Air Compressors

9 Best Portable Air Compressor

Portability is a serious consideration for anyone who needs to operate air tools beyond the garage.

While the majority of mechanics need an air compressor within the boundaries of their garage, some of you may need a portable air compressor to power your air tool on the field outside the garage or somewhere on the road to inflate a flat tire.

Your selection of the best portable air compressor depends upon your intention of use. Today the market is so saturated with portable air compressors that it is difficult to select the right one of your choice.

Portable air compressors should not only be portable in their design but they should also be efficient enough with the best performance in the field without interruption.

Each portable air compressor is rated for a specific task some are perfect in inflating tires while others are suitable for powering small tools. You will also look at whether a portable air compressor is AC power operated or could only rely on a car battery.

The size and weight of an air compressor are key points of consideration for a portable air compressor whereas efficiency and durability mark a line of differentiation between high and low-quality portable air compressors.

Review our guide on branded air compressors here.

If interested in tank sizes for large companies, this 60 gallon is the best option to avail.

Comparison Table | 2022 Reviews of Editor’s Choice

Preview
Editor's Choice
CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor, 6 Gallon, Pancake, Oil-Free with 13 Piece...
PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor, 6-Gallon, Pancake, Oil-Free (C2002)
Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP* Big Bore™ Air Compressor
Model
CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor, 6 Gallon, Pancake, Oil-Free with 13 Piece...
PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor, 6-Gallon, Pancake, Oil-Free (C2002)
Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP* Big Bore™ Air Compressor
Type
Oil-Free
Oil-free
Oil lubricated
Capacity
6-Gallon
6-Gallon
4.2 gallon twin stacked tank
PSI measurement
150 Max PSI
150 Max PSI
130 PSI
Editor's Choice
Preview
CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor, 6 Gallon, Pancake, Oil-Free with 13 Piece...
Model
CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor, 6 Gallon, Pancake, Oil-Free with 13 Piece...
Type
Oil-Free
Capacity
6-Gallon
PSI measurement
150 Max PSI
Preview
PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor, 6-Gallon, Pancake, Oil-Free (C2002)
Model
PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor, 6-Gallon, Pancake, Oil-Free (C2002)
Type
Oil-free
Capacity
6-Gallon
PSI measurement
150 Max PSI
Preview
Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP* Big Bore™ Air Compressor
Model
Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP* Big Bore™ Air Compressor
Type
Oil lubricated
Capacity
4.2 gallon twin stacked tank
PSI measurement
130 PSI

9 Best Portable Air Compressors of 2022 | Review Guide

1. CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor  | Best portable air compressor for construction

Sale
CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor, 6 Gallon, Pancake, Oil-Free with 13 Piece...
18,025 Reviews
CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor, 6 Gallon, Pancake, Oil-Free with 13 Piece...
  • The portable air compressor is proudly made in the USA with Global Materials in Jackson, Tennessee
  • PORTABLE: 6 gallon capacity maximizes portability and stored air for CRAFTSMAN air compressor
  • NO MAINTENANCE: Durable, oil-free pump of the 6 gallon air compressor is made for long-life and no maintenance
  • PRESSURE: 150 Max PSI to ensure adequate cut-inch pressure for a variety of applications
  • QUICK RECOVERY TIME: 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI allows for quick compressor recovery time

Craftsman is one of the well-known industry for its good products. This air compressor by a craftsman is a pancake-style portable air compressor.

Its 6-gallon air capacity little tank has vast pressure of 150 psi, which is ideal for inflation and almost other air tools. It has a quick compressor recovery time.

The oil-free pump feature enhances its durability and has no maintenance at all.

This craftsman 1.2-gallon oilless air compressor is powered by 120v can be plugged into any household circuit. It can start in cold weather conditions.

It is very easy to use, pressure gauges and plugs are accessible.

They offer three items kit with a little bit of price variation, first one is 13 pieces accessory kit which includes a tire chuck with plug, blow gun with plug, tire gauge, blow gun with OSHA safety nozzle, rubber tip, three inflator adaptors, 25′ X 1/4inches Pvc air hose with coupler and plug assembled, second one bead nailer and last one is hand tool set.

This 6-gallon air compressor has a one year warranty.

Pros
  • Portable with just 32 lb weight
  • Oil-free pump
  • No maintenance required
  • Maximum 150 psi
  • Quick recovery time
  • Starts in cold weather
Cons
  •  Little bit loud while working inside the shop

2. PORTER-CABLE C2002 | Best portable air compressor for home garage

PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor, 6-Gallon, Pancake, Oil-Free (C2002)
  • 150 psi max tank pressure of the portable air compressor allows more air in the tank for longer tool runtimes
  • 2.6 SCFM @ 90 psi of the electric air compressor allows for quick compressor recovery time, per ISO1217
  • 6 gal Pancake style tank of the PORTER-CABLE air compressor is made for stability, includes water drain valve and rubber feet
  • Low Amp 120V motor of the 6 gallon air compressor starts easily in cold weather or with extension cord
  • Durable oil-free pump for long life and no maintenance

This is also one of the most portable units with just 31 lb of weight. The pancake-style 6-gallon capacity air tank can store more air in a small pack. The drain valve and rubber pads make it more stable while performing.

It has a maximum pressure of 150 psi which is good enough to run a variety of air tools exceptionally well and produces 2.6 scfm at 90 psi to allow quick compressor recovery time as iso 1217.

It is powered by 120 v and starts easily in lower temperature conditions. It has built-in automatic thermally protection. The pressure control gauges and twin regulated company installed coupler make it functional for more than one user. The oil-free pump has no maintenance issues. You can paint well with the selection of air compressors that are specially designed for commercial use.

Its main components are well protected by its console covering and its shroud handle makes it easy to move inside or outside the job site.

They also offer an accessory kit with minor price variation. This product has also a limited warranty of one year.

Pros
  • Highly portable
  • Maximum 150 psi
  • Oil-free pump
  • Quick recovery time
  • Thermally protected
Cons
  • Little bit noisy

3. Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 | Best HP Air Compressor

Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP* Big Bore™ Air Compressor
1,214 Reviews
Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP* Big Bore™ Air Compressor
  • Cast iron pump with Big Bore cylinder and piston is engineered to provide faster recovery time for improved performance
  • Powerful 2.5 HP 4-Pole motor produces 4.2 CFM at 90 PSI for increased productivity and lower noise
  • Roll-cage construction provides complete protection to withstand extreme jobsite environments
  • Low AMP draw reduces incidences of tripped breakers at start-up
  • Pump is oil-lubricated for cooler running temperatures and reduced wear

This big bore 2.5 hp air compressor is engineered for heavy-duty jobs but is still highly portable because of its compacted structure.

The reason for calling it big bore is that it has bigger heavy-duty cast iron cylinders for better performance, a larger diameter piston for improved cfm and faster recovery time, and it also runs slower for better operation, the heavy-duty oil-lubricated cast iron pump for reduced fraction and cooler running in different temperature.

It has a maximum of 130 psi pressure which enough for running different air devices and it also supports dual users at a time.

This unit is powered by 120v and is fully protected from electricity fluctuation damage. Its maintenance is very easy due to its best feature like a drain valve, oil sight glass, and oil drain valve. The thin discharge tubing increases more heat protection.

It has a low noise of 79 DB as compared to other same compressors. The roll handle makes this 4.6 twin stacked tank unit transportable around the workplace.

Pros
  • Heavy duty
  • 2.5 hp
  • Maximum 130 psi
  • Low noise as compared to the same units
  • Easy to operate
Cons
  • 81 lb weight is a little bit high for being portable

4. VacLife Air Compressor  | Best Portable Air Compressors For Construction

Sale
VacLife Tire Inflator Portable Air Compressor - Air Pump for Car Tires (up...
31,667 Reviews
VacLife Tire Inflator Portable Air Compressor - Air Pump for Car Tires (up...
  • [FAST INFLATING & EASY OPERATION] This auto tire air compressor can inflate your standard car tires in seconds. Plug it into the 12V power outlet in your car and attach the stem to the tire valve. A simple press on the car air compressor and it will do all the work for you. A great solution for emergency on the way.
  • [AUTO SHUT OFF] Simplicity meets functionality. VacLife car air pump provides you with rest-assured using experience based on the auto-shut off function. Preset the desired pressure level and start inflating job. The car air compressor will shut off automatically at the desired level. There is no need to worry about over inflating, VacLife smart inflator for tires got your back.
  • [LED LIGHTING FOR NIGHT TIME] To be a proper solution for night time inflating job, the electric air pump comes with a LED-lighting feature to support your inflating needs in low-light environment. Coupled with the 9.8ft power cord, both of the front and the rear tires will be fully taken care of with less efforts as it eliminates the unnecessary hassles of unplugging the appliance every time you switch from a tire to the other.
  • [MULTIPURPOSE NOZZLES] VacLife tire pump is equipped with 3 additional nozzles besides the original. A wider applying range to cover various needs for inflatables such as vehicle tires and sports or entertainment equipment including compact or midsize Sedan, SUV, ATV, bike, motorcycles, air mattress, inflatable boats, balls.
  • [NOTES] Please be aware that this tire inflator is not applicable for any large vehicles with TIRE PRESSURE > 50 PSI and TIRE WIDTH > 245 MM such as truck, vans and off-road vehicles. If a converter is needed, it's recommended to use converter in accordance with 120 W, 10 A specification for safety.If the air pump has been running for 10 minutes, you need to let the machine rest for 10 minutes before using it.

This is the tiny air compressor weighing only 24 lb, best for your long drive tour by car. This unit is powered by12v, just plug it into your car outlet and it will fill the tire in no time.

This little buddy has an automatic switch-off feature, adjust your desired pressure to inflate it will stop upon reaching the desired pressure, so you have not to worry about over inflation.

This unit has also led light which can use during night time and a 13ft long power cable to help you inflating without moving the unit from place to place.

It contains 4 additional nozzles for different inflation plugs and sports equipment, inflatable boats and inflatable mattresses, etc. This compressor is highly portable, very easy to use, and very handy to have in your car or home.

The company offers a full refunding of your money and replacement for life under its normal use. You can also contact them if facing any trouble. If you need some more air compressors for construction work, Review our Guide 2022 here.

Pros
  • Highly portable
  • 12v
  • Very easy to use
  • Automatic switch-off feature upon inflation
  • 4 nozzles for different equipment inflation
Cons
  • Noisy

5. DEWALT DCC020IB Inflator (Bare) | Portable Air Compressors 2022

DEWALT 20V MAX Tire Inflator, Compact and Portable, Automatic Shut Off, LED...
8,642 Reviews
DEWALT 20V MAX Tire Inflator, Compact and Portable, Automatic Shut Off, LED...
  • Air compressor tire inflator comes with high-pressure inflation mode with automatic shutoff
  • Digital tire inflator has high-volume inflation and deflation modes
  • LED light of the portable tire inflator for car helps to provide illumination
  • Three power sources for inflation on a jobsite and on the go (e.g. 20V MAX battery, 12V DC, or 110V AC)
  • Convenient onboard accessory storage

This is one of the mini air compressors with a maximum of 160 psi pressure. This unit is highly portable having only 2.94 lb weight. This device can be powered by three different desired powers, maximum 20v battery, 12v DC, or 110v AC power.

This unit has a digital gauge setting for desired pressure once obtained it will shut off automatically. The led light feature helps you to operate it at night or even in emergency situations.

It can inflate many things other than just inflating tires like soccer balls, basketballs, mattresses, and boats, etc and it has also the feature of deflation if required.

The rubber paddings make it stable while operating.

Pros
  • High pressure of 160 psi
  • Highly portable
  • Easy to use
  • Automatic pressure adjustment gauge
Cons
  • Expensive as compared to other same units.

6. HAUSBELL Portable Air Compressor | Best Air compressors For Inflating tires of car and motorcycles

Sale
HAUSBELL Portable Air Compressor for Car Tires 2023 Upgraded Model,...
8,746 Reviews
HAUSBELL Portable Air Compressor for Car Tires 2023 Upgraded Model,...
  • 【2023 Model】Never worry about finding an inflator that can handle 4 tires with 2023 HAUSBELL air compressor inflator. Compact to fit in any vehicle. The US patented air pump for car tires is designed to handle up to 4 tires at a time and is capable of being continuously inflated for up to an hour. With its powerful brushless motor, you can trust that your tires will be well taken care of with this tire inflator. Get your portable tire inflator today and never worry about low tires pressure!
  • 【New Upgrade of Core Components】:1.High speed motor with thicker copper wire. 2.Universal cylinder upgraded to high-strength metal pressurized cylinder. 3.99.9% high purity T3 copper radiator to improve heat dissipation. 4.The new intelligent AI control chip has been updated to improve the preset air pressure and automatic shutdown functions.
  • 【POWERFUL DESIGN】: Compared with other brands of inflators that can only charge 1 tire at a time, the HAUSBELL air pump can continuously charge 4 tires.Faster than you ever thought, our 12V DC air compressor has a 120W high power engine that delivers a super-fast inflation rate of 35L/min.
  • 【CONVENIENT TO USE】: With the precise and bright digital tire pressure gauge display, you can make one-click adjustments between PSI, kPa, BAR, or KG/CM². Furthermore, the tire pump will shut off automatically when it reaches the desired tire pressure , so it is safe to use and won't overheat. In addition, this air pump can also inflate bicycles, motorcycles, swimming rings, basketballs, and footballs. ATTENTION: NOT for TRUCK TIRES
  • 【ERGONOMIC DESIGN】: Take the HAUSBELL 12V DC Tire Inflator to the trailhead, the campsite, or a roadside emergency with the comfort of knowing your tires will be ready to roll. Equipped with a high-definition, bright LED flashlight, you can be sure that it will always work regardless of the conditions, as it is sturdy and unbreakable and provides immediate visibility and safety on the road!

This is the smallest rabbit-style compact air compressor. This tiny unit has a maximum of 150 psi air pressure which can inflate car tires, balls, mattresses, boats, and many more things very comfortably.

It can be plugged from the cigarette lighter socket and the 9.8 ft long cord with 1.9 air hose can be used easily for all tires from front to rear.

The digital pressure gauge display allows you to set the desired pressure, and the overheat protection feature allows it to shut off automatically upon overloading.

It has a built-in flashlight to help you at night and even in emergency saturation.

Overall it is very durable and long-lasting. The high-quality pure cooper motor improves its performance and saves energy as well.

This compressor has only 2.14 lb of weight and the handle makes you carry it anywhere you want.

If you are facing any difficulty using it you can ask questions directly through the helpline.

Pros
  • Smallest
  • Cheap
  • Durable
  • Portable
  • Maximum of 150 psi
Cons
  • Good for inflation only

7.DEWALT Pancake | Best Portable Air Compressor For Construction

Sale
HAUSBELL Portable Air Compressor for Car Tires 2023 Upgraded Model,...
8,746 Reviews
HAUSBELL Portable Air Compressor for Car Tires 2023 Upgraded Model,...
  • 【2023 Model】Never worry about finding an inflator that can handle 4 tires with 2023 HAUSBELL air compressor inflator. Compact to fit in any vehicle. The US patented air pump for car tires is designed to handle up to 4 tires at a time and is capable of being continuously inflated for up to an hour. With its powerful brushless motor, you can trust that your tires will be well taken care of with this tire inflator. Get your portable tire inflator today and never worry about low tires pressure!
  • 【New Upgrade of Core Components】:1.High speed motor with thicker copper wire. 2.Universal cylinder upgraded to high-strength metal pressurized cylinder. 3.99.9% high purity T3 copper radiator to improve heat dissipation. 4.The new intelligent AI control chip has been updated to improve the preset air pressure and automatic shutdown functions.
  • 【POWERFUL DESIGN】: Compared with other brands of inflators that can only charge 1 tire at a time, the HAUSBELL air pump can continuously charge 4 tires.Faster than you ever thought, our 12V DC air compressor has a 120W high power engine that delivers a super-fast inflation rate of 35L/min.
  • 【CONVENIENT TO USE】: With the precise and bright digital tire pressure gauge display, you can make one-click adjustments between PSI, kPa, BAR, or KG/CM². Furthermore, the tire pump will shut off automatically when it reaches the desired tire pressure , so it is safe to use and won't overheat. In addition, this air pump can also inflate bicycles, motorcycles, swimming rings, basketballs, and footballs. ATTENTION: NOT for TRUCK TIRES
  • 【ERGONOMIC DESIGN】: Take the HAUSBELL 12V DC Tire Inflator to the trailhead, the campsite, or a roadside emergency with the comfort of knowing your tires will be ready to roll. Equipped with a high-definition, bright LED flashlight, you can be sure that it will always work regardless of the conditions, as it is sturdy and unbreakable and provides immediate visibility and safety on the road!

This pancake-style air compressor is a perfect choice for both Dewalt and pancake style lovers. Beyond its excellent features, it has also got a reasonable price.

The best features include a very high-efficiency motor which leaves you tensionless in almost all types of weather conditions, cold or extreme cold.

This little fellow has a maximum of 165 psi air pressure and has 2.6 scfm delivery at 90 psi with just having a nice 6-gallon air storage capacity tank.

The body structure is designed for long-last use, console covers protect its essential parts from being damaged and are also removable to allow handy repair work even if needed.

Its high flow regulator ensures fast and increased performance while universal standard dual-couplers support two users at once to save work time.

Oil-free pumps require no maintenance and the ball drain tank valve improves its tank life.

This unit has only 30 lb weight which puts it in the list of portable air compressors. The sound is also bearable only 75 DB. So this unit is best for all types of small projects.

Note: The air compressor should be located at least 12 inches away from the wall or other obstructions that will interfere with the flow of air.

Pros
  • 165 maximum psi
  • Oil-free
  • Cheap
  • Portable
Cons
  • Vibrates too much

8.Breezz Air Compressor | Best 12V Portable Air Compressor

Breezz Air Compressor, 12V DC Portable Auto Tire Pump with Digital Display...
2,769 Reviews
Breezz Air Compressor, 12V DC Portable Auto Tire Pump with Digital Display...
  • 【STRONG POWER & FAST INFLATION】: Up to 150 PSI, Inflate the 195/65R15 car tire from 0 to 35psi under 4min. It makes inflating tires in emergency easier and more convenient. We use durable ABS plastic and stainless steel in portable air compressor pump. This allow you to use the digital tire inflator for a long time.
  • 【AUTO SHUT OFF】: Simple and useful technology in the car air pump. Preset your desired pressure value, When the tire inflator reaches the desired pressure, the car air compressor will automatically turn off. So you don’t have to worry about over inflating or low tire pressure anymore. Convoy your safety all the way.
  • 【DIGITAL DISPLAY & LED LIGHTING】: The portable air compressor equipped with a large high-precision and bright display that will help you to calculate the required values PSI, BAR, KPA, KG/CM². BREEZZ digital tire inflator is equipped with bright and long-lasting LED lights, easy to use even in the dark, so you can see clearly while you're reinflating your tire at night or making quick repairs on a dark lonely country road.
  • 【MULTI-PURPOSE】: The tire pump’s 10ft long power cord allows to reach all tires of your car, bike, motor, ATV, compact or midsize Sedan SUV, etc (NOT SUPPORT big Truck or Motor Lorry.) Also, sports equipment and inflatables adaptors included, makes it perfect for air mattress, inflatable boats, balls and other inflatables.
  • 【SPACE-SAVING & 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE 】: Portable tire inflator with compact design makes it easy to lift, keep this hand-size air compressor in your automobile, easy to carry around, use it anytime you need. It's much easier to use than the tire pumps at a gas station and you aren't stuck waiting in line or scrounging for spare change. Meanwhile, any problems, please feel free to contact us. We will do our best to help you. GET 100% SATISFACTION.

Long drive and exploring nature is a good hobby, right and simple stuff can protect you from lots of hurdles while running on a long journey. The tiny tire inflator in your vehicle can be very handy around the trip.

This portable tire inflator has very nice features and is also under budget. Let’s explore some of its features.

This small air compressor has a maximum of 150 psi air pressure. It can inflate the 195/65 R15 car tire from 0 to 35 psi in just four mint time, don’t worry about inflation just set the desired pressure and it will shut off automatically after reaching the limit.

The large digital display allows you to set required values psi, Bar, kpa, and kg/cm. The small unit is also equipped with high power led light that allows its user to use it in dark.

This inflator can not only inflate tires but also inflates bikes, mattresses, balls, and boats. Its 10ft long cord reaches to all front and back tire no need to dragging it around.

It is powered by 12v dc just plug it into a car socket and start using it. This unit is highly portable and consumes very little space.

Note:  Once you set the pressure just make sure you don’t run it for more than ten minutes this pump needs to cool down after so many minutes or you will burn it up.

Pros
  • Light-weight
  • Portable
  • Very cheap
  • Durable
Cons
  • Not support big trucks and lorries

9.Viair 40047 400P-RV Automatic Portable Compressor Kit | Automatic Air Compressor Kit

Viair 400P - 40047 RV Automatic Portable Compressor Kit, Tire Pump,...
2,250 Reviews
Viair 400P - 40047 RV Automatic Portable Compressor Kit, Tire Pump,...
  • Thermal Overload Protector
  • Automatic Shut-Off Function
  • Primary & Extension Air Hoses
  • Vibration-Resistant Diamond-Plate Sand Tray
  • Heat Shielded Quick Connect Coupling

This small and portable air compressor is one the best inflators, has a maximum of 150 psi air pressure. It can inflate 35-inch tires to 30 PSI in less than 5 minutes.

It can also handle tire sizes up to 275/80/22.5  to a max of 150 PSI with ease. Automatic shutoff becomes possibly the most important factor while moving from tire to tire, and when checking tire pressure in a tire fill. While most convenient inflators should be turned off between tire fills and checking tire pressure, this unit just works while the trigger on the inflation gun is pulled. This will absolutely save you much required time, causing the general cycle of filling your tires to appear to be easy.

This small unit needs only 12 v power, so you can just put it in the vehicle socket and it will start working. It can operate at least 40 minutes continuously so that you can inflate more than one object at a time.

Besides all these nice-looking features it has a carry bag, inflation gun with pressure gauge, 30-foot hose, 30-foot hose extension, sand tray, set of dual battery clamps, 8-foot power cable, inflation tips kit, and fuse holder.

Pros
  • Light-weight
  • heavy-duty
  • Portable
  • Durable
Cons
  • Little bit expensive

Types of Portable Air Compressor

The major point of differentiation between the portable air compressors available in the market is whether they have a tank or not. If they are not equipped with a tank, then these are specially manufactured for tire inflation and deflation.

Tank Air Compressor 

These air compressors are more of a pancake style which typically resembles a garage air compressor. It provides a large amount of compressed air as compared to an air compressor without a tank.

Having an air compressor with a tank means that it has a higher capacity of holding compressed air up to a level of 6 gallons of specific volume.

This is extremely crucial if you are operating your pneumatic tools such as air drills that require a continuous supply of compressed air that a tankless or smaller air compressor cannot manage up to the mark.

However, these air compressors are slightly bulky which renders them a little bit difficult to be moved from one location to another thus affecting their portability.

Tankless Air Compressor

Tankless air compressors have shed a tremendous amount of bulk and weight perfectly enabled for easy movement from place to place. So if portability is your choice in product, then this air compressor fulfills your eligibility criteria.

However, a tankless air compressor cannot take the challenge of delivering sufficient amounts of compressed air to your tool.

This type of air compressor is suitable where a small burst of air is required such as inflation of tire and nailing and framing guns. Large pneumatic tools cannot be operated smoothly using tankless air compressors.

Power Sources of Portable Air Compressor

The portability of an air compressor is directly dependent upon the type of power source it is consuming.

Operating a portable air compressor with AC power could bother you to carry the generator as well as an air compressor to the work field that comes out very bulky and difficult.

Most portable air compressors function on AC power, extension wire from inside your home, or through a connection with a generator.

On the contrary, battery-operated air compressors are a level less efficient than AC power operated air compressors. They have limited delivery of power and compressed air to your pneumatic tool with a fear of running out sometimes.

However, they are rated at a higher degree for their portability as they don’t require a generator to run them in the work field.

At times of inflation and deflation in car tires, these air compressors can be directly plugged into the outlet of car batteries thus strengthening from DC power.

 Benefits of Portable Air Compressor | 2022 Reviews

Stationary air compressors can serve your purpose the same way as portable air compressors. However, there are some aspects in which the portable ones excel the stationary to provide additional benefits. Some of those aspects are worth mentioning.

1. Portability

This is the top tier and elite advantage of a portable air compressor. The operator is no more confined to the location of an air compressor. The portable unit can be moved easily from one site to another for purposeful applications.

These air compressors are therefore rated with outstanding efficiency for a large number of industrial tools. They are easily carried from one location to another as compared to those with heavy stationary design.

2. Compact Size

The portable air compressors are available in various sizes in the market. Most of these portable units are light in weight and small in size in contrast to standard stationary air compressors. Due to their size and weight, they can easily be adjusted within a limited space such as the corner of a garage or a workshop.

3. Low Level of Noise

Portable air compressors are way quiet when it comes to noise production as compared to loud stationary units. Due to high levels of noise production, stationary air compressors are not usually favored for indoor uses. Instead, portable air compressors are the most demanded due to minimum noise production both indoors as well as for commercial use.

Buying Guide For the Best Portable Air Compressor of 2022

Selecting the best portable air compressor while not having adequate information about the desired product can be unsettling and confusing.

Here we provide you with a detailed structure of all important aspects you can look for in your portable air compressor.

1. PSI and CFM

These are the important metrics for measuring the efficiency of any air compressor.

Pressure per square inch PSI gives you the measure of pressurized air whereas cubic feet per minute CFM measures the output of power.

It is crucial to know the values of CFM and PSI since the ill-matching of these values to your pneumatic tools can destroy both. Selecting an air compressor with a high value of PSI can be beneficial for a large variety of purposes.

Usually, the value of CFM of any portable air compressor is taken with reference to 90 PSI.

Any tool that requires short bursts of air such as inflating tires and nailing and framing guns need 2 CFM at 90 PSI.

For high power tools such as ratcheting and air drills, air at 2.5 CFM flow rate is required to operate without interruption. 

2. Motor of Portable Air Compressor

Another vital consideration in judging the performance of a portable air compressor is the motor.

Most pancake-style large portable air compressors utilize a powerful 120V motor that can even function without influence in extreme cold conditions and has the ability to compress large volumes of air in a limited period of time.

For small bursts of air such as tire inflation, smaller size motors can work efficiently with the caution of how much time it will take to inflate tires without running short of power.

3. Power Draw

Portable air compressors utilize 12-volt power sockets of your vehicle for their function.

This means that your car battery can be sufficient for powering portable air compressors to inflate and deflate tires.

The optimal range of power of a portable air compressor is 120 Watts to 150 Watts.

4. Size of a Portable Air Compressor

As the name suggests, portable air compressors are specially designed for easy movement from one site to another. This intends to make portable air compressors small in size and light in weight to make them ideal for on the go purpose.

The smaller and compact your portable air compressor, the more it will be convenient for you to fit it in the trunk of your vehicle and take it on the worksite.

5. Cord Length 

You need to connect a portable air compressor with a 12-volt power socket of your car, it requires a cord length that reaches all the four tires. In short, the cord should be long enough for ease of use. Some of the portable air compressors have 10 feet long power cord, others may be available in a longer length of 15 feet power cord.

15 feet power cord length is more in practice as it can be used over an extensive range of purposes without any trouble.

6. Warranty and Durability 

A wise selection of portable air compressor is a significant investment that gives you the product with no fear of wear and tear.

Air compressors that have metal parts in their making such as tank, fitting, and regulators are at a lower risk of getting damaged, thus giving you a long life out of a portable air compressor.

Do consider the rubber feet and powerful handles of a portable air compressor as they are the only means of movement whenever you carry it by hand.

Before investment on any portable air compressor, make sure that the manufacturers claim at least a 1.5 years warranty with a policy of return and exchange of any torn or damaged part within the mentioned time.

Conclusion

A portable air compressor is a prime investment for your indoor as well as outdoor purposes. They are light in weight, small in size, and produce negligible noise pollution. They are highly rated for inflating flat tires ensuring the best performance from your car.

Depending upon your budget, the smaller portable unit can be used for low air burst activities like an inflation of tires and nailing and framing. A mid-priced air compressor can offer you a powerful unit with multiple features assisting your high power pneumatic tools or an industrial spec for a costly price tag.

Related posts:

Review our more Posts:

Is Makita a good Brand

Impact driver vs impact wrench

Milwaukee vs Dewalt

Milwaukee m18 fuel compact cordless air compressor

Ryobi vs Dewalt

Types of drills know what drill to use when

Who makes the best tools

Brushed VS Brushless motors Reviews

Join The Discussion