Air compressors have become an indispensable part for both home and shop owners. They are the puzzle that can’t be missing at your home garage.
So, are you looking for the best air compressor for home garage? 10 items below will blow your mind.
Best 6-gallon air compressors for home garage
- California Air Tools 6010LFC Air Compressor – Ultra Quiet
- Bostitch BTFP02012 Oil-Free Compressor – Best for tires
Best 10-gallon air compressors for home garage
- California Air Tools CAT-10020 Ultra Quiet and Oil-Free Steel Tank Air Compressor – Ultra quiet
- Stark 65151 Pneumatic Portable Air Compressor
Best 20-gallon air compressors for home garage
- Industrial Air IL1682066.MN Air Compressor – Most versatile
- WEN 2202 Oil-Lubricated Portable Vertical Air Compressor – User-friendliest
Best 30-gallon air compressors for home garage
- Industrial Air ILA1883054 Belt Driven Air Compressor – Most reliable
- Campbell Hausfeld 30 Gallon Air Compressor – High CFM
Best 60-gallon air compressors for home garage
- Industrial Air ILA3606056 Air Compressor – Most Reliable
- Quincy QT-54 Splash Lubricated Reciprocating Air Compressor – Best for sandblasting
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Ultra Quiet California Air Tools 6010LFC |
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Best for tires Bostitch BTFP02012 |
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Ultra quiet California Air Tools CAT-10020 |
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Stark 65151 |
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Most versatile Industrial Air IL1682066.MN |
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User-friendliest WEN 2202 |
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Most reliable Industrial Air ILA1883054 |
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High CFM Campbell Hausfeld |
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Most Reliable Industrial Air ILA3606056 |
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Best for sandblasting Quincy QT-54 |
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Best 6-gallon air compressor for home garage
California Air Tools 6010LFC Air Compressor – Ultra Quiet
- Ultra Quiet - Only 60 decibels
- Oil-Free Pump - Cleaner air for better tool operation; Less Maintenance and Costs; Use in Cold Temperatures.
- 4.00 CFM at 40 PSI & 3.00 CFM at 90 PSI; Max 125 PSI
- The MP100LF motor/pump is tested for a minimum life of 4000 hours before wear; At least 30% longer than other brands
Pros
- Ultra-quiet (60 dBA)
- Provide enough power for many tasks
- Energy-efficient
- Good airflow
- Well-built
Cons
- The handle is too short.
When it comes to 6-gallon air compressors, California Air Tools 6010LFC is a remarkable item. With a powerful 1 HP motor, it generates 120 maximum PSI, which is quite enough for many light-duty tasks around the house.
This air compressor offers noise-less operation, producing only 60 dBA of the noise level. You don’t have to stress your ears out while doing some day to day tasks around the house. The 6010FLC is also energy-efficient, so it doesn’t increase your electric bill at the end of the month.
Only one design flaw that I don’t like: the length of the handle. It is too short to be useful.
Product Specifications
| Horsepower | 1 HP |
| Maximum Pressure | 120 PSI |
| SCFM @ 40 PSI | 4 CFM |
| SCFM @ 90 PSI | 3 CFM |
| Pump Speed | 1400 RPM |
| Tank Size | 6 Gallons |
| Amp Draw | 7.6 |
| Voltage | 110 Volt AC |
| Highlight Features | Designed for Heavy Long Life Usage, Easy to Transport, Easy to open the drain valve |
California Air Tools 6010LFC Air Compressor with quiet operation provides an ultimate solution for your home DIY projects.
Bostitch BTFP02012 Oil-Free Compressor – Best for tires
- Note:Item does not includes hose or gun kit
- 150 max PSI 6.0 gallon tank (22.7 L) and 2.6 SCFM* delivered @ 90 PSI pump
- High efficiency motor for easy start up in cold weather ; BOSTITCH high efficiency motor 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
Pros
- Easy to move
- Fast tank fill
- Well built
- No leaks
Cons
- The regulator is not very precise
Looking for a simple air compressor to handle deflating tires? Take a look at Bostitch BTFP02012. This model is oil-free, which means it is lightweight and quite affordable. While most oil-less compressors produce a high level of noise, this little one runs almost noise-free.
This pancake compressor fills a tank very fast and provides enough air to drive most basic air tools such as nail guns, finish nailers, or brad nailers. It is super easy to adjust and release pressure after use. A solid compressor at a decent price. Who doesn’t want that?
The cons? Probably Bostitch needs to take a look at their pressure regulator because lots of people have already complained that it is not so precise.
Product Specifications
| Horsepower | 0.8 HP |
| Maximum Pressure | 150 PSI |
| SCFM @ 40 PSI | 3.7 CFM |
| SCFM @ 90 PSI | 2.6 CFM |
| Pump Speed | 2700 RPM |
| Tank Size | 6 Gallon |
| Voltage | 110V/120V |
| Highlight Features | High efficiency motor for easy start up in cold weather, high flow regulator and couplers, long-life oil-free, maintenance-free pump |
Inflating cars and bike tires, dusting off things and framing have become so easier with Bostitch BTFP02012 Oil-Free Compressor. A must-have item in your garage.
Best 10-gallon air compressor for home garage
California Air Tools CAT-10020 Air Compressor – Ultra quiet
- Ultra Quiet only 70 Decibels
- Oil-Free Pump for Less Maintenance & Costs
- 10.0 Gallon Steel Tank with Wheels
- Easy Start Valve, Allows for a no load start, for a low start up amp draw, Only 14-amps
Pros
- The quietest oil-less compressor
- Well built
- Compact design
- The main panel is easy to access.
- Accurate pressure regulator
Cons
- The wheels could not be mounted without modification.
For anyone who has had trouble starting their air compressor, you will never experience that with California Air Tools CAT-10020. The Easy Start Valve has made the life of thousand users easier.
The reliable oil-free pump means less maintenance and more efficiency. You can certainly operate this model at different temperatures. Rugged design and durable construction allow the CAT-10020 to work in uneven terrains.
The compressor provides 5.30 CFM at 90 PSI, enough air to run 2 tools at a time and accommodate large air tools. Low amp drawn (at 14 amps) means you don’t waste power. If the noise inside the house or garage is a major issue, then this model is just the perfect choice for you. It functions at only 70 dBA.
With wheels and handle, you can work almost anywhere with this compressor. It is not necessary a con but I find it impossible to mount the wheels without any modifications.
Product Specifications
| Horsepower | 2 HP (Rated) |
| Maximum Pressure | 125 PSI |
| SCFM @ 40 PSI | 6.40 CFM |
| SCFM @ 90 PSI | 5.30 CFM |
| Pump Speed | 1680 RPM |
| Tank Size | 10.0 Gallon |
| Amp Draw | 14 |
| Voltage | 110 Volt AC |
| Highlight Features | Easy Start Valve, Allows for a no load start, for a low start up amp draw, Only 14-amps, Oil-Free Pump for Less Maintenance & Costs |
California Air Tools CAT-10020 Ultra Quiet and Oil-Free Steel Tank Air Compressor are what you need to deal with household maintenance and DIY projects.
Stark 65151 Pneumatic Portable Air Compressor – Best for paint sprayers
- Boasting a maximum PSI of 125, the compressor is ideal for a variety of projects including nailing, bolting, stapling, fastening, hobby painting, and inflation.
- Automatic shutoff stops pumping air when the object is fully inflated for safety
- It 50% quieter than comparable units, you can use this compressor indoors without worrying about noise
- Combined with the portable 10 gallon horizontal tank, the unit was designed for a user-friendly experience
Pros
- Sturdy dual lines that can handle two tasks at once.
- Quick pressure build-up
- Durable pump
- Affordable
Cons
- Quite loud
There are numerous reasons why this 10-gallon air compressor is my favorite. With maximum PSI of 125 and a highly efficient motor, it is a trusted companion for day to day tasks around the house.
This compressor is ideal for a large variety of tasks including inflation, hobby painting, stapling and nailing. It features quick couplers that can handle two air tools at a time! The durable cast-iron pump and bore cylinder piston are effective, providing faster tank-fill time.
Shark does take your safety seriously with the automatic shutoff. What else? Low AMP draw, horizontal tank for better storage and great user-friendly experience.
The drawback? It is quite loud, so you shouldn’t use it where noise is a big problem.
Product Specifications
| Horsepower | 3.5 HP |
| Maximum Pressure | 125 PSI |
| SCFM @ 40 PSI | 7.2 CFM |
| SCFM @ 90 PSI | 3.5 CFM |
| Tank Size | 10 Gallon |
| Voltage | 120V/60HZ |
| Highlight Features | Automatic shutoff, cast iron pump with big bore cylinder and piston, horizontal tank |
If you are looking for a compressor that can accommodate various air tools, paint sprayers and nailers, make sure that you check Stark 65151 Pneumatic Portable Air Compressor out.
Best 20-gallon air compressor for home garage
Industrial Air IL1682066.MN Air Compressor – Most versatile
- 1. 6 HP, dual-Voltage, induction motor wired for standard 120-Volt outlet and convertible to 240-Volt applications
- 135 max psi
- Delivers 6. 2 CFM at 40 psi and 5. 3 CFM at 90 PSI
- Cast-iron, 20 Gal. vertical tank
Pros
- Large and robust tires for easy transport
- Quiet operation
- Easy to set up and use
- Quick fill-up
Cons
- It is hard to access the drain at the bottom.
What is special about Industrial Air 20 Gallon Oil Lubricated Air Compressor?
When it comes to power and performance, this model is remarkable. The cast-iron, twin-cylinder pump is not only durable but also effective in heat dissipation. The heavy-duty motor offers high pump performance needed for certain heavy-duty tasks.
The model from Industrial Air comes with easy-access onboard controls that allow you to set regulator, switch on and off. One thing I don’t like about the design is the drain. It is located way down at the bottom, making it very hard to access.
Other than that, this model has quick recovery time, features wheels and front handles for easy transportation.
Product Specifications
| Horsepower | 1.6 HP |
| Maximum Pressure | 135 PSI |
| SCFM @ 40 PSI | 6.2 CFM |
| SCFM @ 90 PSI | 5.3 CFM |
| Pump Speed | 3450 RPM |
| Tank Size | 20 Gallons |
| Amp Draw | 15 |
| Voltage | 120/240 Volt AC |
| Highlight Features | 2-in-1 multi-function air tank, can be used in either a horizontal or vertical orientation, comes fully assembled and ready to use, two welded on carry handles |
Industrial Air IL1682066.MN Air Compressor is hand-down the most versatile model in the list. Coupled with quiet operation and powerful motor, it is worth every single penny.
WEN 2202 Oil-Lubricated Portable Vertical Air Compressor – User-friendliest
- Provides air flow rates of 3.8 CFM at 90 PSI and 5.0 CFM at 40 PSI
- 20-gallon tank constructed with reinforced steel for a maximum pressure of 135 PSI
- Features an easy-to-reach quick drain valve, 1/4-inch NPT quick coupler and two pressure gauges
- Onboard handle and wheels make transportation to the job site easier than ever
Pros
- Fast recovery time
- Affordable price
- Compact and portable
Cons
- Quite loud
The oil-less machine from Wen offers the user-friendliest design in the list. The vertical tank design with 2 pneumatic wheels and a handle turn storage and transport a piece of cake. It is certainly heavy but the design is very compact, fit perfectly into a small home garage.
Other user-friendly features to name is the location of the quick drain valve. There is no hassle to reach the valve. This compressor is great for nail guns, inflation and dusting saw, and dust. The only drawback is the noise it generates during operation.
Product Specifications
| Horsepower | 2 HP |
| Maximum Pressure | 135 PSI |
| SCFM @ 40 PSI | 5.0 CFM |
| SCFM @ 90 PSI | 3.8 CFM |
| Tank Size | 20 gallon |
| Amp Draw | 15 |
| Voltage | 120V |
| Highlight Features | Easy-to-reach quick drain valve, 1/4-inch NPT quick coupler and two pressure gauges, onboard handle and wheels, auto shutdown function. |
WEN 2202 Oil-Lubricated Portable Vertical Air Compressor offers a user-friendly design and an affordable price. It is the puzzle your garage is missing.
Best 30-gallon air compressor for home garage
Industrial Air ILA1883054 Belt Driven Air Compressor – Most reliable
- Cast iron, twin cylinder, oil lubricated pump
- Heavy duty induction motor for maximum performance and efficiency
- 155 PSI max pressure for optimum tool performance
- 30 gallon vertical portable tank with pre-attached pneumatic tires for maximum portability
Pros
- A quiet compressor
- Vibration-free
- Solidly constructed
- Work great in cold weather
- Low pump speed for longer life
Cons
- Some minor design flaws
The ILA1883054 from Industrial Air is one of the most reliable compressors. The vertical steel tank plus cast-iron oil-lubricated pump promise a long product life. I can’t find any complaints about the construction of this machine.
When it comes to noise level, this compressor is relatively quiet. Producing only 78 dBA, it is suitable for garage work and home use. Plus, no vibration is detected. When you have to work outside in winter, this compressor can nail it too.
There is something about the petcock valve that bothers me. It is located way down on the bottom, making it very hard to clean up or adjust it.
Product Specifications
| Horsepower | 1.9 RHP |
| Maximum Pressure | 155 PSI |
| SCFM @ 40 PSI | 7.0 CFM |
| SCFM @ 90 PSI | 5.7 CFM |
| Pump Speed | 767 RPM |
| Tank Size | 30 gallon |
| Amp Draw | 15 |
| Voltage | 120/240 Volt AC |
| Highlight Features | Cast iron, twin cylinder, oil lubricated pump, dual voltage motor, UL and CSA certified, pre-attached pneumatic tires, quick-set regulator |
Industrial Air ILA1883054 Belt Driven Air Compressor is a simple yet reliable companion for home garage and a small shop. This beast can handle light to medium tasks from inflation to paint spraying.
Campbell Hausfeld 30 Gallon Air Compressor – High CFM
- This are air compressor accessory
- This are highly durable
- This is manufactured in China
Pros
- The horizontal design saves space for storage
- Quiet operation
- Powerful motor
- Short pressurization time
Cons
- Quite a few numbers of plastic parts
Campbell Hausfeld offers a reliable and durable 30-gallon compressor. It is designed sturdily, able to provide 5,000 hours of product life. The powerful motor and 135 maximum PSI indicate that the VT6271 is a tough beast.
However, there are quite a few parts made of plastic, which downgrades its look and design.
This compressor is indeed a user-friendly option. Some features include a horizontal tank, handle and wheels, making it ideal to store in a home garage and move around when needed.
With the high CFM rating, this model tackles different tasks such as paint spraying, grinding, bolting, tightening and inflation.
Product Specifications
| Horsepower | 3.7 HP |
| Maximum Pressure | 135 |
| SCFM @ 40 PSI | 11.50 CFM |
| SCFM @ 90 PSI | 10.20 CFM |
| Tank Size | 30 gallon |
| Amp Draw | 15.7 |
| Voltage | 240V |
| Highlight Features | Reliable power, designed to provide up 5,000 hours of product life, durable and safe ASME code tank, cast iron pump, user friendly design |
If you are looking for a high-CFM compressor for various medium-duty tasks, Campbell Hausfeld 30 Gallon Air Compressor (VT6271) is hands-down a good choice.
Best 60-gallon air compressor for home garage
Industrial Air ILA3606056 Air Compressor – Most Reliable
- cast iron, twin cyclinder, oil lubricated pump
- one-piece cast iron crankcase and 12 inch caast iron crankcase
- 240 volt heavy duty induction motor
- splash type lubrication
Pros
- Run smoothly
- Reasonably quiet
- No air leaks
- Durable compressor
- Long pump RPM for longer life
Cons
- None!
Industrial Air is famous for manufacturing sturdy and reliable products. Their ILA3606056 Air Compressor isn’t an exception.
The beast runs smoothly and quietly. Some may not agree with me since the noise level is roughly 83 dBA. But let’s face it, compared to other conventional options with similar specifications, this model is relatively quiet.
It is also a durable compressor. The product has been made of a reasonable amount of steel, enhancing its longevity against the weather. More importantly, I can’t find any flaws in this machine.
Product Specifications
| Horsepower | 3.6 HP |
| Maximum Pressure | 155 PSI |
| SCFM @ 40 PSI | 13.4 |
| SCFM @ 90 PSI | 11.5 |
| Tank Size | 60 |
| Amp Draw | 15 |
| Voltage | 230 |
| Highlight Features | Cast iron, twin cylinder, oil lubricated pump, one-piece cast iron crankcase and 12 inch cast iron crankcase, heavy duty induction motor, splash type lubrication |
Reliable and durable, the Industrial Air ILA3606056 Air Compressor is an affordable option for those who need a helping hand in the garage.
Quincy QT-54 Splash Lubricated Reciprocating Air Compressor – Best for sandblasting
- Industrial-duty US-made Baldor motor
- Capacitor start motor with built-in thermal overload
- Less than 5 PPM oil carry-over (blow-by) rating
- 145-175 working PSI
Pros
- Easy-to-access drain line
- Smooth and quiet operation
- Powerful motor
- Low vibration
- Highly efficient for a mid-tier upright
Cons
- Some people complain about customer service.
Quincy QT-54 is America’s sweetheart for some reasons.
First of all, the QT-54 operation is super smooth. Though the noise level is 80 dBA, it functions quieter than that. This machine is also low in vibration. You can try to leave it on the pallet and this dude stands the test!
The 5 HP motor generates 175 PSI, which is enough for various air tools. This beast can even handle 14 CFM DA sander for hours with generating too much heat. It is certainly efficient for sandblasting or any other mid-tier upright.
Nothing is wrong with the products; however, the customer service from Quincy isn’t very friendly as many people have complained.
Product Specifications
| Horsepower | 5 HP |
| Maximum Pressure | 175 PSI |
| SCFM @ 90 PSI | 15.4 CFM |
| Pump Speed | 1420 RPM |
| Tank Size | 60 Gallons |
| Amp Draw | 50 |
| Voltage | 230V |
| Highlight Features | Industrial-duty US-made Baldor motor, Capacitor start motor with built-in thermal overload, less than 5 PPM oil carry-over (blow-by) rating |
Quincy QT-54 Splash Lubricated Reciprocating Air Compressor will be your most trusted friend when it comes to light to medium tasks such as sandblasting or and nailing around the house.
How to choose the best air compressor for home garage (buying guide)
When choosing the best air compressor for the buck, you need to follow these four specific criteria below.
Tank size
The compatible tank size of air compressor for home garage ranges from 6 gallons to 30 gallons, depending on your projects. For those who just need to blow dust and inflate tires, a 6-gallon air compressor is enough.
However, if you handling medium-duty and sometimes heavy-duty tasks with some air-hungry tools, 30 gallons are probably the better choice. Make sure that check the amount of task, the volume of air needed before buying a compressor.
Oiled vs oil-less
Oiled and oil-less compressors offer both pros and cons. Oil-less compressors tend to be more affordable and flexible. They also require minimum maintenance, which is a significant selling point.
Oiled compressors, while are known for being fussy and demanding, can function quietly, produce great output and certainly last longer than the oil-less ones.
So, choose wisely! If you just want a small, handy compressor for basic home projects, probably an oil-less compressor is a smart choice. Other than that, oiled compressors can be a trusted companion for a long period of use.
CFM
CFM is an essential factor that you should pay close attention to when choosing a compressor. CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute of airflow. It indicates the volume of air a compressor can deliver at certain PSI (pounds per square inch).
Compressors with high CFM rating can handle larger and heavier jobs. If you just want to inflate tires and blow dust, maybe a significant CFM rating isn’t necessary.
Who makes the best air compressor for home garage?
California Air Tools
California Air Tools manufactures the quietest compressors for your home garage. Reliable and vigorous, their products are always in my highest-rated list.
WEN
WEN has earned its prestige by producing durable and powerful products. From air compressors to generators, they are always the leading manufacturer.
Industrial Air
What I like about Industrial Air’s products is they all look well-designed and sturdy. The signature black finish is sleek. Their compressors are mostly affordable and very user-friendly.
Quincy
Quincy specializes in air compressors. Shopping with Quincy, you will get the world’s finest products with efficient operation and thoughtful design.
FAQs
Can you power wash with an air compressor?
Our garage tends to accumulate a heap of tools and machines needed to maintain our houses, such as mowers, old bicycles, or gardening tools. That’s why a good wash once in a while would be helpful.
Instead of buying an extra pressure wash, some people come up with the idea of using an air compressor to power wash. If you want to ask my thought on this, I would say it is possible.
You can connect something like a spray gun to a garden hose and use air compressors to power it; however, the result will not be similar as when you use a pressure washer.
If this so-called air compressor washer isn’t a permanent solution for your dirty garage, then go for it. But if you opt for more powerful and handy stuff, a pressure washer is a must.
Are oil-less air compressors good?
As I mentioned before oil-less air compressors offer numerous advantages.
Maintenance: oil-less air compressors adopt permanent lubrication for the piston chamber. That’s why extra checkup and oil change aren’t necessary. You still need to make sure that your oil-less compressor is taken care of, but not once every 3 months as the oiled counterparts.
Design: Most oil-less compressors are lightweight and affordable. The design is simple since they use fewer parts. Thus, the price is more competitive than that of oiled compressors.
Usage: Oil-less compressors are perfect for home use and small DIY projects. They certainly can’t handle air-craving tools, but for non-commercial purposes, these models nail it.
Can you leave air in your compressor?
No, you shouldn’t leave the air inside the compressor after use. You suppose to remove remaining air inside your machine after use.
When you leave air inside, you also accumulate moisture in the tank. If the water stays for long, it can erode and weaken the tank, leading to failure in the future.
Are air compressors dangerous?
Air compressors pose several dangers to users.
Most air compressors come with warning labels and manual to explain the dangerous level of pressure. When air compressor produces excessive pressure, it is likely to rupture and explode.
Oil leaks could be dangerous since it can easily catch fire and lead to explosion too. Other than that, foreign particles such as water and oil if found in the tank could cause a blast.
Can air compressors get wet?
Yes, it can. My advice is you should keep your air compressor dry and water-free. Moisture and water can leave permanent damages on your air compressor. It can also shorten or reduce the machine’s effectiveness.
What oil is best for an air compressor?
Just like almost anything, there are many different options when it comes to the best oil for compressors. The type of oil, weights, and manufacturers can confuse you.
In this case, just stick to what the manufacturers recommend. Normally, manufacturers recommend using 20 to 30 weight compressor oil. If they specifically state that their products are compatible with both standard and synthetic blend compressor oil, you have more options.
If not, you might want to stick the standard compressor oil.
The bottom line
On the way to find the best air compressor for home garage, I have read lots of reviews and tests, seen lots of videos. These 10 remarkable products are the ultimate results of my own experience and research. Indeed, each item has pros and cons, but I believe you will find your most reliable right hand from this list.
Related reviews
Best Air Compressors For Air Tools
Air compressor is very useful in auto works and little home works of repairing and painting etc. it makes your work easy to do and also make your other tools more useful and easy by using air pressure.
So its good to have an air compressor at your home or small home garage.
Helpful information provided in the article good job.
This ‘X1750’ packs a p motor, a 50-litre tank and a 7.8 CFM airflow rating. It only has one outlet, though, so you’ll either have to change lines or tools over when you need to do something else.