Top 7 Best 60-Gallon Air Compressors For The Money – 2020 Update

Air compressors are vital to any construction or renovation works. They increase productivity, lessen work time and fatigue, and help maximize efficiency and accuracy of work done.

In this list we’ll be tackling the best 60 gallon air compressors for the money, giving you all the necessary information when choosing one that would definitely make it easier for you to find which one best fits your needs.

ImageProductDetails
sample-table__image NorthStar PK6060VNS
  • 11.3 CFM at 90 PSI
  • Max Pressure: 135 PSI
  • 20,000 hour bearing life
  • V-style 2-cylinder single-stage pump
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sample-table__image Quincy Q13160VQ
  • 13.1 CFM at 90 PSI
  • Max Pressure: 135 PSI
  • Single Stage
  • Pump life: 10 hours
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sample-table__image Most Reliable Industrial Air ILA4546065
  • 14 CFM at 90 PSI
  • Max Pressure: 155 PSI
  • Single Stage
  • Heavy duty motor, V-style 3-cylinder single-stage pump
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sample-table__image Ingersoll Rand SS3L3
  • 13.1 CFM at 90 PSI
  • Max Pressure: 135 PSI
  • Single Stage
  • 100% continuous duty
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sample-table__image DeWalt DXCMV5076055
  • 15.3 CFM at 100 PSI
  • Max Pressure: 175 PSI
  • Two Stage
  • 75 % duty cycle
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sample-table__image Quincy QT-54
  • 15.4 CFM at 90 PSI
  • Max Pressure: 175 PSI
  • Two Stage
  • 30,000-hour pump life rating
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sample-table__image Best For Heavy-Duty Pro Users Industrial Air IV5076055
  • 15.3 CFM at 100 PSI
  • Max Pressure: 175 PSI
  • Two Stage
  • Durable & long-lasting
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Single-Stage Air Compressors

NorthStar PK6060VNS

NorthStar Belt-Drive Electric Stationary Air Compressor - 3 HP, 60-Gallon Vertical Tank

Pros:

  • Compact design
  • Durable metal guard keeps it sturdy and strong
  • 20,000 hour bearing life

Cons:

  • Requires a higher voltage at 230V
  • Not the strongest air compressor for its type

Starting the list is a single stage air compressor from North Star. It is a heavy duty, 60 gallon compressor that is powered with a strong 3HP engine to keep your power tools up and about. It is built with an ASME-certified tank with gate valve, ensuring a safe use of the air compressor.

Overall the NorthStar air compressor provides great value for its price. It has a very recognizable design making it easy to locate, and provides a good amount of power despite being compact in size. Some of its noticeable features include a 20,000 hour bearing life, spheroidal cast iron crankshaft for maximum strength, and the presence of ball bearings on its sides for a smoother flow of operation.

The build for the NorthStar air compressor is very simple. It is a black vertical tank air compressor, ASME-certified so that it adheres to standards set for a safe and long-lasting use. The compressor has a durable metal guard that keeps its gears working safely in harsh environments. It includes a filter, triple-ring style piston, oil gauge, and is equipped with copper fin aftercoolers to keep the air compressor cool.

For its capacity, it is a 3HP, 230V, single-phase air compressor with a motor that can reach 3450 RPM, and pump at 920 RPM. With this, it can deliver 11.3 CFM at 90 psi and up to 12.5 CFM at 40psi, capable of powering most heavy duty power tools.

NorthStar PK6060VNS
Power3 Horsepower
CFM11.3 CFM at 90psi and 12.5 CFM at 40psi
Oil requiredYes
Power SourceElectricity
Volts230V
Warranty4 years consumer / 2 years commercial
Duty Cycle60%

NorthStar’s air compressor isn’t really for most residential uses since it requires a higher amount of power to keep it running and up to the task. Although it isn’t the strongest in the list, it still provides an ample amount of power that can get most pneumatic tools working.

Quincy Q13160VQ

Quincy Single Stage Air Compressor
Quincy Single-Stage Air Compressor - 3.5 HP, 220 Volt, 60-Gallon Vertical Tank, Model Number Q13160VQ

Pros:

  • Compact design
  • Produces good amount of CFM
  • 10,000 hour bearing life

Cons:

  • Short warranty
  • Can only provide 50% duty power

Quincy is another reputable company where you can opt to get your air compressor. The equipment is powered by a 3.5HP engine which is more than enough to provide power on your pneumatic tools. It is also designed to be very strong to last and endure being placed on tough work area.

Overall, the Quincy air compressor is a great find that is very strong, durable, and has great warranty options. Its design is very straightforward and is compact so you can store is nicely as well. It has cast iron cylinder for durability for the type of work it assists, has an enclosed belt guard for any site it may get into, and has an aluminum head that guides heat dissipation, all of which help prolong its life.

The design of the Quincy air compressor is also straightforward. It features an eye-catching blue vertical air compressor tank and body. It is very easy to spot and can be stored anywhere for its light and compact build. It features ASME-approved tank and safety valves, ensuring a safe operation when conducting your tasks. It has a cast iron cylinder and a crankshaft. The belt guard is also protected as it is fully enclosed.

The Quincy air compressor is a powerful tool. It is powered by a 3.5HP motor at 220V. Through this strong interior, it can pack a 13.1 CFM at 90psi and up to 14.6 CFM at 40psi. Its pump life can also reach up to 10,000 hours so it gives a good value for your money.

Quincy Q13160VQ
Power3.5 Horsepower
CFM13.1 CFM at 90 psi and 14.6 CFM at 40 psi
Oil requiredYes
Power SourceElectricity
Volts230V
Warranty1 year, option to upgrade 2 years for unit and 3 years for pump
Duty Cycle50%

It has a 50% duty cycle so it won’t really be able to help with long-term continuous processes. The Quincy air compressor is built with resting periods in mind that helps recharge the compressor for the next rounds of use. Warranty isn’t also that long compared to other brands but is ample enough to be tested and understood.

Industrial Air ILA4546065

Industrial Air ILA4546065 Hi-Flo Single Stage Air Compressor
Industrial Air ILA4546065 60-Gallon Hi-Flo Single Stage Cast Iron Three Cylinder Air Compressor

Pros:

  • Compact design
  • Produces good amount of CFM
  • Stronger than usual air compressors of the same type

Cons:

  • A bit on the pricier side for air compressors
  • 50% duty may mean interrupted work

Industrial Air has also provided a good option for 60 gallon air compressor. It is powered by a very strong 4.7HP motor, providing the strength needed to power most pneumatic tools. It is designed simply and compact, so that it can be placed anywhere the situation demands.

The Industrial air compressor shows its force with its great power. It can handle a lot of pneumatic tools with the amount of CFM it can provide. It is a compact air compressor that can be stored neatly. Being a durable tool made mostly of cast iron, it can also be brought anywhere necessary. It has an oil sight glass to check oil levels, and a pressure on/off switch for added protection.

The look of the Industrial air compressor is also simple and compact. It features a black, vertical air compressor that makes it easy to store. It is built with cast iron for the durability it provides, including its tank and crankshaft. It also has a Swedish stainless steel reed valves. An aluminum head allows heat to dissipate normally to avoid overheating the air compressor.

The Industrial air compressor is durable and powerful. The motor runs with 4.7HP on 230V. With this power, it can go 14CFM at 90psi and up to 16.1 CFM at 40psi. It gives strong power enough for a lot of pneumatic tools, making it a good choice for an air compressor.

Industrial Air ILA4546065 
Power4.7 Horsepower
CFM14 CFM at 90 psi and 16.1 CFM at 40 psi
Oil requiredYes
Power SourceElectricity
Volts230V
Warranty2 year limited warranty

Industrial Air’s ILA4546065 is on the pricier side of 60 gallon air compressors. It may be a bit more expensive but it proves its worth with its functionality and quality. It’s duty cycle is only at 50% as well, providing good and stable power but not for continuous usage.

Ingersoll Rand SS3L3 

Ingersoll Rand SS3L3 3HP 60-Gallon Vertical Compressor
SS3L3 3hp 60 gal Single-Stage Compressor (230/1)

Pros:

  • Consistent power with 100% duty cycle
  • Compact design
  • Precision engineered components for accuracy and functionality

Cons:

  • Not very strong for same type air compressors
  • A bit loud and may irritate neighbors at residential areas

Ingersoll is also a good source for air compressors. It offers a 3HP motor, ample enough for a lot of power tools that require compressed air. It has precision-engineered components and a strong cast iron tank that ensures it will last for a lot of heavy duty uses.

Ingersoll’s air compressor is a good option for those who may opt to use low to medium strength pneumatic tools. It can provide ample CFM to a variety of tools which makes it a good choice to buy one. It is compact, durable, easy to spot, and functional. With its 100% continuous use, it makes hard jobs easy to do and shortens the time spent on labor.

The air compressor is easy to spot. It is compact and designed simply to maximize its build. It is a white, vertical compressor built with cast iron. It can be utilized in a lot of applications ranging from small scale to large scale renovations, making it a perfect equipment to bring when it comes to labor and construction.

The Ingersoll Rand SS3L3 is strong and can supply a lot of pneumatic tools for your construction needs. It is powered by a 3HP motor on 230V. Through this motor, it can provide 10.3 CFM at 135psi and 11.3 CFM at 90psi. This shows it can handle most power tools currently available.

Ingersoll Rand SS3L3
Power3 Horsepower
CFM10.3 CFM at 135 psi and 13.1 CFM at 90 psi
Oil requiredYes
Power SourceElectricity
Volts230V
Warranty1 year warranty
Duty Cycle100%

Not as powerful as most air compressors, the Ingersoll Rand SS3L3 compensates with a consistent power with 100% duty cycle. It can also be a bit loud when being used so it’s not really fit for residential area uses unless necessary.

Two-stage Air compressors

DeWalt DXCMV5076055

DeWalt DXCMV5076055 60 gallon 5 hp Two Stage Air Compressor

Pros:

  • Very strong for an air compressor of its type
  • Compact design
  • Very durable ASME-approved tank
  • Patented pump design ensures functionality

Cons:

  • Short warranty
  • 50% duty cycle not meant for long, continuous use

For a two-stage air compressor, DeWalt offers up a powerful one that is surely one you must consider. This compressor is strong with its motor at 5HP, and is a heavy duty equipment ready to bring out the best in your power tools whether they may range from low to heavy duty.

The Dewalt two-stage air compressor is an impressive equipment with its powerful 5HP motor and high CFM, making it suitable for a lot of power tools you may have at construction sites and when renovating. It also features a patented deep groove, symmetrical cooling fins, and a cast iron flywheel design meant to avoid overheating and help cool the compressor.

Similar to its one-stage counterpart, the appearance of the two-stage DeWalt air compressor is simple. It is yellow, vertical equipment that is compactly-designed so it can be kept anywhere and saves space. It features an ASME-approved tank for safety and durability with a patented pump design meant for keeping the air compressor cool when being used.

As it is both durable and powerful, it is powered by a strong 5HP motor that runs at 230V. With this impressive power, it packs 15.3 CFM at 100psi, enough to power a huge amount of power tools for your construction needs. Its power can also be maximized through connecting multiple power tools at once to cut off labor time and to speed it up.

DeWalt DXCMV5076055
Power5  Horsepower
CFM15.3 at 100 psi
Oil requiredYes
Power SourceElectricity
Volts230V
Warranty1 year, 2 years for pump
Duty Cycle50%

The DeWalt DXCMV5076055 is not meant for continuous use. With 50% duty cycle, it can accommodate a lot of pneumatic tools, but not for long and continuous periods of time. The warranty is limited but ample enough for testing its condition.

Quincy QT-54

Quincy QT-54 Splash Lubricated Reciprocating Air Compressor
Quincy QT-54 Splash Lubricated Reciprocating Air Compressor - 5 HP, 230 Volt, 1 Phase, 60-Gallon Vertical, Model Number 2V41C60VC

Pros:

  • Strong power for its type
  • Design is small and compact
  • ASME-coded tank is durable

Cons:

  • 1 year base warranty
  • Some may not like that materials are not all US-made

Another good choice for a two-stage air compressor is the Quincy QT-54. It is a strong and functional equipment built for efficiency and for lowering operating costs. With this air compressor, a strong and stable power is produced with lower HP used, maximizing potential output for lower power consumption.

The Quincy QT-54 Two-Stage air compressor is a durable and powerful equipment to have at home or at construction sites. At 5HP, it can provide strong force for most power tools and with its durable tank and valves, it is sure to get the work done.

The Quincy air compressor is also built with a compact design. It is a blue, vertical air compressor built with a capacitor start motor and a built-in thermal overload mechanism. The tank and pressure relief valves are ASME-coded, adding assurance of its safety and durability. With these features, it proves that it is a safe air compressor to use and is capable for use over long periods of time.

It is powered by a strong 5HP motor on 230V, making it a capable of handling most power tools. It can provide 15.4 CFM at 90 psi, ensuring that all tools will work properly and efficiently. Its 100% duty cycle is also sure to help when using power tools continuously for long periods of time.

Quincy QT-54
Power5  Horsepower
CFM15.4 at 90 psi
Oil requiredYes
Power SourceElectricity
Volts230V
Warranty1 year, option to upgrade 2 years for unit and 3 years for pump
Duty Cycle100%

The Quincy QT-54 has a short 1 year warranty but can be upgraded depending on the plan you opt to try for the air compressor. The power it produces is strong and the materials are durable, but for the eagle-eyed, not all of the materials are US-made.

Industrial Air IV5076055

Industrial Air IV5076055 60 gallon 5 hp Two Stage Air Compressor
Industrial Air IV5076055 60 gallon 5 hp Two Stage Air Compressor

Pros:

  • Strong power for its type
  • ASME-coded tank is durable
  • Patented design makes it strong and unique

Cons:

  • More expensive than most air compressors
  • A bit more expensive than usual

Featuring patented designs and engineering, Industrial Air offers a powerful and innovative air compressor fit for any heavy duty work you might have on your plate. This is a jobsite-tough air compressor and fits both home and construction zone use, making sure that any need is met with a reliable air compressor.

Overall, Industrial Air’s compressor offers good value for its features. It has a powerful 5HP motor and can operate most power tools for its promising CFM movement. It has an accessible oil sight glass and oil drain for cleaning. It is also durable for its ASME-approved tank and has a patented pump design that promotes better cooling for the air compressor.

The air compressor is made with a compact build to promote space-saving and easy storage. It is a black, vertical air compressor with an ASME-coded tank, assuring its adherence to safety measures and design. It has a patented deep-grove directional with asymmetrical cooling fins and a patented cast iron flywheel design to promote better cooling for better durability and efficiency.

Powered with a 5HP motor on 230V, it is also similar with a lot of the powerful air compressors on this list. It can provide 13.5 CFM at 175 psi and 15.3 CFM at 100 psi, giving the ample amount of power needed for most pneumatic tools.

Industrial Air IV5076055
Power5  Horsepower
CFM13.5 CFM at 175 psi and 15.3 CFM at 100 psi
Oil requiredYes
Power SourceElectricity
Volts230V
Warranty2 year limited warranty
Duty Cycle100%

Industrial Air’s IV5076055 is also expensive than the usual air compressors because of its capacity and strong power. Design can be a bit better and more conspicuous for easy finding when stored.

Why choose big 60 gallon air compressors?

6o gallon air compressors are generally favorable both for their reliability towards most pneumatic tools and for their convenience in size. These are compressors that provide a strong, long-lasting, and reliable power supply that is suitable for long periods of work on construction sites or at home.

This type of compressor is perfectly capable of accommodating multiple power tools under its belt, even those with higher HP ratings. This ensures a reliable and unwavering power source for your tools. Its size also matters because a 60 gallon air compressor is usually just the perfect amount that you would need with the right weight so you could still transport it when necessary.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Compressors

A primary consideration when buying air compressors is knowing where you’ll be using them. There are those are suitable for indoor use, and there are those that are for outdoor work. These two can’t be interchanged as the type of compressor you would buy is tailored for the environment you choose to use them in.

60 gallon air compressors are not really suitable for outdoor operations. They are usually stationary tanks that can power up one or multiple pneumatic tools depending on the type and application. They are mostly used indoors but can be used on a lot of places, just make sure that they’re not exposed to weather extremes, rain, or snow, as these can damage the interior and lifespan of the equipment.

Differences between single-stage and two-stage air compressors

When buying air compressors, you would definitely face the decision on whether to get a single stage or a two-stage compressor. In its simplest terms, the difference between the two is on the number of times that they are compressed. Once for the single stage, and double for the two-stage compressor.

The difference in compression is expanded by the amount of compression the air undertakes between the two types. A normal single-stage air compressor goes through the process of taking in air, compressing it once, and then sending it to storage. For the two-stage, air is compressed and then sent to another area for a second compression before finally being stored.

Also, the difference in power for the compressed air is evident. The usual compression for single-stage compressors is around 120psi, while the two-stage compressors have the second round at about 175psi. This means that the two-stage compressor is suitable for high-power tools and is perfect for continuous high-power usage while single-stage compressors are best fit for home use and application.

What makes a good 60-gallon air compressor?

Air compressors make work so much easier to do especially if it needs to be done over some period of time. It is reliable, powerful, long-lasting, and is relatively easy to maintain. So what makes a good air compressor?

Reliability for work

A good 60 gallon air compressor can get you far. There are tons of pneumatic tools that can greatly increase efficiency and save precious time for labor when coupled with a reliable air compressor. This type of compressor can work over long periods of time, saving you effort from manually doing the work for yourself, especially if this type of work may require heavy duty tools.

Make sure to research the materials used for the air compressor and its features compared to the tools you will be using it with in order to assure that you have a good equipment. Also, check the warranty of the air compressor to gauge the company’s trust in their products and to also be assured of replacement from a faulty product.

Power provided

Most 60 gallon air compressors are well-equipped to handle the majority of power tools. This is why they are usually powered with 3 to 5 HP. They are also designed to provide huge amounts of CFM (cubic feet of air per minute), making these air compressors prepared for any powerful pneumatic tools that you may need to use this with.

Do take note that as 60 gallon air compressors are built with heavy duty power up their sleeve, you can maximize this as some can power multiple tools at once, making work relatively faster in a shorter period of time. This can potentially save you labor, money, and time.

Ease of Maintenance

If there are some renovations you need at home, a good air compressor can make things much simpler. Keeping one isn’t that hard either when it comes to maintenance. It is very easy to maintain as you only need to consider general safety precautions and drain the oil and air out when not in use.

It is relatively easy to own an air compressor. As with all tools, read the manual first before rushing into things. After which, given a little bit of time and practice, maintenance work on the compressor would be second nature both when in use and when not used.

Good brand and warranty

Fortunately, there are a lot of trustworthy brands that offer great value for their 60 gallon air compressors. As a rule of thumb, always research first on what you need and where you’ll need the air compressor for.

Next is to check up on which brand offers the best for your budget and fits your purpose for buying. Keep in mind to always check on the warranty to ensure that what you buy now won’t haunt you in the near future when certain issues arise from the air compressor. A good air compressor from a reputable brand can offer a year or two, proving its durability and quality.

Electrical vs. Gasoline Compressors

Air compressors can be separated in two power supply groups: electrical and gasoline. Electrical air compressors have the advantage of being safer, easier to power up, and weigh considerably less. Gas air compressors are more flexible location-wise as you can bring them anywhere as long as you have gas.

Do take note that electric compressors shouldn’t be used outside to avoid getting wet and gas compressors shouldn’t be used indoors as it becomes an immediate health hazard for the occupants when there is insufficient ventilation.

Oil and Oil-free Compressors

Air compressors are also divided into two with this category.

Oiled air compressors are quiet, durable, and very efficient. However, without lubrication, the joints would wear down and ultimately stop. They require maintenance and check-ups to assure that the oil levels are fine to assure a smooth operation. They are usually heavy duty so they require oil for lubrication, making users expect them to last much longer.

Oil-free air compressors are lighter, more compact, and provide the assurance of a moisture-free air which is essential when used in hospitals or laboratories. It produces cleaner air, and more suitable for lighter work such as tools used for spray painting.  Of the two types of air compressors, the oil-free ones are a bit noisier.

Why choose these brands?

As with all things, there are standards of quality that we should all be informed about when buying essential equipment such as air compressors. With this, you can never go wrong with being too sure about what you’re going to get as your choice.

There are a lot of air compressors around. But the branded air compressors in this article are tailored to meet your needs for their quality and efficiency, all of which are sure to be a bang for your buck. To name a few:

NorthStar is a fast-growing, family-owned business that provides a wide array of tools spanning from log splitters, generators, pressure washers, to air compressors for the past 35 years. From its humble beginnings, it grew to what it is now, a respectable brand trusted by millions of users worldwide.

Quincy is a brand that has been around for quite a long time. Boasting more than 95 years of innovation and service, it has mastered and is currently still innovating air compressors as their main craft. They offer great warranties to prove the trust and quality they have on their products.

DeWalt is a heavy-duty competitor for power tools and related products. They are very popular and have products leaning towards innovation in modern technology. It is proudly US-made with parts from global locations. It is one of the fastest growing brands for air compressors for its trusted name.

Industrial Air, operated globally by MAT Industries, provides a wide range of products from air compressors to pneumatic tools and pressure washers. It is a family-held company that has grown for over 25 years, providing every individual product and need of every customer.

Ingersoll Rand is also a global competitor for multi-product brands. They envision a sustainable future through energy efficiency and creating innovative products that enhance the overall quality of life for their customers. Besides air compressors, they also provide pumps, material handling systems, and power tools.

The successful and innovative brands mentioned above have proven themselves in the field with their innovations and track record. The worst thing about buying something important is finding out later that it doesn’t live up to its worth, and that’s what we’re avoiding by giving you the option through this list. You can rest assured that choosing one from these reputable brands will help you a lot and won’t let you down in the long run.

The best 60 gallon air compressor for your money

The first step to buying your air compressor is to know where you’ll use it. Then you think about your budget. And then you’ll weigh in your options for its long-term potential. All of these can be confusing at first, but research will greatly help and this article aims to help you choose what fits best for you and your lifestyle.

The perfect air compressor can be only one or can fit into a lot of the compressors in this list. It is important that you heavily consider your options first and weigh them in before making the decision to buy because this can be a great long-term investment for construction and renovation needs. Plan it out, research, choose your options, and pick one that fits your list to find the perfect air compressor for you.

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