A home garage air compressor is one of those products that many people take for granted. It is something that often sits without use, but when the time comes to inflate a tire or a ball, most people are thankful they have one handy. Additionally, air compressors can be used for much more than inflating things around the house. Some compressors are able to power air tools such as nail guns, drills, and paint sprayers.
We have created the below list of our picks for the best air compressors for the home garage. Whether you are buying new or replacing an old air compressor, we hope this list will help you find a quality product that will last for years.
Table of Contents
Top Air Compressors for Home Garages
PORTER-CABLE CMB15 (1.5 Gallon) Carry Compressor Kit
- 2.0 SCFM @ 90 psi of the portable air compressor allows for quick compressor recovery time, per ISO1217
- 1.5 gallon tank in shroud of the electric air compressor is easy to carry, includes water drain valve and rubber feet
- 150 psi max tank pressure of the PORTER-CABLE air compressor stores more air in the tank for longer tool runtimes
- Durable oil-free pump for long life and no maintenance
- Low Amp 120V motor starts easily in cold weather or with extension cord
Last update on 2022-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
One thing most people will love about this Porter-Cable compressor is its 25-foot hose. This might seem like a minor feature for some, but when you are inflating an item such as tires, you often need this extra length.
This compressor comes with a 1.5-gallon tank with an attached water value for convenient drainage. It offers a maximum of 150 PSI and a low Amp 120V motor. The front of the compressor provides two gauges to monitor the PSI for the tank and regulated pressure.
The noise level is 79 db making it tolerable for most people to work around in the garage. The unit weighs only 20 pounds making it super simple to maneuver where you may need it.
This is our pick for the top air compressor for the home garage in terms of both portability and performance.
Additional Features:
- 120 Volts
- 8 Piece Accessory Kit for Inflation (included)
- 1 Year Warranty on Compressor Components
- 2.0 SCFM at 90 PSI
- Rubber Feet for Floor Protection
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Makita MAC700 Big Bore 2.0 HP Air Compressor
- Cast iron pump with big bore cylinder and piston, combined with greater bore and stroke, delivers maximum performance
- Substantially lower noise levels with a large 1,720 RPM pump, enabling greater displacement at lower RPM
- Low amp draw reduces incidences of tripped breakers and voltage drop that can cause premature motor failure
- Oil lubricated provides cooler running pump, minimizes wear
- One-year manufacturer's warranty
Last update on 2022-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Makita MAC700 is equipped with a 2.6 gallon hot dog style tank. Its performance is 90 PSI: 3.3, 40 PSI: 3.8 and its operating pressure is 130 maximum PSI.
This air compressor features a 2.0 HP oil-lubricated Big Bore engineered pump made with a durable cast iron cylinder. It produces 80 decibels which is about as loud as a garbage disposal. The unit surprisingly weighs only 52 pounds so it can be moved by most people with a slight bit of effort.
Additional Features:
- Size: 18″ x 10″ x 22″
- 1/4″ Universal Coupler (included)
- Oil (included)
- Warranty: 1 Year Parts & Labor
- Oil Drain, Oil Sight Glass, & Tank Drain Value (included)
Bostitch BTFP02012 6 Gallon 150 PSI Oil-Free Compressor
- The portable air compressor has a long-life oil-free, maintenance-free pump for convenient use
- 150 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 of the electric air compressor
- BOSTITCH high efficiency motor of the 6 gallon 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** operational noise level for a quiet work environment
- 29 lb. weight makes unit easy to carry and store
Last update on 2022-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This Bostitch 6 gallon compressor provides 150 maximum PSI. It operates at 78.5 dBA which is approximately as noisy as only a hairdryer or washing machine. You likely aren’t going to drive the whole neighborhood crazy by running this compressor from time to time.
The compressor comes equipped with two gauges. One gauge is for the tank pressure and the other if for the regulated pressure or the output. We love how this compressor is equipped with two universal couplers that allow two tools to be hooked to the tank and used as desired.
The whole unit weighs only 29 pounds, so it can easily be moved around your garage or house as needed. This is an oil-fee compressor making oil spillage a non-factor.
Additional Features:
- Hose and Gun Kit (not included)
- 2.6 SCFM
- Corded
- On/Off Switch
- Dial to Control Regulated Pressure
- Pressure Release Valve
- Rubber Footings
DEWALT Pancake Air Compressor
- 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
Last update on 2022-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This air compressor should be considered along with the Bostitch above. It features 165 maximum PSI and contains a 6-gallon tank. It operates at 75.5 dBA making it a bit quieter than the Bostitch.
This pancake compressor is equipped with two couplers for dual users of the machine. Its ball drain valve makes draining the tank a simple task.
This is an oil-free compressor that uses 120V power supply using an electrical outlet. The total weight is 30 pounds so most people will be able to move the compressor as needed.
Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP Air Compressor
- Cast iron pump with Big Bore cylinder and piston is engineered to provide faster recovery time for improved performance
- Powerful 2.5 HP 4-Pole motor produces 4.2 CFM at 90 PSI for increased productivity and lower noise
- Roll-cage construction provides complete protection to withstand extreme jobsite environments
- Low AMP draw reduces incidences of tripped breakers at start-up
- Pump is oil-lubricated for cooler running temperatures and reduced wear
Last update on 2022-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Makita 2.5 HP air compressor is equipped with 4.2-gallon dual tanks that will produce an operating pressure of 130 PSI. It offers a powerful 40 PSI (4.8 CFM) and 90 PSI (4.2 CFM). It will have no trouble running many air tools. Makita indicates that this has a low AMP draw, which will eliminate the risk of running to the breaker box.
This air compressor comes equipped with an oil-lubricated pump. It offers oil drainage and a sight glass window for a visual of the oil. You can see by the above photo that this has a roll-cage design to withstand potential rough handling.
In addition to the dual gauges that read the tank PSI and regulated PSI, you also have two couplers to hook up your hoses. This is a nice option if you plan on operating multiple tools from this compressor.
Additional Features:
- Maximum Pressure: 130 PSI
- 120 Volts
- 77 Pounds
- Noise: 79 dB
- Power Source: Electric
- Heavy-duty Cast-iron Cylinder
- 1,720 RPM
- Oil (included)
- 1/4-inch Universal Coupler (included)
- Warranty: 1 Year Parts & Labor
- Thermal Overload for Protection
EPAuto 12V DC Portable Air Compressor Pump
- Convenience: Plug directly into Cigarette Lighter Socket of your Vehicle. 12VDC, 10 to 15 amps, 120 to 180W. Equipped with 12V-DC Cigarette Lighter Socket Plug, NOT 110V AC plug.
- Multiple Uses: Inflate tires on cars, bikes, sedan and midsize SUV. (Engine size under 3.5 liter) Universal valve connector for schrader valve is ready to use. Additional adapters include needles value (for basketball, balls), short cone/long cone adapters (for inflatable kayak, swimming pool accessories, etc)
- Capacity: Does NOT Support truck tires, for instance: light truck tires (LT), heavy duty truck tires or any truck tires.
- Easy to Read: 4 Display Units: PSI, KPA, BAR, KG/CM; LED FLASHLIGHT: Bright Torch
- Prevent Over Inflation: Auto shut off when reaching the desired tire pressure. Overheat protection shuts off automatically when overloading. USPTO Patent NO:D875,788
Last update on 2022-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The highly-rated EPAuto 12V air compressor plugs into your car’s cigarette lighter for a convenient power source. This is an excellent compressor to carry in your car for emergency air fill-ups. This is especially true if you live in an area that lacks locations to fill your tires.
It comes equipped with a digital display that is able to show four units: PSI, KPA, BAR, and KG/CM. This compressor has an auto shut off feature which will turn off the air once it hits the desired pressure. This helps the operator avoid over inflation.
Another excellent feature of this air compressor is the LED flashlight located on the front of the unit. This provides a nice “Bright Torch” light source for when light is scarce. Additionally, the compressor was manufactured with overheat protection, which will auto shut off the unit if it exceeds 167°F.
If you are looking for a compact air compressor, this an excellent choice to keep in the car trunk along with a car snow shovel for emergencies or on the garage shelf. While we would assume most people are looking for larger compressors when visiting this article, we had to include this one because of its stellar user reviews.
Additional Features:
- Voltage: 12V
- Rating Power: 120W
- Maximum Working Pressure: 100 PSI
- Min Amps: 10, Max Amps: 15
- Inflating Speed: 1.06 CFW
- CE Certified
- Backup Fuse (included)
- Wall Outlet Plug: No
- Ball and Inflatables Adapters (included)
Hitachi EC28M Air Compressor
- Hitachi Power Tools has renamed to Metabo HPT; Same great tools, with only a new name
- Ultra quiet operation at only 59 dB's: so quiet that a normal conversation can take place while the compressor is cycling and the compressor sound is barely noticeable
- Quiet industrial oil free pump provides high durability with no maintenance
- Factory installed industrial quick coupler for easy one handed hose connection
- Stainless steel braided discharge hose resists corrosion and remains flexible
Last update on 2022-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Hitachi EC28M is one of the best air compressors for a home garage in terms of noise. It only produces 59 decibels, which is comparable to restaurant conversation noise or an air conditioning unit at 100 feet.
The unit weighs only 25.2 pounds making it very portable to move to various locations. It also has a steel roll cage to help deter damage. The compressor comes with an oil-free pump and offers 125 PSI maximum pressure.
You can also purchase this compressor with a brad nailer and a 50-foot hose. You can view that package deal here. Clicking the “Buy from Amazon” box below will only take you to the air compressor without accessories.
Additional Features:
- Dimensions: 14 x 14 x 13.5 inches
- Power Source: Electric
- 1 Year Warranty
- Dual Gauges for Tank & Regulated Pressure
- Rubber Feet for Floor Protection
Craftsman 3 Gallon Oil-Lubricated Air Compressor
Last update on 2022-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Craftsman compressor comes with a 25-foot hose, compressor oil, and an accessory kit that includes a ball tire chuck, male plug, and seal tape. If you purchase this compressor, you will have all the basics to get you started with inflating.
This compressor delivers 135 maximum PSI and provides a 3-gallon tank. It offers 1 HP and a 15 amp direct-drive motor. SCFM delivery at 90 PSI is 2.4 and at 40 PSI it is 3.7.
Additional Features:
- Auto shut off when oil is low
- 110 Motor Voltage
- Oil Lubricated
- 47 pound
California Air Tools 2010A Ultra Quiet
- Ultra Quiet only 60 Decibels
- Oil-Free Pump for Less Maintenance & Costs
- 2.0 Gallon (Rust Free) Aluminum Tank
- Powerful 1.0 HP (Rated / Running) 2.0 HP (Peak) Motor
- 3.10 CFM at 40 PSI 2.20 CFM at 90 PSI
Last update on 2022-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Looking at a picture of this California Air Tools air compressor, you might think it is extremely noisy. Amazing, this compressor only produces 60 decibels of sound. This is equivalent to office or restaurant noise. This likely will not wake up the neighbors several houses down the street.
The compressor is oil-free and provides 1.0 HP with 1680 RPM. The tank is 2.0 gallons and will not rust from the inside according to the manufacturer. The maximum pressure on this unit is 120 PSI.
It surprisingly weighs approximately only 35 pounds for relatively painless transporting.
Additional Features:
- Dual Pistons
- 8.5 Amp While Running
- 110 Volts
- Power Source: Electric
- 25.5 x 11.5 x 21 inches
- 1 Year Warranty
AstroAI Portable Air Compressor Pump
- INCREASED SAFETY: Properly inflated tires provide better performance in all weather conditions; prevent crashes, tire explosions, and premature tire wear; INTEGRATED IN-LINE FUSE prevents overloading the air compressor, making it safer for everyone to use. NOTE: Please ensure the current of your automobile cigarette lighter is from 10 to 15 amps to avoid automobile fuses from blowing
- ADVANCED ACCURACY: Professionally calibrated to always return a reading within 1% of the pressure of your tire. No more guessing! The final inflation value will be 0. 5-1. 5 PSI higher than the preset value; When inflation is finished, it perfectly solves the problem of reduced pressure after removing the valve connector, thus making inflation more accurate
- EASY AND QUICK: Simply turn your vehicle on, plug in the air compressor, and inflate! A high-flow pump inflates your tires up to 35 Liters per Minute, putting you back on the road quickly; includes a storage case for added conveninece
- OVERHEAT PROTECTION: Overheat protection will shut off automatically when exceed 100℃/212℉; Maximum continuous operating time: 15 Minutes
- ALL-IN-ONE FEATURES: The LED backlit screen features measurements in PSI, KPA, Bar; Includes a needle, two cone adapters, spare fuse and valve caps, and a built-in LED flashlight; Ideal for car bike auto tires, air cushion, sports ball, ballon and other automobiles; NOTE: DOES NOT SUPPORT LT, HT and Truck Tires
Last update on 2022-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The AstroAI is a solid compressor if you are looking to use your compressor for simple tasks such as inflating tires or blowing up sports balls. It is designed to easily fit inside your car trunk to have available when your tires get low on air. This is also one of the cheapest on our list of air compressors for the home garage, so you won’t break the bank trying to afford this one.
This compressor hooks to your car’s cigarette lighter from 10 to 15 amps to allow for car portability. The unit has a modern LCD screen that produces a reliable reading of your PSI. An amazing feature of this compressor is that it will stop running once the unit reaches your desired pressure. There is no need to worry about over inflation when properly set.
The AstroAI air compressor is equipped with overheat protection which will shut off the unit if the temperature exceeds 212°F. The compressor also only allows for 30 minutes of continuous use.
Additional Features:
- Accurate Pressure Reading Within 1%
- Tires Inflated Up To 35 Liters per Minute
- Measurements Displayed in PSI, KPA, or Bar
- Needle, Two Cone Adapter, Spare Fuse, and Value Caps (included)
- LED Flashlight (included)
- 3 Year Warranty
Finding the Best Air Compressor for Your Home Garage – What to Look For
- Noise: If you plan on using your air compressor in a tight place like a garage, you likely want the noise it produces to be minimal. However, you also do not want to sacrifice performance. Check the decibel rating of the air compressor before buying if noise is a concern for you.
- Size: Size is typically not a factor if you have ample space in your garage and you do not plan on moving the compressor. However, many people appreciate the ability to move or transport their compressor from time to time. You should determine how you plan on using your compressor before buying. If you go with a lightweight and compact compressor, be sure the unit has sufficient power for your needs.
- Tank Size: The larger the tank size, the longer you can use the compressor before it needs to be powered up. If you plan on continuously using the compressor for long periods or need a high volume of air, you should consider a larger tank. However, if you plan on occasionally filling your tires or inflated balls, you can get away with a smaller tank.
- Standard Cubic Feet per Minute (SCFM): This rating is important because it provides the volume of air produced at a particular PSI. 90 PSI is the most commonly used to determine SCFM. The higher the SCFM the greater the volume of air that is delivered. Look at the SCFM requirements for the tools you plan to use with your air compressor to be sure you are buying an air compressor that will adequately power your tools.
- Power Source: The majority of air compressors for a home garage are electric. You simply plug them into a standard outlet and they are ready for use. The car trunk style compressors often are powered using the cigarette lighter. You can also buy gas-powered air compressors, which makes them extremely portable, but they are often used in commercial settings.
Air Compressor – FAQ
- Can an air compressor explode?
- Yes, it is possible for an air compressor to explode from a defect, corrosion, or from the user not following the operation or maintenance procedures. Be sure to thoroughly read the product manual and follow the operating/maintenance instructions to help deter a tank explosion.
- Will an air compressor blow up balloons?
- Yes, if you have an inflation attachment that will fit tightly inside the balloon. You will obviously want to take it slowly at first until you get the hang of blowing up the balloons with the compressor. Most compressors will inflate balloons rapidly.
- What air compressor accessories do I need?
- You will need a hose and potentially a reel if not included with your air compressor purchase. You then need to decide how you are going to use your air compressor. There are numerous air tools you can buy to use with your air compressor such as a nail gun, drill, and sander. Be sure your compressor is powerful enough to handle a particular tool before buying. At the very least, you will likely want some accessories to inflate tires, balls, and so on, if not already included.
- Do I need an air compressor?
- If you are simply using your air compressor to occasionally fill your tires with air, you probably can just head up to the local gas station and skip buying a compressor. However, air compressors are much more versatile than just being used for inflating purposes. As you probably realize from reading above, there are many tools that can attach to an air compressor making it very versatile. Essentially, you need to determine how you will use your air compressor in order to determine if it is really worth buying one. We advise you to truly think it through before buying one because they are not typically a cheap purchase.
