10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for the Money (Apr 2024)

These budget-friendly air compressors will help you perform basic tasks effectively

A. Wahyu by A. Wahyu · updated on · price $28.87 - $99.99 · 346 views

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Comparison Table

Let's jump into the specs!
Product Image
1
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for the Money (Apr  2024): Best for novice
EPAuto
2
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for the Money (Apr  2024): Shut-off automatically
VacLife
3
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for the Money (Apr  2024): Useful screen and LED light
FORTEM
4
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for the Money (Apr  2024): Amazon best-selling pick
AstroAI
5
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for the Money (Apr  2024): Meets all inflating needs
Avid Power
6
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for the Money (Apr  2024): Great for large tires
Viair
7
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for the Money (Apr  2024): For a lot of flexibility
Stanley
8
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for the Money (Apr  2024): With a jump starter
Schumacher
9
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for the Money (Apr  2024): Feature-rich pick
DEWALT
10
10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for the Money (Apr  2024): Perfect for your art
Master Airbrush
Product Name AT-010-1Z ATJ-1166 ‎FRTM-DAC A220BL ‎ACAP115D 88P J5C09 ‎SJ1330 DCC020IB ECO-17
Features Best for novice Shut-off automatically Useful screen and LED light Amazon best-selling pick Meets all inflating needs Great for large tires For a lot of flexibility With a jump starter Feature-rich pick Perfect for your art
Power Source Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric Rechargeable Battery Corded Electric Battery Powered Battery Powered Battery Powered Corded Electric
Voltage 12V 12V 12V 12V 12V 12V 12V 12V 12V 110V
Air Flow Capacity 1.06 CFM n/a n/a 35 L/min 30 L/min 1.47 CFM n/a n/a 850 L/min 25 L/min
Pressure Range 70 PSI 50 PSI 150 PSI 100 PSI 100 PSI 120 PSI 120 PSI 150 PSI 160 PSI 57 PSI
Item Weight 1 lbs 2.29 lbs 1.9 lbs 2.2 lbs 3.96 lbs 4.5 lbs 18 lbs 10.95 lbs 2.94 lbs 9.37 lbs
Dimensions 13.5 x 8.1 x 5.6 in 9.7 x 6.5 x 3.7 in (pkg) 8 x 6.5 x 3.3 in 8.5 x 6.85 x 4.06 in (pkg) 13.98 x 10.24 x 3.74 in (pkg) 6.75 x 6.25 x 10.75 in 11.25 x 8 x 13.5 in ‎11.2 x 11.1 x 10.2 in 10.5 x 7.7 x 2.2 in 14.57 x 14.41 x 6.85 in
price $28.87 $29.99 $29.99 $29.99 $59.99 $77.95 $89.95 $90.80 $94.99 $99.99
Buy at view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on VacLife view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Fortem view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on AstroAI view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Avid Power view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Viair view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Stanley view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on DEWALT view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Amazon view product on eBay

Air compressors can handle so many things that it’s no wonder that they sell for a fantastic price. This tool not only saves energy but also speeds up your work, whether in the garage or on the job site. However, if you only need an air compressor for a few basic chores and don’t require all the bells and whistles, you can get one for a reasonable price. Are you stumped as to where to begin? Below are ten of our favorite air compressors on the market that cost no more than a hundred dollars. Don’t worry, they won’t let you down!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Just in case you wonder...

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.

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

10 Reviews: Best Air Compressors for the Money (Apr 2024)

Here are the best air compressors for the money
EPAuto AT-010-1Z  - Best Air Compressors for the Money: Best for novice
https://www.amazon.com/

1.
EPAuto
AT-010-1Z

Best for novice

price from
$28.87
Our opinion:

Users who are not mechanics often want a secure, dependable source of tire inflation for their vehicles. In our opinion, the EPAuto 12V DC Portable Air Compressor Pump ticks all the boxes. Its impressive inflation speed of 1.06CFM makes it the finest air compressor for semi-truck tires. When the device’s temperature reaches 167 degrees Fahrenheit, it automatically shuts off. The icing on the cake is that it is also on budget.

Promising review:

Very easy to use and I was able to put proper air pressure into all four of my tires (run flats) that often lose pressure over time in foggy beach weather. Worth the $$.

by Patrick Nolan

Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 12V
Air Flow Capacity 1.06 CFM
Pressure Range 70 PSI
Item Weight 1 lbs
Dimensions 13.5 x 8.1 x 5.6 in
VacLife ATJ-1166 - Best Air Compressors for the Money: Shut-off automatically
https://www.amazon.com/

2.
VacLife
ATJ-1166

Shut-off automatically

price from
$29.99
Our opinion:

The VacLife VL701 is a fantastic 12v air compressor that plugs into your car’s power outlet. Using the built-in display, you can set any tire pressure up to 150 PSI. Even yet, it has a power consumption of just 120 watts. Another wonderful feature of this air compressor is that it has an auto shut-off function. You also get a bright LED light at the front, which can come in handy when using it at night.

Promising review:

I love this air compressor, all you have to do is put the appropriate PSI and the machine dose the rest and even stops automatically !

by Chris

Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 12V
Air Flow Capacity n/a
Pressure Range 50 PSI
Item Weight 2.29 lbs
Dimensions 9.7 x 6.5 x 3.7 in (pkg)
FORTEM  ‎FRTM-DAC  - Best Air Compressors for the Money: Useful screen and LED light
https://www.amazon.com/

3.
FORTEM
‎FRTM-DAC

Useful screen and LED light

price from
$29.99
Our opinion:

Fortem is another well-known brand of air compressors on the market. Despite its low cost, the 12V air compressor has a maximum air pressure of 150 PSI. And it can do it with a power consumption of just 120 watts. This tire inflator also has a screen and an LED light. These can be quite handy when it comes to inflating your vehicle’s tires. You also get nozzle accessories, an additional fuse, and a carry bag as part of the purchase.

Promising review:

This pump surprised me by how fast it pumped up my tire from 68 PSI to 74 PSI. Also pump was quieter than most that I have used.

by oldssn

Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 12V
Air Flow Capacity n/a
Pressure Range 150 PSI
Item Weight 1.9 lbs
Dimensions 8 x 6.5 x 3.3 in
AstroAI A220BL - Best Air Compressors for the Money: Amazon best-selling pick
https://www.amazon.com/

4.
AstroAI
A220BL

Amazon best-selling pick

price from
$29.99
Our opinion:

The AstroAI air compressor, which has over 25,000 Amazon reviews and is Amazon’s pick for best tire inflator, is an excellent option for inflating tires on cars, bikes, motorcycles, and SUVs. It features a preset pressure function with a variety of nozzles and accessories included. Despite the fact that it is a reasonably priced product, it comes with a three-year guarantee for additional peace of mind. This device was characterized as small, lightweight, and efficient by one of the many happy customers.

Promising review:

For such a small air compressor I'm pretty impressed with its power. Took less than 3 minutes to take a tire from 23psi to 32psi. Definitely recommend for emergencies.

by Jeffrey Neese

Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 12V
Air Flow Capacity 35 L/min
Pressure Range 100 PSI
Item Weight 2.2 lbs
Dimensions 8.5 x 6.85 x 4.06 in (pkg)
Avid Power ‎ACAP115D - Best Air Compressors for the Money: Meets all inflating needs
https://www.amazon.com/

5.
Avid Power
‎ACAP115D

Meets all inflating needs

price from
$59.99
Our opinion:

The highly acclaimed Avid Power tire inflator is a fantastic multi-purpose air compressor that will meet all of your air inflating needs. It features a digital pressure gauge that is simple to read, a rubber grip handle, and an LED light to assist you to operate in the dark. This cordless gadget is powered by the supplied 20V battery, but it also comes with a 12V vehicle power adapter in case the battery dies. Everything you need is included in the box, including a storage bag to keep everything neatly together.

Promising review:

It is portable, you can either use rechargeable 20v battery or plug into car, it gives existing psi and fills to desired psi before automatically shutting off.

by Larry

Power Source Rechargeable Battery
Voltage 12V
Air Flow Capacity 30 L/min
Pressure Range 100 PSI
Item Weight 3.96 lbs
Dimensions 13.98 x 10.24 x 3.74 in (pkg)
Viair 88P  - Best Air Compressors for the Money: Great for large tires
https://www.amazon.com/

6.
Viair
88P

Great for large tires

price from
$77.95
Our opinion:

It’s usually difficult to find a 12V air compressor that can inflate large tires up to 33″ wide. However, the Viair 00088 88P seems to be in the sweet spot. This model includes a power cable that is 10 feet long and a hose that is 16 feet long, allowing you to go a considerable distance between the power source and the tires. The compressor’s maximum amperage is 20 amps, which is considerably superior to that of many others.

Promising review:

Works great, took my 20” from 16 to 35 in about 7min a tire coming off the beach. Check your pressures after the my coil off, the unit runs very hot so the cold pressure will be 3-4 lbs less than when you inflate.

by H20S

Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 12V
Air Flow Capacity 1.47 CFM
Pressure Range 120 PSI
Item Weight 4.5 lbs
Dimensions 6.75 x 6.25 x 10.75 in
Stanley J5C09  - Best Air Compressors for the Money: For a lot of flexibility
https://www.amazon.com/

7.
Stanley
J5C09

For a lot of flexibility

price from
$89.95
Our opinion:

Are you looking for a reliable lithium car battery jump starter with an air compressor? Take a look at the Stanley J5C09. It is not only useful for starting different vehicle batteries, but also for starting trucks, motorbikes, and even tractors! Its 1000 peak amperage and 120 maximum pressure give it a lot of flexibility. It can be used to inflate both car and bicycle tires. Additionally, this device can power your laptop, smartphone, or PC.

Promising review:

I had the previous model for almost 10 years. I used it mainly for powering a radio all day while working and charging my cellphone. But I also had occasionally used to start a diesel UPS truck many many times. Loved it so much when it finally died I bought the new model seen here. Works great!

by Linda

Power Source Battery Powered
Voltage 12V
Air Flow Capacity n/a
Pressure Range 120 PSI
Item Weight 18 lbs
Dimensions 11.25 x 8 x 13.5 in
Schumacher ‎SJ1330 - Best Air Compressors for the Money: With a jump starter
https://www.amazon.com/

8.
Schumacher
‎SJ1330

With a jump starter

price from
$90.80
Our opinion:

The 150 PSI air compressor included with the Schumacher SJ1331 is sufficient for large engine truck tires. This multifunctional Schumacher jump starter and portable power pack with an air compressor is an excellent choice for starting a V6 or any 4-6 cylinder engine. It can also be used to provide emergency power on the move. The 2 Amp USB connector allows phones, laptops, and other mobile devices to operate or charge.

Promising review:

Like I said everyone should have one in the car. You can jump start fill your tires or a sports ball. Also keep your phone or tablet charged if you're out.

by Patrick J

Power Source Battery Powered
Voltage 12V
Air Flow Capacity n/a
Pressure Range 150 PSI
Item Weight 10.95 lbs
Dimensions ‎11.2 x 11.1 x 10.2 in
DEWALT DCC020IB - Best Air Compressors for the Money: Feature-rich pick
https://www.amazon.com/

9.
DEWALT
DCC020IB

Feature-rich pick

price from
$94.99
Our opinion:

The versatile DeWalt 20V Max Inflator is the most feature-rich and user-friendly inflator in its class. The DeWalt includes a separate, high-volume hose for rapidly filling inflatable beds, pool floats, yard decorations, and other items, in addition to its high-pressure hose for inflating tires and sports balls. The best digital gauge, the simplest auto-shutoff function, big buttons, well-designed housing, and work light are all included with the 20V Max Inflator.

Promising review:

Dial in the pressure you need and the Dewalt inflator takes over, very useful on road for RV trailer, UTV and truck tires. I dont leave home without it.

by Jwallin

Power Source Battery Powered
Voltage 12V
Air Flow Capacity 850 L/min
Pressure Range 160 PSI
Item Weight 2.94 lbs
Dimensions 10.5 x 7.7 x 2.2 in
Master Airbrush ECO-17  - Best Air Compressors for the Money: Perfect for your art
https://www.amazon.com/

10.
Master Airbrush
ECO-17

Perfect for your art

price from
$99.99
Our opinion:

This air compressor is created especially to power the airbrush art tools needed. The Master performance multi-purpose high performance dual-action airbrush comes with a 1/3 oz. gravity fluid cup as well as a 0.3mm needle and nozzle that enables you to spray designs ranging from the hairline to 1-1/2″ wide. It has a professional 1/5 horsepower single-piston airbrush air compressor that produces 0.7 cfm of air volume and 25 liters/min of airflow.

Promising review:

I am a custom cake designer. I am using this product for cake decorating. It is very easy to use and good investment for beginners. I will definitely recommend.

by Prateek

Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 110V
Air Flow Capacity 25 L/min
Pressure Range 57 PSI
Item Weight 9.37 lbs
Dimensions 14.57 x 14.41 x 6.85 in

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!

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