You’ll agree with me that choosing the best shop air compressor is not an easy task.
In fact, the sheer numbers of reviews from the internet and a bunch of YouTube videos make selecting an air compressor a daunting task.
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Every man and their grandfather seem to have the ideal air shop compressor that matches your needs. The truth is, choosing an air compressor is a science not an art.
You need to know the details of the products that you’re buying from design to functionality. An air compressor cost lots of money. As a homeowner, you want to make sure that you’re shelling your money on the best deal possible.
Best Shop Air Compressors Compared
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Image |
Name |
Weight |
PSI |
Dimension |
Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
  |
30 Lbs |
165 |
17.2 x 16.6 x 20.1 |
Click To Check | |
  |
32.1 Lbs |
150 |
19 x 19 x 18 |
Click To Check | |
  |
20.4 Lbs |
90 |
15.7 x 7.9 x 19.6 |
Click To Check | |
  |
31.5 Lbs |
150 |
17 x 17 x 19.2 |
Click To Check | |
  |
2 Lbs |
150 |
7 x 3 x 6.5 |
Click To Check |
This 2017’s best shop air compressors review contains the following vital information for you:
- A deep dive into the bestselling air shop compressor in the market and the key unique things about each product.
- A shopping guide walking you through the basic information you need to know before buying the compressor. You never want to turn to a buyer as an amateur who doesn’t know anything about the product.
- Ways you can maintain an air compressor shop for long lasting performance.
All this juicy jammed packed details in this 1800+ review article. Stick around to learn every aspect of each product so that you can pick the best product.
Best Shop Air Compressor 2018 Reviews
1. DEWALT DWFP55126 – 6 Gallon 165 PSI Pancake Compressor
The Dewalt 6 gallon pancake compressor is a standalone horse power sold at a decent price that won’t brake your arm or leg. It features a manageable noise level at 75.5 dBA even when put on higher usage.
Has a removable cover console that protects its vital parts and gives you the access that you need. The Dewalt air compressor has a high-flow regulator and couplers that you can use to make the most of the tools.
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Its metallic leg has a rubber protects your floor from damage. The high flow regulator is something that you’ll love with this compressor because it squeezes much performance making it work effectively. The Dewalt air compressor is an all round air tools that you can work with even in cold weather.
2. PORTER-CABLE C2002 – Oil Free UMC Pancake Compressor
The C2002 compressor runs a 3.55 CFM faster with its 6-gallon tank. It features a replaceable brush that extends the motor and a run time of 150 PSl max pressure. Comes with a high flow regulator that protects it against large pressure drops.
The air tool includes a 13-piece accessory kit featuring a 25′ nylon hose, blow gun and attachment, fire chuck, tire gauge, quick coupler, plugs and Teflon tape.
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Together with its 6-gallon unit, you will find the air compressor versatile and able to work with two framing nailers. You’ll refill the air compressor in 3 minutes from zero air.
Talking about the design, you’ll find the C2002 skillfully constructed with no pointing edges and equipped for user comfort and ease of transportation.
Overall, the porter cable air compressor is a horse power tool that you wouldn’t want to miss in your cabinet. It is a wonder tool that can take care of almost every project at home and work without sacrificing your time. Besides that you save lots of power because it runs on low amperage and requires a 120 Volt to operate.
3. Campbell Hausfeld FP209499AV – Air Compressor Kit
This little known air compressor is perfect for firing tires of vehicles, bikes and outdoor sporting equipment. In other words, you can only use it for light use because it has a 3 gallon tank.
The Campell air compressor kit free you up from maintenance because it is oil-free. At 21lbs you will find the air compressor light and easy to carry and move with it around.
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It includes a 10 piece accessory kit that you can use to kick start any DIY projects-from inflation needles, make plugs, inflation adapters and tapered inflation.
The tank pressure gauge is a feature that you’ll see in the air tools. It serves the purpose of letting you know the amount of pressure inside the tank. Its motor runs cooler and long most of the time.
Thanks to its compact design, you are able to move the whole piece anywhere you want. The outstanding price for the Campbell hausfeld won’t even squeeze lots of money from your pocket. Given the amazing features that it has, you’ll consider it a blessing for your DIY projects.
4. Bostitch BTFP0212 6 Gallon – 150 PSI Oil free Compressor
With the measurement of 14” together with the 33 pound weight, the Bostitch oil-free compressor is a bit heavy. Runs on a 80dBA with little noise making it the best air compressor to handle DIY projects both at home and work.
Comes equipped with a nifty control panel that has all the important components located. With its minimalist design, the gauges and connectors are bumped and knock free. The two connectors are capable of driving multiple compressed air tools.
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On the performance side, the machine takes 2minutes 30 seconds to reach the 150 PSI when placed on a light to medium-duty use. Thanks to its recovery time, you can fill it once the pressure drops below the 120 PSI and it takes only 5 seconds.
The fascinating thing with this air compressor is that it has a 6 gallon tank and outperforms high pricey compressors its class. For easy transportation and handling, the machine has a large handle mounted on top of it.
The Bostitch BTFP02013 is a perfect example of air tools designed for professionals and DIY medium-duty contractors. Perfect for heavy firing of a large to medium-sized projects.
5. PIAS003 Premium – Auto Air Compressor
PIAS003 digital tire inflator comes with a plethora of useful features that can handle various projects. For instance, it has a bright torch and flashing red warning light of emergency situation.
On the performance side, the air tool is equipped with a powerful and efficient pump operating on a 12v dc current known for working at 22 liters per minutes. On average it can inflate a typical flat tire up to 30 PSI in less than 4 minutes.
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The extra-long cord is capable of covering a 10 foot radius. You’ll find that the PIAS003 covers better mileage, keeping the tires in better operation and drivers safe at all times. The digital pressure immediately stops the pump once it reaches the desired pressure.
On the construction side, you’ll find that the air tool is a heavy-duty material that offers reliable long lasting performance. Its feet offer excellent grip thanks to the rubber material. So Small and compact to save space in your car.
The PIAS003 is a nice investment because it offers you a full set of adapters that fit ranging from sporting goods to inflatable items. Customers love it because of its tight-fitting valves which prevent air leakages during tire inflation.
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How To Choose Best Shop Air Compressors
The air compressor is a versatile tool for handling many projects both at home and work. However, to get the best value for your money, you need to know more information about it . Here is what you need to know before buying an air compressor guide:
Types of air compressor
An air compressor comes in different forms. Your choice of compressor will depend on the capacity and the kind of work that you handle.
Stationery air compressor
These are large air compressor designed to power large spaces like garages. They have a large tank and are capable of working for long hours. They are mostly used for industrial process. They take up much space because of their vertical design.
Portable air compressor
These are the most common types of compressors. Unlike the stationary air compressor, this one has a small storage tank and handle or a wheel that makes it easy for you to carry and move around. Here are the examples of portable air compressor:
- Pancake air compressor
- Hot dog compressor
- Twin-stack compressor
Pancake air compressor is perfect for light application such as airbrushing and powering many types of nail gun.
Inflators
These are small air compressors. They don’t have a storage tank. But they have a continuous motor that runs to supply air. You can use inflators for inflating small floats, tires and sports gears.
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Air Compressor Maintenance Tips
You’ve bought the air compressor; the next step is to learn how to maintain it for long lasting performance. Although most air compressors have little to no maintenance, its tempting to neglect these little babies.
If you don’t have a plan for buying the next air compressor for the next 5 years or you love the current one. Then it makes sense to learn how to maintain it for the long run. Here are some maintenance tips that you need to know.
Stick to the compressor manual
The manual comes with simple tips that can help you learn how to use for long lasting performance. If you follow the stipulated rules in the manual, you’ll avoid common accidents such leakages.
Never drain moisture from the tank
If you live in humid areas, you’ll learn that the receiving tank collects moisture from the air. Most air compressor tanks have a valve that drains moisture. For that reason don’t drain the moisture unless you empty the air pressure.
Cleaning the fuel tank
On a periodic basis make sure that you clean the fuel tank for optimal performance and better working condition. You can carry out this exercise once a year to remove any residue build up from the fuel. Cleaning preserves the life span of the engine.
Replace the oil
If you are using an air compressor that use oil. Then you need to replace the oil daily. After every 500 to 1000 hrs of use change the oil to prolong the performance of the air compressor.
Cleaning the air filter intake
It is difficult for the air compressor to take the air, if one of its filters is dirty or contaminated. A dirty air filter guarantees you less air per KW. Clean the air filter and make sure that it is dust-free most of the time.
Replace the separator element
The purpose of the separator element is to prevent excessive use of oil. The separator element has to be replaced periodically. A good rule of thumb is to replace it after every 1000 hours of use.
Final Verdict
Choosing the best shop air compressor is a science. The science comes when you know the right comprehensive information.
Information about its features and buying guide. Like the information you’ve read in this review. Making a decision then becomes a comparison of price, brands and stunning features.
From this shop air compressor review, I believe you’ve narrowed down the air compressor of your choice. If not, no problem, you can always send ask us questions in the comment below and we’ll get back to you.