Key specs

• Capacity: 6 gallon
• Dimensions: 16.5 x 16.5 x 17.88 inches
• Weight: 32.5 pounds
• psi: 150 max
• Wheeled: No

This Craftsman 6-gallon compressor is a great choice for new DIYers, thanks to its reasonable price and included accessory kit. This kit includes three inflation adapters, a blower nozzle with a safety nozzle and a tire pressure gauge. It also comes with a 25-foot-long air hose, so you don’t have to worry about dragging the unit around while you work.

We’re also a fan of the bright red color of this machine, which is easier to spot than some other air compressors. Its engine should have no trouble starting in cold weather, and the 32.5-pound weight is relatively light for a unit this size.

Key specs

• Capacity: 6 gallon
• Dimensions: 19.5 x 17 x 19.25 inches
• Weight: 34 pounds
• psi: 150 max
• Wheeled: No

If you are interested in buying a compressor for nailing and you don’t yet have a nail gun, this unit could be the perfect solution.

It includes a Bostitch SB-1850BN nail gun, one of my favorites that I have used for years at a professional custom furniture store. The compressor itself also includes a 15-foot air chamber, so you should be able to comfortably work around large pieces of furniture in your workshop or garage.

A 6 gallon compressor and high quality brad nailer for this price is great value, and one not to pass up.

Key specs

• Capacity: 1 gallon
• Dimensions: 16.1 x 14.1 x 11.1 inches
• Weight: 28.8 pounds
• psi: 125 max
• Wheeled: No

It’s not exactly “quiet” compared to other tools, but the 58 dBA sound level of this Stealth model makes it much quieter than other compressors and would be perfect for those who want to cause as little disturbance as possible. .

The 13-inch width, combined with a textured handle, should also make it easy to carry and less likely to bump into your legs as you walk. The 1 gallon capacity means it can’t run for a ton of time between refills, so it won’t be ideal for large projects that require a lot of compressed air.

Key specs

• Capacity: 27 gallon
• Dimensions: 54.5 x 26.8 x 23.5 inches
• Weight: 136 pounds
• psi: 200 max
• Wheeled: Yes

If you need to be sure your compressor always has enough air when you need it, this 27 gallon tank might be just what you’re looking for. Plus, while it’s significantly larger than the lower capacity options on our list, the vertical design creates a relatively small footprint, allowing it to fit into spaces as small as 27 inches in diameter.

The 2-inch gauges are also easy to read, and the rubber tires and steering handle make it easy to maneuver wherever you want.

It’s also relatively quiet; at 78 dBA, it makes a similar amount of noise as the smaller capacity options on our list.

Key specs

• Capacity: 1.5 gallon
• Dimensions: 15.5 x 13.25 x 20.5 inches
• Weight: 20 pounds
• psi: 150 max
• Wheeled: No

While it wouldn’t be practical for large projects, this Porter-Cable compressor still packs a punch and should be enough to tackle most light-duty jobs.

It also weighs only 20 pounds, so it should be easy to transport to and from a vehicle, or around the room while you work with a stapler or nail gun. Its compact size is also perfect for those who don’t have a lot of space to spare.

At 79 dBA, however, it’s louder than most compressors, so keep that in mind if you have sensitive ears or sensitive neighbors.

Key specs

• Capacity: N / A
• Dimensions: 8.9 x 6.2 x 4 inches
• Weight: 4.27 pounds
• psi: N / A
• Wheeled: No

Although not technically an “air compressor”, this inflator can perform similar light air filling tasks.

Instead of spending time and energy inflating sports balls with a hand pump or heading to the gas station to inflate your car’s tires, this Husky inflator will get the job done quickly and with almost no effort from you. The phosphorescent pressure gauge is easy to read, even at night, and at less than five pounds, this device is comfortable to carry around when you need it.

We wish the power cord was longer than 48 inches, but that’s definitely not a dealbreaker, especially given this model’s low price.

Key specs

• Capacity: 30 gallon
• Dimensions: 41 x 19 x 40 inches
• Weight: 492 pounds
• psi: 175 max
• Wheeled: No

If you can’t reach for an electrical hookup and have the budget for it, this gas-powered compressor from North Star could be a great choice. It has an impressive 30 gallon tank and, with its cast iron pump, is well suited to withstand the rigors of a busy job site.

At 492 pounds, it’s much heavier than the other options on our list, and certainly not as portable as smaller electric compressors. It should also be noted that like all gasoline compressors, this one cannot be used indoors.