If you’re fond of handmade craft, the best shop air compressor can come in handy as it makes operations so much easier. By operations I mean to operate a spray paint, nail paint, or similar units you need when building a project.
Having a shop air compressor makes tools wrenches or saws quite effortless.
However, as there are a variety of models from different brands available on the market, you may find it hard to choose out the right shop air compressor.
With that being said, below are some of the best shop air compressors for sale right now. Check them out!
Best Shop Air Compressors: In-depth Reviews
1. PORTER-CABLE C2002 Oil-Free UMC Pancake Compressor: Best Overall
Editor Rating: The Porter-cable C2002 Air Compressor is our top pick today for the best overall.
This 6-gallon pancake unit packs a bunch in such a small package. The pancake-style tank contributes to optimal stability, easing the process of filling tires or firing nailers.
The 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI allows quick recovery after each use, enhancing work efficiency. What is more, it comes with an oil-free pump, making it virtually maintenance-free.
Even though pancake compressors are known to be very noisy, the C2002 copes with this little better because the compartments absorb sound like a sponge. However, hearing protection is required for safety purposes.
The fact that this unit can reach 150 PSI in just a few minutes amazed many customers. This is also what we like best about C2002.
However, something you should notice before the first use is to run a break-in procedure. Even though it is not mentioned in the user manual, this procedure ensures your compressor running smoothly.
You ought to run the compressor with the pressure valve open for about 15-20 minutes. After that, close the valve and let the tank come up to pressure. And you’re good to go!
Pros
- Quick recovery thanks to the 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI
- Oil-free pump support maintenance-free and easy clean-ups
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Doesn’t include instructions for break-in procedure
2. DEWALT DWFP55126 Pancake Air Compressor: Best Quality
Editor Rating: The next product on our list today is another pancake compressor – the DEWALT DWFP55126 Pancake Air Compressor.
This compressor is ideal for small-sized everyday projects, and with a weight of only 30 lbs, you will find it easy to carry around. At first glance, you’ll be impressed by the classic striking yellow and black color of DEWALT.
Besides having all the basic features you can expect from a pancake air compressor such as quick recovery after each use, or maintenance-free, what makes this compressor stand out from the rest is the 75.5 dBA noise level.
Even if you work with full capacity, the noise will also be kept under 75 dBA, ensuring a quiet work environment.
The high-efficiency motor makes it easy to start in extreme conditions like cold weather or with an extension cord (50ft or less). This compressor also comes with 2 universal couplers and a regulated air glow ability to make sure you’re getting the most out of it.
However, some customers reported that even though the important components are well-made, they experienced leaky fittings (from the joint between the male hose coupler and female receiving end of the fitting) after just a few uses.
They didn’t expect such a thing to happen, especially from a well-known brand like DEWALT.
Yet, the DEWALT DWFP55126 Pancake Air Compressor is still a no brainer when it comes to quality and versatility.
Pros
- Well-sized tank of 6 gallons
- Lightweight at 32.2 pounds
- Noise pollution is minimized thanks to the 75.5 dBA noise level
- Great value of money
Cons
- Leaky fittings after a few uses
- The cord tends to get in the way when working
3. California Air Tools 10020C Air Compressor: Best Value
Editor Rating: If you’re impressed with the 75.5dBA noise level of the DEWALT DWPF55126, you’ll be even happier to know that the California Air Tools 10020C Air Compressor only produces a noise level of 70 dBA, turning it into one of the quietest air compressors ever.
The 10020C is well-sized with a 10-gallon tank and attached wheels at the bottom for more portability. There is an oil-free dual-piston pump for durability and easy maintenance. It also helps this compressor perform better at different temperatures and surfaces.
10020C is also known as one of the most powerful compressors ever, with 125 PSI maximum pressure for longer continuous run times. This air compressor is ideal for people who work at job sites where noise is a problem.
Nonetheless, 10020C is still far from perfect for a few reasons. We recommend you change the 2 built-in connectors to more quality fittings for the best experience. Some customers experienced unscrewing problems from the two after a period of use.
These are minor problems; however, for such a price, we expected a more premium-quality product that requires no further modifications.
Pros
- Quieter than most compressors of its class
- Portable thanks to the attached wheels
- Oil-free dual piston pump for hassle-free maintenance
- 10-gallon air tank with 125 PSI maximum pressure
Cons
- Quite pricey
- Some connectors loosen up after a few uses
- Cheap quality wheels
4. California Air Tools CAT-10020 Air Compressor: Best Heavy-duty
Editor Rating: This product is quite similar to the 10020 as you can tell by the name. This is an older version of the 10020C; yet, it is packed with a lot of handy features for you to make the most of.
The most noticeable feature is the quiet running mechanism that doesn’t exceed the noise level of more than 70 dBA. What is more, the tank is very quick to fill up within 100-130 seconds, making it perfect for jobs that require continuous run times.
CAT-10020 is built to last; the tank is made from pure steel to ensure no leaking problem. It is also versatile as you can use it for different applications, such as filling up tires, DIY auto repairs, or spray painting your old chair. As long as there’s enough air in the tank, you can make all of these a breeze.
So, what’s the catch? Even though the noise level was advertised to be equal or lower than 70 dBA, you can’t carry a conversation while standing next to the machine without having to raise your voice. The best distance is 7 feet apart or more.
Pros
- Well-built design
- Powerful 2.0 HP motor
- Well-sized 10-gallon tank
- Quite reasonable price
Cons
- Made in China
- Quite heavy
5. California Air Tools CAT-4610AC Air Compressor: Best for Closed Spaces
Editor Rating: Last but not least on today’s list is another air compressor from California Air Tools – the CAT 4610AC Air Compressor.
The noise level of 4610AC is even better than the 2 mentioned above, at 60 dBA. This is thanks to the 1.0 HP motor that operates at only 1680 RPM, which creates less noise and less wear.
What is more, 4610C only runs at 7.4 Amp, which is both energy and cost-effective.
If you’re the kind of person that usually forgets or simply just does not drain your tank often, you should really opt for the aluminum tank. And 4610C happens to tick all boxes when it comes to that, with aluminum twin tank to boost up the work efficiency double.
However, it doesn’t come with wheels and is a bit heavy which makes it hard to be carried around. Also, the on/off switched could have been moved closer to the front, but that’s not a big deal.
Pros
- Amazingly quiet
- Oil-free pump for less maintenance
- Powerful motor
- 3000+ hours life cycle
Cons
- Hard to move around
- Expensive
How to Find the Best Shop Air Compressor?
The best shop air compressors are the ones that can meet your needs.
Are you simply just a DIY enthusiast who is looking for a tool to help you with little tasks? Or are you a professional who is in need of a new shop air compressor to deal with more heavy-duty work?
Whoever you are, when choosing a shop air compressor, pay close attention to 3 main factors:
- What will you use the machine for?
- Where will you install it?
- How much power do you need?
Now, let’s dig deeper to see what certain types of users need from an air compressor.
Home Consumers
Owning a small, versatile air compressor is enough to help you with small tasks around the house or DIY projects.
No need to waste hundreds or even thousands of dollars on repainting your car body, replacing old trim boards, or even disassembling and reassembling engine parts.
All of these can be done at ease with the help of an air compressor, and the final results are likely to be even better than using manual tools.
Consider getting a medium-sized or even a pro air compressor if you’re fond of making craft stuff and you usually have several projects to do on weekends.
Professionals
It’s a different story if you’re a contractor or woodshop owner as you have a whole company to run.
The best air compressor, in this case, must not only work well but also save you money by working as hard and as long as you do. This isn’t just about you, it is about a whole business that you’re running.
We’re talking about professional class air compressors that you find making wood desks, assembling tires to cars, or painting wood closets.
These machines are built to last through any rigors of different jobs; they’re also durable and can be carried anywhere you need.
- All-in-all, it solidly depends on how big your operations are and the demands of tools and machinery needed.
- After considering all factors, if you’re still not sure about what model to buy, you can consult with an expert in this field for better understanding.
FAQs
What is the best shop air compressor?
There are many factors contributing to the quality of the best shop air compressor. The best air compressor should be able to work continuously to meet your demands and has a quick recovery time for constant use.
We recommend the California Air Tools CAT-4610AC Air Compressor as it ticks all boxes when it comes to durability, work efficiency, and noise level.
What size air compressor do you need to run an air tool?
To answer this question, you’ll need to consider 3 things:
- Analyze the use of your compressor: what do you need it for? Professional purpose? Regular fixing tasks around the house? By making this clear, you’re one step closer to choosing the right air compressor size.
- Choosing the type: Now that you have clarified the purpose of use, choose the type of air compressor that suits your needs.
- Consider the source of power and the size of the tank
Does air compressor tank size matter?
Yes, it does. In fact, the impact of tank size on an air compressor is immense.
The bigger the capacity of the tank is, the better it works. So, do buy the biggest tank you can afford so when the compressor is filled up and stopped, you’d have a larger reservoir of compressed air ready to use.
Nonetheless, if you only need a unit to help you change the tires of your car every once in a while, a smaller tank size is acceptable.
My Final Verdict
Needless to say, shop air compressors are all great machines with powerful motors to help you with a wide range of operations, from small fixing tasks around the house to bigger duties at wood workshops, garages, or constructions.
All in all, we hope you find the best shop air compressor from one of the products mentioned above to meet your needs. Feel free to share with us your experience with these products, good or bad.
Thank you for reading.
I am Peter Levick, with over 10 years of experience in the home improvement industry, I have become a seasoned expert in painting and paint sprayers. Through numerous DIY projects, I have developed a keen eye for aesthetics and a deep understanding of the technical aspects involved. My expertise extends to various paint sprayer systems, and I stay updated with the latest advancements. I bring a meticulous approach to every project, ensuring stunning and durable results. Clients can trust in my craftsmanship and commitment to delivering exceptional work.
