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Editor’s Note: Testing for this article took place in late 2023 and these products remain our current top recommendations for 2024 until we revisit this category. Stay tuned for our 2024 updates.
Pneumatic tools that run by a portable air compressor can be a huge help and time-saver on a range of projects and at the construction site. Nail guns, for instance, drive fasteners with the pull of a trigger rather than pounds of a hammer. Impact wrenches can apply tons of torque and twisting power in seconds. Filling a truck tire will go from a nearly impossible task to a cinch with a tire inflator. All of these tools use the pressure and volume created by an air compressor.
A portable air compressor squeezes air into a metal tank, which it then releases through a hose to power a tool. Portable air compressors must be fairly lightweight and compact so one person can pick them up, wheel them around, or lift them into the bed of a truck with ease. To create a small footprint (which typically weighs between about 25 and 70 pounds), manufacturers keep tanks small and use lighter-duty motors. While this is great for portability, it often comes at the sacrifice of volume and serviceability.
The best portable air compressors are small, handy machines that help make short work of a to-do list, improving accuracy, workflow, and efficiency. Read on to learn what to look for in a portable air compressor and why the following models are among the best in their respective categories. We researched 15 of the top models, and the following tools were our favorites. Find out why below.
- BEST OVERALL: Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP Big Bore Air Compressor
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Bostitch 6-Gallon Oil-Free Compressor
- BEST COMPACT: Metabo Portable 1-Gallon Oil-Free Air Compressor
- BEST LARGE-CAPACITY: DeWalt DXCM271 27-Gallon Portable Air Compressor
- BEST USER-FRIENDLY: Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2-Gallon Compact Quiet Compressor
- BEST FOR INFLATION: DeWalt 20V MAX Corded/Cordless Air Inflator
- BEST WITH WHEELS: California Air Tools 8010 Oil-Free Air Compressor
- BEST GAS-POWERED: Metabo 8-Gallon Wheelbarrow Air Conditioner
- BEST FOR THE CAR: Makita MP100DZ 12V MAX CXT Cordless Inflator
Before You Buy a Portable Air Compressor
Portable air compressors can be a tremendous help and open DIYers up to a whole range of tools for specific DIY situations. When working in a shop scenario, air compressor shoppers might be better off purchasing a larger air compressor to generate greater volume. Larger models tend to be simpler to service due to their larger, more robust parts that are easier to access and may add to their lifespan.
How We Chose the Best Portable Air Compressors
Because we are experienced builders and DIYers, portable air compressors are sort of our bread and butter. Putting this guide together relied heavily on our experience, allowing us to choose the features we felt mattered the most for these tools. It also took extensive product research to make this list happen.
First, we collected the portable air compressor options available from all of our favorite brands. Then, we split them by size and power source. Next, we compared the features and power to make sure that these models could do the trick. Finally, we compared price versus value so fellow builders and DIYers would know exactly what they were getting for the price. The result is our list of the best portable air compressors.
Our Top Picks
To help streamline the shopping process, refer to this list, which details some of the best portable air compressors on the market. Just be sure to keep the top considerations in mind (discussed below our product picks) when comparing these models.
Best Overall
Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP Big Bore Air Compressor
Makita’s MAC2400 features a twin-stacked tank design with 4.2 gallons of air volume. The motor has 2.5 horsepower and produces pressures up to 130 pounds per square inch (psi) and 4.2 cubic feet per minute (CFM) at 90 PSI. It has dual hose ports for running two tools at a time as well. The built-in roll cage provides insurance that an accidental drop or fall from a low height won’t take this compressor out of commission.
The MAC2400 isn’t oil-free, so you’ll have to keep an eye on the oil level during use. The benefit, though, is a long-lasting compressor that runs at cooler temperatures.
Product Specs
- Power source: Electric
- Tank size: 4.2 gallons
- Maximum pressure: 130 psi
Pros
- Dual hose ports allow users to run 2 tools at a time for better workflow
- Built-in roll cage can prevent damage from dropping or falling during transport
- Runs at cooler temps to improve the tool’s efficiency and longevity
Cons
- It isn’t oil-free, so it will require keeping an eye on the oil level
Get the Makita MAC2400 portable air compressor at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Best Bang for the Buck
Bostitch 6-Gallon Oil-Free Compressor
The Bostitch air compressor is worth a look for any budget-minded DIYer. This 6-gallon pancake-style air compressor has a maximum pressure of 150 psi that provides 2.6 CFM at 90 psi. It has just under 1 horsepower, which should be enough for most renovation or building projects around the house (though it might be undersized for large construction sites).
A 10-piece accessory pack includes a tire inflator chuck, blow-off gun, and inflation fittings for sports equipment. It also comes with a 50-foot rubber-and-PVC-blended hose. It weighs 29 pounds and features two hose ports to support two air tools simultaneously.
This Bostitch machine creates only 80 decibels (dB), making it relatively quiet compared to a noisier gas-powered option. It’s oil-free and maintenance-free, which means users can fire it up when they need it and forget about it when they don’t.
Product Specs
- Power source: Electric
- Tank size: 6 gallons
- Maximum pressure: 150 psi
Pros
- An affordable price point for a startup kit allows you to get started without a huge investment
- Runs at just 80dB, making it relatively quiet compared to most other compressors
- Dual hose ports for using 2 tools at once for better workflow
Cons
- Might be slightly undersized for a large jobsite, requiring it to run more often
Get the Bostitch portable air compressor at Amazon.
Best Compact
Metabo Portable 1-Gallon Oil-Free Air Compressor
If a DIYer is looking for a compact air compressor with some helpful features, this one from Metabo might be the place to start. This compressor has a 1-gallon tank and a 0.5-horsepower electric motor that creates only 59dB of sound. The Metabo has a maximum pressure of 125 psi and produces up to 0.8 CFM at 90 psi.
The built-in roll cage protects it from falls or drops while also providing a rubber-padded handle for easy carry. It has one hose port, rubber feet for vibration dampening, and weighs in at 25.2 pounds. It will take up just over 1 square foot of space in a shop,plus it’s an oil-free, no-maintenance compressor. Do keep in mind that this model might be too small for air-hungry tools.
Product Specs
- Power source: Electric
- Tank size: 1 gallon
- Maximum pressure: 125 psi
Pros
- Very quiet at just 59dB, making it one of the quietest portable air compressors
- Lightweight design weighs 25.2 pounds, so it’s easy to carry around during transportation
- Built-in roll cage to prevent damage if it’s dropped or falls from a vehicle
Cons
- It doesn’t have the air capacity to constantly run sanders, grinders, or impact guns
Get the Metabo 1-gallon portable air compressor at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Acme Tools.
Best Large-Capacity
DeWalt DXCM271 27-Gallon Portable Air Compressor
DeWalt’s DXCM271 air compressor might be the top choice for anyone searching for a high-capacity air compressor. This electric air compressor model has a 20-gallon capacity, holding plenty of air for high-volume tools, such as spray guns, impact wrenches, air-powered grinders and sanders, and more.
The DXCM271 features a 200 psi maximum pressure. When combined with the 20-gallon tank, DeWalt claims the pressure and volume allow this unit to operate a tool three times longer than a standard 30-gallon tank. The tank runs at a maximum noise level of 78dB, providing 5.1 CFM at 90 psi or 6.8 CFM at 40 psi.
This model comes with pneumatic tires as well as a handle that doubles as protection for the regulation valve, hose connection, and gauges. It also has a low-volt start, which means it’s less likely to trip a breaker when operated from an extension cord. It is larger than most of the other air compressors (52 inches tall), so it might be more difficult to move around a tight jobsite, but the vertical design makes it easy to store in a corner.
Product Specs
- Power source: Electric
- Tank size: 20 gallons
- Maximum pressure: 200 psi
Pros
- 20-gallon tank and motor combination can run tools 3 times longer than a 30-gallon tank
- Maximum noise level of 78dB is relatively quiet compared to other models
- Wheels make it portable; handle provides additional protection to the compressor and serves as hose wrap
Cons
- It’s big, so it may be difficult to move around a tight jobsite
Get the DeWalt DXCM271 portable air compressor at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Best User-Friendly
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2-Gallon Compact Quiet Compressor
Portable air compressors and user-friendliness don’t always mix, but they do when it comes to this model from Milwaukee. This M18 brushless cordless 2-gallon air compressor features a lightweight design, a quiet noise level, and is cordless. Plus, it runs on any 18-volt Milwaukee Fuel battery and noise levels as low as 68dB to prevent excessive noise on a jobsite.
This compact air compressor features a 2-gallon tank capacity and a maximum pressure of 135 psi. It has an analog gauge that is large enough for easy viewing, and several settings to automatically set the pressure to. The empty compressor (without a battery) weighs just 31.25 pounds, making it light enough to carry on the jobsite, but it also connects to the Milwaukee Packout tool boxes. While one charge should allow this compressor to drive up to 1,600 nails, users will likely need a few batteries to keep it running throughout an entire workday (and this particular model doesn’t come with one).
Product Specs
- Power source: Cordless
- Tank size: 2 gallons
- Maximum pressure: 135 psi
Pros
- Compact, lightweight design allows you to take it wherever the job needs to be done
- Creates just 68dB of noise to prevent any unnecessary noise on a jobsite
- Runs on any battery in the Milwukee 18-volt (V) Fuel battery system
Cons
- All-day work may require a few batteries to keep the compressor running
Get the Milwaukee portable air compressor at Amazonor The Home Depot.
Best for Inflation
DeWalt 20V MAX Corded/Cordless Air Inflator
While it’s not exactly an air compressor, the DeWalt 20V MAX air inflator is a great choice for pumping up tires, air mattresses, pool floats, sports equipment, and more. This model features a portable, cordless design that runs on any DeWalt 20V or 12V battery.
The DeWalt 20V MAX inflator features two air options: the standard tire inflator hose and the high-volume hose. The tire inflator hose can produce up to 160 psi, while the high-volume hose quickly fills large inflatables. It also comes with several adapters and attachments for a range of inflation needs, and a 12V power cord for running it from a vehicle power port. It has a digital gauge that users can preset as well as a built-in flashlight. It can’t run a nail gun or other air tools, but it’s a good choice for inflation.
Product Specs
- Power source: 12V or 18V cordless battery
- Tank size: None
- Maximum pressure: 160 psi
Pros
- Cordless design runs on any 20V or 12V DeWalt battery
- Features a digital gauge that users can preset to prevent overinflation
- Features 2 inflation options: standard inflation hose and a high-volume hose
Cons
- It’s not an actual compressor, so it won’t run a nail gun or other air tools
Get the DeWalt portable tire inflator at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.
Best With Wheels
California Air Tools 8010 Oil-Free Air Compressor
The California Air Tools 8010 is an 8-gallon horizontal compressor that can easily go where the work is based. It has two rubber wheels and a handle. Plus, at 48 pounds, it’s still potentially light enough for one person to lift into a truck bed or carry up a set of stairs, though it doesn’t have a roll cage for drop protection.
This air compressor has a 1-horsepower motor that creates just 60dB of noise, so using it inside a home or workshop with the doors closed shouldn’t be unbearable. It produces a maximum pressure of 120 psi and 2.2 CFM at 90 psi. California Air Tools designed the 8010 with a dual-piston pump system as well to help improve longevity and performance.
Product Specs
- Power source: Electric
- Tank size: 8 gallons
- Maximum pressure: 120 psi
Pros
- Large rubber wheels make it portable enough to roll around a workshop or jobsite
- Large tank capacity for plenty of working time but still relatively light at 48 pounds
- A powerful 1-horsepower motor allows it to build pressure faster and more efficiently
Cons
- No built-in roll cage; if it falls, there is a chance it can sustain damage
Get the California Air Tools portable air compressor at Amazon.
Best Gas-Powered
Metabo 8-Gallon Wheelbarrow Air Conditioner
If a pro or DIYer needs to take a compressor off the grid, the Metabo air compressor is a worthy contender. This 8-gallon,gas-powered model features a 5.5-horsepower Honda engine that boosts the compressor up to a max pressure of 145 psi and 9.5 CFM at 90 psi—high for a portable model. There is a locking regulator to ensure that this compressor is running efficiently to deliver what everyone on the project needs.
This compressor has two cushioned handles to make rolling it around on the large rubber wheel a bit more comfortable. Also, it features dual hose ports for running a few tools at a time. While it might be a bit heavy for one person to lift into a truck (158 pounds), its potential output might outweigh its heft.
Product Specs
- Power source: Gasoline
- Tank size: 8 gallons
- Maximum pressure: 145 psi
Pros
- Powerful, reliable Honda motor ensures it will run well and efficiently for years to come
- Runs on gasoline, so it doesn’t require electricity or an extension cord
- Large wheel and handles for rolling it around a shop or jobsite
Cons
- It weighs 158 pounds, which may make it too difficult to move around
Get the Metabo wheelbarrow-style portable air compressor at Amazon.
Best for the Car
Makita MP100DZ 12V MAX CXT Cordless Inflator
When it comes to keeping a compressor in the car, compact is the name of the game. The Makita MP100DZ cordless inflator is just that: a battery-operated model that doesn’t take up a lot of space. It can pump up to 120 psi of pressure into a car, bike, or lawn tractor tire. It’s powerful but lightweight, so there’s no need to lug a large, unwieldy compressor to the tire.
While the MP100DZ isn’t exactly a compressor (it doesn’t have a tank), it’s more than capable of filling vehicle tires. The high-visibility pressure gauge shows exactly how much air pressure is in the tire. By presetting the MP100DZ, it turns off automatically when the tire reaches the desired psi. Keep in mind that it does require a charged battery, so you’ll want to check the battery from time to time.
Product Specs
- Power source: 12V cordless battery
- Tank size: No tank
- Maximum pressure: 120 psi
Pros
- The cordless design makes it very portable, allowing users to keep it in their car
- Easy to set to the desired pressure to prevent overinflation
- Automatic shutoff turns off the compressor once the tire reaches the desired pressure
Cons
- Requires a charged battery to operate, which means users will need to ensure that their battery is charged from time to time
Get the Makita MP100DZ portable air compressor at Amazon.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Portable Air Compressor
After considering how to choose the best power source to suit the project at hand, bone up on such important considerations as power, maximum pressure, and tank volume. Understanding these aspects will help narrow down the options to find the best portable air compressor for the job, whether it’s filling a flat tire or running a nail gun.
Types of Portable Air Compressors
Before purchasing a portable air compressor, consider the power source. Portable air compressors run on either electricity or gasoline. Each power source has its pros and cons, explained below.
Electric
Electricity is the more popular power source for portable air compressors. These machines plug into standard outlets and use an electric motor to pressurize the tank. They’re usually reasonably lightweight, and electric motors require very little maintenance throughout their lifetime.
Electric portable air compressors are a solid choice for home garage workshops and renovation projects, as there is generally an electrical outlet nearby to plug into. They don’t create exhaust, so they’re suitable for indoor use without worrying about carbon monoxide poisoning.
But electric compressors do have a few shortcomings. They usually aren’t serviceable, as the cost of replacing the motor, pump, and the necessary seals will often cost as much as buying a new compressor. Also, they’re not useful on construction projects that haven’t reached the electric phase, unless the site has a heavy-duty generator to supply enough power.
For those sites without electricity, a cordless compressor may be a good choice. These compressors run on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery to fill their tanks but otherwise work the same as a standard electric compressor. However, it’s a good idea to have more than one rechargeable battery on hand.
Gas
Gas-powered portable air compressors use internal combustion engines to pressurize their air tanks. Much of their quality depends on the manufacturer of the gasoline engine, the best-known manufacturers being Honda, Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, Generac, Subaru, and Kawasaki.
Gas-powered compressors can operate virtually anywhere, as long as there’s fuel in the tank. However, they tend to be a bit heavier than electric model compressors, so they’re somewhat less portable. They also require more maintenance, as they’ll need winterizing, an occasional oil check, and fuel filter and spark plug replacements from time to time.
While gas-powered portable air compressors are fine to use on outdoor construction sites and other places without power, they cannot be run inside a closed space, as these engines produce exhaust and can run the risk of causing carbon monoxide poisoning.
Power
Air compressor motors are measured in horsepower ratings, and the machine’s power has a lot to do with its capability. While most air compressors have enough power for general needs, the more powerful the compressor, the faster it will fill its tank with air.
Horsepower can also affect how much maximum pressure a compressor can produce. Small electric motors should have at least 0.5 horsepower, while gasoline-powered options can benefit from as much as 5-horsepower engines.
Again, it’s important to consider the power source. For working primarily on renovation projects, an electric air compressor usually suffices. When taking tools on the road to remote locations, it might be worth considering a gas-powered compressor.
Maximum Pressure
Portable air compressors have varying maximum pressures, which are measured in pounds per square inch. Some might pressurize to 120 psi, while others can produce up to 150 or even as high as 180 psi. Users can adjust the pressure with the regulator, checking the pressure gauge to adjust it to the correct pressure.
Maximum pressure is important to keep in mind because some tools require more pressure to work properly. For instance, most impact wrenches won’t operate until they reach 60 psi or so. Some nail guns may also require a bit more pressure. While a nail gun may have a working range of 90 to 120 psi, driving long nails into extremely wet or dense wood might require maximum pressure. That said, as a general rule, most compressors with more than 120 psi will typically be fine for projects around the house or workshop.
Tank Volume
The volume of a compressor tank determines how much compressed air the machine can hold. It also determines how often the compressor will run, how long it will run, and what the compressor can do.
Nail guns work with short bursts of air and so require very little volume—4- or 5-gallon tanks are usually enough for DIY projects. Conversely, air power tools like impact wrenches, cutoff wheels, and pneumatic reciprocating saws use much more air, as users hold their triggers down and let them run to do their job. For this reason, they require much larger tanks, or they will have to cycle on and off more often to maintain the tank pressure. In this case, 20-gallon tanks and larger are most helpful for running air tools and filling large objects, such as lawn mowers or truck tires.
Airflow
Of all of the metrics manufacturers provide with their air compressors, airflow may be the most important. Described as CFM, this metric explains how much air the operating compressor can put out each minute while still maintaining pressure.
Essentially, a compressor needs to be able to run and maintain pressure for as long as a tool is in use. If a tool drains the pressure out of the tank, work will have to stop and wait for the tank to rebuild enough pressure to operate the tool.
While the proper CFM rating will depend on the tools the DIYer will use, most of the CFM measurements provided are at 90 psi. Look for compressors that can maintain at least 2.0 CFM at 90 psi.
Weight
To be considered portable, an air compressor must be lightweight enough to lift into the back of a truck or onto a shelf or be wheeled about with ease.
Look for an air compressor that is easy to lift (relative to the user’s strength). Generally speaking, pancake compressors—models that use round air tanks with motors atop—weigh about 30 pounds, making them a great choice for portability’s sake. Some double-tank compressors can offer more volume but weigh more than 70 pounds.
Those DIYers who are looking for a high-volume compressor but still want portability may want to check into a wheeled option. They come in both vertical and horizontal configurations and feature handles for wheeling them around.
Additional Features
Some additional features can help air compressors maintain durability or improve usefulness.
Built-in roll cages are steel or aluminum frames that protect the compressor. They’re especially helpful in scenarios where a portable compressor could fall from a truck tailgate.
Oil-cooled air compressors use oil to lubricate the compressor pump. This helps them stay cool, extending their lifespan. These models may include low-oil sensors that shut the machine down if there isn’t enough oil, which helps prevent the machine from running dry and overheating—two situations that could kill a compressor before its time.
Other additional features include easily operated petcock drain valves that allow for draining a compressor’s water buildup easily, quick-connect adapters, and thermal overload protection.
Accessories
Occasionally, an air compressor might come with an accessory kit. This kit can be a great start for DIYers who don’t already have a myriad of air tools and fittings in their shop. These kits often come with tire inflators, quick-connect fittings, and blow-off chucks.
It’s sometimes possible to get a kit with a length of air hose or a set of nail guns. There are sets on the market that include the tools and fittings necessary to get up and running, significantly decreasing the amount of shopping you would have to do otherwise.
If an air compressor doesn’t come with a set of accessories, DIYers can purchase a separate accessory pack that includes the basic tools necessary to set up the air compressor (available here). Adding a separate tire gauge is also a wise idea, just to double-check the pressure once the tire is full.
FAQs
If a portable air compressor seems like it might be a big help for certain projects, but you still want more info, consider the answers to some commonly asked questions below. For additional questions or concerns, reach out to the air compressor’s customer service number.
Q. How does a portable air compressor work?
Portable air compressors use a motor to operate a piston. The piston draws outside air into a chamber and then stuffs it into a tank. It continues doing so until the pressure builds up enough to operate tools and inflate tires.
Q. How do you set up a portable air compressor?
Most portable air compressors come set up out of the box. If one doesn’t, the most setup that could be necessary is to install a quick-connect on your hose port.
Q. How do you use a portable air compressor?
For electric compressors, simply plug it into an electrical outlet and flip the power switch on. Once the compressor builds up pressure, you can adjust the outlet psi with a built-in pressure regulator to match the tool’s requirements.
For gasoline-powered compressors, fill the fuel tank and check that the engine has oil in it. Flip the power switch to the on position and pull the pull-start cord until it starts.
Q. Why do portable air compressors come in various shapes?
The different shapes of compressors aren’t a functional design concern, so manufacturers can get creative with their designs. Sometimes separating the tank into two smaller tanks allows the compressor to have a lower center of gravity to aid in portability.
Other times, the designs simply take up less space. For example, a horizontal compressor can fit under a workbench, while a vertical compressor fits better in a corner.
Q. How much air pressure do you need in a portable air compressor?
This depends on the task. Bike tires and sports balls don’t require much pressure at all. On the other hand, pneumatic tools usually require 90 psi or more to operate effectively. If inflating something, look for the maximum pressure written on the item near the inflation valve.
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