Have you ever seen a handyman doing his job? Holding a gun in hand and spray away like a hundred nails in a minute, non-stop! The scene looks straight out of a movie.
But how do they power these tools? Do they carry an electric generator along for the supply? No, not at all!
Handyman and people are related to this field own tools that are run by air pressure which helps them complete work on time and pretty quickly. Thus, where does the air pressure come from?
Did you ever have a chance to look at the tank these people carry around with them? Some have bigger ones while others carry a smaller tank. These are air compressors.
An air compressor is a tank that contains high pressured air and when fixed with an air tool, it lets go of the pressure to operate the tools and get the work done.
Where can you find one? Is it expensive? Hold up, guys! We’ll answer all your questions one by one, so have patience and read along!
Best Air Compressor for Automotive Air Tools in 2022
| Air Compressor | Capacity (gallons) | Max Pressure (PSI) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| California Air Tools 10020C | 10 | 125 | Check Price |
| Makita MAC5200 | 5.2 | 90 | Check Price |
| BOSTITCH BTFP02012 | 6 | 150 | Check Price |
| Industrial Air ILA1883054 | 30 | 155 | Check Price |
| Quincy QT-54 Splash | 60 | 145-170 | Check Price |
| Ingersoll Rand SS3F2-GM | 30 | 135 | Check Price |
| DEWALT DXCMPA1982054 | 20 | 155 | Check Price |
| PORTER CABLE C2002-WK | 6 | 150 | Check Price |
| CRAFTSMAN CMEC6150K | 6 | 150 | Check Price |
| Metabo HPT Pancake | 6 | 150 | Check Price |
Unlike your average tools, air tools are operated by air pressure, hence making them more efficient at performing their tasks.
But for attaining higher outcomes, you need to have an air compressor that is equally well built and supplies just the right amount of air to get the work done effortlessly.
But are you confused about which air compressor to go for?
The variety can surely be overwhelming, thus here is a list of the best air compressor for automotive air tools by us that is sure to deal with your queries in the best of ways.
1. California Air Tools 10020C Powerful Air Compressor
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Air compressors are known to create a lot of noise; hence many find it hard to work with something buzzing in their ears.
So, what if you told me we have a super quiet air compressor? That is absolutely true with the California air tools 10020C.
Moreover, it comes with an oil-free pump so you do not have to worry about any spills anywhere which ultimately leads to low-cost maintenance and high portability.
But what about the tank size? The tank can hold up to 10 gallons of air that too released at a maximum pressure of up to 125 PSI.
Furthermore, the powerful motor operates at 1680 RMP, creating noise measuring up to 70 decibels which is very less as compared to the other compressors in the market.
So yes, with this one, a peaceful working environment is what reality becomes.
Thus, what additional advantage does the oil-free piston serve? As compared to an average air compressor’s piston that lasts over 500 hours of a cycle, this one can go up to a whopping 3000 hours of non-spill and uninterrupted work.
And for people who always had a hard time starting an air compressor, this one is an easy one to deal with. How do you ask?
It consists of an “easy start valve” feature which allows the tank to release a little amount of air, releasing the pressure and hence, allowing the motor to spin freely and effortlessly.
Yes, with this one you do not need an extra pair of muscular arms for the startup!
The cylinder is made of cast aluminum while the valves have been carefully constructed out of stainless steel which makes this air compressor durable and withstands harsh weather conditions, leading to great performance without wearing and tearing.
The California air compressor is easy to use, durable, and quiet, and works great even in cold temperatures, helping you get the work done in no time at all!
- Easy start valve
- Hold air up to 10 gallons
- Cast aluminum cylinder with stainless steel valves
- Maximum air pressure up to 125 PSI
- Oil-free piston for no-spill
- High piston life cycle up to 3000 urs
- Creates less noise
- Produces less heat
- The wheels at the bottom make it easy to move around
- 1-year manufacturer’s warranty
- It may not last long
- Users have complained about problems with the valve/regular knob
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2. Makita MAC5200 3.0 HP Big Bore Air Compressor
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What if we told you we know of a portable air compressor delivers high-end performance and is easy to store?
Yes, we’re talking about the Makita MAC5200 here. This cast-iron cylinder comes with a foldable handle that can be pressed down thus, making it easy to store away until next time.
Moreover, if we talk about the air pressure, the 3.0 HP motor successfully produces 6.5 CFM at 90 PSI, which is good enough to manage automotive air tools without a problem.
Additionally, the Makita air compressor has been designed to create less noise while the big bore cylinder and piston with the cast iron pump reduce the startup time, making usage effortless.
Hence, if you’re looking for a compressor that lasts a lifetime, the Makita structure made out of cast-iron promises maximum durability.
Also, like most compressors, this one has a pump that is oil lubricated decreases wear over time and helps you manage hassle-free even under the lowest of temperatures.
But what about maintenance? Is the maintenance of this air compressor expensive and difficult? Well, not at all!
It requires less maintenance and proudly delivers industrial power which is ideal to operate automotive air tools. Moreover, see the storage compartment?
This built-in compartment lets you store air fittings and related accessories, keeping them in place so you don’t lose them during work.
An air compressor with a powerful motor that produces high air pressure, foldable and portable, comes with an in-built storage compartment encapsulated in a cast iron body
The Makita MAC5200 Big Bore compressor is ideal to get the job done efficiently and quickly!
- Creates less noise
- Cast iron body
- The wheels at the bottom allow for clear portability
- In-built storage tank for storing air fittings
- Powerful motor
- Oil-lubricated pump
- Requires less maintenance
- Comes with one year warranty
- Not recommended for colder weather
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3. BOSTITCH Air Compressor BTFP02012
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We are sure you must have heard of Bostitch when it comes to construction tools. Hence, here we present to your Bostitch’s BTFP02012 air compressor, a tool that is great for air tools.
But what makes it better than the rest?
We’ll start with talking about its motor first because a powerful motor is what all of us look for in an air compressor. It comes with a motor that produces air pressure up to 150 PSI.
Moreover, with a tank capacity of 6 gallons, the compressor surely promises to last longer. But this isn’t the only thing that we love about it.
The Bostitch air compressor makes less noise even with a high-efficiency motor. Moreover, engineered with an oil-free pump, you’ll be dealing with less mess, less maintenance, and more efficient performance.
The pump saves you time on the startup, hence making it efficiently work even under the coldest temperature. But the fun doesn’t end here.
This air compressor is a complete kit that includes heavy-duty crown staplers and nailers that help you work around furniture, cabinets, and staircases.
Although it is specially designed to power automotive air tools (Air ratchet, Airbrush, Sanders, etc..), with the additional accessories in the kit, you can get much more done!
- A complete kit
- Requires less maintenance and makes less noise
- High-efficiency motor
- The oil-free pump
- Let’s you work around furniture, cabinets, and staircases too
- Long hose for easy maneuverability
- One year manufacturer’s warranty
- The pressure knob is sloppy and takes time to adjust
- The nailer quality can be improved
No products found.
4. Industrial Air ILA1883054 Belt Driven Air Compressor
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Exclusively engineered for heavy-duty work, the Industrial Air compressor is ideal for the automotive industry where you need more power and air pressure to work the air tools non-stop.
So, why have we mentioned this air compressor on the list? Because we believe, without this one we couldn’t have moved forward.
This cast iron air compressor comes with a twin cylinder and an oil-lubricated pump. The addition of a heavy-duty motor ensures you get maximum pressure for optimal performance.
Moreover, it has been designed with a quick-set regulator, pressure gauge, tank, and on/off switch which makes using it a piece of cake.
Thus, if you’re looking to manage things around your farm or need to operate air tools, we’d suggest the powerful industrial air ILA1883054 air compressor as the first choice.
Also, the cylinder comes with a valve pate which dissipates heat equally and when paired up with the oil-lubricated pump, the tank is easily working through the coldest of temperatures, requiring low maintenance and saving a lot of time.
Furthermore, if we say the tank is portable, we wouldn’t be wrong. The pre-attached pneumatic tires allow for easy maneuverability while the handle gives you a comfortable grip.
The industrial Air ILA1882054 air compressor is a piece of solid equipment with a powerful motor, huge tank, and high air pressure that is fit for industrial use.
- Cast iron body with twin-cylinder
- The oil-lubricated pump
- 30-gallon tank for larger air capacity
- Ideal for industrial use
- Pre-attached pneumatic tires
- Includes a quick-set regulator, tank with gauges, and on/off switch
- Comes with 2 years warranty
- Quieter than other industrial air compressors
- Expensive
- Difficult to access drain plug
No products found.
5. Quincy QT-54 Splash Lubricated Reciprocating Air Compressor
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Next up is Quincy’s QT-54 air compressor, embedded with a powerful, heavy-duty US Baldor motor.
So, what made Quincy’s air compressor deserve a place in the list of the best air compressor for air tools?
The high performance that it delivers!
Unlike other compressors, this one has been cleverly designed to produce more air pressure at a lower horsepower, thus allowing you to cut down on the operating cost and maintenance.
Sounds great, right?
The motor runs at lower RPM, which reduces cost without compromising on the performance quality. But is it the only thing that we love about this air compressor?
Surely not!
It comes with an oil-lubricated pump that requires less effort and time to start the motor, and most importantly needs minimal maintenance while also allowing it to work perfectly under lower temperatures.
Moreover, the air compressor lives up to 30,000 hours of pumping life, which is a lot when you need to work non-stop.
So, if you are someone who has to work long hours and needs a powerful air compressor that can actually work well under “pressure”, this one it is!
And let’s not forget the 2-year manufacturer’s warranty that makes usage hassle-free! So, for affordability and great performance, the Quincy QT-54 is a stellar choice!
- Uses less horsepower to generate high air pressure
- Cuts down on the operating cost and requires low maintenance
- The oil-lubricated pump allows it to work at the lowest temperature without compromising on the performance
- Accessible drainage system
- 2 year’s warranty included
- Up to 30,000 hours of pumping life
- Takes less storage space
- No wheels included which makes it a little difficult to move around
- Not very durable
- The overall quality can be improved
No products found.
6. Ingersoll-Rand SS3F2-GM Single-stage Compressor
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So what makes Ingersoll Rand’s SS3F2-GM special?
This beige-colored air compressor may not have the most appealing outlook, but when it comes to performance, there is no beating it.
It comes with a 2 horsepower motor for high-end performance, so yes, full-blown air pressure is never questionable.
Moreover, if you’re looking for a 100% duty cycle, the Ingersoll Rand gives non-stop performance with its 30 gallons tank aiding you through the completion of the toughest of tasks without a problem.
And let’s not forget to talk about the design. It might not be the prettiest of the lot, but has cleverly been designed with semi-pneumatic tires and an ergonomic handle makes it highly portable.
So even if you have a difficult job of carrying it along, the design makes it possible and convenient.
Even though it works on a powerful motor, it creates minimum noise which is a huge plus point.
Furthermore, the air compressor comes with an easily accessible drain valve and automatic switch on/off button that provides complete control over the equipment.
Still not convinced?
With the next point, we are sure you’ll be very much impressed by the Ingersoll-Rand air compressor.
The model SS3F2-GM uses synthetic lubricant instead of an average petroleum-based lubricant which truly increases its efficiency and performance, helping it last much longer as compared to other compressors in the market.
This air compressor consists of a cast iron body that promises maximum durability, hence with this one piece of equipment, you’ll be winning over all the areas!
- Powerful motor that delivers 2 horsepower for enhanced performance
- Ergonomic handle and semi-pneumatic tires make it highly portable
- Delivers 100% duty cycle
- Uses synthetic lubricant which increases power and efficiency
- Cast iron body promises durability
- Creates less noise
- Users have complained of receiving damaged product with missing parts
- The valve may develop a leak over time
No products found.
7. DEWALT DXCMPA1982054 Air Compressor
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Ever heard of DeWalt? Let’s talk about their air compressor that has successfully made its way to our top 10 list.
The cast iron air compressor consists of twin cylinders and an oil-lubricated pump which leads to high performance and low maintenance, helping you get done with work that is super difficult to complete otherwise.
Moreover, the addition of a valve plate allows the heat to dissipate evenly so that while you’re working hard to complete the work around the place, the compressor does not heat up and burn out.
Another thing that is important to mention here is that the DeWalt air compressor is easy to use.
How? It comes with additional knobs and gauges including a high flow regulator, quick connect air outlet, on/off switch, and pressure gauges that give you complete control over the compressor.
So whenever you feel like increasing or decreasing the pressure, just use the regulator to manage it accordingly!
Furthermore, the compressor can be seen with pneumatic tires which makes it portable and the cast iron body adds to the long-lasting performance.
Hence, for people looking for a high-performance compressor that is easy to move around and yet manages to deliver high pressure for longer without burning out, the DeWalt air compressor is up for grabs.
- Pneumatic tires make the compressor portable
- On-board control knobs and gauges for easy operation
- Valve plate for even dissipation of heat
- Twin cylinders and a powerful motor promises heavy-duty performance
- Cast iron body ensures maximum durability
- Creates noise
No products found.
8. PORTER-CABLE C2002-WK Pancake Air Compressor
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So unlike other air compressors on the list, the Porter-Cable C2002-WK doesn’t entertain a big tank.
But that should not be a problem as the compressor is known to produce air pressure up to 150 PSI which is great to operate automotive air tools.
Moreover, it comes with a 13 piece accessory kit that includes everything that you’ll need to excel in your work. Hence, when paired up with a 120-volt motor, you’re sure talking about slaying it in your job.
The motor of Porter-Cable air compressor holds within is high efficiency and lets you work without a problem even in cold temperatures.
Additionally, the oil-free pump allows for a quick start and low maintenance, hence you won’t be incurring any extra cost or time on it.
Furthermore, the in-built air coupler and plug help avoid leakages while the handle, shroud, and console cover make it an easy compressor to carry around.
Oh, and yes, the pack includes an air pressure gauge with an ergonomic handle and LED display that makes handling it much easier.
All we can say about Porter-Cable’s C2002-WK is that do not be fooled by the small size!
- Small-sized and portable
- Comes with a digital air pressure gauge
- Oil-free pump leads to low maintenance
- A High-efficiency motor lets it perform its best even in cold temperature
- Includes a 13 piece accessory kit
- Durable
- Users have complained of air leakage
- The pump creates a lot of noise
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9. CRAFTSMAN CMEC6150K Air Compressor
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A pancake compressor with a 6-gallon tank and 120-volt powerful motor, the Craftsman CMEC6150K is a piece of clever equipment that lets you complete the task without hassle.
It comes with an oil-free pump which ultimately means less maintenance is required and hence, the strong outer core adds to its durability.
This air compressor can hold up to 6 gallons of air and build up pressure up to 150 PSI, which is an amazing calculation for a small-sized compressor.
Hence, this is why you can trust is working absolutely fine even on a cold day. Moreover, the entire package includes a compressor along with a 13 piece accessory kit containing things that aid in the completion of your projects.
The Craftsman air compressor is trustable, lightweight thus easy to carry around, and surely a great sidekick for your projects that need to be finished on time!
- Durable, lightweight, and easy to carry
- An oil-free pump means less maintenance is required
- Includes a 13 piece accessory kit
- Affordable
- Comes with one year warranty
- Sometimes the air pressure does not reach 150 PSI as mentioned in the details
- May develop leaks over time
- May not last long
No products found.
10. Metabo HPT (EC710S) Pancake Air Compressor
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It’s now time to discuss the Metabo air compressor, another compressor that is popularly known for creating less noise, thus you get to enjoy working in a peacefully quiet environment.
This pancake-styled air compressor comes with a 6-gallon tank and maximum air pressure of up to 150 PSI, which is good enough to operate different types of air tools.
Moreover, the 1 HP (horsepower) motor delivers high-efficiency performance, making it reliable for a quick start-up even when the temperature drops below zero degrees.
But is it durable? Yes, it is!
It has been made with a steel cage and rubber grip that protects the fragile components of the compressors and makes it easy to carry around.
Furthermore, the onboard control handles including regulators and gauges make it easy to use, giving you full control over the equipment.
Thus, if you want an air compressor that is small-sized yet powerful in performance, we’d suggest you take a closer look at the Metabo EC710S air compressor.
- Easy to use and carry around
- The steel cage with rubber grip adds to its durability and ease of use
- Gauges and regulators give you complete control over the compressor
- In-built powerful motor that is highly reliable even in cold weather
- Creates less noise
- Uneven welds
- A bit expensive as compared to other air compressors
No products found.
Best Air Compressor For Automotive Air Tools Buyer’s Guide:
For operating air tools, you need the right air pressure to get the work done efficiently.
For this you need an air compressor that produces the right air pressure, has a large tank capacity so it can last up to a few days, and most importantly, come with a heavy-duty motor and is durable.
But how do you know which air compressor is the best? There are a few things that you need to pay special attention to when buying an air compressor to ensure you invest in the right equipment.
What are the factors that we are talking about? Follow along to know more!
Tank Size
What kind of work you need to get done will determine the tank size of the air compressor you choose. If you wish to work around the house, in the garage, you don’t need a big tank that is difficult to carry around.
On the contrary, for industrial use like working with automotive air tools, you need to make sure the air lasts longer for which you do require a compressor with a bigger tank size, and yes, a powerful motor too.
Thus, before you decide to invest in an expensive air compressor, think again about the purpose you need it for, and only then, buy the right sized one.
CFM Requirement
What is CFM? The cubic feet per minute is the area your air tools will cover and thus, the size of the tools will directly leave an impact on the CFM requirement of your air compressor.
If you have a bigger project in mind for which you need to operate heavy-duty tools, know that you’ll be needing a compressor with higher CFM while for more casual work around the house, minimum CFM will work just fine.
Oil-Free vs. Oil Air Compressor for Automotive Air Tools
Let us ask you, do you like working in a quiet, peaceful environment? What will you prefer amongst the two: low noise or low maintenance?
Confused why are we asking this?
This is because the type of air compressor you’ll buy surely lies in the answer to the above question. In general, you have two types of air compressors, one that has an oil-lubricated pump and the other one is designed with an oil-free pump.
What is the difference?
Where oil-lubricated pump compressors deliver greater output, the oil-free ones require less maintenance and create no noise.
Although many air compressors are being used on an industrial level to create less noise, the nature of your work will determine which goes best for you. Thus, be wise in choosing the right air compressor!
Air Pressure (PSI)
When talking about tools, most air tools require around90 PSI to work properly and so, it means to meet the need, you must have a compressor that accommodates to a higher PSI for uninterrupted performance.
Most industrial air compressors consist of two stages of shut-off. At the first stage, it maintains a PSI of up to 90 while at the second stage; it goes up to 175 PSI.
Thus, the need for air pressure can easily be controlled according to the nature of the work.
Duty Cycle
Another important factor to consider when buying an air compressor is the duty cycle. What is it exactly?
A duty cycle is a determination of how long the compressor performs in a single run and is calculated in percentage.
For example, if the details mention the compressor’s duty cycle to be 75% every 10 minutes, it means exceeding the time will deteriorate its performance.
Most industrial compressors go up to 100% duty cycles which means you can use it for longer without stopping for intervals.
Hence for powering automotive air tools, you need to go for an air compressor with a higher duty cycle to achieve better performance.
Noise
Well, continuous noise in the background can be pretty distracting, right? Thus, thanks to the manufacturers of compressors who have come up with an upgraded design, most air compressors are now known to create less noise.
It is commonly believed that the bigger a compressor is, the more noise it will create but it is not the case for every piece of equipment.
There are a few good brands that are manufacturing pretty solid air compressors that are powerful yet create minimum noise so you have a quieter environment to work in without losing concentration.
Durability
Things, rather equipment like an air composer are something you do not buy every day. Thus, invest in one that will last longer.
If you need to operate automotive air tools, go for a compressor made from a heavy-duty cast iron body that promises maximum durability by withstanding wearing and tearing over time and delivering uncompromised performance for longer.
Portability
Ease of maneuverability is what you should surely look for in an air compressor!
Why?
This is because when you’re working in an industry or even want one for your housework, you need to move the compressor around, and hence, carrying the heavy cylinder isn’t always feasible.
We’d suggest you go for one with wheels at the bottom or is lightweight so moving it around and completing work becomes easy.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Conclusion:
We have already discussed in detail the best air compressor for automotive air tools and their types, making it easier for you to choose one.
A point of advice in the end, that before you reach a decision, always make sure you know the nature of your work thoroughly or else you’ll only end up with the wrong thing and then complain about it being a useless air compressor.
Always read the details of tank size, horsepower, and pressure to ensure the air compressor you choose is compatible with your automotive air tools.
And yes, your budget will matter too but remember, make a wise investment because money spend right goes for a long time.
We hope the above list will surely come in handy and help you get the right equipment today!
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