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Air compressors are one of the most basic tools to have on hand. Whether you are a professional handyman or a DIY homeowner, air compressors can make your projects go along much quicker. Not to mention, they can make the final product look more professional.
Because of how useful these tools are, there are quite a few models on the market, and they all can be a bit expensive. It is important to select the best air compressor in order to get your full money’s worth. We looked into the best air compressors in Canada in 2023 to make the process of selecting a model easier for you.
After reviewing 23 product over 34 hours, as well as considering 795 customer reviews, we have determined that the Craftsman 6 Gallon Pancake Air Compressor is the best air compressor in Canada this year. It is affordable, highly efficient, and conveniently designed for just about any use, making it the best overall pick.
To find out more about our best overall pick, as well as the six other air compressors we recommend, read on. You will learn all about these seven air compressors and factors for helping you select the best model.
Let’s press into these top air compressors!
Our Top Pick Air Compressor in 2023
All around, the CRAFTSMAN 6 Gallon Pancake Air Compressor is the best overall pick because it is affordable and offers features that just about any user will need. This will not be the best option for heavy-duty work, but it is great otherwise.
Pros:
- Great for most work
- Compact design
- Accessories included
- 1 year limited warranty
Cons:
- Not suitable for heavy-duty work
- Basic design
Our selection of the best models available right now:
Air Compressor Comparative Table
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Top Pick
|
Craftman 6 Gallon Pancake
|
9
|
Check Price on AmazonCheck Price at Rona |
|
Upgrade Pick
|
California Air Tools 8010A
|
9,4
|
Check Price on AmazonCheck Price at Walmart |
|
Portable Pick
|
AstroAI Portable
|
9
|
Check Price on Amazon |
Our Pick for The Best Air Compressor
Presentation of the CRAFTSMAN 6 Gallon Pancake Air Compressor
The Best Overall
CRAFTSMAN
Our top pick air compressor is the CRAFTSMAN 6 Gallon Pancake Air Compressor. This option will be great for just about every user because of its affordability, portability, and efficiency. There are very few negative things to say about this model.
CRAFTSMAN 6 Gallon Pancake Air Compressor Video Review
What We Think of the CRAFTSMAN 6 Gallon Pancake Air Compressor
For just about every usage, the CRAFTSMAN 6 Gallon Pancake Air Compressor is our best overall pick. Both at-home users and professional users can find great uses of this air compressor because of its great design and overall beneficial features.
Intended for indoor use, this air compressor is a corded electric model and has a 6 gallon capacity. This smaller size capacity makes it great for the vast majority of projects. It is also paired with a 150 max PSI for adequate pressure in most situations. It even includes an oil-free pump that extends the life and makes maintenance much easier.
In case these specs do not mean a lot to you, the reason why we made this our best overall pick is because its smaller size and impressive PSI makes it great for most purposes. It is not strong enough necessarily for automotive or industrial work, but it is ideal for handheld tools.
This air compressor is better than the original one I bought. It holds up the air for a good while after it fills up and the noise is minimal. It is great for light duty work.
Bradley S.
Something else that is really unique about this product is that it comes with an entire accessory kit. Accessory kits are not necessary for air compressors, making this a much more novelty option. It comes with a PVC air hose, plug, tire chuck, blowgun, tire gauge, safety nozzle, rubber tip, and three inflator adapters.
The biggest drawback of this model is that it is more intended for lighter use. As we already mentioned, you might want to go with a stronger option if you need it for heavy-duty work. Another drawback that was mentioned is that this is a really basic model, meaning that there are other brands with almost identical compressors.
Despite these drawbacks, the CRAFTSMAN 6 Gallon Pancake Air Compressor is our favorite model because of how useful it is for the majority of owners. More so, it is affordable and sleekly designed, allowing it to fit most people space and pocketbook. These features easily make it the best overall pick.
CRAFTSMAN 6 Gallon Pancake Air Compressor Specifications
- Brand: CRAFTSMAN
- Model Name: CMEC6150K
- Power Source: Corded electric
- Capacity: 6 gallons
- Weight: 5 lbs.
CRAFTSMAN 6 Gallon Pancake Air Compressor Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Great for most work
- Compact design
- Accessories included
- 1 year limited warranty
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy-duty work
- Basic design
Our Final Opinion About the CRAFTSMAN 6 Gallon Pancake Air Compressor
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.8 Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.8 Design 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Price:4.8]
All around, the CRAFTSMAN 6 Gallon Pancake Air Compressor is the best overall pick because it is affordable and offers features that just about any user will need. This will not be the best option for heavy-duty work, but it is great otherwise.
Our Upgrade Pick for an Air Compressor
Presentation of the California Air Tools 8010A Air Compressor
The High Performance Pick
California Air Tools
If you are looking to spend a little extra money on your air compressor, the California Air Tools 8010A Air Compressor is one of the best options. Designed to be both ultra quiet and powerful, these features make it our upgraded high performance pick.
California Air Tools 8010A Air Compressor Video Review
What We Think of the California Air Tools 8010A Air Compressor
Although the California Air Tools 8010A Air Compressor might be out of some people’s price range, it is still a great choice for people who want a high performance model. From its oil-free design to its ultra quiet noise level, this upgrade pick offers enhanced performance.
Starting with its specs, the California Air Tools 8010A Air Compressor is a corded electric model, making it perfect for indoor use. This indoor purpose design is paired with its low sound level, which only reaches 60 decibels.
Additionally, the model has an 8 gallon capacity, which makes it on the small to medium size, perfect for most handheld tools and work. With the 1 horsepower motor, it can work at 1680 RPM for efficient but quiet work. The pump is also oil-free, making it easier to maintain.
I cannot believe how quiet this is in comparison to my old pancake compressor. I received it just three days after my purchase. It was well packaged. It was easy to assemble and came with good instructions. I am shocked by how quiet it is.
Creeks1
As you would expect, the biggest downside of this upgrade pick is its price. Costing nearly twice of our best overall pick, the California Air Tools 8010A Air Compressor is not great for those on a budget. This is especially true considering the fact that it does not come with any needed accessories.
Another critique that was mentioned is that it takes awhile to built up air pressure, making it a little bit more difficult to use. Everyone who mentioned this drawback said that it was worth it because of its insanely quiet sound levels.
With that in mind, the California Air Tools 8010A Air Compressor is a great high performance pick if you are looking for an oil-free and ultra quiet model. Although it does take awhile to build up pressure and costs quite a bit of money, most users absolutely love this upgrade pick.
California Air Tools 8010A Air Compressor Specifications
- Brand: California Air Tools
- Model Name: California Air Tools 8010A Ultra Quiet & Oil-Free Lightweight Air Compressor
- Power Source: Corded electric
- Capacity: 8 gallons
- Weight: 25 lbs.
California Air Tools 8010A Air Compressor Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Ultra quiet
- Impressive specs
- Oil-free
- 8 gallon capacity
Cons
Cons
- Very expensive
- Takes a while to build up pressure
Our Final Opinion About the California Air Tools 8010A Air Compressor
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.8 Effectiveness 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.8 Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
The California Air Tools 8010A Air Compressor is the best upgrade pick because it is super quiet and works great. Although it is not safe for those on a budget, people willing to splurge on their air compressor cannot go wrong with this option.
Our Portable Pick for an Air Compressor
Presentation of the AstroAI Portable Air Compressor
The On-The-Go Pick
AstroAl
Sometimes, you may need to bring your air compressor with you for the ride. For this use, you will need an on-the-go pick. We recommend the AstroAI Portable Air Compressor. It is really small, works great as a tire pump, and is incredibly affordable.
AstroAI Portable Air Compressor Video Review
What We Think of the AstroAI Portable Air Compressor
Most of the time, portable air compressors are used to blow up tires. This AstroAI Portable Air Compressor is the air compressor for the job. As our portable pick, this is a great option to toss into your trunk and forget about it until you need it.
The AstroAI Portable Air Compressor is a corded electric model that weighs only 2.2 lbs. This makes it incredibly convenient and easy to use. You can simply hook it up to your cigarette lighter to get it going.
Despite its small size, it can actually inflate a car tire pretty quickly given its specs. It has the ability to inflate 195/55/R15 car tire in under 5 minutes from 0 to 35 PSI. This will allow your tire to be up and running in no time.
Something that is really unique about this portable air compressor is that it has programmable inflation. Set the desired pressure on the screen, and the compressor will shut off whenever the desired level is reached. This makes it incredibly easy to use.
We also love the price of this portable option. It costs notably less than any other option on our list, making it a great way to have a backup plan without spending a fortune.
The most obvious downside of this air compressor is its power. Because of its size, it really is not suitable for blowing up or supporting most devices. It is really only intended for blowing up tires and other small items, like an air mattress.
Additionally, the power cord is not intuitively made. Multiple users noted that the cord is a little short, making it sometimes impossible to reach the back tires while it is plugged in. This can cause you to put in more work than necessary.
Aside from these drawbacks, the AstroAI Portable Air Compressor is a great choice for a portable air compressor to use on your tires. It gets the job done quickly, and it does not cost a fortune.
AstroAI Portable Air Compressor Specifications
- Brand: AstroAI
- Model Name: A220B
- Power Source: Corded electric
- Weight: 20 lbs.
AstroAI Portable Air Compressor Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Highly affordable
- Compact and lightweight
- Blows up tires quickly
- Suitable for nearly all vehicles and other items
Cons
- Not very powerful
- Intended for blowing up tires and other small items exclusively
- Short cord
Our Final Opinion About the AstroAI Portable Air Compressor
Quality 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.3 Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
For the job it is designed for, the AstroAI Portable Air Compressor is highly impressive. It is really compact and lightweight, making it the on-the-go pick. Although it is not great for heavy-duty use, it certainly will blow up tires quickly.
Alternative Products to Consider
Presentation of the DEWALT D55140 Air Compressor
The Limited Storage Pick
DEWALT
One of the biggest drawbacks of many air compressors is how much space they take up. If you have limited storage, the DEWALT D55140 Air Compressor will likely be the best option for you. It has a compact design and convenient features for easy storage.
DEWALT D55140 Air Compressor Video Review
What We Think of the DEWALT D55140 Air Compressor
We have named the DEWALT D55140 Air Compressor as our limited storage pick because of its unique design and size. Because of its compact design, it is only 24 lbs. and 9 inches wide. This size features make it one of the most compact models on this list.
It even comes with additional storage features to make it even better for limited space. Most notably, it comes with a convenient cord wrap, making it easy to store the entire model without any dangling ends.
Conveniently, the air compressor also comes with a roll cage and control panel. These two features provide protection to the compressor’s key components. This is a great touch since limited space sometimes puts the compressor at risk of damage.
A good sturdy compressor. I needed a small unit for around the house and with low current units so I could use it for RV tires. This does the job great for both. It is lightweight and stores easily in my trailer. It runs fine off our generator. This is a great multipurpose option.
Skiddy
Even though it is compact, it is also powerful. The DEWALT D55140 Air Compressor is air powered. It includes a heavy-duty 1 gallon compressor, as well as a 2.6 amp motor and 135 PSI maximum. At the same time, it is really quiet, with a low 7.1 decibel rating.
The biggest downside of the compressor is that it is not intended for heavy-duty use. As a result, this might not be the option for you if you need it for bigger jobs. Additionally, some people claim that the model sounds louder than they have you believe.
For those who are really strapped on space, however, the DEWALT D55140 Air Compressor is a great choice. Between its compact and lightweight design, as well as the storage features, this model is the top choice for those with limited space.
DEWALT D55140 Air Compressor Specifications
- Brand: Dewalt
- Model Name: BLACK & DECKER/DEWALT D55140 GAL 135PSI Compressor
- Power Source: Air powered
- Capacity: 1 gallon
- Weight: 15.42 lbs.
DEWALT D55140 Air Compressor Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Lightwieght
- Compact
- Additional features for convenient storage
- Affordable
Cons
- Not ideal for heavy-duty jobs
- A little louder than advertised
Our Final Opinion About the DEWALT D55140 Air Compressor
Quality 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.8 Price 4.5 out of 5.0 stars
The DEWALT D55140 Air Compressor might be your go to choice if you have limited space. Even though it is not the best choice for heavy-duty purposes, it is lightweight and small enough to fit in some of the tightest storage spaces.
Presentation of the California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S Air Compressor
The Ultra Quiet Pick
California Air Tools
One thing most people hate about air compressors is how loud they are. If you are someone looking for a quiet model, check out the California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S Air Compressor. With the lowest decibel rating on this list, this is the perfect option for indoor use or those with sensitive ears.
California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S Air Compressor Video Review
What We Think of the California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S Air Compressor
As our ultra quiet pick, you would expect this model to be surprisingly quiet for an air compressor. You expect right. This air compressor operates at a maximum of 56 decibels, which is easily the quietest option on this list.
In addition to the quiet noise level, it also offers pretty impressive specs. For example, it has a 1 gallon capacity and an airflow capacity of 1.2 cubic feet per minute. That is paired with a 0.6 horsepower engine and the light weight of 29.5 lbs.
More so, the California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S Air Compressor is really easy to maintain. Plus, it costs little upfront and does not require many costs for upkeep all because of its oil-free pump.
This is a really quiet unit. I can have a normal conversation while it is on. Appears to be really great quality, but I only use it for filling tires. The recovery is quick and looks like it could run air consumption tools for a short time. I am very impressed with this unit.
Joe L.
Impressively, there are very few negative reviews about this option. The main thing that people complain about is false claims relating to the noise level.
Even though most people attest that the noise is incredibly quiet, multiple users tested the noise level and found that it was higher than advertised. Even the users who noted this said it is quieter than most other options, though.
Another issue multiple users had is the tank size. They said it made the compressor perform not as well as they needed. Plus, many users noted that this fact made the price a little too high for the product.
Even if the users who tested the decibel levels were correct, the California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S Air Compressor is still the quietest option on this list, and most would agree. This makes it the ultra quiet pick in our roundup.
California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S Air Compressor Specifications
- Brand: California Air Tools
- Model Name: FBA_CAT-1P1060S
- Power Source: Corded electric
- Capacity: 1 gallon
- Weight: 29 lbs.
California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S Air Compressor Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Ultra quiet
- Goof specs
- Fast recovery
Cons
- Potential false claims about noise levels
- Asks too much for what it offers
Our Final Opinion About the California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S Air Compressor
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.3 Effectiveness 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Price:4.2]
The California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S Air Compressor is the quietest option on this list. Even though it may be slightly louder than listed, you could still hold a normal conversation with it running, making it a highly impressive choice.
Presentation of the BOSTITCH BTFP02012 6 Gallon Pancake Compressor
The Heavy-Duty Pick
BOSTITCH
Although this certainly is not the choice for industrial or automotive use, the BOSTITCH BTFP02012 6 Gallon Pancake Compressor is the heavy-duty pick because it is much more powerful than the other options on this list. This makes it better for tools that require a bit more oomph.
BOSTITCH BTFP02012 6 Gallon Pancake Compressor Video Review
What We Think of the BOSTITCH BTFP02012 6 Gallon Pancake
As a whole, the BOSTITCH BTFP02012 6 Gallon Pancake Compressor is an incredibly impressive compressor. Weighing in at only 31 lbs. with a 6 gallon capacity, this is a smaller sized compressor.
At the same time, it is really powerful. It has a 150 max PSI and 2.6 SCFM delivered at a 90 PSI pump. This makes the BOSTITCH BTFP02012 6 Gallon Pancake Compressor much more powerful than the other options on this list.
Part of the reason this model is so powerful is because it comes with a high flow regulator and couplers. This allows it to maximize the air tools’ performances, making it much more effective and heavy-duty.
I have used this for six months and am very pleased. It was worth the investment. It powers my pneumatic tools for auto work and other heavy-duty applications. It is worth your money.
Don A.
This compressor is not only good for its power, however. It also has a relatively quiet operational noise level of about 78.5 decibels. Although this is much higher than our ultra quiet pick, this is quiet for the power it provides.
At the same time, the BOSTITCH BTFP02012 6 Gallon Pancake Compressor is also pretty lightweight and easy to handle. With the pancake design, it is relatively transportable and easy to store.
The most common complaint about this model involves a misunderstanding of the product. Depending on the option you select, it could come with accessories, but it seemed that most of these users accidentally selected the compressor only option when they wanted the accessories. This shows that the selection options are confusing if you are not paying attention.
It seems that the noise level is an issue as well. Although technically the decibel level is quieter than many other heavy-duty options, many users still claimed that it was too loud.
With that aside, the BOSTITCH BTFP02012 6 Gallon Pancake Compressor is a great choice if you need an air compressor that comes with a little bit more power.
BOSTITCH BTFP02012 6 Gallon Pancake Compressor Specifications
- Brand: Bostitch
- Model Name: BTFP02012
- Power Source: AC
- Capacity: 6 gallons
- Weight: 31 lbs.
BOSTITCH BTFP02012 6 Gallon Pancake Compressor Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Heavy-duty
- Easy to handle
- Convenient design
Cons
Cons
- Confusing options
- Louder than some people would like
Our Final Opinion About the BOSTITCH BTFP02012 6 Gallon Pancake Compressor
Quality 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.5 out of 5.0 stars
Now for those who need a bit more power, the BOSTITCH BTFP02012 6 Gallon Pancake Compressor is the way to go. Just make sure to read which option you are selecting thoroughly to ensure you get all the parts you want.
Presentation of the California Air Tools Cat 2010A Air Compressor
The Long-Life Cycle
California Air Tools
Finally, the last air compressor on our list is the California Air Tools Cat 2010A Air Compressor. This option is our extra long life cycle, making it a highly impressive model for many uses.
California Air Tools Cat 2010A Air Compressor Video Review
What We Think of the California Air Tools Cat 2010A Air Compressor
The California Air Tools Cat 2010A Air Compressor is our extra long life cycle. Its oil-free dual piston pump is designed to have a life cycle of around 3000+ hours. To put that in comparison, many other air compressors only have a life cycle of 500 hours or less. This makes this option much more impressive in that it offers faster air delivery.
The extra long life cycle is paired with a 2 gallon capacity, 1 horsepower rating, and 3.1 CFM at 40 PSI. That CFM decreases to 2.2 whenever the PSI is raised to 90. Another great feature of this option is that it only has a noise level of 60 decibels, making it very quiet.
Unlike many other air compressors that begin to rust quickly, the California Air Tools Cat 2010A Air Compressor is made with a rust free aluminum tank. This will allow the entire compressor to last much longer than other options.
This compressor is super quiet. I researched it a lot, and the videos do not show just how quiet it is. I read a couple reviews complaining about the noise as it refills, but this is not an issue at all. It also fills up really quickly.
Perryb
Like some of the other California Air Tools options on this list, this model does have the drawback of having low power. This seems to be a compromise some people are willing to make for the low noise, but others are not as impressed. Another drawback is that it has a short power cord. This can make it difficult to use this compressor all around your home.
If you need an air compressor with an extra long life cycle, however, the California Air Tools Cat 2010A Air Compressor is the best option. You will not find a better one.
California Air Tools Cat 2010A Air Compressor Specifications
- Brand: California Air Tools
- Model Name: 2010A
- Power Source: Corded electric
- Capacity: 2 gallons
- Weight: 35.3 lbs.
California Air Tools Cat 2010A Air Compressor Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Long life cycle
- Quiet
- Powerful
- Affordable
Cons
Cons
- Less power than other options
- Short power cord
Our Final Opinion About the California Air Tools Cat 2010A Air Compressor
Quality 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.3 Price 4.5 out of 5.0 stars
Our last air compressor is the California Air Tools Cat 2010A Air Compressor, and it has a really long life cycle. This makes it a great option for people who want a faster air delivery but know that the power is limited, and the cord is a bit on the short side. Other than that, it is a great option.
Presentation of the Ryobi 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless Portable Air Compressor
The Cordless Alternative
Ryobi
If a battery-powered air compressor is not a product you ever thought you needed, you’ll want to reflect on that decision. The Ryobi 18-volt ONE+ cordless portable air compressor allows you to use tools or inflate tires anywhere, anytime, no matter how remote your location.
Ryobi 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless Portable Air Compressor Video Review
What We Think of the Ryobi 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless Portable Air Compressor
This Ryobi air compressor is a cordless battery-powered model, and as such, it has a higher degree of portability than most other units. Not only is it lighter and maintenance-free, but it also has the advantages of being used in remote areas without access to an outlet and avoiding the hassle and potential hazard of a long power cord.
The 1 gallon tank works in combination with the battery life to provide 9 full tire fill-ups without requiring a charge. This is very useful for people who don’t have high demands of their air compressor, but people who use it all day long would quickly get frustrated with its lower capacity and need to charge. A battery is not included with this model, so you will need to purchase it separately if you don’t own a compatible battery already.
I really only wanted an air compressor to keep on hand for refilling my car tires whenever they get flat. We have a lot of fluctuations in temperature here on a daily basis, so I need to make adjustments pretty regular. The battery power lasts for a long time since I don’t use it for much, and it’s great being able to use it without an outlet nearby. I’m happy with its performance, for sure.
jimmy r.
One of our favorite features is the quick connect coupler system. A quick push allows you to connect, so you are able to set up and use this machine singlehandedly. The affordability of this model is exceptional (unless you need to purchase the battery and charger separately), so it is accessible to everyone. The portability and convenience of this model is outstanding as long as you don’t ask a lot from it.
Ryobi 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless Portable Air Compressor Specifications
- Capacity: 1 gallon
- Weight: 14 lbs
- PSI: 120
- Tank Style: Cylinder
- Power Source: Cordless
- Hose Length: 15 ft
- Volts: 18
Ryobi 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless Portable Air Compressor Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Cordless operation is incredibly convenient when working in remote environments
- Lightweight and fairly compact for portability
- Highly affordable
- Universal quick connect coupler allows single-handed operation
Cons
Cons
- Does not come with a battery or charger
- Fairly low capacity
Our Final Opinion About the Ryobi 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless Portable Air Compressor
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars.3 Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Ryobi 18-volt ONE+ cordless portable air compressor is the most portable and convenient air compressor on the market. Its cordless operation and lightweight design make it incredibly portable, and its affordability will likely seal the deal. Just keep in mind you’ll need to purchase the battery if you don’t already own a compatible one.
Presentation of the Porter-Cable C2002 Oil-Free UMC Pancake Compressor
The Efficient Alternative
Porter-Cable
If you’re looking for a new air compressor that will help you achieve maximum efficiency on a daily basis, the Porter-Cable C2002 oil-free UMC pancake compressor is the right choice. It has an exceptional capacity, stable design, and a quick recovery time to keep you productive all day long.
Porter-Cable C2002 Oil-Free UMC Pancake Compressor Video Review
What We Think of the Porter-Cable C2002 Oil-Free UMC Pancake Compressor
This Porter-Cable C2002 compressor is one of the best models on the market for individuals who need an air compressor for a lot of work on a regular basis, and who rely on efficiency and productivity more than anything else. It is fairly bulky and heavy at 30 lbs, but for a stationary work environment this won’t be much of an issue. If portability IS important to you, there are better products on the market.
The operating capacity of this compressor is remarkable. With a 6 gallons air capacity and a PSI value of 150, the tool run time provided by this machine is exceptional. Plus, with the quick recovery time, you won’t have much downtime waiting for the machine to reach the pressure target and refill the tank. This ensures you can stay productive and maintain your overall efficiency for the workday.
I’ve been looking for an electric compressor for some time now, but I haven’t been able to find one that had all of the features I need. I was ecstatic to come across this Porter-Cable model, and its performance has not disappointed me. I love that it doesn’t have any maintenance needs, and the large 6 gallons capacity lets me get through an entire day of work with only a few refills.
james j.
The pancake style design of this model is atypical for a cylindrical-dominated market, but it adds greatly to the overall stability of this compressor. The rubber feet add a lot to the stability of the machine as well, so you won’t have to manage a jumping or wiggling machine on top of your workload. As a corded electric model, you won’t have any maintenance to worry about either.
Porter-Cable C2002 Oil-Free UMC Pancake Compressor Specifications
- Capacity: 6 gallons
- Weight: 30 lbs
- PSI: 150
- Tank Style: Pancake
- Power Source: Corded electric
- Hose Length: Not included
Porter-Cable C2002 Oil-Free UMC Pancake Compressor Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- More air storage for longer tool run times
- Quick compressor recovery time
- Pancake style and rubber feet add greatly to stability
- Oil-free pump for maintenance-free operation
Cons
Cons
- Fairly heavy, not very portable
Our Final Opinion About the Porter-Cable C2002 Oil-Free UMC Pancake Compressor
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars.3 Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Porter-Cable C2002 oil-free UMC pancake compressor is an exceptional choice for anyone who needs a reliable machine that can stand up to the demands of a busy workday. Maintenance-free operation and a great capacity make this a machine that requires little down time.
Why Should You Trust Us?
All the recommendations we make on The Good Choice are the result of many hours of research, comparisons, analysis of consumer reviews and, if necessary, expert feedbacks. The products we recommend here are the ones that will best perform their daily tasks, passing all security, reliability and efficiency tests while having an appealing price-quality ratio for everyone.
What are our criteria for judging the products reviewed and selected by The Good Choice?
- Quality: Does the product have a solid construction? Will it be reliable over time? Does it have a good warranty?
- Efficiency: Is the product efficient in its task or do you need to give it some help? Is it for example powerful, fast, quiet?
- Usability: Is the product easy to handle, easy to use and maintain?
- Price: Is the price of the product and/or accessories and/or spare parts reasonable compared to the rest of the market?
In addition to these main criteria, we then establish a list of specific criteria for each product category, detailed a little further down in this article.
In the end, the products we recommend are the ones we would want to buy, and the ones we would also choose for our friends and family.
Things to Know Before Buying an Air Compressor
Here are some FAQs to know before buying your air compressor.
What size air compressor do I need?
Air compressors come in many sizes, but most users generally agree that bigger is better when it comes to these tools. The exact size you need will depend on your purposes.
For example, running industrial equipment will require whatever size is specified by the manufacturer’s instructions. Most automotive tools need 10 CFM at about 90 PSI. Ratchets and other intermittently used tools probably only need about 5 CFM. Sanders and other steadily run tools need about 10 CFM.
Getting an air compressor that is slightly too small for your needs will still work, but you will often overwork your compressor. Plus, you will be waiting for the air. With this in mind, it is better to overestimate than underestimate.
What is the difference between a single-stage and two-stage air compressor?
The air compressor stage refers to how many cylinders are in the tank. A single-stage compressor will have one or more, whereas the two-stage compressor will have at least two. This means that the single-stage compressor pumps the air directly into the tank.
For a two-stage air compressor, the pump will move the air to the cooling tube. Then, it will go into a smaller second stage cylinder. Finally, it will enter into the tank. The benefit of buying a two-stage compressor is that it offers more high pressure, though not all tools need higher pressure. Many people do not need a two-stage air compressor as a result.
Does my air compressor need oil?
Some air compressors need oil, but not all. If the model you select is specified as being oil-less, it does not need oil. Read through your manufacturer’s instructions to learn if you need to oil your individual model.
How to Properly Choose Your Air Compressor
Choosing your first air compressor can be a big task. Between its expensive price and desired longevity, it is important to think about all the most important factors when selecting your model. Here are the factors you need to consider in order to properly choose your air compressor.
Air Compressor Style
Air compressors come in many styles. The style you select should relate to your intended use and needs. Here are the most common styles:
- Pancake: As the name suggests, pancake compressor tanks are round and flat. This allows the tank to be more stable and take up less space for storage.
- Hot Dog: A hot dog air compressor tank is horizontally designed, almost like a hot dog.
- Twin Stack: Twin stack compressors are like the hotdog style, but there are two tanks stacked, as opposed to only one. This increases air capacity without adding anymore floor space.
- Wheelbarrow: Wheelbarrow compressor includes two cylindrical tanks, like the twin stack. What makes it different is that it includes a wheelbarrow design for additional mobility.
Power Supply
Today, the most common power supply for compressors is electric. This requires less maintenance, it is quieter, and they are better for dry environments. This is great for inside use. People looking for an air compressor for their home should select an electric model.
In contrast, gas powered air compressors are ideal when you are working outdoors, where electricity is often unavailable or limited. This will have greater horsepower and PSI, but it requires more maintenance, and it cannot be used inside.
Compressor Specs
In addition to the power supply, you need to look at the air compressor specifications. This includes the horsepower, PSI, CFM, and tank size.
The horsepower tells you how much power can be created by the motor. A greater horsepower results in a greater PSI, which allows you to use the tool for longer at one time.
CFM and SCFM measures the volume of the air compressor. This volume will change as the PSI changes. For example, the CFM will increase if the PSI decreases. A high CFM rating is great for heavy applications.
As you would expect, the tank size tells you how large the tank is. Smaller tanks, which are typically between 4 to 6 gallons, are great for many projects, but larger tanks are better for serious jobs, like automotive work or remodeling projects.
The Air Tools You Expect To Use
Depending on the individual tools you expect to use, you may need specific air requirements. It is important to know these requirements beforehand so that you get the right air compressor. Some of the most popular tools to use with an air compressor include the following:
- Air chisel
- Air hammer
- Nail gun
- Paint sprayer
- Staple gun
- Ratchet
- Rotary tools
Additional and Optional Features
Finally, the last factor to consider is additional features. Not all features are necessary for every person’s compressor, but individual features can make the air compressor more suited for you. It is a great idea to select models with thermal protection stops. This will prevent the motor from being damaged during overloads.
Some optional features to consider are oil-free pumps, belt drive systems, adjustable exhaust, and included accessories. These features are not necessary, but they may make your experience and model more usable.
We do our best to provide you with a comparative guide of air compressors allowing you to choose the best product possible. If we are missing information or new models, do not hesitate to leave a comment below or to send us a message.
