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12 Best Portable Air Compressors in 2022

Run Your Airtools and Keep Your Car Tires Inflated with a Portable Air Compressor for Home, on the Job Site, or in the Car

  • Anna Ryan Editor

    Anna Ryan

    Anna Ryan is a writer, copywriter and editor. She has a wide range of knowledge and, because of this, has been able to contribute to a variety of different genres, including article and blog writing.

    As an editor, she has polished and perfected an array of pieces for diverse readerships and audiences.

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    Annette Hird

    Annette is a qualified horticulturist and avid gardener. Her love for all things gardening started when she was a teenager. Since then, she’s tended and upgraded many gardens in the homes she’s lived in. She grows her own fruit and vegetables year round. And, she balances this by also growing many ornamental and flowering plants.

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  • Briana Yablonski Expert

    Briana Yablonski

    Briana is a plant and ecology enthusiast who is happiest when she’s working on a project. She has spent over ten years learning about and working with sustainable agriculture, both on research plots, in educational labs, and on commercial farms. She currently spends time growing vegetables in her market garden.

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  • Updated: May 1, 2022

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Portable Air Compressors

When you want to use air tools at home, you need a portable air compressor. But not just at home – there are also very compact units that you can use to keep your car tires inflated. These smaller units are handy to take on your next camping trip. To help make your choice easier, we’ve researched the best air compressors to use at home and on the road.

Most of these air compressors use an electric power source, but some also run off your car battery. There are even ones that use a rechargeable battery power source. Don’t forget to check out our buying guide for the best portable air compressors! That way, you’ll know exactly what you’re looking for before you buy one.

Related: Best Portable Compressors for Cars.

Expert Tip

Check the Temperature

Briana Yablonski

Remember that air expands in hot weather and shrinks in cooler weather. That means that you might need to check your air pressure when the temperature drops in the fall and add more air. Additionally, not all air compressors start in cold weather.

View the Best Portable Air Compressor, Below.

  • PORTER-CABLE C2002 Air Compressor
  • DeWALT DXCM301 30 Gal Air Compressor
  • EPAuto 12V DC Portable Air Compressor Pump
  • Senco PC1010 1-Horsepower Peak Compressor
  • Makita MAC100Q Quiet Series Compressor
  • Audew Portable Air Compressor
  • CALIFORNIA AIR TOOLS 4620AC Compressor
  • FORTEM Portable Air Compressor for Car
  • Ryobi P739 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless Portable Air Compressor
  • Viair 00088 88P Portable Air Compressor
  • DEWALT D55146 Air Compressor
  • Makita MAC5200 Big Bore 3.0 HP Air Compressor

1. PORTER-CABLE C2002 Air Compressor

Best Pancake Style Portable Air Compressor

PORTER-CABLE C2002 Air CompressorRead Customer Reviews →

This Porter-Cable portable air compressor only weighs 34 pounds, making it ideal to use around the home or to take to the job site. It can support two users with the 2 factory-installed air couplers. It has a 6-gallon tank with a water drain valve and rubber feet.

Why We Liked It: This portable air compressor is easy to carry around with its built-in handle. It weighs only 34 pounds and can accommodate two users due to the two couplers. The 120v induction motor is easy to start, whether in warm or cold weather. The pancake-style tank features a maximum of 150 PSI and gives the unit stability; the rubber feet keep it in place.

Check Price on Amazon ➞
TRACTOR SUPPLY CO ➞
Pros
  • The tank pressure is 150 psi
  • Features a low amp 120V induction motor that provides an easy start, even in cold weather
  • The pump and motor are durable and oil-free
  • Airflow volume is 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI and 3.5 SCFM at 40 PSI
  • Unit is easy to carry with an in-built handle
Cons
  • The unit may need to be broken in before its first serious use
  • The compressor is quite loud for a small unit at 82 dBA, especially compared to air compressors with similar capacities.
Key Specs
Horsepower0.8 HP
Decibel Rating82 dB(A)
Compressor Tank Capacity6 gal

2. DeWALT DXCM301 30 Gal Air Compressor

Best High-Volume Air Compressor

DeWALT DXCM301 30 Gal Air CompressorRead Customer Reviews →

This is one of the highest-capacity portable air compressors on our list. This model from DeWalt features a 1.6 HP and 120-volt heavy-duty induction motor. The pump is made from cast iron. It's belt-driven and also oil-lubricated. The unit features 10-inch wheels for easy portability. It has one of the highest performance ratings, with a CFM of 5.3 at 90 PSI.

Why We Liked It: The DeWalt DXCM301 is a heavy-duty unit. It's capable of powering most pneumatic tools. It uses a 1.6 HP engine powered by electricity. Although it's quite a heavy unit compared to other portable air compressors, the attached wheels make it easy to move around and store away when not in use.

Check Price on Amazon ➞
TRACTOR SUPPLY CO ➞
Pros
  • Maximum pressure per inch is 155
  • Airflow volume is 5.3 CFM at 90 PSI and 6.2 CFM at 40 PSI
  • Noise rating is 75 decibels
  • This is a vertical unit, so it's easy to store away in the corner of your garage or workshop
  • Tank capacity is 30 gallons, and it takes around 7.5 minutes to fill
Cons
  • This unit is quite heavy at 152 pounds, but the wheels make it easy to move around
  • It might be difficult to start in the cold weather due to the oil thickening in the pump
Key Specs
Horsepower1.6 HP
Decibel Rating75 dB(A)
Compressor Tank Capacity30 gal

3. EPAuto 12V DC Portable Air Compressor Pump

Best Air Compressor For Camping

EPAuto 12V DC Portable Air Compressor PumpRead Customer Reviews →

This portable air compressor is primarily designed to inflate your tires. It plugs directly into the cigarette lighter socket in your vehicle. Additional portable inflator needle valves for sports balls and cone adaptors for inflating kayaks are also included. This compressor also features a LED flashlight, making it perfect for taking with you on a camping trip.

Why We Liked It: This is the perfect portable air compressor to take on a camping or hiking trip. It only weighs 1 pound and can inflate your tires and other inflatable camping or hiking accessories with ease. However, it can only be powered by your vehicle's 12 volt DC socket.

Check Price on Amazon ➞
Pros
  • Includes a 12 volt DC adaptor
  • Digital display showing PSI, KPA, BAR, and KG/CM
  • Features auto-shutoff when the required maximum pressure per inch is reached
  • Only weighs one pound and comes with its own carry bag
  • The inflating speed is 1.06 CFM at 70 max PSI
Cons
  • The unit is not capable of inflating truck tires
  • Does not include a 110 volt AC plug
Key Specs
Horsepower1.06 CFM
Decibel Rating75 dB(A)
Compressor Tank CapacityN/A
Expert Tip

Storage Space

Briana Yablonski

The size of portable air compressors greatly varies, and that means they require different amounts of storage space. Do you have the space to store a six-gallon tank? Or would a smaller air compressor better suit your needs and storage space?

4. Senco PC1010 1-Horsepower Peak Compressor

Best Portable Air Compressor for Hobbyists

Senco PC1010 1-Horsepower Peak CompressorRead Customer Reviews →

This Senco PC1010 portable air compressor is ideal for the hobbyist or avid DIYer. You can use it for a multitude of home improvement jobs as well as for crafts and hobbies. It's a relatively lightweight unit, weighing only 20 pounds. The pump is oil-free.

Why We Liked It: This lightweight air compressor is ideal for all those small home improvement jobs around the house. It runs quietly and is easy to carry from job to job. However, it's only suitable for smaller tools as the airflow volume is quite low, at 90 PSI.

Check Price on Amazon ➞
VIEW ON HOME DEPOT ➞
Pros
  • Tank capacity is 1 gallon
  • Has a 1 horsepower compressor when using peak performance
  • Noise rating is 68 dB
  • Max PSI is 135
  • Air pressure is 0.7 CFM at 90 PSI
Cons
  • This unit has a small tank that can take a while to fill
  • It's too small to use with most pneumatic tools
Key Specs
Horsepower0.5 HP
Decibel Rating69 dB(A)
Compressor Tank Capacity1 gal

5. Makita MAC100Q Quiet Series Compressor

Best Quiet Portable Air Compressor

Makita MAC100Q Quiet Series CompressorRead Customer Reviews →

This small and compact portable air compressor from Makita is super quiet at only 58dB. Its features include a complete roll-cage construction. This makes it highly durable, especially if you carry it around a lot. The pump is oil-free to reduce maintenance time.

Why We Liked It: This is a lightweight, portable air compressor weighing only 29.3 pounds. It runs super quietly, making it ideal for indoor use. The induction motor is durable and designed to last - it features a maximum PSI capacity of 135 and a volume of 0.7 SCFM at 90 PSI.

Check Price on Amazon ➞
TRACTOR SUPPLY CO ➞
Pros
  • Tank capacity is 1 gallon
  • Airflow volume is 0.7 CFM at 90 PSI
  • Has 2 large pressure gauges
  • Features an oil-free dual-piston pump
  • Maximum power is 0.5 HP
Cons
  • The tank capacity is quite small
  • Only suitable for finish type air tools
Key Specs
Horsepower0.5 HP
Decibel Rating58 dB(A)
Compressor Tank Capacity1 gal

6. Audew Portable Air Compressor

Best Air Compressor For Road Trips

Audew Portable Air CompressorRead Customer Reviews →

The Audew portable compressor is designed to re-inflate your tires while you're on the road. It's also ideal to take camping and hiking. It includes accessories so that you can inflate mattresses, kayaks, sports balls, and other inflatables. It features a 10-foot long cord which you can neatly tuck away inside the unit when not in use.

Why We Liked It: This is the perfect portable air compressor to keep in your car for your next road trip. It will help you to inflate your tires no matter where you are. It's also a useful unit to take when you go camping or hiking. You can easily inflate all your other inflatables.

Check Price on Amazon ➞
Pros
  • Lightweight and portable for inflating tires and other types of inflatables
  • The easy to read digital display show PSI, BAR, KPA, and KG/CM
  • Has an auto-shutoff when the desired air pressure is reached
  • Its features include an emergency warning light
  • You can inflate a tire from 0 to 35 PSI in 3 to 5 minutes
Cons
  • You need to set your tire PSI slightly higher to allow for air release when you remove the hose
  • The air hose can get quite hot with extended use
Key Specs
Horsepower1.23 CFM
Decibel Rating60 dB(A)
Compressor Tank CapacityN/A

7. CALIFORNIA AIR TOOLS 4620AC Compressor

Best Twin Tank Portable Air Compressor

CALIFORNIA AIR TOOLS 4620AC CompressorRead Customer Reviews →

This portable compressor from California Air Tools has a powerful 2HP engine with an oil-free pump. It also features 2 pressure control meters (one for each tank) and 2 universal quick-connect valves. In addition, the unit has a thermal overload protector to prevent the motor from overheating. Both tanks are made from aluminum and are rust-proof.

Why We Liked It: This is a powerful and versatile air compressor. There's no need to add oil to the pump, which cuts down on maintenance time. The unit is estimated to run for around 3000 hours before it requires a service. It runs quieter than a lot of other units and has the capacity to attach 2 air tools.

Check Price on Amazon ➞
TRACTOR SUPPLY CO ➞
Pros
  • Tank capacity is 4 gallons using a twin tank
  • Has a noise level rating of only 70 dB
  • Features a 2.0 HP electric motor
  • Maximum air pressure is 125 PSI
  • Airflow volume is 6.4 CFM at 40 PSI and 5.4 CFM at 90 PSI
Cons
  • This air compressor is a little heavy at 67.2 pounds
  • It can vibrate when it's been used for some time
Key Specs
Horsepower2 HP
Decibel Rating70 dB(A)
Compressor Tank Capacity4.6 gal

8. FORTEM Portable Air Compressor for Car

Best Air Compressor for the Car

FORTEM Portable Air Compressor for CarRead Customer Reviews →

This small and compact portable tire inflator is designed to inflate your car tires and other products easily. You just plug it into your car outlet and attach the air hose to your tire's valve. It comes in a durable zippered case that you can store in your car without taking up too much space.

Why We Liked It: This light-duty air compressor is ideal for road trips. It will give you peace of mind in case of a tire emergency - you won't have to worry about being stranded with a flat tire. Plus, the included LED light makes it easy to see at night time. It also has an auto shut-off when the selected PSI is reached.

Check Price on Amazon ➞
Pros
  • The unit is made from extremely durable and lightweight plastic
  • Has an LCD display to show the maximum pressure per inch
  • Includes various connectors for inflating different products, such as sports equipment, air mattresses, balloons, and pool toys.
  • Includes a bright LED light for when you have to inflate a tire at night
  • Power cord is 9.84 feet long, and the hose length is 1.64 feet
Cons
  • Can only be powered by a 12-volt car socket unless you get a converter
  • You can only run the compressor for a maximum of 8 minutes before letting it cool down
Key Specs
Horsepower1.06 CFM
Decibel Rating60 dB(A)
Compressor Tank CapacityN/A

9. Ryobi P739 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless Portable Air Compressor

Best Cordless Portable Air Compressor

Ryobi P739 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless Portable Air CompressorRead Customer Reviews →

This Ryobi P738 air compressor is powered by an 18 volt Ryobi battery. This means you don't need to have a power socket handy to plug it into - you can take it anywhere! It's also a handy air compressor portable enough to keep in the car and use as a tire inflator. It's powerful enough to run your finish nailer with.

Why We Liked It: This truly is a portable air compressor; it doesn't require a power outlet to run, using a rechargeable battery as its power source. You can take it absolutely anywhere, including road trips and camping as well as job sites.

Check Price on Amazon ➞
VIEW ON HOME DEPOT ➞
Pros
  • Has a 1-gallon tank
  • Delivers a maximum of 120 PSI
  • This compressor features a Push-to-Connect quick coupler to allow you to connect your air tool with one hand
  • Can inflate a flat car tire in one minute and twenty seconds
  • If you have other Ryobi tools, you can use the 18-volt battery that you already have on hand
Cons
  • You have to purchase the battery and charger separately unless you already have one
  • You need to ensure that the battery is charged before use
Key Specs
Horsepower0.6 HP
Decibel Rating78 dB(A)
Compressor Tank Capacity1 gal

10. Viair 00088 88P Portable Air Compressor

Best Easy To Use Tire Inflation Air Compressor

Viair 00088 88P Portable Air CompressorRead Customer Reviews →

This is a lightweight portable tire inflator and air compressor. It's powered by your car battery using alligator clamps. It's suitable for most vehicle tires up to 33 inches and has a maximum PSI of 120. Plus, it features a more traditional analog tire pressure gauge rather than an LCD display.

Why We Liked It: This is a handy air compressor portable enough to keep in the car. It allows you to inflate tires without having to go to a gas station. Plus, the analog tire pressure gauge is likely to give you an accurate indication of your tire pressures.

Check Price on Amazon ➞
Pros
  • Has 120 PSI maximum working pressure
  • Includes a powerful LED power indicator that also serves as a light when inflating tires at night
  • Attaches to your car battery with alligator clamps
  • Lightweight at 4.5 pounds
  • Comes with a three-piece inflation tips accessory kit so that you can also use it for inflating sports equipment
Cons
  • The car engine must be running to power the compressor
  • Tends to blow fuses when used often
Key Specs
Horsepower1.47 CFM
Decibel Rating97 dB(A)
Compressor Tank CapacityN/A

11. DEWALT D55146 Air Compressor

Best Portable Air Compressor for the Workshop

DEWALT D55146 Air CompressorRead Customer Reviews →

This is a high-pressure air compressor with a large four and a half gallon tank. It features a carry handle and wheels to make it easy to cart around. The pump is both oil and maintenance-free. The consistent amp draw of the compressor means you can attach an extension cord of up to 50 feet.

Why We Liked It: This air compressor features an efficient high-pressure motor to power all your air tools. It also runs fairly quietly at 78 dB. The console panel is made of metal to protect the gauges, regulator, and couplers. And, the 4 1/2 gallon air tank ensures you get the job done quickly.

Check Price on Amazon ➞
VIEW ON HOME DEPOT ➞
Pros
  • The compressor features a 1.6 horsepower powerful motor
  • Has a maximum air pressure of 225 PSI
  • Air-flow volume is 5.0 CFM at 90 PSI
  • Can be stored upright when you're not using it as the handle is collapsible
  • Noise level rating is 78 dBA
Cons
  • It's somewhat heavy at 80 pounds
  • It only comes with a short power cord and has to lay flat while you're using it
Key Specs
Horsepower1.6 HP
Decibel Rating78 dB(A)
Compressor Tank Capacity4.5 gal

12. Makita MAC5200 Big Bore 3.0 HP Air Compressor

Best Overall Heavy Duty Portable Air Compressor

Makita MAC5200 Big Bore 3.0 HP Air CompressorRead Customer Reviews →

This is one of the most powerful portable air compressors on our list. The Makita MAC 5200 HP air compressor has a 3 horsepower motor. The cast iron pump incorporates a Big Bore cylinder to allow for faster recovery time. The pump is also oil lubricated. This keeps it cooler and reduces wear and tear.

Why We Liked It: If you're a contractor or work on a building site, this high-pressure and heavy-duty air compressor is ideal for your needs. It features a high-powered motor that can power most pneumatic tools. The highly durable pump can push out 6.5 CFM at 90 PSI. The console features two pressure gauges and two couplings.

Check Price on Amazon ➞
TRACTOR SUPPLY CO ➞
Pros
  • Can produce 6.5 cubic feet per minute of air at 90 PSI
  • The 5.2-gallon air tank is durable as it's made from cast iron
  • Can be easily moved around the job site with the collapsible handle and rugged wheels
  • There's a built-in storage compartment where you can store your air fittings
  • Has a built-in thermal overload to protect the motor from overheating
Cons
  • The compressor is a little heavy at 75 pounds
  • It may be difficult to start the compressor in cold weather
Key Specs
Horsepower3 HP
Decibel Rating90 dB(A)
Compressor Tank Capacity5.2 gal
Expert Tip

Multiple valves

Briana Yablonski

Almost all automobile tires utilize Schraeder valves and are compatible with standard air compressors. However, if you’d like to use your air compressor to add air to bike tires or certain athletic balls, look for Presta valves or needles that work for the product.

Best Air Compressor Buying Guide

You have a number of features to consider when looking for the best portable air compressor. Here are just a few things to keep in mind!

Power Source

You’ll find that the best portable air compressors either run on electricity or your car’s battery to inflate your tires – there are also battery-powered air compressors available now.

More powerful gas-powered air compressors are available primarily for heavy-duty use. These gas-powered air compressors are usually quite heavy and have to be used outside because they emit fumes.

You might be interested in these portable air compressors for truck tires.

Standard Cubic Feet Per Minute Rating (CFM)

The CFM rating is commonly referred to as the performance rating, indicating how much air the compressor will produce. This is important to know when you want to run certain air tools.

To see whether a particular air compressor is capable of running the tools you have, you need to check the CFM rating of your tools to see whether they match up. For example, if you have a nailing gun that requires 5 CFM, you need to make sure that the air compressor you’re going to buy has the same capacity and can adequately power the tool.

air compressor sitting a a concrete floor

Tank Capacity

Most portable air compressors come with an air tank to store compressed air. The size of the tank lets you know how much air can be stored before the compressor has to turn on again to refill the tank.

If you run air tools that need a high volume of air to work at their peak, you have to select an air compressor with a large enough tank. Otherwise, it will take you a long time to get the job done.

Noise Level

The noise level or dB rating of the air compressor is also important – especially if you’re going to be using it indoors. You’ll want a relatively quiet machine so that you don’t have to wear hearing protection constantly. Electric air compressors are generally quieter than gas-powered ones.

Type Of Pump

There are basically two types of pumps that air compressors feature. The pump can be either oil-driven or oil-free. Oil-free pumps require less maintenance because you don’t have to top up the oil all the time.

Looking to paint? An airbrush compressor may be what you need.

air compressor sitting in a workshop

Conclusion

When looking through the best portable air compressors to find the one that suits your needs, there are a number of factors to consider. You’ll need to understand the air compressor’s tank capacity, performance rating, power source, noise level, and the type of pump it uses.

All of these factors are determined by what you want to use the air compressor for. Some portable air compressors are designed for the home workshop or the job site. These air compressors will run your air tools, but they can also inflate the tires on your vehicles.

You can also pick up smaller portable air compressors that are purely designed to inflate tires, sports equipment, air mattresses, and other types of inflatables. These air compressors are relatively light, compact, and handy to keep in your car or take on camping trips. They also use your car battery as their power source.

So, in choosing the right one for your needs, first, decide what you need it for – and then have a look at our list of portable air compressors. You’re sure to find just the right compressor for your needs!

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