Choosing The Best Air Compressor For Your Toolkit Or Shop

There are a lot of useful tools that rely on an air compressor to function, which makes compressors an important power tool in any workshop. So, whether you’re furnishing your shop or replacing your old pump, getting a decent air compressor is an important upgrade to keep your shop functional and in tip-top shape.

What To Look for in an Air Compressor?

Air compressors aren’t a cheap investment, so before purchasing one it is important to consider exactly what you’re looking to get out of one.

• Pressure: The most important thing in an air compressor is, of course, the ability to compress air. Some tools require—or operate more efficiently at—higher pressures (PSI), so it’s important to choose a compressor that fits the tools you’re planning on using.
• Capacity: Differences in tank capacity change how long you can use the compressor before it needs to kick back on and repressurize. If you’re working away from a power source, the tank capacity is going to matter a lot more than if you can always work while plugged in.
• Power Required: One negative to electric air compressors is that they can draw a lot of power at once. They even have a history of tripping circuit breakers because of this. So, making sure the compressor that you buy will work in all your shop outlets is incredibly important before you waste your money buying something that shuts your power off every time you plug it in.

If you have figured out what you’re looking for, we have picked out a few great options and listed them below.

Best Overall: PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor

Best Value: BOSTITCH Air Compressor Combo

This is a great air compressor from Bostitch. It has a six-gallon capacity and a max PSI of 150. The pump is made to be quiet while in use and oil-free which saves maintenance time. The compressor also comes with three air-powered tools: An 18-gauge brad nailer that can handle nails from 5/8″ to 2″, a three-eighths inch crown stapler that holds stapes from 1/4″ to 9/16″, and a 16-gauge straight finish nailer that can drive in nails ranging from 1.25″ to 2.5″.

All of these tools come together in one package that will let you hit the ground running with your next project.

Best For Tires: EPAuto Portable Air Compressor

If you like to always be prepared while on the road, a portable air compressor like this one is useful to keep in the trunk with you. The compressor draws power using the standard 12V car socket, so you should be able to run it off just your car battery. It also comes equipped with a small, easy-to-read pressure display and has buttons to set your desired pressure. When the compressor reaches the set pressure, it automatically shuts off, so you don’t overfill your tires.

It’s important to note that this air compressor does not work with truck tires, so if you need something more heavy-duty, then you’re going to have to look elsewhere.

Best Premium: Makita Big Bore Air Compressor

If you need more than the standard compressor will give you, this one from Makita has you covered. It has two separate 4.2-gallon tanks that deliver 40 to 90 PSI each—enough to operate two separate nailers at the same time. The pump is made of cast iron and is oil-lubricated, which might add to maintenance, but it helps the compressor run cooler and more efficient than an oil-free model.

The compressor is covered by a roll-cage that is built to take some serious beatings without damaging the compressor. It also has an industrial air filter designed to intake air as quickly as possible. From capacity to construction, this compressor is designed with quality in mind.

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Whether you need an air compressor for spray painting, tire filling, or nailing, purchasing a high-quality option will make sure you’re always prepared for whatever job comes your way.