10 Best 30 Gallon Air Compressors in 2022
The Best Air Compressor Will Fit Right at Home in Your Workspace or Shop

30 Gallon air compressors are a popular, standard type of air tool. These technical machines are used in the industry, but also at home to tackle a range of jobs. Home air compressors are often smaller than 30 gallons, which makes them a lot more portable. But don’t let that fool you – they can still pack a punch!
When deciding which air compressor to purchase, it can become overwhelming. There are so many different features and specifications available. Unless you’re well versed and up to scratch with your air compressor knowledge, you may feel a bit lost. However, there are key specifications that your air compressor should follow. Alongside these, consider other things too. For example, color and style, oil or non-oil lubricated, and ease of use are all things to look at.
Still, scratching? Below are ten of the best 30-gallon tank air compressors available to purchase. They vary from product to product, but they all have great reviews and will get the job done. Are you looking for a smaller capacity? Try these 20-Gallon air compressors.
View the Best 30 Gallon Air Compressors, Below.
- Industrial Air ILA188354 Compressor
- DeWalt DXCMH1393075 Two Stage
- Husky C303H High Performance
- NorthStar 459382 Gas-Powered
- Porter Cable PXCMLC1683066 Single Stage
- DeWalt DXCMLA1683066 Single Stage
- Ingersoll-Rand SS3F2-GM Garage Mate
- Campbell Hausfeld XC302100 Two Stage
- Industrial Air ILA1683066 Cast Iron Compressor
- DeWalt DXCMLA1983054 Air Compressor
1. Industrial Air ILA188354 Compressor
30 Gallon Vertical Tank for Portability


Industrial Air offers a 30-gallon air compressor featuring a cast iron twin cylinder. Cast iron is a popular choice for air compressors as it's often long-lasting and extremely durable. This is utterly important when you're constantly using your equipment. This 30 gallon air compressor features an oil-lubricated pump. This means you'll have an additional cost of sourcing and supplying oil for the tank to remain functional.
However, most people often prefer oil-lubricated tanks on bigger models as they provide extra durability and sustainability. This air tool delivers 7 CFM at 40 PSI. The pre-attached pneumatic tires offer easy portability. If you like the look of this but want to compare prices, why not check out the Industrial Air ILA1883054?
This product is exceptionally easy to use, with a clear control panel. The manufacturer's guidelines are concise and self-explanatory. It has a good PSI capacity and will fit in well with any workspace.
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2. DeWalt DXCMH1393075 Two Stage
Best 30 Gallon Air Compressor for the Workspace

DeWalt is a popular choice for air compressors, producing top-quality products that stick around for a long time. This particular two-stage model is made from cast iron material with, of course, the all-important 30-gallon tank. DeWalt has opted to go oil-free with the tank, which comes with its advantages. For example, running the tank won't accumulate extra costs. The tank's parts require much less maintenance than oil-lubricated tank models, which is great!
It features a Honda GX390 OHV engine with an electric start. It also has a maximum pressure of 175 PSI. This tool also comes with a two-year warranty, which other competitor products are lacking. This means you have a bit of peace with part replacement and maintenance if the need should arise. However, the reviews clearly commend DeWalt for a very well-made product, so perhaps you won't need the warranty at all!
This is a good choice for any workshop or workspace. The tank is quite heavy and not overly portable, so it'll need a more permanent base to call home.
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3. Husky C303H High Performance
Quietest 30 Gallon Air Compressor - Electric Model

Husky C303H High Performance does what it says on the tin - in that it has an undeniably high performance. This electrically powered tool has a large capacity and works quietly in any workspace. In fact, it registers as less than 80 decibels, which is almost a miracle for such high functioning piece of equipment.
This 30 gallon air compressor has a high PSI capacity (175 max pressure) with multiple output functions. It can operate different tools at different times, which is handy for a fast-paced multipurpose workspace environment. It's also portable, which a lot of air compressors of this capacity are not.
With such a quiet running capacity, this is a good option for hobbyists and working people alike. It will fit in well with any environment and performs at a high capacity. Not to mention, it does it all at an affordable price.
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4. NorthStar 459382 Gas-Powered
Best 30 Gallon Air Compressor for Peace of Mind

This gas-powered air compressor from NorthStar is an excellent choice if you're looking for something sturdier. This air compressor is quite heavy and difficult to move around after you've installed it and set it off running. It is, however, extremely easy to use and comes with very clear and concise instructions from the manufacturers themselves.
A great bonus of this 30-gallon air compressor is the fact that it comes with a long warranty, giving you comfort and security in case anything goes wrong. However, this product has such good reviews that it seems entirely unlikely that anything will go wrong at all.
This device also has a high PSI capacity with multiple output options, making it one of the best air tools for any workshop in need of an air compressor.
Check Price on Amazon ➞5. Porter Cable PXCMLC1683066 Single Stage
Best Electric 30 Gallon Air Compressor

The Porter-Cable PXCMLC Single Stage is another good, solid 30-gallon tank air compressor. It has the added, rarer benefit of being fully portable, so you can move it from place to place with ease. Bear in mind that this product needs a power supply at all times, as it's an electric air compressor that requires a plug socket to function. It has an average PSI capacity, with a PSI max pressure of 135 - about the standard for an oil-lubricated tank. It can run 6.2 CFM at 40 PSI and 5.3 CFM at 90 PSI.
Remember that oil-lubricated tanks come with their perks (longer-lasting, harder working). However, you also have to factor in the cost and replenishment of the oil supply to make sure the machine doesn't stop working prematurely. They also require a bit more maintenance than oil-free tanks. Though the maintenance may seem daunting, you won't go wrong as long as you follow the manufacturer's guidelines.
This 30-gallon air compressor also comes with pneumatic tires for easy traveling and features a cast iron pump. The heavy-duty induction motor will help your compressor reach its optimum tool performance with ease. All in all, this is a good choice for a standard air compressor. This reliable, maintainable, and durable product comes from a well-trusted and well-established company.
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6. DeWalt DXCMLA1683066 Single Stage
Most Powerful Electric 30 Gallon

This DeWalt single-stage air compressor has a 30-gallon tank and can reach a maximum of 155 PSI. This PSI rating ensures your model will function at a high capacity. As with most electric air tools, it'll need to be near a power source to work properly. You don't want to get your shiny new air compressor back to your workspace, and find out you have to work in an awkward position owing to a lack of power supply!
However, with that in mind, it's a very quiet air compressor, working under 70 decibels. This means it's a great addition for a hobbyist or someone who likes a quiet workspace. It also features an oil-free tank which means no maintenance and, therefore, a lot less work!
It also features a V-twin cylinder pump and a dual voltage motor for optimum tool performance. It comes with pneumatic wheels for easy portability. This 30-gallon air compressor has a lot of good reviews. This isn't surprising, considering it's from a trusted company. You can trust it's been well made and will do the job you want it to do.
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7. Ingersoll-Rand SS3F2-GM Garage Mate
Best 30 Gallon Air Compressor on a Budget

The Ingersoll Rand SS3F2 GM is a portable air compressor with a high capacity. Owing to its portable nature, you can move this horizontal air compressor from place to place. This means you're less restricted when working. It's very quiet, making it suitable for a home workspace or a quieter work environment, as well as any other! This electric model will need a dependable and reachable power supply.
The Ingersoll-Rand SS3F2-GM Garage Mate is very easy to use, has an oil-free engine, and reaches up to 135 PSI capacity. Furthermore, due to its cast-iron frame, it's highly durable, withstanding most work environments. This is a good choice for a home hobbyist looking to add that professional edge to their work.
Check Price on Amazon ➞8. Campbell Hausfeld XC302100 Two Stage
Best 30 Gallon Air Compressor with Dual Voltage

This Campbell Hausfeld Two-Stage Air Compressor looks good and has a 175 PSI capacity. This is standard and will be more than enough to get the job done. It also delivers 4.1 CFM at 90 PSI. This portable model comes with wheels to help you move the compressor workspace should you need to. As it's electric, remember that it will need a power source to work. Dual voltage means the tank can operate on 120 volts or 240 volts.
The oil-lubricated tank will require a little more maintenance than other compressors. It's important to maintain oil-lubricated tanks with the correct oil. You'll find this information in the manufacturer's guidelines or directly available from the manufacturer. This will ensure the model continues to function to its full capacity.
This two-stage air compressor is lighter, compact, and portable, which are all great features for a home air compressor.
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9. Industrial Air ILA1683066 Cast Iron Compressor
Best Heavy Duty Compressor with a Good PSI

Industrial Air has made this cast iron compressor from sturdy cast iron material. The heavy-duty design provides the product with the best sustainability, ensuring it'll last for years to come. It has a really good PSI capacity, at 155. In addition, it can spread the PSI between multiple outputs if this is something you need. It also features a dual voltage motor for excellent performance. It runs 6.2 CFM at 40 PSI and 5.3 CFM at 90 PSI.
The oil-lubricated tank means extra maintenance and extra costs. Make sure to consider this before you choose this air compressor product.
This is a really good option for a 30-gallon air compressor. Although not top of the list, it definitely has some great features and capacities that make it a viable buying option.
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10. DeWalt DXCMLA1983054 Air Compressor
An Excellent Air Compressor From a Trusted Brand

This DeWalt product is more portable than the previously discussed models above. Portability is a great feature for any air compressor, especially when a part of a smaller workspace. It just means you're not restricted to one place of working. You can move around the workspace as and when it suits you – as long as you are near a power supply!
It has a great PSI capacity. The oil-lubricated tank means extra maintenance and costs. But don't let that put you off! DeWalt knows what they're doing and how to build a good, durable air compressor that will take you where you need to be.
This classic cast iron design is fully portable and very lightweight. It will fit well into any workspace and is a great addition for any hobbyist or professional!
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Buyer’s Guide
What Do You Need to Consider Before Buying?
There are many things to take on board from the above product reviews. You may be wondering whether they’re all important. And the answer is: yes! The main things you should consider before purchasing any air compressor are:
1. Where will the air compressor operate from? This will dictate the air compressor’s shape, size, and power source (gas or electric).
2. What will the air compressor be required to do? To answer this, consider what you’ll be using it for. Then you can work out the expected workload of the compressor. This will dictate the PSI capacity and horsepower.
3. Do I need it to be portable? If you have a smaller workspace or if multiple people will be using the air compressor, factor this in before making a commitment.
4. Do I want an oil-lubricated tank? Consider the extra costs and extra maintenance that come with an oil-lubricated tank. There are great non-oil tank options when it comes to air compressors as well.
What is CFM?
CFM is a technical term associated with all air compressors, meaning ‘cubic feet per minute.’ In non-technical terms, it just means what pace the unit can supply air to the tool/tire you want it to. For example, some compressors might offer a 24.4 CFM at 90 PSI.
This measurement is important to think about for any workspace. Some faster-paced work environments may need something that can supply their tools more rapidly than, say, a hobbyist. Moreover, you want something that will do the job quickly, especially if you’re working within a strict time frame.
Also, you need a compressor that can supply air at the pace you need to work. If you don’t consider this, it can be a frustrating and lengthy process. Many processors out there that can keep up to pace. But it’s worth sourcing from reviews and product specifications to match up to your specific requirements. Otherwise, you may end up with a product that isn’t a good fit for your work needs.
The higher the CFM (cubic feet per minute), the more tools you can power at any given time. You need to know your tool requirements before committing to an air compressor purchase, as they need to be a good fit for each other.
Why Do I Need an Air Compressor?
There are a number of reasons why an air compressor comes in handy. And many benefits come with using an air compressor for maintenance work.
These include:
– Longer lasting tools
– Better for the environment
– Quicker
– More professional results
– More flexible
All air compressors vary from product to product. Some are far more heavy-duty than others, and a lot of them come with different features. These pneumatic tools can come with semi-pneumatic wheels, an enclosed metal belt guard, and more. Some are a lot bigger than others, so make sure to check out how big they are per square inch.
As with anything, it’s worth checking out some reviews beforehand to see what you might be letting yourself in for. Those looking for something industrial and heavy-duty may be more interested in serious 60-gallon compressors!
Oil vs. Oil-Free Tanks
This is surely the big question on everyone’s lips – do I go for an oil-free or oil-lubricated tank? Read on below for some pros and cons of each variety.
Pros of Oil-Free Tanks Include:
– Low to no maintenance
– Less running costs
– Less noise
– Less mess
– More adaptability
– Better for the environment
Pros of Oil Tanks
– More power
– More durable
– Bigger task capacity
The majority (or at least a larger percentage) of small air compressors on the market seem to use oil-free tanks. This definitely looks like a favorable option in terms of levels of maintenance and portability. People use small air compressors for smaller jobs and don’t want lots of extra effort after their purchase. Oil-free tanks certainly provide a better option than small air compressors with oil-lubricated tanks.
The Noise Factor
One of the big things to consider is how noisy your air compressor will be and how much that will bother you. You might find a quiet model essential, so it doesn’t disrupt your workspace. However, it’s worth noting that some air compressors operate very quietly (as low as 70 decibels in some cases), whereas some really don’t! It’s down to how the brand has manufactured the product.
How Much Horsepower Does a 30-Gallon Air Compressor Need?
The horsepower required for an air compressor varies from model to model. However, in general, an air compressor with a 30-gallon pump will only require around a 2 horsepower ratio to function properly. Although this seems quite low, it’s perfectly adequate and will easily complete the job you bought the air compressor for in the first place.
Some air compressors will go up to 5/6 horsepower. However, that’s at the higher end of the scale, and the majority will function around 2/3 and sometimes 4. Most manufacturers will provide all the information you need about the horsepower requirements and capacities in their product information. You’ll find this either online or with the product itself after purchase.
How Do you Drain a 30-Gallon Air Compressor?
It’s absolutely essential to drain and maintain the oil-lubricated tank in your air compressor. However, you need to know how to do it properly to avoid breaking your product. Each manufacturer will have different suggestions. Please read them carefully, whichever brand you decide to go with.
There are so many different opinions on this subject. There are many online videos out there if you’re looking for a visual example. We’ll link a popular one here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9FRH6SZlUw. However, generally speaking, there are a few universal and easy steps to take:
1. Turn it off.
2. Reduce the pressure right down.
3. Find the drain valve.
4. Open up the valve (tilt the tank if necessary).
5. Close up the drain valve.
Did You Know?
The air compressor has a rich history with a long origin story. It has seen many primitive models and designs that ultimately led to the advanced model we have available today. Moreover, early designs started way back in the 1700s with the same basic principles and ideas behind them.
Expert Tip
It’s worth studying the CFM of the air compressor; if you get this wrong, you’ll ultimately waste your money and time on something that’s a bad fit for your project needs.