What’s the best quiet air compressor? The word “best” is relative to what your needs and budget are. There is no absolute single best air compressor that will satisfy everyone, which is precisely why we always cover a wide-range of products, and in this case, silent air compressors, to help you pinpoint the one that best suits your specific needs. Let’s get started…
Best Quiet Air Compressor
Pneumatic (air) tools are great in that they outlast electric tools because they don’t have an electric motor and have amazing torque capabilities. Some of us like to be able to do spray paint work or make use of high pressure air to clean out pipes or just keep our work areas clean. In order to take advantage of these benefits, you need a compressor.
For both home users and contractors that use pneumatic tools on site, a compressor can be too noisy and this can easily turn a friendly neighbor into a raging enemy. So, many of you will want a quiet compressor. With quiet running, comes a sacrifice when it comes to power and therefore the pressure and available air volume. So will a quiet air compressor be able to meet your needs?
Take a look at our selection of the best quiet air compressors and decide for yourself. We’ll review the best available options and give you an objective opinion. Of course, specs and figures might not be enough if you don’t fully understand what you require. To make all of this easier for you, we’ll include suggestions and a general guide to what you should look for.
If you’re not sure about how to choose the best quiet air compressor for your needs, you will by the time you’ve finished reading this article. First, we’ll take a look at your options and then move on to more details about compressors in general and what you should look out for.
Just so you know, CFM = cubic feet per minute is the air volume that runs your tool.
California Air Tools CAT-4610AC
60 dB — Quiet & Oil-Free 1.0 hp 4.6 gallon Aluminum Twin Tank Electric : best quiet air compressor
Features:
- Silent air compressor -- 60 decibels
- Oil-Free Pump – Cleaner air for better tool operation.
- Two pressure control gauges
- Two universal 1/4″ quick connectors
- Thermal Overload Protector
- Expected to last for 3000+ hours
- 120 PSI Maximum Pressure
- 110v / 60 hz
- Low Amp Draw -- 8.5 Amps
- Time to fill tank from empty to full -- 130 Seconds
- Recovery time from 90 PSI to 120 PSI -- 30 Seconds
- Less heat which dissipates more efficiently
- 4.6 Gallon Aluminum Air Tank (44 lbs)
- Only 44 pounds and easy to transport.
- L (19.1) x W/D (16.7″) x H (19.7″)
- 1 Year Limited Warranty
- Comes complete with Air Filter
- 1680 RPM
- 1.0 HP (Rated/Running) -- 2.0 HP (Peak)
- 4.6 Gallon Aluminum (Rust-Free) Tank
- 3.10 CFM @ 40 PSI / 2.20 CFM @ 90 PSI
✓ View or download the MANUAL for the California Air Tools CAT-4610AC.
Overview | California Air Tools CAT-4610AC
For a small compressor, I’m quite impressed with the tank size on this one – 4.6 gallons. The tank is also made of aluminum, which means no rust. Personally, I like a bigger tank because it means that the motor runs less, so less heat is produced and this results in a lower condensation rate. With less condensation, you’ll have less water collecting in the tank and you won’t have to drain it as often when you’re using it for longer periods of time.
Video | California Air Tools CAT-4610AC
The 1HP motor produces 3.1 CFM at 40 PSI and 2.2 CFM at 90 PSI, pretty good for a unit of this size. The motor runs at 1680 RPM which reduces wear and it also contributes to a very low noise rating of 60dB. The dual piston pump is incredibly durable and does not require oil. This means that you should get more than 3000 hours before any signs of wear. The oil-free pump also means that it works well in any temperature and is not affected when used on uneven terrain.
It has a maximum pressure of 120 PSI and the tank fills remarkably quickly. It only takes 130 seconds to fill the tank from empty. Restoring the pressure from 90 PSI back to 120 PSI takes only 30 seconds. It has two outlets using ¼” quick connectors and it has two pressure gauges. The unit also comes with an air filter.
For many users, portability is important and the California Air Tools CAT-4610AC is certainly an easy machine to move around weighing only 44 LBS with a sturdy handle. Dimensions are: Length – 19.1”; width – 16.7” and height – 19.7”. A very handy compact compressor for contractors who will be transporting it regularly.
I like the overall design of this compressor. The two quick connectors are placed at the top of the machine for very easy access with a pressure gauge next to each connector. It has a well-built compact frame and it certainly seems that it will last a long time, well beyond the 1-year warranty.
California Air Tools 2010A
Ultra Quiet & Oil-Free 1.0 hp 2.0-Gallon Aluminum Tank : best quiet air compressor
Features:
- Ultra Quiet -- Only 60 decibels
- Oil-Free Pump – Cleaner air for better tool operation.
- Two pressure control gauges
- One universal 1/4″ quick connector
- Thermal Overload Protector
- 120 PSI Maximum Pressure
- 110v / 60 hz
- Low Amp Draw -- 8.5 Amps
- Time to fill tank from empty to full -- 50 Seconds
- Recovery time from 90 PSI to 120 PSI -- 14 Seconds
- Less heat which dissipates more efficiently
- 2.0 Gallon Aluminum Air Tank (34 lbs)
- 34 pounds and easy to transport.
- L (18.7″) x W/D(14.2″) x H (14.75″)
- 34 lbs
- 1 Year Limited Warranty
- Comes complete with Air Filter
- Ul Certified
✓ View or download the MANUAL for the California Air Tools 2010A.
Overview | California Air Tools 2010A
While this model has the same pressure and CFM specs as the California Air Tools CAT-4610AC, it doesn’t have as much capacity. The California Air Tools 2010A has a 2-gallon aluminum tank with only one ¼” quick connector. This really means that the other model with a larger tank capacity and two connectors is better suited for contractors that may want to use more than one air tool at a time.
The California Air Tools 2010A is a little lighter, thanks to its smaller tank, weighing only 34 LBS. All the other features and specs are the same as the larger model. Though I prefer the design of the larger unit that stands a bit higher but the tank design is more compact, favoring height over length. The dimensions for this one are: length – 18.7”; width – 14.2” and height 14.75”.
A great balance of size, power, noise level, features & price | CAT 2010A
You’ll notice that despite having a smaller tank, this one is 2” longer than the model with a larger tank capacity. So, although not as tall as the other model, it is not as easy to load or move in tighter spaces due to the extra length. I suppose 2” isn’t that much, but may prove to be just that bit too long when fitting it into a small space.
It is just as well built as the other model, both seem very durable and this model also has a 1-year warranty.
Pump System | California Air Tools 2010A:
- Oil-Free
- Extra Large Dual Pistons
- Cast Aluminum Cylinder
- Teflon Cylinder Rings
- Dual Valve Plate Design
- Stainless Steel Reed Valves
Briggs & Stratton 074045-00 | 4.5-Gallon
Designed with Quiet Power Technology (QPT) : Wonderful Silent Air compressor
Features:
- Air Tool Compatibility
- To learn which air tools are compatible with this air compressor, view the air tool compatibility chart.
- 3 Times Longer Motor Life
- Equipped with a durable, induction motor that has been qualified to last longer than a standard motor
- Collapsible Handle and Solid Rubber Wheels
- For easy mobility and storage
- 80% Quieter than other Briggs & Stratton air compressors.
- Can be used indoors or outdoors.
- Accessory Storage Box : Keeps your accessories secure and accessible
- Control Panel with Dual Guages and Large Regulator Knob
✓ View or download the MANUAL for the Briggs & Stratton 074045-00.
Overview | Briggs & Stratton 074045-00
The Briggs and Stratton QPT (Quiet Power Technology) is larger and heavier than the two California models that we’ve just looked at. It weighs a quite hefty 61 LBS and the dimensions are 20” X 17” X 23”. The extra weight and bulk are made easier to move about with a pair of strong wheels and a retractable handle. So if it’s just moving it around on a flat surface, this one will be easier to move thanks to the wheels and handle. Loading and storage will be a bit tougher though.
The tank size is pretty close to the larger California model at 4.5 gallons and the tank design is also vertical. Power is quite similar too. The 1 HP motor provides 2.4 CFM at 90 PSI and 3.3 CFM at 40 PSI. Maximum pressure is 125 PSI.
The pump is oil-free, so it’s just as convenient and hassle free. I’m bit disappointed at Briggs and Stratton for not providing a noise level, after all, this is sold as a quiet compressor so the noise level is a necessary spec. I can give you a noise level measured with a phone app, so this can’t be guaranteed as being 100% accurate. Using a phone to measure the noise level, it reads 60dB-70dB, so we can say that it’s in the same range as the two California models – perhaps slightly louder, but certainly not by much.
Another part of the design of this compressor that impresses me is that it has a storage bin for pipes and tools. When using a small compressor that you’re going to be transporting a lot, this is incredibly convenient. The dashboard design at the top of the machine compares well with the larger California model reviewed earlier. It has two pressure gauges and a quick connector that is just as accessible. A large pressure control knob in the center of two gauges is also very convenient and easy to use.
The Briggs and Stratton 4.5 gallon quiet compressor is a very nice machine and compares well to the other two mid-sized units in this review. Although it is heavier and larger than the other two, the wheels are an advantage when it comes to portability. The marginally better CFM and PSI won’t make much difference and in this respect. We can look at all of them in the same way, they’ll all handle the same caliber of air tools and accessories. The Briggs and Stratton also has a 1-year warranty.
Tech Specs:
- Model Number : 074045
- Air Delivery at 40 psi : 3.3
- Air Delivery at 90 psi : 2.4
- Horsepower : 1
- Motor Type : QPT Induction
- PSI : 125.0
- Pump Type : Oil-Free
- Tank Size (gal) : 4.5
- Tank Style : Vertical
- Consumer Warranty (Product) : 1 Year Limited
California Air Tools 10020C
Ultra Quiet & Oil-Free Air Compressor : best quiet air compressor
Features:
- Ultra Quiet -- Only 70 decibels
- Oil-Free Pump – Cleaner air for better tool operation.
- Less maintenance and Costs.
- Two pressure control gauges
- Two universal 1/4″ quick connector
- Easy Start Valve -- For Less Starting Amperage
- Condor Pressure Switch
- Thermal Overload Protector
- 125 PSI Maximum Pressure
- 110v / 60 hz
- Low Amp Draw -- 14 Amps
- Time to fill tank from empty to full -- 120 Seconds
- Recovery time from 95 PSI to 125 PSI -- 25 Seconds
- Less heat which dissipates more efficiently
- 10 Gal. Steel Air Tank With Wheel Kit -- Easy to move around.
- L (16″) x W (15.1″) x H (35.9″)
- 82.5 lbs
- 1 Year Limited Warranty
- Comes complete with Wheel Kit & Two Air Filters
- UL Certified
✓ View or download the MANUAL for the California Air Tools 10020C.
Overview | California Air Tools 10020C
Now we’re moving into a different category of compressor. It has a larger tank and higher CFM which gives you a much better scope of tools that can be used with the compressor. Later in this article, I’ll explain what to look for when it comes to CFM and tank size. This will greatly affect what you can use the compressor for.
Video | California Air Tools 10020C
The California Air Tools 10020C has a 10-gallon steel tank. Pity about this, although the 10-gallon tank makes things a lot better, especially if you’re using more powerful tools or more tools at the same time but the aluminum tank is better when it comes to rust. Water in the tank is common with compressors and this does cause it to rust over time. Most tanks are steel so I suppose it’s not too detrimental. If you drain the tank whenever it’s not in use, rust is not too much of a problem.
What really puts this compressor in a different class to the previous three in this review is its higher air capacity, 6.4 CFM at 40 PSI and 5.3 CFM at 90 PSI, making it suitable for a number of applications, including spray painting.
The power comes from a 2 HP motor that operates at 1680 RPM like the other two California Air Tools models. It also uses the same dual piston pump that does not require oil and offers the same outstanding durability. For a compressor with this kind of output, it’s surprisingly quiet, only 70dB. The motor has a really neat advantage, in that it has an easy start valve which releases some air to reduce the pressure when the motor starts. This means that it requires a lower current to start, which is particularly useful at lower temperatures.
It also has a great easy to use dashboard with two quick connectors, two pressure gauges, and a pressure control knob. All of these placed conveniently at the top of the compressor for great access. It pressurizes fast too, 120 seconds after starting with an empty tank and the tank is pressurized to the maximum 125 PSI, recovery from 95 PSI to 125 PSI takes 25 seconds.
Naturally, the California Air Tools 10020C is going to be heavier and larger than the smaller models. At 85 LBS it’s not easy to lift, though it has two very strong wheels that make it easy to move. Dimensions are: Length – 16”; width – 15.1” and height 35.9”, by favoring height over length and width, it’s actually quite convenient when maneuvering about.
It comes with two air filters and a wheel kit. This is a great option for a large capacity silent compressor and should work well for bigger jobs and more powerful tools. It has a 1-year warranty.
Learn more about California Air Tools by visiting their site.
Makita MAC2400
2.5 HP Big Bore Air Compressor : best quiet air compressor
Features:
- Cast iron pump with Big Bore cylinder and piston is engineered to provide faster recovery time for improved performance
- Powerful 2.5 HP 4-Pole motor produces 4.2 CFM at 90 PSI for increased productivity and lower noise
- Roll-cage construction provides complete protection to withstand extreme jobsite environments
- Low AMP draw reduces incidences of tripped breakers at start-up
- Pump is oil-lubricated for cooler running temperatures and reduced wear
- Copper finned discharge tubing for increased heat dissipation and reduced water in the tank
- Pump runs at lower RPM (1,730) resulting in lower noise (79dB) and improved pump durability
- Large automotive style industrial air filter for increased air intake and greater efficiency
- Durable cast iron cylinder reduces wear and increases pump life; removable for easy maintenance
- Oil sight glass for fast, easy and efficient maintenance
- Lever-handle ball valve tank drain improves upon standard petcock design for easier maintenance and air tank release
- Built-in thermal overload for additional motor protection
Documents for the Makita MAC2400:
- ✓ View or download the MANUAL.
- ✓ View or download the PARTS LIST.
- ✓ View or download the QUICK START GUIDE.
Overview | Makita MAC2400
I like the tough industrial design of the Makita MAC2400. It has a strong metal tubing frame and is designed to be a very compact unit. The big bore 2.5 HP motor uses a cast iron cylinder with increased bore and stroke, engineered for high performance and low noise levels. One can look at this very much like a truck engine that is designed for maximum power and durability.
The motor uses oil for lubrication and cooling. This does mean that you have to make sure that there is enough oil in the motor, unlike the others that don’t use oil. It has a clear oil level window so that you can monitor the level at all times. I prefer a compressors that use oil because they seem to last longer as long as you never let the oil run below the minimum level.
The tank is a twin vertical design which makes it very compact and practical for something that holds 4.2 gallons. Maximum pressure is 130 PSI and the compressor delivers 4.8 CFM at 40 PSI and 4.2 CFM at 90 PSI which limits one slightly as to what tools can be used with the compressor. The California Air Tools 10020C is way better when it comes to air volume. I would have preferred to see the Makita deliver better volume as this is quite important when using spray guns and more powerful tools.
Noise levels are good for a motor that runs at 1730 RPM at 79 dB. The motor is designed for low current operating which eliminates voltage drops and circuit breaker tripping. What I find very impressive with this Makita compressor is the design of the copper discharge tubing which is finned. This improves cooling and reduces condensation, resulting in less water collecting in the tank. Water draining is also made much simpler by using a lever handle drain valve that is much easier to operate than the standard petcock design.
The dashboard of the Makita MAC2400 compares well with the best of them, incorporating two quick connectors, two pressure gauges, and an easy to use pressure control knob. The gauges are easy to read and very visible. The controls and connectors are perfect when it comes to easy, hassle-free access. Other features that have impressed me about this one’s design are the four rubber feet that the frame stands on and a really nice soft grip handle that makes it a little easier to lug the 77 LB machine around. It also has an industrial size air filter.
As with any Makita product, the durability and overall design are of the highest standard, backed by their 1-year warranty and 30-day guarantee. If it weren’t for the fact that it doesn’t match up with some of the others when it comes to air volume, I could almost say that this is my personal favorite of the lot.
Tech Specs:
- Maximum Horsepower : 2.5 HP
- Running Horsepower : 2.1 HP
- Tank (twin stacked) : 4.2 gal.
- Performance (40 PSI) : 4.8 CFM
- Performance (90 PSI) : 4.2 CFM
- Maximum Pressure : 130 PSI
- Net Weight : 77 lbs.
- Pump : Oil lubricated
- Gas or electric : Electric
- Shipping Weight : 86.3 lbs.
One the best quiet air compressors you can buy. Learn more by visiting the Makita site.
California Air Tools 5510SE
60 dB — Ultra Quiet, Oil-Free, Lightweight Air Compressor : best quiet air compressor
Features:
- Ultra Quiet -- 60 decibels
- Oil-Free Pump – Cleaner air for better tool operation. Less maintenance and Costs.
- Two pressure control gauges
- One universal 1/4″ quick connector
- Thermal Overload Protector
- 120 PSI Maximum Pressure
- 110v / 60 hz
- Low Amp Draw -- 8.5 Amps
- Time to fill tank from empty to full -- 120 Seconds
- Recovery time from 90 PSI to 120 PSI -- 40 Seconds
- Less heat which dissipates more efficiently
- 5.5 Gal. Steel Air Tank With Wheel Kit
- Only 47 pounds and easy to move around.
- L (25.5″) x W/D (11.5″) x H (21.0″)
- 47 lbs
- 1 Year Limited Warranty
- Comes complete with Wheel Kit & Air Filter
- UL Certified
✓ View or download the MANUAL for the California Tools 5510SE.
Overview | California Tools 5510SE
A quick comparison between the specs on this model and the California Air Tools CAT-4610AC may leave you wondering why you should choose this one. This model has a larger tank that holds 5.5 gallons (1 gallon more). But it has a steel tank and quite frankly, the aluminum tank is the biggest reason why I would go for the other California Tools models. Not only is the steel tank heavier, it’s susceptible to rust and aluminum has better heat transfer properties so the others won’t create as much condensation.
Furthermore, the larger tank on the California Tools 5510SE has a horizontal design which makes it less practical when it comes to portability. It weighs 47 LBS, so the extra weight is not too much of a disadvantage.
Video | California Air Tools 5510SE
It uses the same 1 HP motor that runs at 1680 RPM so noise levels are just as low – 60dB. Because the tank is larger and the motor is the same you end up with a lower air volume, 3.1 CFM at 40 PSI and 2.2 CFM at 90 PSI. Dimensions are: length – 25.5”; width -- 11.5” and height – 21”. It only has one quick connector and I would think that if you’re going for a larger tank, it’s very likely you’ll want more outlets so that you can use multiple tools at the same time.
So if this model’s only advantage is a larger tank, albeit steel and not aluminum, why should it be listed alongside the California Air Tools CAT-4610AC as one of the best quiet air compressors? After all, it doesn’t have the aluminum tank, produces a lower air volume, and it’s less portable. This makes sense when you look at the price. It’s much cheaper than the 4.5 gallon California Tools model. So if you’re looking for a quiet compressor that is sufficient to power a nail gun or inflate tires and the like while not paying too much, this is a very good option.
Video | California Air Tools 5510SE
In many respects, it’s not too different to the California Air Tools CAT-4610AC, the tank is larger but not as durable and it also has a 1-year warranty. So for many people, the affordability of this one will make it a real winner.
Senco PC1010 | 68 dB Silent
68 dB — 1/2 HP, 1 Gallon Finish & Trim Air Compressor : best quiet air compressor
Features:
- Ultra Quiet 68 dBA
- Weight : 20 lbs
- Heavy Duty Induction Motor
- Lightweight and portable--easy to carry from site to site as you work
- One horsepower peak — 1/2 horsepower running. One-gallon capacity
- Delivers 20 to 44 drives per minute
- Backed by a one-year warranty
- 1 hp. (peak) .5 hp. (running), oil-less motor
- 1 gallon air capacity
- 4 amps @115V, 120 psi max output
- 1/4″ quick disconnect coupler
- Individual gauges for tank and regulated output pressure
- Max Pressure: 125 psi
- Pump Up-Time: 0-120 psi: 128 seconds
✓ View or download the MANUAL for the Senco PC1010.
Overview | Senco PC1010
This is another affordable quiet compressor and the main reason why people may want this one is its excellent portability. It weighs only 20 LBS and is a mere 13” X 14” X 10”. This means that you can carry it around with you and place almost anywhere when doing smaller jobs.
It’s a really tiny machine with a 0.5 HP motor that produces 0.7 CFM at 90 PSI and has a 1-gallon tank. This means that it’s only really suitable for nail guns and airbrush applications. Even pumping your tires can be a bit frustrating because it’s very likely that you’ll be waiting for the tank to fill several times while you’re busy. The tank takes 128 seconds to reach maximum pressure from empty with a recovery time of 35 seconds from 90 PSI to 125 PSI maximum pressure.
Video | Senco PC1010 : Silent Air Compressor
It has a convenient quick connector, pressure gauge, and pressure control knob. Though they are not placed as conveniently as models that cluster these together in a dashboard. It also has an aluminum tank, so rust isn’t a problem. Unfortunately, I couldn’t get any sound levels for this one. Though you can be sure that the small oil-free motor is exceptionally quiet, well under 60dB.
I can’t imagine this compressor being a big hit with contractors that are doing a large volume of work. For the hobbyist and DIY enthusiast, it can be a really fantastic little machine, purely because it’s so portable and easy to store. It will be a real pleasure to use around the home because you can carry it in one hand and place it wherever you’re working. It has a 1-year warranty.
Tech Specs (Senco PC1010):
- Tool Weight: 20 lbs (9.07 kg)
- Height: 13″ (330 mm)
- Length: 14″ (356 mm)
- Width: 10″ (254 mm)
- Warranty: 1 year
- Power Source: Electric
- Current Draw /Max AMPs: 4 amps @115V
- Horsepower: 0.5 hp
- Pump: Oil Free
- SCFM at 90 psi: 0.7
- Max Pressure: 125 psi
- Pump-up Time: 128 Seconds (0 -- 125 psi)
- Recovery Time: 35 Seconds (90 -- 125 psi)
- Tank Storage: 1 gal
Learn more about the history of Senco (Springtramp Eliminator Company); they’ve been in business since 1935.
Eagle EA-2000 & Eagle EA-3000 (Silent Series)
Features:
- Ultra quiet operation
- Oil free double piston pump
- Low amp draw increases life expectancy by 4 times over the average compressor
- 1 gallon capacity
- Eagle EA-3000
- 1 HP Peak 2 CFM @ 100 PSI and 125 PSI Max / 3000 Air Compressor
- Eagle EA-2000
- .75 HP Peak 1 CFM @ 100 PSI and 125 PSI Max / 2000 Air Compressor
These two compressors fall into the same category as the Senco PC1010. They’re small portable compressors at a pretty good price. They both have a 1-gallon tank and the only real difference between the two is that Eagle EA-2000 produces 1CFM at 100 PSI from a 0.75 peak HP motor and the Eagle EA-3000 produces 2CFM at 100PSI from 1 peak HP motor. Both produce a maximum pressure of 125 PSI.
Both have a very neat dashboard with two pressure gauges, a quick connector and pressure control knob. The angle of the dashboard makes it very easy to read the gauges and everything is easily accessible. They are super quiet with the smaller one producing only 44 dB and the larger 3 000 model producing 46 dB.
The Eagle EA-2000 weighs 27.3 LBS with dimensions of 15” X 14.2” X 12.6”. The Eagle EA-3 000 weighs 39.7 LBS with dimensions of 14.2” X 16.3” X 13.4”. So even the larger model is perfect for carrying about when working around the home. The compressor uses no oil and it has a very convenient lever drain valve on the tank, similar to the Makita compressor that we reviewed here.
Video | How Quiet is the Eagle EA-3000 Air Compressor?
These two offer better air volume figures than the Senco, though cost slightly more. I think the increased CFM on these two is quite a distinct advantage and probably worth the extra few dollars. They are well constructed with a strong metal frame. A perfect handy and very quiet compressor to use around the home.
What to look for in a quiet air compressor
Having looked at some of the best quiet air compressors, all with different specs and features, it’s time to see how you should interpret this information. People use compressors for a number of purposes and this means that some you’ll want to choose the right air compressor based on your needs.
Noise Levels
Since we’re reviewing the best quiet air compressor, noise levels are of importance here. Giving a numeric value for decibels (dB) is not that informative if you have no context in which to place this information. So let’s look at how to compare noise levels.
An average conversational voice will measure around 65dB, so this is a reasonable level for the compressor, considering that some industrial machines exceed 100dB. Health and safety regulations require workers to wear ear protection when noise levels exceed 85dB. So anything below this level can be deemed safe. Using a compressor with noise levels up to about 70dB means that you can work with the unit close by without having to raise your voice in order to speak to the person next to you. When noise levels get closer to 80dB, you may have to raise your voice slightly, depending on how far you are from the machine in relation to the person you’re speaking to.
It’s inevitable that as a compressor increases in size, noise levels will increase. The noisiest compressor in this review has a level of 79dB, so even this one won’t be too much of an inconvenience working with it in the same room and certainly won’t disturb anyone else in the surrounding area.
Pressure
Pneumatic tools are rated for an operating pressure and the tool manufacturer will specify the optimum pressure for a specific tool. Generally, we work with two categories of pressure rating. Low-pressure tools like High Volume Low Pressure (HVLP) spray guns are usually rated at 40 PSI. High-pressure tools, like most orbital tools (drills, sanders, etc) are usually rated for 90 PSI.
Air Compressors will always have a maximum pressure of over 100 PSI and this can be regulated, either at the tank or at the tool you’re using, for the required pressure for that piece of equipment. The compressor pump will always run until the tank is pressurized to its maximum setting and then drop to its minimum setting (usually 90 PSI), before the pump will start to recover the pressure back to its maximum level.
Volume
The Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) tells you how much air volume a compressor will deliver. This is a very important consideration as all tools will have a CFM range depending on their application. A nail gun will require a very little volume, around 2 CFM. An HVLP spray gun will require 4-6 CFM depending on the manufacturer specs. Depending on the torque requirements, some tools can require as much as 10 CFM.
It’s really important to check whether the compressor you’re buying will provide sufficient volume at the required pressure for the tools you want to use. There’s no point getting a low volume compressor if you’re using high-powered tools. If you intend using several tools at the same time, you’ll need to consider the total volume requirements for all these tools. We’ve included a table lower down that indicates what tools can be used with the different compressors in this review.
Tank Size
I rate tank capacity very highly, this is because I often use an air compressor to spray paint cars. My spray gun works best at 5 CFM which is quite a high volume. When you’re spraying, you want to be able to paint the whole side of a vehicle without stopping. If you don’t do this, you end up with overspray which means a lot of paint sanding and buffing once the paint dries.
So you don’t want a drop in volume when the tank starts running low while you’re spraying. You’ll have to stop and wait for the tank to recover before you continue painting. In addition to this, if the motor runs continuously for long periods, it generates more heat which increases condensation. Water will build up quickly in the tank and we all know that water and paint do not go well together.
If you’re using a number of tools, particularly high air volume tools, you’ll also end up waiting for the tank to recover when it runs low. A larger tank will lose pressure and volume more gradually and if the tank is big enough you shouldn’t experience many interruptions if any at all.
Fortunately, you’re not limited by the tank fitted to the compressor. It is very easy to add a second tank (or as many as you want) by adding a Tee fitting to your compressor outlet and connecting a pipe to another tank. The tanks will run in tandem and provide a total volume capacity equal to the volume of both tanks.
Compressor Comparison Table
Before you make your decision, you want to know if the compressor you’re buying will be able to support the tools you’re using. This will require lots of back and forth referencing, comparing tool specs with compressor specs.
Don’t worry, we’ve made this really simple with a comparison table. We’ve listed the quiet air compressors that have been reviewed here and matched them to the tools that can be used with each model. This is going to make your decision much easier.
Take note that we’re listing tools according to general specs, each tool manufacturer will provide exact specs for a specific tool. The table will be able to give you a good idea as to whether the compressor that you’re considering will meet your basic requirements. The table is calculated for a single tool type, so if you’re going to be using several tools simultaneously, you will need to add the individual tools together.
*For nailers there shouldn’t be a problem using these compressors, for other tools in this CFM rating you may have to wait occasionally for the tank to restore pressure.
**The Makita MAC 2 400 can be used continuously with most spray guns, though some may require that you wait for the tank to restore pressure from time to time.
What’s the Best Quiet Air Compressor?
The table above will give you an indication as to what tools you can use with a particular compressor. You must remember that there is plenty of room for compromise. When the tank is fully pressurized, there is actually no limit to CFM, you set the CFM rate at the tool.
The rated CFM for a compressor is what volume is produced while the pump is running to restore pressure. So if you’re patient enough you can use some tools with a compressor with a lower CFM rating, you’ll just have to stop working every time the compressor restores pressure.
If you have enough tank capacity you may be able to work for a reasonable time, especially if the tool uses a lower pressure rating. In some cases, the volume required will be so high that you may only be able to work for a few seconds before you have to wait for the pump to finishing pressurizing the tank.
Though when it comes to a nailer that only uses short bursts of air and does not run continuously, it’s feasible to use any of the smaller compressors without experiencing any inconvenience. With extra tank capacity, you could use any tool that falls within 25% of the compressors’ CFM capabilities without too much inconvenience. I wouldn’t recommend any of these compressors for heavy duty tools that require more than 8 CFM @ 90 PSI.
Learn more about air compressors on Wikipedia.