10 Reviews: Best Small Air Compressors (Apr 2024)

These mighty machines work perfectly for tasks both large and small

A. Wahyu by A. Wahyu · updated on · price $29.99 - $299.00 · 486 views · 2 visitors liked products on this page

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Comparison Table

Let's jump into the specs!
Product Image
1
10 Reviews: Best Small Air Compressors (Apr  2024): Best popular pick
AstroAI
2
10 Reviews: Best Small Air Compressors (Apr  2024): Best portable pick
Oasser
3
10 Reviews: Best Small Air Compressors (Apr  2024): Multipurpose gadget
Stanley
4
10 Reviews: Best Small Air Compressors (Apr  2024): Best for small tasks
RYOBI
5
10 Reviews: Best Small Air Compressors (Apr  2024): Best pancake-style pick
PORTER-CABLE
6
10 Reviews: Best Small Air Compressors (Apr  2024): Handles two air tools
Bostitch
7
10 Reviews: Best Small Air Compressors (Apr  2024): User-friendly
RIDGID
8
10 Reviews: Best Small Air Compressors (Apr  2024): More work, less weight
Metabo HPT
9
10 Reviews: Best Small Air Compressors (Apr  2024): Precise spray control
Master Airbrush
10
10 Reviews: Best Small Air Compressors (Apr  2024): For job site operation
DEWALT
Product Name Air Compressor ‎P 1S Electric Inflator J5C09 ONE+ C2002 BTFP02012 Pancake Air Compressor The Tank G22 Air Compressor Kit
0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0
Features Best popular pick Best portable pick Multipurpose gadget Best for small tasks Best pancake-style pick Handles two air tools User-friendly More work, less weight Precise spray control For job site operation
Power Source Corded Electric Battery Powered Battery Powered Battery Powered Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric n/a Battery Powered
Voltage 12V 12V 12V 18V 120V 120V 120V 120V 110V 60V
Air Flow Capacity 35 L/Min 20 L/Min n/a 0.5 SCFM @ 90 PSI 2.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI 2.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI 2.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI 4 CFM @ 90 PSI n/a 1.2 SCFM @ 90 PSI
Pressure Range 100 PSI 120 PSI 120 PSI 120 PSI 150 PSI 150 PSI 150 PSI 200 PSI 60 PSI 135 PSI
Capacity - - n/a 1 Gal. 6 Gal. 6 Gal. 6 Gal. 6 Gal. 1 Gal. 2.5 Gal.
Dimensions 8.43 x 6.61 x 4.17 in 9.6 x 2.2 x 2.2 in 11.25 x 8 x 13.5 in 13.5 x 10 x 11.5 in 19 x 19 x 18 in 17 x 17 x 19.25 in 17.13 x 17.13 x 19.75 in 16.9 x 20.6 x 45.1 in 15 x 14.25 x 12.75 in (pkg) 15.55 x 18.04 x 28.75 in
price $29.99 $45.99 $89.95 $99.00 $128.00 $129.00 $129.00 $219.00 $219.99 $299.00
Buy at view product on AstroAI view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Oasser view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Stanley view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on RYOBI view product on Home Depot view product on Amazon view product on eBay 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 Ridgid view product on Home Depot view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Metabo HPT view product on Acme Tools view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Amazon view product on eBay view product on Dewalt view product on Acme Tools view product on Amazon view product on eBay

Most portable air compressors are intended for use on the worksite, and they are often used in conjunction with pneumatic equipment such as a nail gun or spray gun for painting. It is, nevertheless, a good idea to have a portable air compressor ready for restoring low tire pressure in your car, bicycle, ATV, or lawnmower tires. However, with so many different styles to choose from, it may be hard to pick the best compact air compressor. Here, we’ve prepared a list of the top 10 best compact air compressors that can handle both large and small jobs effortlessly. Check ’em out!

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 Small Air Compressors (Apr 2024)

Here are the best small air compressors
Oasser ‎P 1S Electric Inflator  - Best Small Air Compressors: Best portable pick
https://www.amazon.com/

2.
Oasser
‎P 1S Electric Inflator

Best portable pick

price from
$45.99
Our opinion:

The Oasser Mini Air Compressor is a portable inflator with a maximum pressure of 120 PSI. While it is not the quickest method to inflate a car tire, it is effective (but bear in mind that it is not suitable for truck or RV tires). A rechargeable lithium battery or a 12V power source is used to operate this small air compressor. It is small enough to fit in a tool chest, glove box, or beach bag and is less than 10 inches long.

Promising review:

small and light enough to carry with during rides. We are inflating to 80lbs. very nice gauge allowing you to set the pressure required and stops when it gets there. Has enough battery to pressurize at least 6 tires without a problem it looks like that only .slightly discharged it. was a good buy!

by RichH

Power Source Battery Powered
Voltage 12V
Air Flow Capacity 20 L/Min
Pressure Range 120 PSI
Capacity -
Dimensions 9.6 x 2.2 x 2.2 in
Stanley J5C09  - Best Small Air Compressors: Multipurpose gadget
https://www.amazon.com/

3.
Stanley
J5C09

Multipurpose gadget

price from
$89.95
Our opinion:

The STANLEY JUMPiT Portable Power Station is a multipurpose gadget that can inflate vehicle tires to 120 PSI and comes with a proprietary SureFit air nozzle that threads straight into tire valve stems. It can also be used to quickly inflate other items such as sports equipment or bicycle and ATV tires. If your vehicle battery dies, the jump starter on this handy air compressor can provide up to 1,000 amps to restart your engine.

Promising review:

This is compact and reliable! I feel safe when I travel with this in my car.

by Sandra T Barfield

Power Source Battery Powered
Voltage 12V
Air Flow Capacity n/a
Pressure Range 120 PSI
Capacity n/a
Dimensions 11.25 x 8 x 13.5 in
RYOBI ONE+ - Best Small Air Compressors: Best for small tasks
https://www.homedepot.com/

4.
RYOBI
ONE+

Best for small tasks

1  visitors like this
price from
$99.00
Our opinion:

The RYOBI ONE Cordless 1-Gallon Compressor is ideal for small jobs around the home or on the worksite. This cordless compressor is particularly popular among DIYers and handymen who want a lightweight, portable compressor for finishing work and minor tasks. It has moderate airflow delivery rates of .7 SCFM at 40 PSI and.5 SCFM at 90 PSI, yet it saves battery energy while delivering adequate power to run pneumatic equipment such as a brad nailer.

Promising review:

This compressor has no trouble keeping up with finish nailing. I used it on a recent kitchen remodel with a 4ah battery and it kept up no problem. It is extremely portable and light weight. I would not recommend for anything that requires continuous demand like sanding or grinding. Great little jobsite sidekick.

by MrDrums

Power Source Battery Powered
Voltage 18V
Air Flow Capacity 0.5 SCFM @ 90 PSI
Pressure Range 120 PSI
Capacity 1 Gal.
Dimensions 13.5 x 10 x 11.5 in
PORTER-CABLE C2002 - Best Small Air Compressors: Best pancake-style pick
https://www.amazon.com/

5.
PORTER-CABLE
C2002

Best pancake-style 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:

I purchased this compressor for use with airbrush, and my small sand-blaster. Also the usual checking air in tires and blow nozzle for cleaning. Works well so far. Can't beat the price for this quality.

by Mark S.

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 Small Air Compressors: Handles two air tools
https://www.amazon.com/

6.
Bostitch
BTFP02012

Handles two air tools

price from
$129.00
Our opinion:

The Bostitch BTFP02012 includes a 6-gallon pancake tank with a maximum pressure of 150 PSI. This makes this type a highly sturdy device, ideal for DIY projects or the garage. Its 1.5-HP electric motor produces 2.6 CFM at 90 PSI and operates easily in cold weather. This compressor features a high flow regulator and two universal quick-connect airline connections to conveniently handle two air tools at the same time.

Promising review:

The last Bostich air compressor I had lasted 10+ years! This one is quieter, more compact, and has the extra hose hookup. For air nailers, staplers, and small homeowner jobs this is perfect.

by Benjamin

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
RIDGID Pancake Air Compressor - Best Small Air Compressors: User-friendly
https://www.homedepot.com/

7.
RIDGID
Pancake Air Compressor

User-friendly

1  visitors like this
price from
$129.00
Our opinion:

Consider this Ridgid pancake air compressor for an inexpensive way to power your next project. This type has a 6-gallon tank and a maximum PSI of 150. With an air supply rate of 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI, it’s best suited for light-duty tasks around the house or on the worksite. This low-cost portable air compressor stands out for its pair of fast couplers, which are user-friendly and simple to attach to 1/4-inch automotive and industrial tool plugs.

Promising review:

My pops has a nail gun of a different brand but i still wanted my own (tool junkie) and went ahead and got this and man oh man I dont regret it. The swivel air connector, hook, lightweight and the easy slide down nail clip makes this that good. My pops started using my nailer instead of his own.

by Wilo

Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 120V
Air Flow Capacity 2.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI
Pressure Range 150 PSI
Capacity 6 Gal.
Dimensions 17.13 x 17.13 x 19.75 in
Metabo HPT The Tank  - Best Small Air Compressors: More work, less weight
https://www.acmetools.com/

8.
Metabo HPT
The Tank

More work, less weight

price from
$219.00
Our opinion:

We turn to Metabo HPT for the best air compressor for the money when it comes to name-brand, professional-grade units. While they are not the cheapest, they regularly outperform their competitors for the same price. You can perform more work with less weight at 200 PSI and 4 CFM at 90 PSI. The best part is, it can run two framings, two roofing, two siding, three finish, and five brad nailers at the same time.

Promising review:

quick fill up time and holds pressure well. Light enough to carry to work location. Pleased with product. Using with framing and finish nail guns. Would recommend to others.

by EPPDPT

Power Source Corded Electric
Voltage 120V
Air Flow Capacity 4 CFM @ 90 PSI
Pressure Range 200 PSI
Capacity 6 Gal.
Dimensions 16.9 x 20.6 x 45.1 in
Master Airbrush G22  - Best Small Air Compressors: Precise spray control
https://www.amazon.com/

9.
Master Airbrush
G22

Precise spray control

price from
$219.99
Our opinion:

The Master Airbrush type G22 is built with high-quality components that are optimized for efficiency. At the same time, it delivers excellent atomization and precise spray control. This model is extremely versatile since it works well with a wide range of paint tools and surfaces. By removing the needle and nozzle covers, you will be able to spray a wider variety of textures and create stippling effects. This combination device can spray a 1-1/2-inch-wide design on the hairline.

Promising review:

This is perfect for a hobbies. Small and compact and has plenty of air to do the job.

by Jamie Hartigan

Power Source n/a
Voltage 110V
Air Flow Capacity n/a
Pressure Range 60 PSI
Capacity 1 Gal.
Dimensions 15 x 14.25 x 12.75 in (pkg)
DEWALT Air Compressor Kit - Best Small Air Compressors: For job site operation
https://www.acmetools.com/

10.
DEWALT
Air Compressor Kit

For job site operation

price from
$299.00
Our opinion:

Dewalt’s 60V MAX FLEXVOLT 2.5 Gallon Cordless Air Compressor provides all of the convenience and mobility of cordless while allowing you to continue utilizing your existing pneumatic equipment. Each battery charge enables for up to 1,220 nails, giving you enough time to accomplish a range of tasks. Its OneTurnTM Regulator eliminates the need to fiddle with the dial and the heavy-duty roll cage makes it ideal for job site operation.

Promising review:

Have had this compressor for 2 years, still going strong. Works great for running air tools, airing up tires, etc.

by HUSKERNATION

Power Source Battery Powered
Voltage 60V
Air Flow Capacity 1.2 SCFM @ 90 PSI
Pressure Range 135 PSI
Capacity 2.5 Gal.
Dimensions 15.55 x 18.04 x 28.75 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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