Best Air Compressor Reviews [2023] – Buyer’s Guide

Home » Best Air Compressor Reviews [2023] – Buyer’s Guide Last Updated on August 6, 2023 by Marc Smith

In this article we review and compare the most popular models to find the best air compressor. We take a look at all the important features and specifications to find out which compressor is better than the rest in each category.

Factors like CFM, maximum PSI, tank size and duty cycle were taken into account to get a general overview of the top models. We spent hundreds of hours researching consumer feedback to get a clear picture of how these air compressors perform in the long run. This allowed us to add factors like durability, functionality and user satisfaction into the mix.

Editor’s Top 3 Picks

The Best Air Compressors For 2021 

1. Best All-Round: Dewalt D55146  4.5-Gallon Air Compressor

The Dewalt D55146 air compressor is a powerhouse in a compact package. This compressor is a favourite with hobbyists and contractors alike. This heavy duty unit will power most air tools. The dual outlet connectors allow you to run two air tools at the same time.

The D55146 operates at 200 psi maximum pressure and provides more usable air than most of its competitors. This model is a huge favourite in the carpentry and framing industries and received excellent reviews from consumers.

This model has been one of the best selling portable units over the last couple of years, and that is due to the quality and performance of this product.

Compared To The Competition:

Performance: ☆☆☆☆☆ (4.8/5)

Value For Money: ☆☆☆☆ (4.7/5)

User Experience: ☆☆☆☆☆ (4.8/5)

Build Quality: ☆☆☆☆ (4.7/5)

Features: ☆☆☆☆ (4.6/5)

Price: ☆☆☆☆ (4.6/5)

Our Rating: 4.7 Stars

See Price On Amazon

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2. Best Value Air Compressor: Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP 

The Makita MAC2400 Air compressor is a huge favourite with professionals and do-it-yourself enthusiasts and this is why it was included in our air compressor reviews. This is due to the excellent build quality, high performance and competitive selling price.

The duel air outlets allow you to easily operate two nail guns simultaneously. The twin tanks maintain an operating pressure of 130 psi. The Makita is powered by a 2.5 HP motor and big bore pump for increased performance. This model runs a lower rpm(1,720) to increase motor and pump life.

Compared To The Competition:

Performance: ☆☆☆☆☆ (4.8/5)

Value For Money: ☆☆☆☆☆ (4.8/5)

User Experience: ☆☆☆☆☆ (4.8/5)

Build Quality: ☆☆☆☆ (4.6/5)

Features: ☆☆☆☆ (4.6/5)

Price: ☆☆☆☆☆ (4.8/5)

Our Rating: 4.7 Stars

See Price On Amazon

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3. California Air Tools 6010 LFC Air Compressor

The California Air Tools 6010 is the upgraded version of the very popular CAT-6310. The 6310 was rated best portable air compressor by many of the top consumer publications. The improvements made to the new model certainly puts it in line to achieve the same accolades in 2021. Therefore this model had to be included in our air compressor reviews.

The CAT-6010 was designed to be the best quiet air compressor in its class. Running at a noise level of only 60 dB, it certainly achieved that. This is the quietest compressor we have ever tested. Weighing in at 49 lbs, it’s also one of the lightest in its class.

Compared To The Competition:

Performance: ☆☆☆☆ (4.6/5)

Value For Money: ☆☆☆☆ (4.7/5)

User Experience: ☆☆☆☆☆ (4.8/5)

Build Quality: ☆☆☆☆ (4.6/5)

Features: ☆☆☆☆ (4.4/5)

Price: ☆☆☆☆ (4.6/5)

Our Rating: 4.6 Stars

See Price On Amazon

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4. Best Small Air Compressor: Porter Cable PCFP02003 

Our pick for the best value for money pick is the Porter cable PCFP02003 air compressor. It is a compact machine, made for home and DIY use. It is the best seller in the pancake compressor class. This unit produces an impressive 135psi maximum pressure for longer running and quicker recovery time. Small, light and very portable.

This model from Porter Cable features a 3.5-gallon tank and produces 2.0 SCFM at 90 Psi. The oil-free pump will ensure a longer lifespan and lower maintenance. Awarded best value for money product in our air compressor reviews.

Compared To The Competition:

Performance: ☆☆☆ (3.8/5)

Value For Money: ☆☆☆☆☆ (4.6/5)

User Experience: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)

Build Quality: ☆☆☆☆ (4.4/5)

Features: ☆☆☆☆ (4.1/5)

Price: ☆☆☆☆☆ (4.8/5)

Our Rating: 4.5 Stars

See Price On Amazon

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5. Best Air Compressor For Home Shop: Ingersoll-Rand SS3F2 Garage Mate

The Ingersoll-Rand SS3F2 air compressor is built for the serious DIYer or professional looking for a compressor to meet all their demands. This compressor has a 100% duty cycle, ensuring an uninterrupted working experience. This is the biggest 120 Volt unit in our air compressor reviews.

The garage mate features a cast-iron, oil-lubricated pump for reliable performance. It delivers 5.7 CFM at 90 psi, enough to meet all your air requirements. Received excellent consumer feedback.

Compared To The Competition:

Performance: ☆☆☆☆☆ (4.8/5)

Value For Money: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)

User Experience: ☆☆☆☆ (4.6/5)

Build Quality: ☆☆☆☆☆ (4.7/5)

Features: ☆☆☆☆☆ (4.7/5)

Price: ☆☆☆☆ (4.3/5)

Our Rating: 4.5 Stars

See Price On Amazon

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6. Dewalt D55167 15-Gallon Air Compressor

This powerful 15 Gallon unit from Dewalt was designed to compete in the low-noise market. Running at only 78 dB, it is most definitely competitive. The D 55167 is ideal for the home workshop or work environment where noise levels have to be kept down.

This Dewalt produces 200 psi maximum pressure and delivers 4.8 CFM at 90 psi. Dewalt’s Efficient High-Pressure technology ensures much longer air tool running times. The Dewalt D 55167 received excellent reviews from consumers and professionals.

Compared To The Competition:

Performance: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)

Value For Money: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)

User Experience: ☆☆☆☆ (4.6/5)

Build Quality: ☆☆☆☆ (4.6/5)

Features: ☆☆☆☆ (4.4/5)

Price: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)

Our Rating: 4.5 Stars

See Price On Amazon

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7. Ingersoll Rand 30 Gallon Gas Air Compressor

A 13 HP Honda gas motor provide the power to drive this model from Ingersoll Rand. Being gas powered means that this model is ideal for the job site or in places where electricity supply is a problem like field services.

The motor runs quiet and smooth. Furthermore the pump is made from durable cast iron for a 100% duty cycle. Free air CFM is 24.0 at 175 psi. Ingersoll Rand issues a two year extended warranty when approved lubricant is used.

Compared To The Competition:

Performance: ☆☆☆☆☆ (4.7/5)

Value For Money: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)

User Experience: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)

Build Quality: ☆☆☆☆ (4.6/5)

Features: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)

Price: ☆☆☆☆ (4.4/5)

Our Rating: 4.5 Stars

See Price On Amazon

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8. Makita MAC 5200 Portable Air Compressor

Just like the MAC 2400, the Makita MAC 5200 is a huge favourite with professionals and discerning DIYers. The build quality and performance make these compressors very popular. This model is powered by a 3 Hp motor with built-in thermal overload protection.

The big bore pump is oil lubricated and delivers 6.5 CFM at 90 psi. Just like the 2400, running two nail guns simultaneously is no problem for this machine. The 5.2-gallon tank sustains an operating pressure of 140 psi. The 8″ pneumatic wheels make this unit portable on the toughest job sites. Therefore this Makita received excellent ratings in the air compressor consumer reports.

Compared To The Competition:

Performance: ☆☆☆☆☆ (4.7/5)

Value For Money: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)

User Experience: ☆☆☆☆ (4.6/5)

Build Quality: ☆☆☆☆ (4.6/5)

Features: ☆☆☆☆☆ (4.7/5)

Price: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)

Our Rating: 4.6 Stars

See Price On Amazon

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9. North Star 20 Gallon Gas Air Compressor

The North Star is built for heavy-duty applications and durability. This model is powered by the reliable Honda GX 160 motor. The pump is fully cast iron and v-styled for superior cooling. The North Star has a 20-gallon tank that delivers a maximum of 130 psi and 100% duty cycle. It is ideal for the professional looking for a top quality compressor that can handle the toughest applications day in and day out. 

Compared To The Competition:

Performance: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)

Value For Money: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)

User Experience: ☆☆☆☆ (4.4/5)

Build Quality: ☆☆☆☆ (4.4/5)

Features: ☆☆☆☆ (4.3/5)

Price: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)

Our Rating: 4.4 Stars

See Price On Amazon

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10. WEN 2276 6-Gallon Air Compressor

The WEN 2276 Air compressor is a great addition to any home workshop. Considering the low price the WEN is selling for, the quality is surprisingly good. With fully functional gauges, switches and valves, this compressor is very easy to use. Very good value for money.

This model features a 6 Gallon air tank and can produce a maximum of 125 psi. The CFM rating is 4.2, which is quite acceptable for a unit of this size.

This model is not available at the moment, but we will let you know as soon as it becomes available.

Compared To The Competition:

Performance: ☆☆☆☆ (4.2/5)

Value For Money: ☆☆☆☆ (4.6/5)

User Experience: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)

Build Quality: ☆☆☆☆ (4.4/5)

Features: ☆☆☆☆ (4.1/5)

Price: ☆☆☆☆ (4.5/5)

Our Rating: 4.4 Stars

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 View Air Compressor Comparison Table.

Best Quiet Air Compressors

Most DIY enthusiasts would prefer to have a quiet air compressor to run air tools in the garage or home workshop. This eliminates the need to worry about noise when working at home, especially as most of us only get the chance to get the power tools out in the evenings or over the weekend.

Traditional air compressors create a lot of noise and were never made to operate in a residential area. The noise from these older models often creates animosity between neighbours, not something you want when the aim is to enjoy your hobby.

Most air tools like impact wrenches and angle grinders create noise of their own and ideally, you would not like to add the noise of an air compressor to that.

Luckily some manufacturers have decided to tackle the noise problem, and are striving to produce something as close to a silent air compressor as possible. Noise levels are measured in decibels, and the best way to see exactly how quiet an air compressor runs is to analyse the decibel level statistics.

Keep in mind that a normal conversation between two people is about 60 dB, and the average lawnmower runs at about 90 dB.

To be considered an ultra-quiet air compressor, that machine has to run in the 60 dB to 70 dB range. Dewalt and California air tools are two companies that have stepped up to the plate to produce quiet air compressors that can be used for the home workshop. In this section we list our top picks for the best quiet air compressor.

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1. California Air Tools 5510 SE Air Compressor

California Air Tools have been the biggest name in quiet air compressor development over the past few years. The company set out to make this traditionally loud tool much more user-friendly.

This involved making all their models lighter and more importantly, quieter. The company launched its ultra-quiet range a few years ago and set a new standard in noise level control. Consumers were stunned by just how quiet these machines were. Models like the CAT 6310 and the CAT 6010 quickly became top sellers in their respective categories.

The CAT 5510 SE tops our list as we believe that it is the ideal model for the home workshop or garage. Running at a noise level of around 60 dB, this is one of the quietest air compressors ever built. It certainly has all the credentials to be placed in the ultra-quiet category. This is about the same dB level as a normal conversation and certainly won’t wake the neighbours.

More Features

This model features a 5.5 Gallon aluminium tank, which helps keep weight to the minimum. The 5510 SE is well designed from top to bottom, and it is clear to see that a lot of research and development went into creating this air compressor. The 1 HP motor delivers ample power to drive the oil-free pump. Another way California Air Tools reduced the noise is to lower the running RPM of the motor to 1,680 RPM. This not only reduces the noise but helps to reduce the wear on the motor, producing a longer lasting machine. 

This air compressor delivers 120 PSI and 2.2 CFM @ 90 PSI. This is good enough to drive most power tools that you will encounter. The company claims a 3000 plus hours life cycle, making this model a very good investment. Consumer feedback has been excellent across the board, showing that the CAT 5510 SE delivers on the promises. We feel confident that we can recommend this air compressor as one of the best quiet models on the market today.

Pros:

• Ultra Quiet.
• Well priced.
• Excellent value for money.

Cons:

• Not suited for heavy duty work.

See Price On Amazon

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2. Dewalt DWFP 55130 Air Compressor

Dewalt is the second large brand to tackle the air compressor noise problem. The brand is one of the biggest players in the global power tool market, and have all the resources to be a big competitor in this market. Dewalt is known as a company that strives to produce quality tools to professionals and for home use.

The company launched a range of quiet air compressors that performed very well in noise level testing, running well under the 75 dB mark, 30 % lower noise than other Dewalt models. The DWFP 55130 is our pick from that range.

The 55130 operates at 71.5 dB, very close to the 70 dB mark where the ultra quiet air compressor rating border lies. This compressor features a 2.5 Gallon steel tank and delivers 3.0 CFM at 90 PSI. That is quite impressive for an air compressor of this size. The Dewalt Quiet trim is compact and portable, it weighs in at 36 lbs and measures just 14 inches wide, which makes the 55130 ideal for the job site where power tools have to be carried from and to different locations to get the job done.

More Features

The tank operates at 200 PSI and the motor kicks in to refill the tank when the pressure drops below 165 PSI. This ensures that there is always plenty of air to get the job done. Dewalt fitted this compressor with a roll cage for protection. This is an excellent feature, especially when on the job site. The air outlets and gauges are protected from damage by the roll cage, parts that normally break first when confronted with tough job site conditions.

The Dewalt DWFP 55130 compressor is an excellent choice for the professional looking for the right model to run nail guns and other air tools or for the average Joe looking for a quiet air compressor for the garage. Dewalt is known for producing quality products, and this model certainly doesn’t disappoint.

Pros:

• Quiet operation.
• Durable, good quality, ideal for the job site.
• Big brand back up and support.

Cons:

• Smaller tank means more running time.

See Price On Amazon

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3. Campbell Hausfeld 8 Gallon Air Compressor

Campbell Hausfeld is a well-established company in the air tool industry, and has been around for more than 150 years! This company recently decided to join the noise reduction race and introduced their low noise air compressors to the market.

The 8 Gallon model from Campbell Hausfeld operates at 68 dB, what we consider to be in the ultra-quiet category.

This noise level is just a touch above normal conversation dB levels and this is one of the main reasons we picked this model as a contender for the best quiet air compressor for the garage or home.

The model number for this compressor is DC080500, something to keep in mind when you search for it online. This air compressor operates at a maximum of 120 PSI and produces 2.4 CFM @ 90 PSI. This should be ideal for most home applications like air cleaning and running tools like impact drivers and nail guns.

More Features

The company claims that most of the key components have been improved to last four times longer than the industry standard. The oil-free, maintenance-free, dual piston pump is designed to be durable and long lasting. This ensures that the DC 080500 runs hassle-free for much longer, making it an excellent value for money buy. 

The Campbell Hausfeld was designed to be user-friendly and portable. It features an 8 Gallon horizontal tank, large wheels and steel handle with rubber grip, making it easy to move the compressor around. The DC 080500 is powered by a 1 HP motor and is ideal for smaller jobs, we would not recommend it for larger jobs like running air grinders and sanders or spray painting. This is a good quality product that received very good reviews on various online platforms. The company provides a one year warranty to back up this product.

Pros:

• Ultra-quiet operation.
• Durable, long-lasting components.
• Portable and user-friendly.

Cons:

• Not suited for larger applications.

See Price On Amazon

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4. California Air Tools 10020 C Air Compressor

The CAT 10020 C is the 10 Gallon model in this company’s ultra-quiet range. This air compressor is designed to tackle larger applications than the 5510 SE and the 6010 models. The same noise reduction technology is used, making this model just as quiet as the smaller compressors from California Air Tools.

Just as the 5510 SE, the 10020 C operates at a noise level of 60 – 70 dB. The average noise level was measured at just under 70 dB. CAT produces air compressors of a very high standard and this model is no exception. It is well built, durable and made to last.

This compressor is powered by a 2 HP motor that runs at 1680 RPM, helping to reduce noise levels. The motor runs quiet and smooth, producing 5.3 CFM @ 90 PSI. This is more than enough to drive all your air tools and can be used for any application. The 10020 C operates at a maximum pressure of 125 PSI.

The motor features low amp draw technology and overheating protection and this model is fitted with an easy start valve that releases a small amount of air at start-up to help the motor spin freely and therefore uses fewer amps. This also helps with cold starts, making the CAT effective in any weather conditions.

More Features

The tank fills up quickly, taking only two minutes from empty to reach full pressure and recovers from 95 PSI to 125 PSI in just 25 seconds. This ensures uninterrupted working time and allows you to finish the job hassle-free. Unlike most other California air compressors, this model features a vertical steel tank that holds 10 Gallon of pressurized air.

Two wheels and a handle help to make this tool portable. Other features include two pressure gauges, 4-pole motor for reliability, two universal 1/4 inch quick connectors and a Condor pressure switch. This quiet air compressor from California Air Tools is suited for a wide range of applications including spray painting, running air tools and inflating. This is a top quality product that we can recommend with confidence.

Pros:

• Ultra-quiet operation.
• Top quality and performance from a trusted brand.
• Good duty cycle.

Cons:

• Pressure regulator could be better.

See Price On Amazon

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5. California Air Tools CAT 4620 AC 

Last, but certainly, not least is the CAT 4620 AC from California Air Tools. This is one of the quietest air compressors available today and well worth a spot on our list of best quiet air compressors.

Similar to the CAT 5510 SE, this compressor operates in the 60 dB – 70 dB noise level range. The 4620 is a dual tank compressor with an air capacity of 4.6 Gallon. The tanks are made from aluminium, making it rust free and durable. 

This model is powered by a 2 HP motor that produces 6.4 CFM @ 40 PSI and 5.3 CFM @ 90 PSI. This amount of air is sufficient to run a wide range of air tools and will be more than enough to get most jobs done in the garage.

CAT is known for having a good duty cycle, allowing you to carry on working without interference. The dual horizontal tank design makes this a very compact machine that takes up very little space in the workshop.

More Features

The CAT 4620 AC has two quick release connectors that allow you to work with two air tools simultaneously and this can effectively cut work time in half. Just like the rest of the range from this company, this compressor was designed to be as light as possible. This model weighs only 64 lbs, very impressive for a dual tank air compressor of this size. 

The California Air Tools 4620 is one of our favourite picks for the workshop. This product is well designed, built tough and supply sufficient air to meet all your demands. After researching consumer feedback on this product, we are very confident that most consumers agree that this is a great value for money product that won’t let you down. 

Pros:

• Ultra quiet running
• A compact design featuring dual air tanks
• One of the best quiet air compressors available

Cons:

• Nothing worth mentioning

See Price On Amazon

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Here’s a video from Campbell Hausfeld on how to choose the best air compressor:

Factors You Need To Consider: Your Questions Answered

What Size Air Compressor Do I Need To Run Air Tools?

This all depends on what type of air tools you want to run. You will have to look at the air requirements of the air tools first. The CFM and Psi requirements of the air tools will be in the instructions manual of the air tools.

Make sure you purchase an air compressor with a higher rating in both cases. This will be the minimum size of the air compressor. You can read our guide on how to use an air compressor for more information.

What is the CFM of an air compressor?

The CFM of an air compressor is how much air the specific air compressor can deliver per minute. The acronym CFM stands for Cubic feet per minute. This is basically how much air is measured per minute in cubic feet. This reading will give you a good idea of the airflow capacity of the machine. 

What are good air compressors?

This question is often asked but doesn’t have one answer. What is a good air compressor for someone may not be a good compressor for you, so the best way to determine what is a good model for you is to look at your specific requirements and choose a model accordingly. The only broad advice I can give here is to stick with the well-known brands.

Best Air Compressor Brand?

This depends on what application the air compressor will be used for. Brands like Dewalt, Makita and California Air Tools produce the best portable air compressors for home use. Ingersoll-Rand and Atlas-Copco are the go-to brands for industrial air compressors. You need to make sure that the compressor you buy is worth it for you and by that I mean that your needs will justify your investment.

Factors To Consider When Buying An Air Compressor

Factors like consumer rating, maximum air pressure, tank size and air flow capacity are some of the characteristics compared in the comparison table. You need to be armed with as much information as possible when you buy any air tool, and on this page, you will find everything you need to know.

Where to buy your new machine?

The easiest way to purchase a product like this is to do it online and this way you get it delivered to your doorstep. We have done all the research to bring you the top air compressors at the best prices available. The link by each product will send you directly to the online retailer where you can purchase the product.

We hope that our air compressor reviews article will help you find the best air compressor for your specific needs. Happy shopping!