Whether using pneumatic (air) tools or pumping the kid’s tires, one of the best small air compressors could be one of the best tools you own. So, If you’ve been looking for one of the Best Small Air Compressors to buy in 2023, you’re in the right place.
Types Of Small Air Compressors:
This review includes the top portable air compressors on the market – and In today’s small air compressor guide, we explain the difference between (2) Different Types of Small Air Compressors:
Type 1) The 120-Volt AC Small Air Compressor
The first type of small air compressor is the 120-volt AC small air compressor – which runs on a typical 110 amp electrical (house) circuit. 120 Volt AC compressors typically produce higher PSI (pounds per square inch) air pressure than 12-volt D/C compressors (below).
Generally, 120-Volt small air compressors produce between 90-200 PSI, are suitable for pneumatic tools like air guns, and are used for framing and trimming houses, inflating large vehicle tires, etc.
Type 2) The12-Volt DC Portable Air Compressor
The second type of small air compressor is the 12-Volt DC portable air compressor. 12-Volt (Car Battery) air compressors are perfect for inflating car tires, bicycle tires, or air mattresses, and the portable air compressor is the perfect mobile air compressor.
The 12-volt DC compressor is lightweight, portable, and much less expensive than its cousin – the 120-volt AC air compressor.
A 12-Volt DC compressor plugs into the cigarette lighter of a Car, Truck, Or RV for power – and is perfect for use where no electrical hook-up is available. 12 Volt portable compressors typically offer much less psi air pressure – however, a few, like the ViAir DC compressor below – pumps out an astounding 150 PSI.
One innovative compressor is a “hybrid” – The Kensun air compressor below – that can be used as a 12-volt or 120-volt air compressor – using DC (battery) or AC (electrical) power.
(Note: All of our featured Small Air Compressors below – run on electrical (A/C or D/C), not gasoline power.
The 10 Best Small Air Compressors for 2023
Editor’s Choice: Porter-Cable C2002 AC Compressor
Why We Like It
The Porter-Cable C2002 ranks at the top of our reviews as the best small air compressor for several reasons. In addition to quick compression times and a high PSI tank, the C2002 comes with an awesome 13-piece accessory kit for various applications.
As is typical of the Porter-Cable brand, the C2002 is also well-made and durable enough to use at home or on the job site.
Specs
- 6-gallon tank
- 25 ft. Nylon Hose
- 150 max PSI
- 13-piece accessory kit included
- Carrying handle – Weighs only 30 Lbs.
Our Take Away
Overall, the Porter-Cable C2002 is an excellent tool that deserves a spot in your garage. This 6-gallon 150 PSI compressor is powerful enough to handle any small to medium size job.
We also like its lightweight, making it an excellent option for portable use.
Porter-Cable
Runner Up: Bostitch Pancake Compressor 150 PSI
Why We Like It
The AC-powered pancake air compressor from Bostitch is very similar in design and construction to the Porter-Cable model above. The Bostitch 150 PSI model does an excellent job for most home uses, and the tool offers the same PSI and storage tanks as the Porter-Cable brand.
Specs
- 6-gallon tank
- 150 max PSI
- Convenient carrying handle
- Low noise level
Our Take Away
The Bostitch air compressor is a close second to the Porter-Cable C2002, which we felt was put over the top by its 13-piece accessory kit. With that said, there’s no going wrong with this reliable, well-built tool from Bostitch, either.
Bostitch
“Best Value” Small Air Compressor: DeWalt – 6 Gallon Air Compressor
Why We Like It
For many people, spending a large sum of money on an air compressor isn’t an option. If this is your situation, we strongly recommend this unit from the DeWalt Brand.
With a great price and versatile 10-piece accessory kit included, the Campbell-Hausfeld compressor is the strongest contender for the best value small air compressor on any list.
Specs
- 6-gallon tank
- Lightweight @ Only 30 lbs.
- 165 max PSI
- High-Efficiency Motor for Cold Starts
- High Flow Regulators
- 2 – Universal Couplers for Two Users at the Same Time
- Rubber Feet to prevent Marring floors
Our Take Away
This is probably the model for you if you want a lightweight – medium PSI, all-around good small air compressor at a good value. Although it’s an excellent value, you’ll be surprised just how reliable and well-built this compressor is. Just know it will run more often with a smaller 6-gallon tank.
DeWalt Small Air Compressor
Best Premium Upgrade: Makita MAC2400 AC Compressor
Why We Like It
For some jobs, it pays to have a compressor that refills itself really fast. That’s why we chose the Makita MAC2400 as our Best Premium Small Compressor, as the Makita compressor recovers tank pressure quickly. Makita is also recognized as one of the best power tools brands in the world.
Specs
- 4.2-gallon tank
- Big Bore Piston – Lower RPM
- Cast Iron Pump
- Low 79 decibel rating
- 130 max PSI
- Oil-lubricated
- Roll cage protective construction for job sites
Our Take Away
Between fast tank recovery and impressive durability, it’s hard to beat the Makita MAC2400 for any workshop or medium-sized job. Though it has a smaller tank than the two models listed above, because of the cast iron pump design – this compressor weighs 77 lbs. – it’s not light!
However, it is portable enough to take to remote worksites, and the PSI is more than sufficient to run any air tools.
Makita
Best 12-Volt Compressor: EPAuto DC Portable Air Compressor
Why We Like It
The DC Powered EPAuto compressor stands out for both convenience and value. This compressor can plug into your RV or Vehicle’s cigarette lighter adapter, making it easy to use on the road.
The EP Auto is also the best portable air compressor for cars. The EPAuto compressor is small and lightweight enough to store in your vehicle whenever you need it quickly.
Specs
- 12-volt DC power (plugs into vehicle lighter)
- Max 70 PSI
- Suitable for car and SUV tires
- Automatic shut off at target pressure level
- 9-foot nylon hose
- Not recommended for any truck tires
Our Take Away
The EPAuto is not suitable for air tools – it lacks enough air pressure – but is by far one of the most potent and versatile 12-Volt compressors on our list and is easily one of the best small air compressors for car or bicycle tires if you’re out on the road.
And because it has lower air pressure, it won’t deliver enough air surge to ruin your equipment, like tires and air mattresses.
If you don’t already have a unit like this in your trunk, picking one up is an easy way to make sure you’re always prepared to deal with emergency low tire pressure.
EPAuto
Best Craftsman Compressor: Craftsman 6-Gallon AC Compressor
Why We Like It
This Craftsman model reminds us of the Porter-Cable model that took our Editor’s Choice slot in many ways. With many of the same specs and a similar accessory kit, the Craftsman compressor is a serious piece of equipment that will help you get more done at home or on the job.
Specs
- 6-gallon tank
- 150 max PSI
- Suitable for Jobsite
- 13-piece accessory kit included
- Designed to start quickly in cold weather
Our Take Away
This small electric air compressor thoroughly impressed us, and we believe it’s one of the best tools on the market in its category. The Craftsman compressor works reliably and refills itself quickly, making it a natural choice for your compressed air needs.
Craftsman
Best Portable AC Compressor for Air Tools: DeWalt 200 PSI
Why We Like It
If your tasks are limited to trimming a house (90-100 PSI) or filling tires (32 PSI), the DeWalt 200 PSI probably delivers more PSI than you need.
On the other hand, If you’re using pneumatic tools for framing houses and need more like 120 PSI pressure – the Dewalt 200 PSI compressor fits the bill.
And even with the smaller 2.5-gallon tank, the 200 PSI compressor holds more air pressure than a 3.5 – 4-gallon air compressor that delivers 130-150 PSI.
The Higher the PSI capacity- the longer the maximum pressure will remain.
We chose this model from DeWalt as the best air compressor for air tools. Thanks to its rating of 200 PSI, the DeWalt can deliver enough power to keep air-gobbling tools like framing guns – humming along for even the most demanding construction work.
Oh, and it’s a DeWalt – perhaps the best power tool brand in the world.
Specs
- 2.5-gallon air tank
- 95 – 200 max PSI
- Protective Roll-cage for Jobsites
- Low noise level – 71 decibels
- Compact design – 36 Lbs.
- Low 12 amp AC electrical draw
Our Take Away
While you’ll pay a little extra for the extra pressure, this compressor does a great job of powering handheld pneumatic tools. We also like how compact this unit is for the power it delivers since it can be easily placed in a car or truck and taken wherever it is needed.
DeWalt
Best Selling “DeWalt” Compressor: DeWalt 6-Gal. Pancake AC Compressor
Why We Like It
Although the DeWalt model listed above is better for pneumatic (air) tools, not everyone needs the PSI power that the DeWalt 200 PSI model provides.
This 165-PSI pancake compressor from DeWalt is usually more suitable for standard residential or light construction needs.
Specs
- 6-gallon tank
- 90 – 165 max PSI
- lightweight 32 lbs.
- Suitable for job sites
- Low noise operation 75 decibels
- DeWalt Brand Reliability
- One-Year Warranty
Our Take Away
This AC compressor packs a punch for its size and weight, and the 165 maximum PSI puts it a bit above most of the other small electric air compressor choices – without making it overly cumbersome.
As usual, we have to note the exceptional overall brand reliability and quality of DeWalt tools.
DeWalt
Best Portable DC Compressor for Vehicle or House: Kensun Portable AC and DC Compressor
Why We Like It
This small air compressor screams versatility. Since it can be used with a 12-volt DC (car battery) or a 110-volt (in-wall) AC electrical outlet, this unit can go just about anywhere.
At a maximum of 100 PSI, it has more limited power, but it’s also a dependable mini air compressor – that is convenient to pack up and take with you anywhere.
Specs
- 100 max PSI (AC power)
- AC and DC compatible
- It weighs only 4 pounds
Our Take Away
While we wouldn’t recommend this compressor for heavy construction-type use, it is a handy portable tool to keep in your car, truck, or garage. At only 4 pounds, this is also a convenient tool for older users who may not want to carry around a full-size air compressor.
Kensun
Best Compressor for RV or Trailer: Viair 40047 Compressor
Why We Like It
Because RVs are somewhere between a home and a vehicle, they often present a unique challenge regarding tool and equipment choices.
That’s why Viair came up with this excellent DC air compressor designed specifically for RV use. Supplying a great 150 PSI from a 12-volt Truck, Car, or RV battery – and doing all that with a 30-foot air hose is pure genius.
If you own an RV, we almost think this tool is an essential piece of equipment to have.
Specs
- 12-volt DC power (hooks up to vehicle battery)
- 150 max PSI
- 30-foot air hose
- Includes tire inflation gun and gauge
- Eight ft. alligator clamp battery cables
Our Take Away
The Viair 12v compressor is a well-built piece of equipment that will help you ensure your RV has properly inflated car tires, air mattresses are filled, and bicycle tires are ready to roll – no matter where you are traveling.
Though it’s a sort of a specialty compressor with its 12-Volt hook-up, we know that RV owners all over the country would love the lightweight, easy-to-store, high PSI Viair 12-volt portable air compressor.
ViAir – Battery-Powered Compressor
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Buyers Guide Small Air Compressors:
What Is the Best Portable Compressor for Tires
Though most compressors can air up a tire, we recommend the EPAuto and Kensun models. These compressors can be easily stored in your car and run using 12-volt DC power.
The smaller size makes an air compressor portable and convenient, and both are small enough to fit in your trunk easily.
What Type of Power Do Small Air Compressors Run On?
Their basically two types of power for small air compressors. Small compressors are powered by AC (120-Volt) or DC (12-Volt) Car Batteries. We include 7 AC and 3 DC-powered compressors in the small compressor review above.
Who Makes the Most Powerful Small Compressor
Our pick in this category is the DeWalt 200 PSI model. With more than enough PSI to even handle construction sites using multiple high-powered nail guns, this DeWalt air compressor is the best choice for running air tools and tackling building projects.
What Is the Best Portable Compressor for Home and Garage?
Overall, our choice is the Porter-Cable model. As the most well-rounded small compressor on our list, we think it is an excellent choice for homes and garages of all sorts.
Can You Run Air Compressors Without Power?
Yes, provided you’ve pressurized the tank first. While a compressor won’t refill without an electrical power source, the air stored in the tank will stay under pressure for some time, even after the power is disconnected.
Wrapping Up
Suppose you’re looking for a portable air compressor. In that case, we think that the Porter-Cable, Bostitch, and Makita models are the best 120 Volt options for larger jobs, followed by The 12-Volt EPAuto and Kensun Portable Air Pumps for smaller tasks.
Each of these compressors wowed us Somehow with their quality, reliability, positive user comments, and overall features.
It’s important to note that the suitable unit for you depends on the exact uses you’ll be needing it for.
As long as you’re selecting one of the models on this list, though, we have every confidence you’ll be getting an excellent air compressor.
Thanks for visiting Best Home Gear – Please leave us any helpful comments or suggestions below!
References & Additional Reading:
- How to safely use a lawnmower around children – Healthychildren.org
- The 10 Best “Backpack” Leaf Blowers You Can Buy – BestHomeGear.Com
- Diagnosing TurfGrass Problems – University of Maryland
- The Best Chainsaw For Homeowners – Besthomegear.com
- Can You Cut Wet grass with an electric mower? – Ehow.com
- The Best Pressure Washers Under $300 in 2020 – Besthomegear.com
