If you’re in the market for a home air compressor, you’ll want to read this review guide by Consumer Reports. We’ll cover the top models on the market, their features, and what to look for when shopping. You’ll also find out which models scored the highest in our tests.
When shopping for a home air compressor, the most important thing to consider is what you’ll be using it for. If you’re only going to be inflating tires or running air tools occasionally, you can get by with a less powerful and less expensive model. But if you’re planning to use your air compressor on a regular basis, you’ll need a more powerful one that can handle the demand.
The next thing to consider is the size of the tank. A larger tank will allow you to run your air compressor for longer periods of time without having to stop and start it as often. If you’re only going to be using it for short bursts, though, a smaller tank will suffice.
Another important consideration is the noise level. Some air compressors can be quite loud, so if you’re going to be using it in a garage or workshop, you’ll want to make sure it’s not going to be too disruptive.
Finally, you’ll want to think about the warranty. Most air compressors come with a one-year warranty, but some models have longer warranties. If you’re planning to use your air compressor heavily, you’ll want to make sure it’s covered in case of any problems.
Now that you know what to look for, let’s take a look at some of the top home air compressors on the market.
The first model we’ll look at is the Porter-Cable C2002-WK. This air compressor has a six-gallon tank and a maximum pressure of 150 PSI. It’s also relatively quiet, with a noise level of only 80 decibels.
The C2002-WK scored well in our tests, inflating tires quickly and easily. It also has a long warranty, with a two-year limited warranty and a one-year free service contract.
If you’re looking for a more powerful air compressor, the Dewalt DWFP55126 is a good option. It has a six-gallon tank and a maximum pressure of 165 PSI. It’s also relatively quiet, with a noise level of only 78
Home Air Compressors Comparison Table
Best Home Air Compressors Reviews By Consumer Reports March 2023
Below is the list of top Home Air Compressors with a detailed guide that you can consider in your purchase:
CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor, 6 Gallon, Pancake, Oil-Free with 13 Piece Accessory Kit (CMEC6150K)
7 used from $133.51
Features
- 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
DEWALT DXCM271.COM 27 Gal. 200 PSI Portable Air Compressor
Features
- 5.1 SCFM at 90 PSI provides faster recovery times resulting in increased project efficiency
- 6.8 SCFM at 40 PSI provides the ability to operate a HVLP spray gun
- 78 dBA brings less noise to your work environment and is 30% more quiet than similar oil free induction products
- Low volt easy start motor will operate with extension cords of at least 12 gal. and 50 ft. or less
- High flow regulator and couplers provide max air flow to your tool to operate at their peak performance
California Air Tools 8010 Steel Tank Air Compressor | Ultra Quiet, Oil-Free, 1.0 hp, 8 gal
4 used from $224.59
Features
- Comes complete with Wheel Kit & Air Filter | No hose included | Consider you will need a ¼” Universal / Industrial Male Quick Connector to attach your hose to the air compressor
- Product dimensions – 26" L x 14" W x 23” H | Max Pressure – 120 PSI | Voltage – 110V / 60 Hz | Min running watts – 2500 | Noise level – 60 dBA | Max Continuous run time – 30-60 min (depending on PSI & CFM) | Low Amp Draw – 8.5 Amps
- Oil-Free Pump for Less Maintenance & Costs | Powerful 1.0 HP (Rated / Running) 2.0 HP (Peak) Motor
- The large 8.0 Gallon Steel Air Tank is Lightweight (48 lbs) and the wheel kit makes it very easy to transport
- The Oil-Free pump allows for use in a variety of temperatures and uneven terrains | This air compressor is ideal for anyone working inside where noise is a major issue
Campbell Hausfeld Air Compressor, 20-Gallon Horizontal Portable Single-Stage 5.5CFM 2HP 120/240V 1PH (VT6290)
Features
- Dual Voltage Motor allows unit to be run at the normal household 120V for the everyday DIY customer or 240V for the business, contractor or serious DIY customer
- Quiet operation as well as safe operation through the fully enclosed metal belt guard. Additionally, pneumatic wheels make movement easy from one job to the next. Finish your projects faster and easier with Campbell Hausfeld - The Air Power Expert.
- Heavy Duty Cast Iron, Oil-Lubricated, Two Cylinder Single Stage Pump, 20 Gallon Portable Tank, 5.5 CFM @ 90 PSI, 120/240 Volt, 15/7.5 Amps, 1PH, 60 Hz Electrical
- Heavy duty CAST IRON oil lubricated twin cylinder pump
- Powers a variety of air tools for the serious do it yourselfer or contractor
California Air Tools 10020C Ultra Quiet Oil-Free and Powerful Air Compressor, 2 HP
$438.99 in stock
1 used from $448.00
Features
- Ultra Quiet, only 70 Decibels
- Oil-Free Pump for Less Maintenance & Costs
- Powerful 2.0 Hp with Low amp draw - 7.0 Amps
- 6.40 CFM at 40 PSI & 5.30 CFM at 90 PSI. Dedicated 15 amp outlet -14 gauge 25ft cord - Min. 5500 Watt Generator. Maximum continuous running 30-60 min. (Depending PSI & CFM)
- 10 Gallon Air Tank with Wheels.125 PSI maximum pressure
Air Compressor, 30-Gallon Horizontal Tank, Portable, Single-Stage, 10.2CFM, 3.7HP, 1 Phase (Campbell Hausfeld VT6271)
Features
- Heavy duty cast iron oil lubricated twin cylinder pump. Delivers 10. 2 CFM at 90 PSI and a max PSI of 135
- Product life of up to 5000 hours based on b-10 bearing rating for high-level durability. Durable and safe ASME code tank for greater air storage
- Start your projects right away; bundle this unit with a Campbell 25 ft. Air Hose (PA117701AV), 17 Piece Accessory Kit (MP284701AV), and the 3-in-1 inflation gun, chuck and gauge (MP600000AV)
- Finish your projects faster and easier with Campbell Hausfeld. The Air Power Expert
California Air Tools 10010LFDC Ultra Quiet & Oil-Free Industrial 1 hp Steel Tank Air Compressor with Drying System, 10 gallon
Features
- Ultra Quiet only 60 Decibels
- Oil-Free Pump for Less maintenance & Costs
- 10.0 Gallon Steel Tank
- Air Dyer & After cooler for dry air delivery
- 3.00 CFM at 90 PSI
DEWALT Pancake Air Compressor, 6 Gallon, 165 PSI (DWFP55126)
4 used from $141.41
Features
- 165 max PSI 6.0 gallon tank (22.7 L) and 2.6 SCFM delivered @ 90 PSI pump, enable long tool run time with quick recovery for the portable air compressor
- High efficiency motor of the electric air compressor is made for easy start up in cold weather or extension cord application. [14 ga or larger, 50 ft. (15.2 m) or less]
- 78.5 dBA noise level of the 6 gallon air compressor is made for a quiet work environment
- High flow regulator and couplers of DEWALT portable air compressor are designed to maximize air tool performance
- Long life oil free pump for maintenance free operation
California Air Tools 10020CHAD Ultra Quiet & Oil-Free 2.0 Hp, 10.0 Gal. Steel Tank Air Compressor with Auto Drain Valve
1 used from $500.00
Features
- Ultra quiet only 70 decibels
- Oil-free pump for less maintenance & costs
- 10. 0 gallon steel tank
- Powerful 2. 0 HP (rated/ running) motor
- 5. 30 CFM @ 90 PSI
Makita MAC210Q Quiet Series, 1 HP, 2 Gallon, Oil-Free, Electric Air Compressor
1 used from $207.89
Features
- Quiet Series design at only 60 dB for operator and crew comfort; ideal for indoor use
- Runs at a lower RPM (1, 750) resulting in longer motor and pump life
- Complete roll-cage construction provides protection to withstand a variety of job-site, transporting, and storage environments
- Oil-free dual-piston pump designed for maintenance-free operation
- Lightweight design (only 44 lbs.) for increased job site portability