Portable Air Compressors
Best 5 Portable Air Compressors
Today, every major air-compressor manufacturer offers compact versions that are lightweight and portable but powerful enough to drive most air tools. And while many of these models are designed for professional woodworkers and carpenters, their small size, quiet motors, and low price make them ideal for DIYers.
Take a look at Quick info on the best air compressors from our use, then scroll down for buying advice and more in-depth reviews of these models.
1: Rolair AB5Plus
(Tank capacity: 1 gal | Motor size: .5 hp | Universal couplers: 1 | Max. PSI: 90 | CFM delivered at 90 PSI: 1 | Decibel rating: 59 | Weight: about 27 lb | Dimensions: 11 x 14¼ x 16¼ in.)
Rolair might not be the most recognizable name in the compressor business, but this third-generation, Wisconsin-based company has been manufacturing reliable, highly rated compressors since 1959. And there are several things I like about the Rolair AB5Plus. First, it’s extremely compact, so it’s easy to carry around and store away. Second, its welded-steel roll cage protects the unit from drops, bumps, and rollovers. The two extra-large gauges are easy to read, and its two-piston pump refills the air tank very quickly.
2: Bostitch CAP1512-OF
(Tank capacity: 1.2 gal | Motor size: 2 hp | Universal couplers: 1 | Max. PSI: 150 | CFM delivered at 90 PSI: 2.8 | Decibel rating: 72 | Weight: 23.5 lb | Dimensions: 11 x 13 x 17 in.)
Bostitch has a well-earned reputation for building rugged, contractor-grade compressors, and this model is no exception, to which I can attest. I bought one more than 12 years ago, and although it’s been battered and bruised and taken more than a few tumbles, it still runs great. Its 1.2-gallon, hotdog-style tank and two-horsepower pump pair up to deliver an impressive 2.8 CFM at 90 PSI. And with a maximum PSI rating of 150, it can handle virtually any air tool.
3: Senco PC0968
(Tank capacity: 2.5 gal | Motor size: 1.5 hp | Universal couplers: 1 | Max. PSI: 135 | CFM delivered at 90 PSI: 2.2 | Decibel rating: 68 | Weight: 38 lb | Dimensions: 13½ x 15 x 16 in.)
This mid-size, 2.5-gallon compact compressor has two side-stacked air tanks and a 1.5-horsepower induction pump motor that goes from zero to 135 PSI in just 82 seconds. Despite its power, the motor only draws eight amps of electricity, so there’s little worry of tripping a breaker, which is a common problem with larger compressors. The top-mounted handle, which also serves as a protective roll cage, is well balanced, making it easy to lift and carry the 38-pound unit. And with a footprint of just 15 x 16 inches, the PC0968 takes up very little space and stores easily.
4: Makita MAC320Q
(Tank capacity: 3 gal | Motor size: 1.5 hp | Universal couplers: 2 | Max. PSI: 135 | CFM delivered at 90 PSI: 2.6 | Decibel rating: 60 | Weight: 52 lb | Dimensions: 13¾ x 18 x 19 in.)
Weighing in at 52 pounds, this professional-grade Makita compressor is slightly heavier than most compact models. But its greater capacity, power, and speed make it ideally suited for cabinetmakers, finish carpenters, and DIYers. Its three-gallon air tank is matched with a 1.5-horsepower induction motor that has a maximum PSI rating of 135 and produces 2.6 CFM at 90 PSI. Plus, it pressurizes the tank from empty to full in just 65 seconds.
5: DeWalt DWFP55126
(Tank capacity: 6 gal | Motor size: .9 hp | Universal couplers: 2 | Max. PSI: 165 | CFM delivered at 90 PSI: 2.6 | Decibel rating: 75 | Weight: 30 lb | Dimensions: 16½ x 17 x 20 in.)
There’s a lot to like about this DeWalt compressor, whether you’re a professional contractor or active DIYer. First, it’s one of the most powerful compact units on the market, featuring a large-capacity six-gallon tank and a .9-horsepower motor that delivers 2.6 CFM at 90 PSI and a max PSI rating of 165. It has two universal couplers, top-mount handle, power cord wrap, and weighs in at just 30 pounds.