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
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
Product Image |
1
PORTER-CABLE
|
2
Bostitch
|
3
CRAFTSMAN
|
4
DEWALT
|
5
WEN
|
6
California Air Tools
|
7
Makita
|
8
Rolair
|
9
California Air Tools
|
10
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.
Table of contents
Product list
- PORTER-CABLE C2002: For two users
- Bostitch BTFP02012: High-efficiency motor
- CRAFTSMAN CMEC6150K: Extremely robust
- DEWALT DWFP55126: Long-run duration
- WEN 2289 : Flexible and reliable
- California Air Tools 8010 : Best quiet pick
- Makita MAC700 : Larger diameter, larger piston
- Rolair JC10 : Easier cold starting
- California Air Tools 10020C : Up to 3,000 hours
- Industrial Air Contractor CTA5090412: Best of both worlds
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)
1.
PORTER-CABLE
C2002
For two users
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.
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 |
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.
Reliable. Worked great for paint spray
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 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.
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 |
4.
DEWALT
DWFP55126
Long-run duration
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.
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 |
5.
WEN
2289
Flexible and reliable
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.
I use it for painting, nail gun, brad and staple gun, and for changing tires with big impact wrench. Works great.
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 |
6.
California Air Tools
8010
Best quiet pick
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.
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.
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 |
7.
Makita
MAC700
Larger diameter, larger piston
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.
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.
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 |
8.
Rolair
JC10
Easier cold starting
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.
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 |
9.
California Air Tools
10020C
Up to 3,000 hours
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.
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.
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 |
10.
Industrial Air Contractor
CTA5090412
Best of both worlds
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.
It's a great portable air compressor, Honda reliability, regulates the pressure very well. Keeps up with multiple air nailers.
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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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!