has fluctuated a lot online (according to CamelCamelCamel)
Spray painting a car is one of the most demanding tasks for an air compressor, especially if you want a professional-quality finish. And the SS5 has the power and specs to handle the job. High-quality paint guns demand a high volume airflow and need to be operated for long periods without interruption. The SS5 meets that challenge with an ample 18.1 CFM, a large 60-gallon tank, and strong 5-horsepower output. The SS5 requires a 230-volt power source, though, and at 310 pounds it’s far from portable.
Pros & Cons
Large 60-gallon tank lets you operate the compressor for long periods without it needing to pause and refill
High 18.1 CFM provides plenty of air flow for most professional-caliber paint spray guns
While high, its price is hundreds of dollars less than many other heavy-duty compressors
More expensive than portable air compressors
Requires a 230-volt power supply, similar to large household appliances
Some experts recommend bolting it to the floor for security
FAST INFLATION & ADVANCED ACCURACY: High-quality materials were sourced for this tire inflator as it can pump up your car's tires with 35 L/Min, it can inflate the 195/55/R15 car tire from 0 to 35psi under 5 minutes. Professionally calibrated to always return a reading within 1.5% of the pressure of your tire. Please NOTE that after 10-15 minutes of continuous use, let the air compressor rest and cool for an equal amount of time at a minimum before continuing use.
PROGRAMMABLE INFLATION: Use the "M" button to set your desired pressure unit, and then press the "+" and "-" buttons to set the desired pressure. The air compressor will automatically shut off when it reaches the pre-set pressure (Please make sure the pressure you set is higher than the current pressure of your tire).
PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS: One-click to change pressure units among PSI, kPa, BAR and KG/CM; Large white backlight LCD screen makes it easy to read even in the dark; Equipped with integrated LED flashlight with independent switch control for emergency use; 12V 120W 10ft (3.05 meters) long heavy-duty car cigarette lighter cord makes it convenient to use;NOT 110V AC plug. It needs a 10A or 15A converter to use in a wall plug.
165 max PSI 6.0 gallon tank (22.7 L) and 2.6 SCFM delivered @ 90 PSI pump, enable long tool run time with quick recovery for the portable air compressor
High efficiency motor of the electric air compressor is made for easy start up in cold weather or extension cord application. [14 ga or larger, 50 ft. (15.2 m) or less]
78.5 dBA noise level of the 6 gallon air compressor is made for a quiet work environment
Comes complete with Wheel Kit & Air Filter | No hose included | Consider you will need a ¼” Universal / Industrial Male Quick Connector to attach your hose to the air compressor
Product dimensions – 26" L x 14" W x 23” H | Max Pressure – 120 PSI | Voltage – 110V / 60 Hz | Min running watts – 2500 | Noise level – 60 dBA | Max Continuous run time – 30-60 min (depending on PSI & CFM) | Low Amp Draw – 8.5 Amps
Oil-Free Pump for Less Maintenance & Costs | Powerful 1.0 HP (Rated / Running) 2.0 HP (Peak) Motor
【Super Fast Inflation】Avid Power AC/DC tire inflator comes with dual solid metal motors, which provides super power and inflates your car tires or other inflatables faster. Suitable for inflating tires on cars, bikes, sedan, midsize SUV. DOES NOT SUPPORT heavy duty truck tires.
【12V DC / 120V AC Power Supply】 AC/DC power switch make this air compressor more useful and convenient since you can use it anywhere. You can choose to connect it with 12V car cigarette light plug or 120V home outlet. Perfect for use indoors and during the travel.
【Inflation & Deflation Modes】 This tire inflator features inflation & deflation switch and two type of hoses. The high-pressure hose for inflating high pressure items like car & bike tires, sports balls and more. The high-volume hose for inflating or deflating low pressure but high volume items like air rafts, air mattress, floats.
Dual-Motor + Metal Structure: The dual motors & metal structure enable the product to work 20 minutes continuously, the maximum gas flow reaches 260 L/M, and the maximum pressure can reach 160 PSI, more efficient and fast.
Three Power Supply & Identified Automatically: This compressor supports three types of power supply: AC, DC, and Lithium battery packs. The updated system is able to identify the power supply itself without choosing the power mode. Please note that the lithium battery pack is not complimentary, you may purchase it if necessary.
Tires & Paddling pool: Two inflation modes. The air compressor is able to inflate tires, air mattresses, or large inflatable objects fast. You can inflate tires and inflatable items to meet your entertainment demands with this air compressor.
◀Digital Display▶Watifisa air compressor has a digital display that tells you current tire air pressure. You don't have to disconnect the tire inflator and use a separate tire pressure gauge to check the pressure. When you put the tire pump onto your valve stem it automatically shows you what your tire pressure is, and then you just set it to whatever your desired pressure is and turn it on and it will automatically inflate to that set pressure.
◀Auto Shut Off▶Best feature is the auto shut-off, which means you don't have to watch air pump closely to see if it has gotten to the right pressure. You can measure your tire pressure and then you can add air to your tires based on your chosen tire pressure, the portable air compressor will automatically stop when you have reached the maximum tire pressure, so you can't over inflate.
◀Multiple Function▶The tire air pump equips with 3 additional nozzles to satisfy your different needs. The different nozzle allows you to inflate car, bike, soccer, basketball, motorcycles, pool inflatables, camping air mattresses and sporting equipment (includes a variety of specialty connectors). And the nozzle is easy to get on and off.
Quiet Series design at only 60 dB for operator and crew comfort; ideal for indoor use
Runs at a lower RPM (1, 750) resulting in longer motor and pump life
Complete roll-cage construction provides protection to withstand a variety of job-site, transporting, and storage environments
Methodology
Forbes Wheels compared the specs, features, and pricing of dozens of portable and stationary air compressors that would be suitable for home garage use, and we checked expert and user reviews to identify where people have had problems with them. We looked for popular, highly rated compressors that represent the best overall values for people with different needs.
What size air compressor do I need for my garage?
This common question is like asking what size engine you need in your car; it depends on what you use it for. By “size,” many buyers focus on the tank size, which is measured in gallons. So, we’ll start there, although this only gives you part of the picture. Because a compressor’s tank is used to store compressed air, the bigger it is, the longer you’ll be able to work without the compressor having to pause and refill the tank. That’s why a compressor with a one- or two-gallon tank will have to stop and refill a lot more than one with a ten-gallon or larger tank. For jobs that don’t demand continuous pressure for extended periods, a smaller tank is fine. But a spray painter, for example, is best used with a larger tank so the stream of paint doesn’t get interrupted too often. For spray painting a car, which demands long periods of continuous application, experts recommend a hefty 60-gallon tank or larger.
What other specs should I look for when buying?
In addition to tank size, other critical considerations are a compressor’s PSI (pounds per square inch) and CFM (cubic feet per minute) ratings. Think of the PSI as how much force the air has (good for, say, pressure washing or inflating a tire) and the CFM as the volume of air that the compressor can deliver on a continual basis (critical for, say, spraying paint or operating an orbital or disc sander). Both specs affect which tools the compressor can power. Before buying, check the manuals or spec sheets for any tools you plan on using to see their PSI and CFM demands and note the highest ones. Then be sure to get a compressor that delivers a little more than that, which will give you a reasonable margin for error.
How much power does it take to operate air tools?
Most air tools require about 70 to 100 psi, which all of our recommended models can deliver. For inflating tires, you’ll need a compressor that can equal the highest recommended psi for your tires. The CFM requirements of tools vary more. According to Garage Tool Advisor, tools that don’t need constant air, such as a nailer or staple gun, require an output of only two CFM or less. A drill, half-inch impact driver, ratchet, or air hammer could need about three to four CFM. An orbital sander can demand six to nine. And a disc sander requires as much as 20. Paint spray guns can range from about four to 14 CFM, depending on their use.
Is it worth getting a compressor with a lower noise level?
Yes. After tank size, CFM, and PSI, we believe a compressor’s sound volume is the next most important consideration. The volume of most of the compressors we looked at ranged from 60 to 80 dB. That doesn’t look like much on paper, but remember that for every 10 dB, the sound volume doubles. So, a compressor that emits 70 dB sounds twice as quiet as one that emits 80. And a 60-dB compressor is four times lower than that 80-dB model. Put another way, 60 dB is about the level of normal conversation, 70 dB is about the same volume as a vacuum cleaner or hair dryer and 80 is about the level of a noisy restaurant or lawn mower. Volumes above about 85 dB are considered harmful to hearing. So, a lower noise level is not only easier on your ears, it can provide a more pleasant overall experience by letting you, say, listen to music or easily chat with somebody while the compressor is running.
Should I get an oil-free compressor?
Many portable compressors are now “oil-free” (or “oil-less”), which means they use interior parts with friction-reducing coatings instead of conventional oil lubrication. One of the main benefits is less maintenance because you don’t have to change the oil. Among the compressors we researched for garage use, all of the smaller models were oil-free, while it varied among larger, heavier-duty models. So, we’d consider the lower maintenance of an oil-free design to be a good tie-breaker if all of the other specs are similar.
What else should I know about air compressors?
If the compressor doesn’t reach to where you’re working, add more hose, not more extension cord. Why: Voltage drops off and the compressor won’t deliver full power.
At the end of the day, drain the tank: turn the compressor off, bleed off the air pressure in the tank, then open the drain valve in the bottom to release water in the tank. Why: Water in the tank leads to rust and rust years down the road may lead to the tank rupturing.
Don’t playfully spray a person with air from the hose. Why: People get hurt. High pressure delivered up close, especially if it picks up any metal particles, could damage the eyes. Kids should never see this; don’t let them pick up bad and dangerous habits.
Rik is equal parts geek, gearhead, and driving enthusiast. He’s been reviewing cars, auto electronics, and car accessories for over 25 years, and he’s held staff positions with Motor Trend, Consumer Reports’ autos team, and Wirecutter, the NY Times Company’s product-review website. Rik has also written DIY auto-repair manuals for Haynes. And he likes nothing better than to be exploring new places in a great vehicle.
