Best Air Compressors of 2025

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2025

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Air compressors are a versatile and essential tool for many industries, from construction to automotive repair. These machines work by compressing air and storing it in a tank, which can then be used to power a variety of pneumatic tools. Air compressors come in a range of sizes and styles, from small portable units to large industrial models. They can be powered by electricity, gasoline, or diesel fuel, and some models even run on compressed air itself. With their ability to power everything from nail guns to sandblasters, air compressors are a valuable investment for any business or DIY enthusiast.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

CRAFTSMAN 6 Gallon Air Compressor Cover #TOP 1
CRAFTSMAN 6 Gallon Air Compressor
ftb score rating icon 9.9
DEWALT 6 Gallon Air Compressor Cover #TOP 2
DEWALT 6 Gallon Air Compressor
ftb score rating icon 9.8
VEVOR 13 Gallon Oil Free Air Compressor Cover #TOP 3
VEVOR 13 Gallon Oil Free Air Compressor
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Air Compressors

CRAFTSMAN 6 Gallon Air Compressor

CMEC6150K
CRAFTSMAN 6 Gallon Air Compressor Cover
CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor, 6 Gallon, Pancake, Oil-Free with 13 Piece Accessory Kit (CMEC6150K)

The CRAFTSMAN 6 Gallon Air Compressor is a portable and oil-free pump with a maximum pressure of 150 PSI and a quick recovery time of 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI. It is made in the USA with Global Materials and is perfect for drilling, air brushing, spraying, and nailing. Customers love the power and portability of this air compressor and appreciate the included accessories.

What We Like
User-friendly operation
Compact and portable design
Fast refill capability
Includes necessary accessories
Good pressure control
What We Don't Like
Some noise during operation
Safety valve handling discomfort
#TOP 2

DEWALT 6 Gallon Air Compressor

DWFP55126
Multi
One Size
DEWALT 6 Gallon Air Compressor Cover
DEWALT Pancake Air Compressor, 6 Gallon, 165 PSI (DWFP55126)

The DEWALT 6 Gallon Air Compressor is a perfect tool for those who need to support a variety of pneumatic and air tool applications. With its 165 PSI, 6.0-gallon tank, and 2.6 SCFM delivered at 90 PSI pump, it enables long tool run time with quick recovery. The high-efficiency motor makes it easy to start up in cold weather, and the 78.5 dBA noise level ensures a quiet work environment. With a console cover that protects controls for easy repair, a ball drain valve for quick and thorough tank draining, and a weight of just 30 lbs, this air compressor is designed for maximum convenience and ease of use.

What We Like
Powerful performance
Lightweight and portable
Quiet operation
Easy to use
Two outlets for convenience
What We Don't Like
Somewhat large size
Gauge could be more reliable
#TOP 3

VEVOR 13 Gallon Oil Free Air Compressor

DOF1500-50V-Ⅰ
VEVOR 13 Gallon Oil Free Air Compressor Cover
VEVOR 13 Gallon Air Compressor, 2HP 4.6 SCFM@90PSI Oil Free Air Compressor Tank with 125PSI Max Pressure, 66dB Ultra Quiet Compressor for Auto Repair, Spray Painting, Woodwork Nailing, 120 Volts

The VEVOR 13 Gallon Compressor is designed for optimal performance and convenience. With its powerful 2HP motor, you can achieve a maximum pressure of 125 PSI, allowing for quick inflation in just three minutes. The compressor operates at a low noise level of 66dB, making it perfect for maintaining a peaceful workspace. Its portable design, featuring 7-inch rubber wheels, allows you to easily move it to any location, while upgraded piping ensures efficient air delivery without leaks. Whether you're inflating tires or handling automotive repairs, this compressor is versatile enough to power various pneumatic tools.

What We Like
Easy installation
Very quiet operation
Great value for the price
Compact size for storage
Effective for pneumatic tools
What We Don't Like
Missing quick connect fittings
Delivery issues reported
#TOP 4

DEWALT 20V MAX Tire Inflator

DCC020IB
Black, Yellow
One Size
DEWALT 20V MAX Tire Inflator Cover
DEWALT 20V MAX Tire Inflator, Compact and Portable, Automatic Shut Off, LED Light, Bare Tool Only (DCC020IB)

The DEWALT 20V MAX Tire Inflator is a portable air compressor that comes with high-pressure and high-volume inflation modes with automatic shutoff. It has three power sources, including 20V MAX battery, 12V DC, or 110V AC. The LED light helps to provide illumination while the onboard accessory storage and threaded chuck for secure connection to inflation valve make it convenient to use. The heavy-duty rubber feet help reduce walking when in use.

What We Like
Powerful and efficient
Multiple charging options
Auto shut-off feature
Portable and lightweight
Accurate pressure readings
What We Don't Like
Requires separate battery purchase
Somewhat noisy during operation
#TOP 5

Stealth 20 Gallon Ultra Quiet Air Compressor

Stealth
SAQ-12018
Blue
Stealth 20 Gallon Ultra Quiet Air Compressor Cover
Stealth 20 Gallon Ultra Quiet Air Compressor,1.8 HP Oil-Free Peak 150 PSI 68 Decibel Air Compressor,5.5 CFM @ 40 PSI 5 CFM @ 90 PSI Silent Portable Long Life Electric Air Compressor W/Wheel for Garage

Looking for an air compressor that can deliver both power and quiet performance? Look no further than the Stealth Air Compressor. With its innovative quiet system, this air compressor is up to 80% quieter than standard models, making it perfect for use in residential areas or other noise-sensitive environments. It also boasts a long-life cycle of more than 1000 hours, ensuring that you'll get plenty of use out of it. And with its powerful 1.8 horsepower motor and 20-gallon capacity, this air compressor is ideal for a wide range of applications, from inflating tires to powering nailers, grinders, and other air tools. Finally, its sturdy design and easy mobility make it a breeze to move around your garage or job site.

What We Like
Very quiet operation
High-quality construction
Good pressure performance
Easy to maneuver
Excellent value
What We Don't Like
Could be heavy to lift
Limited psi cutoff
#TOP 6

Nessxa 10 Gallon Ultra Quiet Air Compressor

Ultra Quiet Air Compressor
Black&red
Nessxa 10 Gallon Ultra Quiet Air Compressor Cover
10 Gallon Ultra Quiet Air Compressor with Two Quick Couplers, 2HP 8.76 CFM@ 115PSI Oil-Free Air Compressor Tank, 110V/60hz, 70dB Air Compressor for Car Repair, Spray Painting, Woodwork Nailing

The Nessxa Ultra Quiet Compressor is designed for convenience and efficiency. Its 10-gallon tank and lightweight build make it easy to transport, perfect for tasks like car repairs and spray painting. Operating at just 70dB, this compressor is quieter than many models, allowing you to work without disturbing others. With a powerful 2HP motor, it fills up to 115PSI in just 70 seconds, saving you time on projects. Plus, built-in safety features like cooling fans and automatic shut-off protect both you and the machine during operation.

What We Like
Quiet operation
Easy to assemble
Good build quality
Great value for price
Portable and lightweight
What We Don't Like
Pressure gauge issues
#TOP 7

California Air Tools 8010 Steel Tank Air Compressor

8010
Silver
8 Gallon
California Air Tools 8010 Steel Tank Air Compressor Cover
California Air Tools 8010 1.0 HP Ultra Quiet and Oil-Free Air Compressor, 8 Gallon Steel Tank, Lightweight with Wheels, 60 dBA Noise Level

The California Air Tools 8010 Steel Tank Air Compressor is a powerful and reliable oil-free air compressor with a 1.0 HP motor and 8-gallon steel tank. It is designed to be ultra-quiet, with a noise level of 60 dBA, and is perfect for anyone working in a noise-sensitive environment. It is lightweight and comes with a wheel kit for easy transportation. It is ideal for drilling, air brushing, spraying, and nailing, and can be used in a variety of temperatures and uneven terrains.

What We Like
Low noise level
Versatile for various uses
Effective for dental units
Great for office and home
What We Don't Like
Limited personal usage

ECOMAX 3 Gallon Portable Air Compressor

0210371
ECOMAX 3 Gallon Portable Air Compressor Cover
ECOMAX Air Compressor 3 Gallon Portable Pancake Tank Oil-free, 110 PSI MAX Pressure and 1/3 HP for Car and Bike Tires, Nail Gun, and Pneumatic Tools, Garage, Shop or Mechanic Accessories

The ECOMAX Portable Air Compressor is designed for efficiency and ease of use. With a maximum pressure of 110 PSI, it features dual gauges and a quick coupler, allowing you to achieve precise pressure control for various tasks. Its oil-free pump ensures minimal maintenance, meaning you can spend more time working and less time on upkeep. The user-friendly control panel simplifies operation, making it easy to connect and adjust settings. Weighing only 16.3 pounds, its compact design and flip-up handle enhance portability, making it convenient for transport and storage.

What We Like
Portable and lightweight
Easy to use
Robust components
Good for small tasks
What We Don't Like
Somewhat loud
Pressure drop issue
#TOP 9

Craftsman Air Compressor, 2 Gallon Portable Air Compressor

CMXECXA0200243
2 Gallon
Craftsman Air Compressor, 2 Gallon Portable Air Compressor Cover
Craftsman Air Tools, 2 Gallon Portable Air Compressor 1/3 HP Oil-Free Max 125 PSI Pressure, Hot Dog, Model: CMXECXA0200243

The Craftsman Air Compressor is a lightweight and portable 2-gallon air compressor with a powerful 1/3 HP UMC motor. It features an oil-free and maintenance-free pump system that provides better tool performance and longer tool run times. With a maximum PSI of 125 and fast inflation speed, it is ideal for inflation, hobby painting, stapling, fastening, nailing, and bolting. It is perfect for the job site, workshop, or garage.

What We Like
Compact and lightweight design
Quick recovery time
Versatile for various tasks
Easy to carry
Doesn't require oil
What We Don't Like
Somewhat loud operation
Slow tank filling
#TOP 10

Ironton 0.3 HP Pancake Air Compressor

5820665
Ironton 0.3 HP Pancake Air Compressor Cover
Ironton Oil-Free Pancake Air Compressor, 0.3 HP, 3 Gallons, 110 PSI

The Ironton Pancake Air Compressor is designed for easy use and portability. Its oil-free pump means you won’t have to worry about maintenance, allowing you to focus on your tasks. The fold-down handle makes it simple to carry and store, perfect for those who need a reliable compressor on the go. With a wide base, this compressor offers excellent stability during operation, ensuring safety and efficiency. Additionally, the built-in cord wrap and hose retainer keep everything organized, making it hassle-free for you to set up and pack away.

What We Like
Great for airing tires
Works well for the price
Comparable to expensive brands
Good for small tools
What We Don't Like
Somewhat loud operation
May struggle with air pressure
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What size air compressor do you need to paint a car?

For painting a car, it is typically recommended to use an air compressor with a tank size of 50 gallons or more. A tank size of 60 gallons or more allows for coating the entire vehicle in one pass without refilling.

2. What is a 20 gallon air compressor good for?

A 20-gallon air compressor is not powerful enough to run most industrial-grade pneumatic tools. However, it is suitable for running air brushes, brad nailers, frame nailers, pneumatic drills, sanders, and similar tools.

3. How many PSI is a good air compressor?

A good air compressor should be able to supply between 70 and 90 PSI, as most air tools require this range of pressure. It is recommended to choose a compressor that can supply more flow than needed to ensure optimal performance.

4. How many CFM is a good air compressor?

The capability of an air compressor is measured in Cubic Feet Per Minute (CFM), which represents the air delivery. Most air compressors for powering tools fall in the range of 10 to 110 CFM.

5. How many PSI do you need for air tools?

Most air tools require between 70 and 90 PSI to operate correctly. It is important to choose an air compressor that can supply enough air volume to meet the tool's requirements.

6. What can a 30 gallon air compressor run?

A 30-gallon air compressor is suitable for various tasks, both residential and commercial. It can power tools such as paint sprayers, rock drills, atomizers, nail guns, wrenches, and more.

Editor's Notes

During our air compressor research, we found 24 air compressor products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 177,033 customer reviews through our big data system to write the air compressors list. We found that most customers choose air compressors with an average price of $154.49.

The air compressors are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of air compressors, including CRAFTSMAN, DEWALT, VEVOR, Stealth, Nessxa. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.

Air Compressors Comparison Table

#TOP1
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#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand CRAFTSMAN DEWALT VEVOR DEWALT Stealth Nessxa California Air Tools ECOMAX CRAFTSMAN Ironton
Recommended Uses For Product Drilling, Air Brushing, Spraying, Nailing Drilling, Air Brushing, Spraying, Nailing Tire Inflation, Spraying, Sanding, Nailing Tire Inflation Bolting, Cutting, Tire Inflation, Air Brushing, Sanding, Spraying, Nailing, Blow Cleaning Auto Repair, Tire Inflation, Spray Painting, Woodwork Nailing Nailing Drilling, Tire Inflation, Air Brushing, Spraying Bolting, Nailing Nailing
Power Source electric, Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric Battery Powered ac Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric Corded Electric
Noise Level 78.5 dB 75.5 dB - 92 dB 68 dB 70 dB 60 dB 78 dB 78 dB -
Voltage - 120 Volts 1.2E+2 Volts (AC) 20 Volts 120 Volts 120 Volts 110 Volts (AC) 120 Volts 120 Volts -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
Where to Buy