10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Home Shop (Dec 2023)
These air compressors will simplify your job and allow you to accomplish tasks more effectively and with less effort
by
A. Wahyu
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updated on
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price $128.00 - $1,609.99
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Comparison Table
Product Image |
1
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PORTER-CABLE |
2
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Bostitch |
3
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CRAFTSMAN |
4
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DEWALT |
5
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Makita |
6
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Makita |
7
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California Air Tools |
8
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Industrial Air |
9
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Industrial Air |
10
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Ingersoll Rand |
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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 |
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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!
Table of contents
Product list
- PORTER-CABLE C2002: Best compact pick
- Bostitch BTFP02012: High-efficiency motor
- CRAFTSMAN CMEC6150K: Extremely robust
- DEWALT DWFP55126: Little to no maintenance
- Makita MAC2400 : Two tools simultaneously
- Makita MAC5200 : Industrial power and results
- California Air Tools 10020C : Greater power, better airflow
- Industrial Air IL1682066.MN: For the harshest workload
- Industrial Air ILA1883054 : Plug into any outlet
- Ingersoll Rand 2340L5-V: Best for professional use
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 (Dec 2023)

1.PORTER-CABLE
C2002
Best compact pick
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.
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.
Power Source | Corded Electric |
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Voltage | 120V |
Air Flow Capacity | 2.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI |
Pressure Range | 150 PSI |
Capacity | 6 Gal. |
Dimensions | 19 x 19 x 18 in |

2.Bostitch
BTFP02012
High-efficiency motor
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!
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 |

3.CRAFTSMAN
CMEC6150K
Extremely robust
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.
Great compressor for my home shop.
by JC
Power Source | Corded Electric |
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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 |

4.DEWALT
DWFP55126
Little to no maintenance
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.
Holds pressure for weeks. Great for my small home shop.
by mi-blackbear
Power Source | Corded Electric |
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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 |

5.Makita
MAC2400
Two tools simultaneously
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.
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 |
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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 |

6.Makita
MAC5200
Industrial power and results
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.
[...] 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 |

7.California Air Tools
10020C
Greater power, better airflow
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.
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 |

8.Industrial Air
IL1682066.MN
For the harshest workload
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.
purchased this as a Christmas gift for my husband. He loves it and it is perfect for our home shop use.
Power Source | Corded Electric |
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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 |

9.Industrial Air
ILA1883054
Plug into any outlet
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.
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 |

10.Ingersoll Rand
2340L5-V
Best for professional use
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.
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!!!
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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Conclusion
Okay, that’s all for today’s best air compressors on the market. Each of them has been chosen based on quality, features, and pricing to ensure that they won’t let you down. Make sure you bring home the one that best meets your needs. You can also post any thoughts or questions you have down here!