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Air compressors can help with a variety of DIY projects around the house.

Collage of the Dewalt 6-Gallon Pancake Air Compressor on a blue background

Credit:Better Homes & Gardens

“Even a portable 12-volt air compressor could also do the trick for the most basic needs.

We also asked Buzelis for deeper insight so shoppers can choose the model thats right for them.

Its a heavyweight option that doesnt have wheels.

Dewalt 6-Gallon Pancake Air Compressor

Credit: Amazon

In addition, this DeWalt has a strong 120V motor that can run smoothly for hours at a time.

A flow regulator located on the body directs airflow from the tank to your equipment.

The PSI rate is low, so its not great for heavier-duty jobs.

Kensun AC/DC Tire Inflator and Air Compressor Pump

Its also the cheapest air compressor on this list.

Plus, it easily fits in your car trunk or RV.

We appreciate that its easy to use and does not need a lot of technical know-how to get started.

Ingersoll Rand Single-Stage Air Compressor

It comes with extra adapters for balls, bikes, and tires.

This isnt unusual for an air compressor, but it does make it less portable.

There is also a digital LED gauge that helps you track how much air is expended.

Ryobi One+ 18V Cordless 1-Gallon Air Compressor

Obviously, because its mini, it has a lower PSI rate.

This model has a two-year warranty.

It needs to be oiled with one of the brands compatible lubricants for optimal use.

Milwaukee M18 Fuel Compact Quiet Air Compressor

If you want to treat yourself to a premium air compressor, this is the way to go.

At 80 decibels, its output is similar to many home air compressors.

Its also extremely heavyit weighs 200 pounds with a 20-gallon capacity.

Craftsman 10-Gallon Oil-Free Air Compressor

There is also a thermal protection system for the motor so it wont burn out while you use it.

The belt drive is completely enclosed for added safety.

Once oiled up, it can run for up to 2000 hours at a time.

California Air Tools 8010 Oil-Free Air Compressor

There is no automatic shut-off.

Another standout feature is that it uses the same battery that powers over 280 Ryobi tools.

A 20-inch high-air pressure hose and two pressure gauges track the amount of pressure you use.

Overall, this tool saves money for Ryobi fans, because they dont have to spend on extra batteries.

Its only 2 gallons so you may have to stop and refill while working.

Although air compressors have a reputation for being noisy, the Milwaukee M18 wont give you a headache.

For perspective, the M18 is less noisy than an average vacuum or lawn mower when its on.

Youll like that its battery-powered and doesnt need long extension cords or gas to use.

This does mean you might have to refill it more often, though.

The machine has a brushless motor, which provides more torque and reduces noise levels.

Additionally, the M18 comes withnail gun equipmentthat lets you hammer 1600 brad nails per charge.

It is extremely loud.

With this model, you get industrial-strength power even for small jobs.

It has a 1.8 horsepower induction motor that fills air tanks in under three minutes.

We like that it is oil-free, and hardly requires any maintenance.

Additionally, there are dual couplers on the tank so you could use multiple tools at the same time.

It has a pretty small tank.

It features a 1-horsepower running motor that functions at 1680 RPM.

This basically means that youll get less wear and tear on the motor because its efficient and powerful.

Its also good for cleaning metal and wood shavings from tools like chainsaws, and mowers.

you’re free to also use it to inflate tires of all sizes.

This is an oil-free air compressor so its able to work efficiently in both hot and cold temperatures.

The tank has an 8-gallon capacity and weighs about 48 pounds.

It also comes with wheels to quickly move it around.

It comes with a limited one-year warranty.

Scroll, rotary screw, and centrifugal compressors are the compressor types used in industrial operations.

Also, check that to check what CFM is provided at a certain PSI.

Sound Level

Youll find that smaller air compressors tend to be less noisy than larger models.

Also, oilless compressors are known to be quieter than oiled compressors.

Most of the air compressors on our list operate between 60 and 80 decibels.

Your Questions, Answered

What size air compressor is good for home use?

The physical size doesnt reveal the actual efficiency of an air compressor, Buzelis says.

First, focus on CFM (cubic feet per minute).

It shows how much air a compressor can deliver at a certain pressure.

Do you need oil for an air compressor?

This depends on the throw in of compressor youre using.

How much are air compressors?

She specializes in home and lifestyle niches.

To find the best air compressors she researched many types of air compressor models including home and industrial options.

She also received tips fromMatas Buzelis, auto expert and business development manager at carVertical.