Top 8 Best 30-Gallon Air Compressors For Your Money – 2020 Update

Air compressors are large, heavy-duty equipments vital to keep your pneumatic devices up and about. These provide compressed air, effectively powering up tools such as impact wrenches, nail guns, air staplers, caulking guns, and air drills. Because of the type of air used, the intensity and strength of these tools make them convenient for any type of construction work you do.

Here we will review some of the best 30-gallon air compressors for the money. These differ on power, build, and capability, making sure that the selection will address questions regarding your needs. Hopefully, this will guide you into knowing the exact type of air compressor perfect for you.

Image	Product	Details
	My Favorite Choice Industrial Air ILA188354 - Electric Powered	5.7 CFM at 90 PSI Max Pressure: 155 PSI UL, CSA, ASME certified Oil-lubricated	View on Amazon
	Most Budget-Friendly DeWalt DXCMLA1983012 - Electric Powered	6.0 CFM at 90 PSI Max Pressure: 155 PSI Oil-free Automatic Thermal Overload Protection	View on Amazon
	Campbell Hausfeld VT6271 - Electric Powered	10.2 CFM at 90 PSI Max Pressure: 135 PSI Oil-lubricated ASME certified tank	View on Amazon
	Ingersoll-Rand SS3F2-GM - Electric Powered	5.7 CFM at 90 PSI Max Pressure: 135 PSI Oil-lubricated 100% continuous duty	View on Amazon
	Good Bang For Your Buck NorthStar 459382 - Gas Powered	24.4 CFM at 90 PSI Max Pressure: 175 PSI V-style cylinder design for superior cooling Long service life	View on Amazon
	Premium Choice, Most Powerful Ingersoll-Rand IRTC2475F13GH - Gas Powered	25 CFM at 175 PSI Max Pressure: 175 PSI 100% continuous duty Long service life	View on Amazon
	DeWalt DXCMH1393075 - Gas Powered	22 CFM at 175 PSI Max Pressure: 175 PSI Fully enclosed metal belt guard covers and protects moving parts Long service life	View on Amazon
	Industrial Air IHA9093080.ES - Gas Powered	18 CFM at 90 PSI Max Pressure: 155 PSI Three cylinder pump provides greater overall cooling surface Long service life	View on Amazon

Best Electric 30-Gallon Air Compressors

Industrial Air ILA1883054 30-Gallon Belt Driven Air Compressor

Pros:

• Compact vertical design
• Durable, rated and certified tank
• Simple and easy to use

Cons:

• A bit noisy, but tolerable

An efficient and sturdy single stage air compressor, the 30-gallon offering from Industrial Air is powered by a heavy duty dual voltage induction motor. Made from cast iron, it has twin cylinders, oil lubricated pump, and is portable due to its pre-attached pneumatic tires.

It is built to also look as strong as it is. It is portable and easy to store due to its compact design. All the important parts of the air compressor are located on top, a vertical fit that is efficiently designed. The black color tone also makes it less bulky to look at that blends nicely in the background, avoiding the potential distraction that sharp color tones usually have.

The 30-gallon, ASME-certified build makes the air compressor durable. It reaches a 155psi max pressure for optimum tool performance. Functions such as the quick-set regulator helps keep the air served in check and the dual voltage motor makes it compatible for 120-volt and 240-volt applications.

The capacity of the Industrial Air compressor is at 1.9HP. This single-stage compressor delivers 7 CFM at 40psi, and 5.7 CFM at 90psi, capable of powering up to 2 of your air tools at the same time. It is UL and CSA certified, giving you the assurance of a sturdy and reliable air compressor.

To sum it up

Designed simply and portable, Industrial Air’s 30-gallon air compressor is easy to bring and store when necessary. It offers a great deal for its capacity as it can power one high-rated air tool or you can choose to use up to 2 pneumatic tools while getting the job done. It is a great basic type of compressor that is perfect for its cost and functionality.

DeWalt DXCMLA1983012 30-Gallon Oil Free Direct Drive Air Compressor

Pros:

• Noticeable design, compact in size
• ASME-rated tank
• Slightly higher power compared to others

Cons:

• Wheel placement design makes it lean, needing support

An offering form trusted brand DeWalt, their 30-gallon air compressor emphasizes user safety as it features an electrical overload protection along with other useful features. This compact and sturdy equipment is sure to help you with light construction needs in and out of your home.

True to its signature style, DeWalt’s air compressor is color coded yellow and black. This has the effect of making it easy to recognize and spot when stored away. Pre-attached pneumatic tires help make this equipment portable and easy to bring in any challenging site location. All controllers and regulators are placed on top of the vertical tank, making it accessible and easy to operate.

At maximum pressure, the air compressor can belt out up to 155psi. The 30-gallon tank is ASME-certified for sturdiness. It features a high flow regulator and a quick coupler. It is oil free, and can operate at the standard 120 volt outlet. A patented pump design and long lasting induction motor helps promote longer use with the equipment.

DeWalt’s single-stage 30-gallon air compressor is powered with 1.9HP.  With its patented pump design, it can deliver 7.7 CFM at 40psi, and 6CFM at 90psi. Its high flow regulator can provide up to 48% more air flow to your pneumatic tools for peak performance. A tank drain valve lets you quickly drain the tank when necessary.

To sum it up

Portable, noticeable, and powerful, the DeWalt 30-gallon air compressor provides strong power when necessary. Construction works usually require air tools, most of which can be used with this equipment. Ideally, it can power 1 heavy duty tool, but it can also operate 2 low-power using tools to quickly finish the job at hand.

Campbell Hausfeld VT6271

Pros:

• Provides stronger power and output
• Quiet operation avoids causing noise for other people
• Long life guarantees optimal reliable use

Cons:

• Plastic casing may feel inappropriate for the air compressor’s tough use

For horizontal air compressors, Campbell Hausfeld offers a strong single-stage air compressor that takes advantage of its size. Being laid down, this compressor makes use of a strong engine to provide powerful air to your pneumatic tools. Durable and stable, the portable equipment is sure to deliver powerful help to both household and construction work.

The horizontal design of the air compressor makes it capable of carrying a larger engine on top for its power. This makes it a bit bulky to look at but is proportional to the power it can provide. Its blue and black color tones make it good for avoiding attention as it shies away from strong color schemes. It also has large, air-powered wheels that help with portability.

A strong ASME-certified tank is used to store air. Superior pump crankshaft and V-belt drive performs greatly, with long-lasting motor that can provide up to 5000 hours of use. Dual-stage motor lets it run on 240V for versatility and portability. It also boasts quiet operations for convenience and comfort.

Built for functionality, the air compressor is powered by a 3.7HP engine. It can provide 135psi max power, 10.2 CFM at 90psi. This powerful engine and strong power output helps keep your pneumatic tools in peak performance, finishing work quickly and with no wasted time.

To sum it up

Powerful, quiet, and long-lasting, the Campbell Hausfeld 30-gallon air compressor delivers a lot for its price. Due to its high output, it can power most high-rated pneumatic tools. It can be used in a lot of situations as it can operate relatively quietly. It may be a bit bulky, but it’s worth the help it can provide.

Ingersoll-Rand SS3F2-GM

Pros:

• 100% duty cycle provides undisturbed power for long operations
• Ergonomic handle and wheels help with portability of equipment
• Operates with less noise than other air compressors

Cons:

• Not as strong as other horizontal air compressors

Another reliable brand for power tools, Ingersoll-Rand offers a powerful 30-gallon horizontal air compressor. Meant to complement people who like DIY construction, the ease of use and portability of the equipment ensures easier and convenient operation while retaining functionality.

As a horizontal air compressor, it carries with it a powerful tank and engine, situated at the top of the equipment. Its white and black color scheme makes it easy to see, helping users locate it when necessary. The build is bulky, despite its portability. This ensures that it can belt out as much power as possible while retaining its capability for transport.

The air compressor is designed for ease of use and functionality. An ASME-certified tank assures durability. It includes a discharge-mounted check valve, pressure gauge, service valve, relief valve, and an accessible side drain. It has an all season select synthetic lubricant to increase efficiency, keeping up to 2000 hours before changing. It has a single-stage motor that can operate quietly for convenience.

Ingersoll Rand’s 30-gallon air compressor is powered by a 2HP engine with a max output of 135psi. It has a 100% duty cycle, making it capable of powering pneumatic tools continuously when necessary. It has a quiet belt drive that reaches only 80dBA, lower than the average air compressor. It provides 5.7 ACFM at 90psi.

To sum it up

Boasting a quiet and ergonomic air compressor, Ingersoll Rand’s 30-gallon equipment provides strong and continuous operation for undisrupted construction work. Perfect for home or jobsite use, its portable and ergonomic design makes travelling convenient. It can be a bit bulky with its build, but compensates with the power and duty cycle it gives.

Best Gas-Powered 30-Gallon Air Compressors

NorthStar Portable Gas-Powered Air Compressor – Honda GX390 OHV Engine, 30-Gallon Horizontal Tank

Pros:

• 100% duty cycle helps keep continuous operation for long periods
• Powerful output can utilize heavy-duty pneumatic tools
• Heavy-duty tank and engine capable of durable and reliable functions

Cons:

• More expensive than the usual air compressor

Immensely bulky and powerful, NorthStar offers a great air compressor that is surely capable of powering high-powered tools. Ready for almost any type of construction work with tools requiring compressed air, this equipment is portable and reliable at the same time. Because of its multi-functionality, it is definitely an option to choose.

With most horizontal air compressors, this one packs a punch. The tank carries its large engine which is capable of a lot of different functions. In turn, the build of the equipment is very bulky. The black, red, and white color scheme of the air compressor blends in the background and is not distracting when used at construction sites, making it perfect for both home or jobsite use.

This heavy-duty air compressor is built with an ASME-certified tank with weather-resistant powder-coated finish. A full cast iron pump with dual crankshaft bearings and low vibration technology help keep the equipment safe. A v-style cylinder as well as an oversized flywheel helps with cooling. Step type piston rings ensure overlap for better compression. Easy start lever isolates pump from tank pressure to avoid overload.

NorthStar’s Honda GX OHV engine provides great power at your command. The air compressor pumps up a 175psi max output with 100% duty cycle for uninterrupted use. At 90psi, it can deliver a powerful 24.4 CFM output, fitting for heavy-duty pneumatic tools. The equipment promises continuous strong power for any construction needs you may have.

To sum it up

If cost is not a problem, then NorthStar’s 30-gallon Honda engine-powered air compressor is a great option. It is a powerhouse that is capable of belting out large amounts of power with 100% continuous duty cycle. This makes home or construction use a breeze with its rated power. The portability and multi-functionality makes it quite the catch, offering a lot with a single equipment.

Ingersoll Rand IRTC2475F13GH Two-Stage Gas Powered Air Compressor

Pros:

• 100% duty cycle provides continuous non-stop use possible
• Maximum power output allows pneumatic tools to achieve full potential
• High CFM makes it possible to use heavy-duty power tools

Cons:

• Considerably more expensive than most air compressors

Heavy-duty and large, the Ingersoll Rand 2-stage air compressor is an offering that you’d surely like when looking for a powerful equipment. It can provide quite the amount of air supply for a whole range of pneumatic tools for most home and jobsite construction needs, ensuring a reliable engine when necessary.

As a reliable brand, this horizontal air compressor carries a heavy engine on its back, where most of its power comes from. The entire package is a bit bulky and heavy to look at, but makes up for its durability. The color scheme of the air compressor is white with accents of black and red, making it noticeable but not much of a distraction.

Ingersoll Rand’s tank is also ASME-certified, making it durable and reliable for heavy construction sites. A weather-resistant powder-coat finish protects the equipment against inclement weather. The belt guard fully enclosed and OSHA-approved, ensuring safe use. It features truck bed mounting, electronic ignition, and idle engine control. Low oil-level shutdown prevents damaging the equipment when it’s nearly empty.

Ingersoll Rand also included a strong Honda engine to provide stronger and reliable power. Its precision-engineered components assure 15,000 hours of trouble-free use. The air compressor has a 175psi maximum output, and 100% duty cycle for continuous heavy-duty usage. It can provide 24.3 CFM output at 90psi, capable of powering a lot of demanding pneumatic tools.

To sum it up

With a power output such as the Ingersoll Rand’s 30-gallon air compressor, it’s no wonder that the equipment is sought after in construction sites that require heavy-duty power tools. The product offers a lot on the table. With its high CFM output, it can power the most exhaustive pneumatic tools available. However with this power, price is a consideration as it is more expensive than conventional air compressors.

DeWalt DXCMH1393075 Two Stage Industrial Air Compressor, 30-Gallon, Cast Iron

Pros:

• Patented pump design allows cooler operation
• High power output makes strong, exhaustive pneumatic tools usable
• Solberg air intake filter allows sound dampening and better filtration for efficiency

Cons:

• A bit more expensive than the usual air compressors

DeWalt offers a reliable, innovative, and patented pump design for its horizontal 2-stage air compressor. This is also bulky and large, but is proportionate to the amount of power it provides. Built to last, its features ensure that the equipment performs as intended at the longest time possible while keeping safety and functionality a priority especially at tough construction operations.

The design of DeWalt’s air compressor remains faithful to its recognizable yellow and black color tones. This makes it noticeable and gives the safety impression of caution when being used because of this color scheme. The horizontal orientation is similar to most, having its large engine and equipment carried at its back.

Engineered as a truck style mount with ASME-certification, the air compressor is sure to be sturdy and reliable. The patented pump design helps cool the engine when being used. Industrial grade Solberg air intake filter ensures better filtration and sound dampening. The fully enclosed belt guard protects and moving parts when being used. Tank drain valve allows quick and efficient draining when used.

Utilizing the best engine available, DeWalt’s 30-gallon air compressor is equipped with a Honda GX390 OHV engine, for a reliable and sturdy operation. The OHV design and precision camshaft offers precise valve timing and optimal valve overlap for efficient fuel use and power transfer. Its maximum power reaches 175psi with a 22CFM output, and can operate at 24CFM with 100psi of power.

To sum it up

The strong engine capable of packing up power and a patented efficient pump design makes the DeWalt 30-gallon air compressor such a catch. It can power a lot of pneumatic tools due to its high max power output. The engine, air intake filter, and pump are all designed to be efficient, safe to use, and cool enough to avoid overheating when used under intense construction, making it excellent for both home and job sites.

Industrial Air IHA9093080.ES 30-Gallon Gas Powered Truck Mount Air Compressor with Electric Start

Pros:

• Super high air flow feature helps dissipate heat faster and avoids overheating
• Strong power output helps make most pneumatic tools usable
• Meets emission requirements making it safe to use and environment-friendly

Cons:

• Not as strong as other heavy duty horizontal air compressors

Bulky and long-lasting, Industrial Air’s 30-gallon air compressor is built for optimal performance and long life. It is excellent for long-term projects that require strenuous use of the equipment, making it handy in any situation. The bulkiness makes it designed with durability to carry the weight of the engine and the function it serves.

Designed with a black color tone, the air compressor fits situations where the equipment must blend with the surroundings. This also avoids it becoming a distraction wherever it may be used, especially in construction sites where people need focus at the tasks at hand. The horizontal design makes it similar to others where it carries the engine on top of it.

The cast iron super high air flow feature of the three cylinder pump provides greater overall cooling surface that helps easier and faster heat dissipation. This helps prevent overheating of the equipment. Synthetic oil helps prolong the life and performance of the air compressor. A fully enclosed metal belt guard is designed to improve compressive pump cooling by as much as 60F.

Industrial Air’s horizontal air compressor also utilizes a strong Honda GX270 OHV engine. This includes an electric start feature, automotive-style air cleaner, and meets EPA and CARB emission requirements. It is capable of providing maximum output of 155psi and can deliver 18CFM at 90psi, fit for a lot of pneumatic tools available nowadays.

To sum it up

Built with long performance and longer life, the Industrial Air 30-gallon air compressor is meant to be strong while capable of enduring strenuous tasks. This makes the equipment perfect for intensive use of pneumatic tools. Its engine design also helps keep the air compressor from overheating, dissipating heat faster and maintaining cool air for optimal performance.

Which one should you choose?

Two-stage & Single-stage Air Compressor

The handling of air inside air compressors remain the same regardless of the stages of compression. The process starts with air sucked inside a cylinder. The air is then trapped and processed with a single stroke. Here is where the difference happens. For single-stage air compressors, the air is then stored inside the tank. For two-stage ones, the air is sent to a second yet smaller piston for another stroke before being stored in the tank.

Two-stage air compressors generally produce stronger power output compared to single-stage ones due to the number of times air is processed inside the compressor. Do note that this does not automatically make two-stage compressors the best choice for your construction needs. If you have pneumatic tools that only need a small amount of power, it may be best to buy single-stage compressors that fit your power tools’ needs.

Gas-powered & Electric-powered Air Compressor

These two are different with regards to the power sources that each need.

Gas-powered air compressors mainly rely on gasoline for their main sources of energy. You only need to fill up the gas tank and it will automatically power up. This is perfect for secluded sites with limited sources of electricity. You won’t need to worry about finding a power source for your compressor. Also, these must not be used indoors as they release toxic gases only fit for outdoor use.

Electric air compressors only require a power outlet to work. They are faster to use when the site already has usable outlets around. Generally, they are lighter due to the lack of gas used, but they are not as powerful as gas compressors. They are very convenient to use and costs less money for maintenance issues.

Depending on the type that you choose, you have to know the type of power you might constantly have when utilizing the air compressor and the intensity of the labor done in order to anticipate the necessary strength of the air compressor.

It’s worth noting that gas air compressors are often much stronger than electric ones at the same size.

Vertical or Horizontal Tank Air Compressor

The main difference between the two builds of air compressors is the amount of space that they take in. Generally, they don’t differ as much when it comes to the amount of power that each can bring. Usually, transportability and storage are the main considerations when choosing which one would fit your needs.

Vertical air compressors are easier to store as they take up less floor space compared to horizontal ones. They are also easier to transport due to its wheel design. The latter, however, can be hid under worktables or desks, allowing you to save space as well. These are harder to transport because of their bulkiness. The best choice depends on where you plan to store them after use and how much portability you want.

Things to consider when buying a 30-gallon Air Compressor

Size

The size of the air compressor must fit into where you want to store it and how much convenience is necessary when transporting the equipment. This is where you’ll consider vertical vs. horizontal air compressors as they depend on the floor space used up and the ease of their transport.

Ample Air Flow

Make sure to consider the amount of air flow that will be necessary when buying your air compressor. As a rule of thumb, your equipment’s CFM flow should be higher than the power tools it would supply power to and must be lower than the maximum power output of the compressor. This ensures that it can deliver the best air flow possible without overworking the equipment.

Work Environment

You also have to consider where you will be using the air compressor. If you think that you’ll be using the equipment mostly outdoors at jobsites where portability is a priority, then you might consider getting a gas-powered air compressor. If you think it won’t be used as much outdoors, then you might opt to go for electric ones.

Capacity of Pneumatic Tools

The strength of air compressors must cater to the power requirements of the pneumatic tools that you would be using. Some tools require more power than others due to the intensity of work they can do. With this, make sure that the air compressor you’ll choose can accommodate the strength and power requirements of your tools to ensure a smooth and continuous operation.

Verdict – The Best 30-Gallon Air Compressor for Your Money

In order to assure that what you get is the best for you, make sure that when you compare air compressors, you tick off the considerations listed above. Do you want space-saving ones? Do you need a powerful equipment? Will you be using it mostly outdoors off-site? Will you use high-powered power tools for the compressor?

All of these questions will lead you to a smaller selection, and will effectively make it easier for you to know which one to choose. Be sure to also consider the future of the equipment in order to assure that what you get will definitely serve you in the long run.

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James J. Decker

I’m James J. Decker, a hobbyist and DIYs and also a big of home improvement and gardening tools. I immensely enjoy how these amazing products improve productivity and efficiency, and allow me to do jobs for which I would’ve otherwise needed professional help.