Need Air Compressor Recommendations

[JerryBob]

I've had this Makita for 3 years without a problem. It uses oil and is very quiet. My previous A/C (oil-free) was worse than a lawnmower when it kicked in. It drives my big framing nailer just fine, although it does cycle alot.

Makita makes great nailers, too.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0001Q2VK0/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

 

[ctechbob]

Originally Posted by LotI
For $150 the Harbor Freight can't be beat. You need to spend double for more cfm or to be quieter.


I'll second this. I've got a big 80 gallon one at a friends shop that I was going to bring to the house but it was just too much. I picked up the 21 gallon HF, followed the break in, changed the oil a couple of times and it runs fine. Has enough flow to run my 1/2" impact that spun my axle nuts off the Acura this weekend and will run the die grinder as much as I need it.

Good deal for the money, just wouldn't use it daily for painting cars or the like.

 

[joegreen]

That harbor freight unit may not have the best reviews but it was one of the best compressors per dollar on my compressor list. Also the harbor freight coupon brings it down to $150.https://www.hfqpdb.com/best_coupon/2.5+HP%2C+21+GALLON+125+PSI+VERTICAL+AIR+COMPRESSOR

 

[dlundblad]

Like others said, you can't beat that $150 HF model.

Rural King has a nice 220v that I plan on getting soon. My garage just needs wired for it.

 

[Astro14]

Originally Posted by JerryBob
I've had this Makita for 3 years without a problem. It uses oil and is very quiet. My previous A/C (oil-free) was worse than a lawnmower when it kicked in. It drives my big framing nailer just fine, although it does cycle alot.

Makita makes great nailers, too.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0001Q2VK0/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1


While I already have a 35 gallon compressor, that Makita looks really nice! For filling tires, running a nailer, or even an impact gun (I've got several) it should work very well. The quiet operation and compact size are huge factors for most folks.

 

[Delta]

While I've been recommending the HF $150 21 gallon compressor, recently mine is acting up. Doesn't want to start up after sitting for a week and takes a couple tries turning on and off the switch to get it to finally start. While it has been cooler, it's been above 50*F. Once running it's great, but something to think about if you're considering this compressor.

 

[vitez]

I've been using an oil-less 25 gal Porter Cable branded air compressor in the garage for the last 10 years or so. It's loud, but I wear ear-muffs or earplugs when using it so not big deal. It'll run my 1/2" impact gun without issue, and can air up the 20 inch tires on my Ram 2500 but I do have to let it catch up when going to 80 psi. Can't use a cut-off tool for long, but all in all it's been meeting my needs about 90% of the time.

Here's a Dewalt example:

https://www.dewalt.com/products/gea...psi-15-gallon-workshop-compressor/d55168


This might also do enough for your needs:

https://www.dewalt.com/products/gea...lystyle-air-compressor-with-panel/d55154

 

[Invaderge]

My only suggestion is , when looking to buy an air compressor, don't be fooled by the advertised horsepower, or the size of the tank, if you are running air tools like grinders, polishers, etc.the higher the CFM (at 90 PSI), the better .
Any oil lubricated compressor that provides 12 or higher cfm @ 90 psi is suitable for medium duty use.
I don't use air tools in my shop, bought a Makita MAc2400, it is alright for my small shop, very compact but powerful enough, the California Air is another decent one to look at so is Rolair.

 

[another Todd]

I bought my SOL the Harbor Freight 21 gal. oil lubed vertical with wheels for his birthday, he loves it and is all the casual user needs. Great deal, often on sale too.