The Best Small Air Compressor for Home Use performs the same functions as the traditional air compressor, which is powering pneumatic tools, inflating tires and inflatable items as well as power industrial machinery.
However, a mini air compressor can be moved from one place to another when performing various tasks around the home.
The Best Small Air Compressor has a tank that can hold as much compressed air as possible up to 8 gallons to make it possible for the user to do several tasks without needing to refill.
Besides being smaller than traditional air compressors, a portable compressor is lightweight to make portability easier.
Other features that are found in any small portable air compressor include wheels, handle and a pump.
These air compressors are still as powerful as traditional ones with the advantage of being easily portable.
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What’s The Best Small Air Compressors On The Market?
1. PORTER-CABLE C2002-WK Oil-Free UMC Pancake Compressor
PORTER-CABLE C2002-WK Oil-Free UMC Pancake Compressor is made with a pancake design and rubber feet to enhance stability when it is placed on the floor.
It has a water drain valve to get rid of any excess water and condensation trapped inside the pump so the compressor can function properly.
This pancake compressor performs at 150PSI max which provides longer and better tool performance of 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI not to mention reduced recovery time.
The pump has a capacity of 6 gallons and its oil free for easier maintenance and durability.
This PORTER-CABLE C2002-WK is one of the best pancake compressors because it comes with a 13 piece accessory kit and soft-start motor that improves the performance and extends its lifetime.
Whatever tasks you are planning to do at home, this air compressor will provide the power and tools such as tire gauge, quick coupler, plugs, Teflon tape, tire chuck and blow gun.
Considering the size of the tank, power and accessories that come with this PORTER-CABLE C2002-WK Oil-Free UMC Pancake Compressor it’s incredibly cheap.
The fact that it’s very quiet and comes with a portable hose is also a big plus.
Drawbacks:
You must break-in into this air compressor before putting it to work otherwise it will cause damage to your tools.
2.PORTER-CABLE PCFP02003 3.5-Gallon 135 PSI Pancake Compressor
At only 26lbs, PORTER-CABLE PCFP02003 3.5-Gallon 135 PSI Pancake Compressor is incredibly easy to transport and carry around when you need to do several tasks around the home or take it along to the field.
It delivers 2.0SCFM at 90 PSI in a beautiful 3.5-gallon tank.
This pancake compressor can deliver a maximum of 135 PSI, which is sufficient when you want longer run time and quick recovery.
It uses a durable oil free pump that is easy to maintain and mess free.
The low Amp 120V motor is easy to start in cold weather. Alternatively you can use the extension cord or quick coupler to access regulated air in any weather condition.
PORTER-CABLE PCFP02003 3.5-Gallon 135 PSI Pancake Compressor is ideal to support several trim finishing nailers, roofing or framing jobs and any inflation task you might have in mind.
This package comes fully assembled with a nice handle for easy transportation and a detailed instruction manual on the side.
This compressor may not have capacity for large jobs but it provides enough power to do several regular tasks at home.
It’s a quiet machine that can be run by a generator and it can be thrown at the passenger seat during field jobs.
Drawbacks:
3.5-gallon worth of compressed air cannot do much work before it runs out.
3. BOSTITCH CAP1512-OF 1.2 Gallon Oil-Free High-Output Trim Compressor
The best small air compressor comes with many features to increase its performance and durability.
No air compressor comes close to this BOSTITCH CAP1512-OF 1.2 Gallon Oil-Free High-Output Trim when it comes to great features.
It gives a high output of 2.8CFM at 90PSI and 150-PSI maximum pressure to enable it run many tools for a longer period and cut recovery time.
The 1.5HP motor draws 12amps, which makes it easy to start and protect against circuit breaker tripping.
BOSTITCH CAP1512 is beautifully designed with a 1.2-gallon compact tank; rubber feet to provide stability and a nice handle for portability.
It’s an oil free machine which is durable, easy to maintain and very lightweight at only 23.5lbs.
Since it’s for outdoor use, this small quiet air compressor has an integrated control panel and roll cage to protect gauges in any job condition.
The BOSTITCH CAP1512 also features LED power switch that lets you know if the compressor is on or not.
It is perfect for home use and professional tasks such as trimming, finishing staples, inflating tires and other light duties.
Though it’s relatively small, BOSTITCH CAP1512 can hold its own among big heavy duty compressors.
Drawbacks:
There are no complaints noted yet.
4. PORTER-CABLE CMB15 150 PSI 1.5 Gallon Oil-Free Fully Shrouded Compressor
The PORTER-CABLE CMB15 is a fully shrouded compressor that gives a 2.0 SCFM at 90 psi, which is fast, powerful and reduces recovery time.
The 1.5-gallon tank is lightweight, easy to carry and has rubber feet to stand on its own.
This tank has 150-psi max pressure, which means it stores more air and gives you longer service.
A water drain valve is available to get rid of any excess water so the compressor can perform better.
PORTER-CABLE CMB15 uses an oil free pump for durability and easier maintenance.
It also has a low Amp 120V motor that starts easily in cold weather or when you use a cord extension.
This shrouded air compressor operates very quietly at 79decibels and it’s fully enclosed to provide protection against hot and moving tools.
PORTER-CABLE CMB15 is the smallest air compressor that comes with an 8-piece accessory kit and a 25-feet coil hose to help with inflation tasks.
If you want a small air compressor that can work indoors without disturbing the family, this PORTER-CABLE CMB15 is the right choice. It’s one of the quietest air compressor on the market.
It’s a dependable piece that gives top notch performance for its range.
Drawbacks:
Some units have an internal air leak inside the shroud that lets air out. However, amazon is able to replace any defected unit if you return in time.
5. DEWALT D55140 1-Gallon 135 PSI Max Trim Compressor
This heavy-duty 1-gallon trim compressor is one of the most durable pieces out there.
Like most Dewalt air compressors, it has a protective roll cage to ensure everything is safe even in the toughest job sites.
DEWALT D55140 1-Gallon 135 PSI Max Trim Compressor gives 135-psi max very quietly and its only 24 pounds heavy.
The low 2.6Amp motors starts easily in cold weather or when you use an extension hose.
Since this compressor is oil free you will not experience any oil mishaps and maintenance is very easy.
The high-flow regulator makes it possible to have maximum air pressure and increased job performance.
Whether you are a carpenter, wood worker or auto enthusiast who needs a compact, lightweight and dependable trim compressor, this DEWALT D55140 will give you the service needed.
It’s easy to carry and offers high performance operation at a very affordable cost.
DEWALT D55140 is the best-rated air compressor when it comes to being quiet at only 69decibels so you can work inside the house or in the car without anyone noticing.
It’s also the one of the best cheap air compressor for inflating things like tires and balloons because once the preset pressure is attained it automatically shuts off.
Drawbacks:
The board on this compressor gets overloaded if you leave it on for long so it’s advisable to turn it off regularly.
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Buying Guide For The Best Small Air Compressor For Home Use
The number one consideration when one is thinking of buying the best small air compressor for home use is your needs.
This machine will only come in handy if you have tasks that are a bit far from the house and if you often do field work. Other considerations include;
- Tank size:
While a bigger tank will provide more air, it will also make it heavier, less portable and more expensive.
The best portable air compressor has a medium size tank of between 3.5 to 6 gallons, which is sufficient for medium power jobs but not too heavy.
The size of a best compact air compressor should be small enough to fit in the back seat of the car or on top of a stool.
- Power:
The main power consideration should be horsepower and anything between 1.5 to 6.5 HP is good enough.
However you should not overlook the air delivery rate measured in cubic feet per minute and discharge pressure. The higher the CFM and PSI are the better.
- Power Source:
If the air compressor is for home use you can buy an electric one that will be powered using a long power cord.
Otherwise, if you don’t have a power outlet close by a gas air compressor is recommended.
- Manufacturer:
Every air compressor company is known for specific features whether it’s protective cage, tough tank or portability.
Porter-Cable and Kensus give the best small compressor for inflating tires while Bostitch and Dewalt compressors can do construction and heavy pressure jobs.
- Extra Features:
The best small air compressor for home use should come with extra features to make it worthwhile.
On top of a hose, cord wrap and ball valve drain, a set of accessories for daily home tasks should be included.
Conclusion:
The best small portable air compressor has to be reliable, powerful and durable. It should provide value for money and top-notch performance no matter the size.
It’s also important that a compressor function properly no matter the weather and fills the tank a bit more quickly.
The best small air compressor for home use is all about making your work easier with or without electricity.
