List of the Best Portable Air Compressor
1. Bostitch BTFP02012 6 Gallon 150 PSI Oil-Free Compressor
Pros
- Comes with a substantial 6.0-gallon tank
- Only 78.5 dBA operational noise level
- 150 PSI maximum tank storage
Cons
- May stop working after only a few days
- May suffer from problems related to the regulator
Bottom Line
In the end, the Bostitch BTFP02012 6 Gallon 150 PSI Oil-Free Compressor would've made the top spot for this year's best portable air compressor if it weren't for its alarming number of issues. Even with its spectacular array of features, it's understandable how some customers can be overwhelmed with its many flaws. But its generous 6.0-gallon tank along with its reasonable price of $115 tempts us to give this product a try.
On the bright side, its problems are very uncommon, and many customers have since enjoyed the benefits of purchasing this product. Assuming that you get a perfectly working unit, the Bostitch BTFP02012 6 Gallon 150 PSI Oil-Free Compressor will give you both the power and the convenience of having a high-quality portable air compressor, with the added benefit of two universal couplers, for two users. Overall, this product is still worth the price and can deliver impressive results when you need it.
Read our in-depth Bostitch BTFP02012 6 Gallon 150 PSI Oil-Free Compressor Review here.
2. PORTER-CABLE C2002 Oil-Free UMC Pancake Compressor
Pros
- With a max tank pressure of 150 PSI
- Uses a 120V motor for easy start-ups
- Six-gallon tank allows for fast recharge
Cons
- May have overheating issues leading to its premature failure
- May only work for a few months before breaking
Bottom Line
While many issues plague the PORTER-CABLE C2002 Oil-Free UMC Pancake Compressor, we can't deny how well this product works under normal circumstances. Without any issues or problems, this portable air compressor is one of the best we have seen in the market this year. With incredible features such as its lightweight body, powerful performance, and its efficient, and maintenance-free design, coupled with a low price of $93, the PORTER-CABLE C2002 Oil-Free UMC Pancake Compressor gives us the ultimate bang for our buck.
In the end, the PORTER-CABLE C2002 Oil-Free UMC Pancake Compressor has captured our attention despite its imperfections and is the best portable air compressor for the year 2019 in our books. And because its known problems rarely occur, there's no need to panic and doubt what it's capable of; chances are you'll take home a fantastic new product to your home that will deliver on all of its promises and more. So whether you're looking for an air compressor that's affordable, durable or one that has the whole package, look no further than the PORTER-CABLE C2002 Oil-Free UMC Pancake Compressor.
Read our in-depth PORTER-CABLE C2002 Oil-Free UMC Pancake Compressor Review here.
3. DEWALT DCC2560T1 FLEXVOLT 60V MAX 2.5 Gallon Cordless Air Compressor Kit
Pros
- Combines cordless convenience with corded power
- Delivers 1.2 SCFM at 90 PSI
- Maximum tank pressure of 135 PSI
Cons
- Company may send out defective units
- May stop working as soon as the first day
Bottom Line
I'm the end, the DEWALT DCC2560T1 FLEXVOLT 60V MAX 2.5 Gallon Cordless Air Compressor Kit is still one of the best air compressors in the market, even with its reported issues. For us, no amount of problems can drive us away from investing in this useful piece of equipment, since they rarely happen anyway. And its 3-year limited warranty is the icing on top of the cake that brings it home.
Overall, this product is still one of the best portable air compressors in the market, and rightfully so. It not only delivers a powerful tool in a small package, but it also offers a versatile approach to tackling everyday applications, whether in your home or at work. So if you're looking for the perfect Christmas gift, the DEWALT DCC2560T1 FLEXVOLT 60V MAX 2.5 Gallon Cordless Air Compressor Kit has everything that you could ever need!
Read our in-depth DEWALT DCC2560T1 FLEXVOLT 60V MAX 2.5 Gallon Cordless Air Compressor Kit Review here.
4. PORTER-CABLE CMB15 (1.5 Gallon) Oil-Free Fully Shrouded / Hand Carry Compressor Kit
Pros
- Offers a generous 1.5-gallon tank
- Provides a 150 PSI maximum tank pressure
- Robust and oil-free pump for long life and no maintenance
Cons
- Its internal seal may not hold pressure
- May get quite noisy
- May not be built to last
Bottom Line
After its ups and downs, along with careful consideration, the PORTER-CABLE CMB15 (1.5 Gallon) Oil-Free Fully Shrouded / Hand Carry Compressor Kit is our least favorite portable air compressor. Not only does it have a hit and miss record, but it's also sad that we'd have to pay between $130-$200 to take it for a spin. And what if that unit was a complete bust? Then we would've flushed our money down the drain.
However, the PORTER-CABLE CMB15 (1.5 Gallon) Oil-Free Fully Shrouded / Hand Carry Compressor Kit does have some redeeming qualities. Its powerful performance and convenient portability, excellent design that supports functionality, and the generous gift of accessories along with warranty tips the scales to its favor. Overall, this product may not be our first choice, but it is certainly not the last and is still considered to be one of the best portable air compressors for 2019.
Read our in-depth PORTER-CABLE CMB15 (1.5 Gallon) Oil-Free Fully Shrouded / Hand Carry Compressor Kit Review here.
5. Makita 2.5 HP Air Compressor
Pros
- 2.5 HP motor produces 4.2 CFM at 90 PSI
- 4.2-gallon twin stacked tank
- Durable cast iron cylinder reduces wear and increases pump life
Cons
- May have issues when it comes to power
- Recovery may not be as fast as intended
- One of the more expensive air compressor models
Bottom Line
In the end, the Makita 2.5 HP Air Compressor charges a bit too much for a payoff that's not entirely worth it. For those who have a few hundred dollars extra to invest in this product then, it's not a problem, and this air compressor would be an excellent addition to all your equipment. However, if you're looking for a more affordable alternative, there are plenty of other choices that offer a reasonable price tag along with performance that's as good or even better.
All in all, the Makita 2.5 HP Air Compressor is our least favorite choice, not just because of its hefty price but also because of the company's lackluster effort into making this an even better air compressor. Aside from its system issues, it also suffers from terrible customer service, as they refuse to help those who need assistance because of its functional errors. So, to sum up, if you're in the market to look for an air compressor but are on a budget, do yourself a favor and steer clear of this product.
Read our in-depth Makita 2.5 HP Air Compressor Review here.