10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Spray Painting (Apr 2024)

When it comes to DIY painting and power tools, versatility is essential, and these air compressors tick all the boxes

A. Wahyu by A. Wahyu · updated on · price $119.00 - $800.99 · 531 views · 1 visitors liked products on this page

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Comparison Table

Let's jump into the specs!
Product Image
1
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Spray Painting (Apr  2024): For two users
PORTER-CABLE
2
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Spray Painting (Apr  2024): High-efficiency motor
Bostitch
3
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Spray Painting (Apr  2024): Extremely robust
CRAFTSMAN
4
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Spray Painting (Apr  2024): Long-run duration
DEWALT
5
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Spray Painting (Apr  2024): Flexible and reliable
WEN
6
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Spray Painting (Apr  2024): Best quiet pick
California Air Tools
7
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Spray Painting (Apr  2024): Larger diameter, larger piston
Makita
8
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Spray Painting (Apr  2024): Easier cold starting
Rolair
9
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Spray Painting (Apr  2024): Up to 3,000 hours
California Air Tools
10
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Spray Painting (Apr  2024): Best of both worlds
Industrial Air Contractor
Product Name C2002 BTFP02012 CMEC6150K DWFP55126 2289 8010 MAC700 JC10 10020C ‎CTA5090412
1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Features For two users High-efficiency motor Extremely robust Long-run duration Flexible and reliable Best quiet pick Larger diameter, larger piston Easier cold starting Up to 3,000 hours Best of both worlds
Power Source Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric Gas Powered
Voltage 120V 120V 120V 120V 120V 110V 120V 120V 110V n/a
Air Flow Capacity 2.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI 2.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI 2.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI 2.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI 4.0 CFM @ 90 PSI 2.20 SCFM @ 90 PSI 3.3 CFM @ 90 PSI 2.35 CFM @ 90 PSI 5.30 CFM @ 90 PSI 5.0 CFM @ 90 PSI
Pressure Range 150 PSI 150 PSI 150 PSI 165 PSI 150 PSI 120 PSI 130 PSI 115 PSI 120 PSI 155 PSI
Capacity 6 Gal. 6 Gal. 6 Gal. 6 Gal. 10 Gal. 8 Gal. 2.6 Gal. 2.5 Gal. 10 Gal. 4 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 16 x 17 x 33.5 in 26 x 14 x 23 in 18 x 22 x 10 in 17 x 16 x 15 in 16 x 15.1 x 35.9 in 24.4 x 21.9 x 19.8 in
price $119.00 $129.00 $164.00 $169.00 $174.69 $210.00 $214.00 $308.00 $463.00 $800.99
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 WEN 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 Makita view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Rolair 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 Contractor view product on Amazon view product on eBay

A high-quality air compressor will be compatible with nearly all paint sprayers, allowing you to use whatever sprayer you choose. It can be a professional painter’s greatest buddy on the worksite or a comforting presence for home improvement enthusiasts. Finding the appropriate air compressor for your painting needs, on the other hand, is a difficult job that requires a detailed analysis of the devices on the market. That is why we have done the legwork for you. We’ve hand-picked our top ten favorites for you to peruse below.

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.

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

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.

10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for Spray Painting (Apr 2024)

Here are the best air compressors for spray painting
PORTER-CABLE C2002 - Best Air Compressors for Spray Painting: For two users
https://www.amazon.com/

1.
PORTER-CABLE
C2002

For two users

1  visitors like this
price from
$119.00
Our opinion:

The PORTER-CABLE C2002 has the iconic red pancake compressor appearance, a water drain valve, and rubber feet for additional stability, as promised. This 150-psi six-gallon oil-free unit’s small, high-pressure design is suitable for a variety of air tools since it is rated for 2.6 SCFM At 90 psi and has a fast recovery time. The C2002 is almost unique in its class, with two factory-installed air couplers that may possibly accommodate two users.

Promising review:

Works as advertised. I used it for paint spraying and tire filling

by tod

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 Spray Painting: 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.

Promising review:

Reliable. Worked great for paint spray

by Edward Degner

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 Spray Painting: 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 the money, 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 work site to job site, it will not be damaged since it can withstand a beating.

Promising review:

Works great, fills up fast. The refill rate was quick enough for me to spray paint the underside of the car with an anti rust coat. [...]

by Shared

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 Spray Painting: Long-run duration
https://www.amazon.com/

4.
DEWALT
DWFP55126

Long-run duration

price from
$169.00
Our opinion:

Another excellent small-scale alternative is the Dewalt Pancake Compressor. With high efficiency, high rpm motor, as well as a high flow regulator and couplers, this tiny pancake compressor packs a powerful punch despite its small air tank. It is lightweight which makes it extremely portable, and it is also quite stable. It also has a long-run duration for your painting work, which is particularly useful if you’re just getting started with any DIY projects.

Promising review:

This compressor matches perfectly with the Critter spray gun. It's also been great for other little jobs around the house.

by Jonathan

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
WEN 2289  - Best Air Compressors for Spray Painting: Flexible and reliable
https://www.amazon.com/

5.
WEN
2289

Flexible and reliable

price from
$174.69
Our opinion:

The WEN 10-Gallon Oil-Free Vertical Air Compressor is ideal for use in the garage, on the job site, or in the workshop. Connect nailers, staplers, spray guns, or any other pneumatic tool for a flexible and reliable setup that meets a wide range of woodworking and painting needs. The rubber-grip handle and two seven-inch never-flat wheels make transporting and storage simpler than ever before. The strengthened steel tank and the 15A motor work together to produce a maximum pressure of up to 150 PSI.

Promising review:

I use it for painting, nail gun, brad and staple gun, and for changing tires with big impact wrench. Works great.

by Andrew J. Yon III

Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 120V
Air Flow Capacity 4.0 CFM @ 90 PSI
Pressure Range 150 PSI
Capacity 10 Gal.
Dimensions 16 x 17 x 33.5 in
California Air Tools 8010  - Best Air Compressors for Spray Painting: Best quiet pick
https://www.amazon.com/

6.
California Air Tools
8010

Best quiet pick

price from
$210.00
Our opinion:

If you’re looking for a truly quiet air compressor, the California Air Tools 8010 is one of the top options. It is an 8-gallon air compressor capable of producing 2.2 CFM of air at 90 PSI and stockpiling and compressing air up to a maximum pressure of 120 PSI. A 1 HP motor runs at 1680 RPM to keep the dual piston pump operating and to extend the life of the air compressor by reducing wear and tear in the pump.

Promising review:

Product arrived on time and instructions to get it ready for first use were straightforward. This compressor is extremely quiet. Used it for finish nailing and also for spray painting cabinet doors. Worked well.

by Clive B Langeveldt

Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 110V
Air Flow Capacity 2.20 SCFM @ 90 PSI
Pressure Range 120 PSI
Capacity 8 Gal.
Dimensions 26 x 14 x 23 in
Makita MAC700  - Best Air Compressors for Spray Painting: Larger diameter, larger piston
https://www.amazon.com/

7.
Makita
MAC700

Larger diameter, larger piston

price from
$214.00
Our opinion:

Makita offers a quiet single cylinder compressor that fills up quickly with the MAC700. After using this compressor, you’ll notice that it fills up in less than 2 minutes. The Makita MAC700 has the ability to fill up so quickly because of the type of pump it’s equipped with. In comparison to other pumps in the same class, the pump cylinder has a larger diameter, a larger piston, and a longer stroke length.

Promising review:

This machine was very easy to set up and works quite well. It takes about 2 1/2 minutes to get back to pressure from absolute zero. It is light weight, quiet, and well suited for spray painting, blowing air to clean out the shop, filling up tires and other odd jobs.

by amazon customer

Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 120V
Air Flow Capacity 3.3 CFM @ 90 PSI
Pressure Range 130 PSI
Capacity 2.6 Gal.
Dimensions 18 x 22 x 10 in
Rolair JC10  - Best Air Compressors for Spray Painting: Easier cold starting
https://www.amazon.com/

8.
Rolair
JC10

Easier cold starting

price from
$308.00
Our opinion:

The Rolair JC10 has a robust roll cage that covers the tank, integrated cables, and gauges that face upward rather than across. Its cast aluminum two-cylinder pump is driven by a drawing motor that spins at 1700 RPM and draws a low amperage to allow for easier cold starting. It’s also extremely silent. It’s lightweight and small enough to readily transport to and from the worksite, and the integrated roll cage protects critical components from harm.

Promising review:

I have two of these units. The old version JC10 and the new one JC10Plus. They look and feel like they were designed by a carpenter. Unfortunately over the past years we have gone over to battery systems and rarely use them any more. We occasionally use them for spraying paint and texturing. I wish I discovered 20 years ago.

by Doc

Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 120V
Air Flow Capacity 2.35 CFM @ 90 PSI
Pressure Range 115 PSI
Capacity 2.5 Gal.
Dimensions 17 x 16 x 15 in
California Air Tools 10020C  - Best Air Compressors for Spray Painting: Up to 3,000 hours
https://www.amazon.com/

9.
California Air Tools
10020C

Up to 3,000 hours

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:

Using the unit for spray painting cabinetry and furniture. This compressor is very quiet and works great. Love that it has two hose attachments so I can use the blower nozzle and sprayer without switching back and forth. Refills quickly and keeps up with my low pressure sprayer. Great product for the money.

by David C. Ortlieb

Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 110V
Air Flow Capacity 5.30 CFM @ 90 PSI
Pressure Range 120 PSI
Capacity 10 Gal.
Dimensions 16 x 15.1 x 35.9 in
Industrial Air Contractor ‎CTA5090412 - Best Air Compressors for Spray Painting: Best of both worlds
https://www.amazon.com/

10.
Industrial Air Contractor
‎CTA5090412

Best of both worlds

price from
$800.99
Our opinion:

The Industrial Air Portable Pontoon Compressor is a true pontoon compressor with high mobility. This device has a total capacity of 4 gallons, but it can produce 5 CFM at 40 PSI, which is on par with the strongest devices we’ve seen so far. This device offers you the best of both worlds since it is lightweight and attached to a portable frame. Plus, the 155 psi max pressure enables optimum tool performance.

Promising review:

It's a great portable air compressor, Honda reliability, regulates the pressure very well. Keeps up with multiple air nailers.

by Kindle Customer

Power Source Gas Powered
Voltage n/a
Air Flow Capacity 5.0 CFM @ 90 PSI
Pressure Range 155 PSI
Capacity 4 Gal.
Dimensions 24.4 x 21.9 x 19.8 in

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