10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Home Shop (Apr 2024)

These air compressors will simplify your job and allow you to accomplish tasks more effectively and with less effort

A. Wahyu by A. Wahyu · updated on · price $128.00 - $1,609.99 · 418 views

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Comparison Table

Let's jump into the specs!
Product Image
1
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Home Shop (Apr  2024): Best compact pick
PORTER-CABLE
2
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Home Shop (Apr  2024): High-efficiency motor
Bostitch
3
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Home Shop (Apr  2024): Extremely robust
CRAFTSMAN
4
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Home Shop (Apr  2024): Little to no maintenance
DEWALT
5
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Home Shop (Apr  2024): Two tools simultaneously
Makita
6
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Home Shop (Apr  2024): Industrial power and results
Makita
7
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Home Shop (Apr  2024): Greater power, better airflow
California Air Tools
8
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Home Shop (Apr  2024): For the harshest workload
Industrial Air
9
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Home Shop (Apr  2024): Plug into any outlet
Industrial Air
10
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Home Shop (Apr  2024): Best for professional use
Ingersoll Rand
Product Name C2002 BTFP02012 CMEC6150K DWFP55126 MAC2400 MAC5200 10020C IL1682066.MN ILA1883054 2340L5-V
Features Best compact pick High-efficiency motor Extremely robust Little to no maintenance Two tools simultaneously Industrial power and results Greater power, better airflow For the harshest workload Plug into any outlet Best for professional use
Power Source Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric
Voltage 120V 120V 120V 120V 120V 120V 110V 120V 120V 200V
Air Flow Capacity 2.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI 2.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI 2.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI 2.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI 4.2 SCFM @ 90 PSI 6.5 SCFM @ 90 PSI 5.3 CFM @ 90 PSI 5.3 CFM @ 90 PSI 5.7 CFM @ 90 PSI 14.3 CFM @ 90 PSI
Pressure Range 150 PSI 150 PSI 150 PSI 165 PSI 125 PSI 140 PSI 125 PSI 135 PSI 155 PSI 175 PSI
Capacity 6 Gal. 6 Gal. 6 Gal. 6 Gal. 4.2 Gal. 5.2 Gal. 10 Gal. 20 Gal. 30 Gal. 60 Gal.
Dimensions 19 x 19 x 18 in 17 x 17 x 19.25 in 16.5 x 16.5 x 17.88 in 17.2 x 16.6 x 20.1 in 20 x 18 x 18.75 in 29 x 19.5 x 19 in 16 x 15.1 x 35.9 in 28.5 x 19.75 x 48.5 in 24.75 x 24.75 x 49.75 in 24 x 33 x 69 in
price $128.00 $129.00 $164.00 $169.00 $319.00 $352.25 $463.00 $651.00 $885.00 $1,609.99
Buy at view product on Porter-Cable view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Bostitch view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Craftsman view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Dewalt view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Makita view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Makita view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on California Air Tools view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Industrial Air view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Industrial Air view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Ingersoll Rand view product on Amazon view product on eBay

Air compressors are a versatile piece of equipment that can be used in both a professional workshop and a residential garage. Power tools such as an air hammer, impact driver, brad nailer, or reversible drill can be powered by an air compressor. An air compressor also makes it easier to clean dirt and dust from under an engine block or any other area where access is tough. There are numerous other applications for air compressors, so if you want to give it a shot, simply grab one of the top ten options below and reap the advantages!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Just in case you wonder...

What is the purpose of compressing gas?

Natural gas is compressed for a variety of purposes.
– Upstream: Compression is often used by producers to inject gas back into the well to assist in the lifting of liquids to the surface. It is also used to compress low-pressure gas off tanks, control devices, and other equipment to aid in the disposal of fugitive emissions (VRU).
– Midstream: Compression is used in the midstream to transport gas from one place to another through miles of pipe.
– Downstream: It helps in the removal of liquids in the downstream sector to satisfy consumer and safety standards.

What is the type of gas compressor?

1. Positive displacement compressors are machines that confine consecutive quantities of gas inside a closed space; the volume of the confined space is subsequently reduced, raising the pressure.
2. Dynamic-type compressors are machines that compress gas via the mechanical action of spinning vanes or impellers that impart velocity to the gas.

What exactly does the term "air flow" mean?

The entire air volume output produced by the air compressor is represented by airflow. Simply said, it indicates the rate of airflow delivered by the air compressor. It is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM). The higher the CFM rating, the better the compressor’s performance.

How to maintain air compressors?

1. Clean your diesel air compressor’s air filters on a regular basis
2. Drain the extra moisture from the tanks
3. Clean your diesel air compressor’s fuel tank on a regular basis
4. Check the diesel air compressor’s hoses
5. You must replace the compressor oil at least once every 300 hours of compressor use, or once every three months

10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Home Shop (Apr 2024)

Here are the best air compressors for home shop
PORTER-CABLE C2002 - Best Air Compressors for Home Shop: Best compact pick
https://www.amazon.com/

1.
PORTER-CABLE
C2002

Best compact pick

price from
$128.00
Our opinion:

The best air compressor in the small air compressor category is Porter-150 Cable’s PSI 6 gallon oil-free pancake-style model. It has a pancake-style tank for optimum stability while in use. This model additionally has a water drain valve and rubber feet that have been strengthened. This unit can produce 2.6 CFM at 90 psi and has a relatively quick recovery time. Moreover, the oil-free pump requires minimal maintenance and lasts longer.

Promising review:

Works as expected. Best buy for the money. Sure it's loud, it's a compressor. It's portable. Sometimes I find Pancake style are not to most maneuverable, depends how much you need to move it around. It's what I wanted for my small shop and occasionally travel with if necessary.

by Amazon Customer

Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 120V
Air Flow Capacity 2.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI
Pressure Range 150 PSI
Capacity 6 Gal.
Dimensions 19 x 19 x 18 in
Bostitch BTFP02012 - Best Air Compressors for Home Shop: High-efficiency motor
https://www.amazon.com/

2.
Bostitch
BTFP02012

High-efficiency motor

price from
$129.00
Our opinion:

The Bostitch BTFP02012 air compressor has a 6-gallon capacity and a maximum pressure of 150 PSI. It can generate an SCFM of 2.6 at a pressure of 90 PSI. Furthermore, it is outfitted with a high-efficiency motor to keep the compressor pump operating even in cold weather. You can use the air compressor with your buddy at the same time thanks to the two couplers. Great for starting your home shop!

Promising review:

I use this in my shop/garage to blow dust off of my parts and tools. The noise level is to be expected. I'm happy with the capacity. this is my first air compressor and I don't think I will need to upgrade for a while. Great price

by HandyAnne

Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 120V
Air Flow Capacity 2.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI
Pressure Range 150 PSI
Capacity 6 Gal.
Dimensions 17 x 17 x 19.25 in
CRAFTSMAN CMEC6150K - Best Air Compressors for Home Shop: Extremely robust
https://www.amazon.com/

3.
CRAFTSMAN
CMEC6150K

Extremely robust

price from
$164.00
Our opinion:

If you’re hunting for the best overall air compressor for your home shop, the Porter-Cable Vertical Air Compressor is the way to go. This gadget can handle any air tool and can handle any painting task you throw at it. This is the strongest and most durable product on the list and on the market, made of extremely robust cast iron. Even if you chose to transport it from your garage to your job site, it will not be damaged since it can withstand a beating.

Promising review:

Great compressor for my home shop.

by JC

Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 120V
Air Flow Capacity 2.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI
Pressure Range 150 PSI
Capacity 6 Gal.
Dimensions 16.5 x 16.5 x 17.88 in
DEWALT DWFP55126 - Best Air Compressors for Home Shop: Little to no maintenance
https://www.amazon.com/

4.
DEWALT
DWFP55126

Little to no maintenance

price from
$169.00
Our opinion:

The noise level of the DeWalt Pancake DWFP55126 is 75.5 dB. It has a long-life, oil-free pump that needs little to no maintenance, and the 6.0-gallon tank enables the user to enjoy a lengthy tool run time with quick recovery. Since it can generate 2.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI, this device outperforms several other air compressors in its class. The DWFP55126 is a great option for artists as well as anybody who does hobby painting, automotive work, or another paintwork.

Promising review:

Holds pressure for weeks. Great for my small home shop.

by mi-blackbear

Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 120V
Air Flow Capacity 2.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI
Pressure Range 165 PSI
Capacity 6 Gal.
Dimensions 17.2 x 16.6 x 20.1 in
Makita MAC2400  - Best Air Compressors for Home Shop: Two tools simultaneously
https://www.amazon.com/

5.
Makita
MAC2400

Two tools simultaneously

price from
$319.00
Our opinion:

Makita’s MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP Air Compressor boasts 4.2 gallons of air volume and a dual stacked-tank construction. The 2.5-horsepower engine generates pressures of up to 130 PSI and 4.2 CFM at 90 PSI. It also features twin hose ports for running two tools at the same time. The built-in roll cage ensures that an unexpected drop or fall from a low height will not leave this compressor dysfunctional. Plus, it operates at 79 decibels.

Promising review:

A bit heavier, but so much quieter than my recently retired oilless pancake compressor. Much easier to use in my home shop which ranges from light duty tasks to continuous nailing. Gauges and adjustments are spot on. The upgrade in quality appears well worth the price. Well engineered product.

by TomD

Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 120V
Air Flow Capacity 4.2 SCFM @ 90 PSI
Pressure Range 125 PSI
Capacity 4.2 Gal.
Dimensions 20 x 18 x 18.75 in
Makita MAC5200  - Best Air Compressors for Home Shop: Industrial power and results
https://www.amazon.com/

6.
Makita
MAC5200

Industrial power and results

price from
$352.25
Our opinion:

Makita’s 3.0 HP Air Compressor is outfitted with a Big Bore designed pump cylinder and piston for increased output for two nailers while producing less noise and improving worksite performance. The MAC5200 provides industrial power and results with improved durability, as well as robust wheels and a foldable handle for convenient transportation. To make it even better, the MAC5200 is designed to be low-noise, high-output, and low-maintenance.

Promising review:

[...] Used to winterize irrigation system and plan on buying some air tools for home shop use... I like the hooks for hanging the hose and the compartment to put adapters and stuff in... I have never heard a quiet air compressor before and this one is no exception... it sounds like an air compressor... [...]

by Dan27

Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 120V
Air Flow Capacity 6.5 SCFM @ 90 PSI
Pressure Range 140 PSI
Capacity 5.2 Gal.
Dimensions 29 x 19.5 x 19 in
California Air Tools 10020C  - Best Air Compressors for Home Shop: Greater power, better airflow
https://www.amazon.com/

7.
California Air Tools
10020C

Greater power, better airflow

price from
$463.00
Our opinion:

Look no further than the CAT 10020C if you want greater power, better airflow, and less time spent at the repair shop. It has a quiet 2.0 hp compressor that produces an extremely low 70 decibels of sound while operating at a low 1680 RPM. The oil-free dual-piston pump provides exceptional performance and durability for up to 3,000 hours. Even better, it comes with rugged wheels for easy maneuvering in uneven terrains.

Promising review:

Very happy with this compressor it is reading a DB of 68 on my cell phone app it is considerably quieter than my old 20 gallon craftsman compressor. quality seems good and it arrived well packed.

by J.M.

Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 110V
Air Flow Capacity 5.3 CFM @ 90 PSI
Pressure Range 125 PSI
Capacity 10 Gal.
Dimensions 16 x 15.1 x 35.9 in
Industrial Air IL1682066.MN - Best Air Compressors for Home Shop: For the harshest workload
https://www.amazon.com/

8.
Industrial Air
IL1682066.MN

For the harshest workload

price from
$651.00
Our opinion:

The industrial air ILI1682066’s heavy-performance dual voltage induction motor can withstand the harshest workload for an extended period of time. It comes with a quick-set regulator, a 20-gallon tank, pressure gauges, and a belt-driven air compressor. In terms of performance, this unit produces 6.2 CFM at 40 PSI and 5.3 CFM at 90 PSI. This air compressor’s front handle and pneumatic wheels allow you to transport it for a variety of tasks.

Promising review:

purchased this as a Christmas gift for my husband. He loves it and it is perfect for our home shop use.

by jennifer johnson

Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 120V
Air Flow Capacity 5.3 CFM @ 90 PSI
Pressure Range 135 PSI
Capacity 20 Gal.
Dimensions 28.5 x 19.75 x 48.5 in
Industrial Air ILA1883054  - Best Air Compressors for Home Shop: Plug into any outlet
https://www.amazon.com/

9.
Industrial Air
ILA1883054

Plug into any outlet

price from
$885.00
Our opinion:

This 30-gallon Industrial Air compressor is one of the best buys for a strong, long-lasting device. The ILA1883054 is wired for a standard 120-volt outlet but may be changed to 240-volt if necessary. You will be unlikely to find another large air compressor with the specifications of this one that can be plugged into any outlet. This Industrial Air type is really quiet, and even at midnight, your neighbors will never notice its operation.

Promising review:

I like everything it was perfect for my shop. Good quality and functions great

by Lapdog

Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 120V
Air Flow Capacity 5.7 CFM @ 90 PSI
Pressure Range 155 PSI
Capacity 30 Gal.
Dimensions 24.75 x 24.75 x 49.75 in
Ingersoll Rand 2340L5-V - Best Air Compressors for Home Shop: Best for professional use
https://www.amazon.com/

10.
Ingersoll Rand
2340L5-V

Best for professional use

price from
$1,609.99
Our opinion:

The Ingersoll Rand 2340L5-V Electric-Driven Two-Stage 60-Gallon Vertical Air Compressor is built to last a lifetime in your shop or garage, combining outstanding performance and daily reliability. It has a 100% iron cast frame, a long-lasting prolonged pump life, and is intended for over 15,000 hours of trouble-free operation. Furthermore, its 5 hp 2-stage air compressor and 60 ASME receiver tank offer enough power for the most demanding tasks.

Promising review:

This is an incredible compressor. The performance is phenomenal compared to industry standard equipment. This equipment has exceeded expectations. This equipment is very quite for being 5 HP. Very good buy and would suggest to anybody!!!

by Amazon Customer

Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 200V
Air Flow Capacity 14.3 CFM @ 90 PSI
Pressure Range 175 PSI
Capacity 60 Gal.
Dimensions 24 x 33 x 69 in

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