The best air compressor for a garage depends on what you need it for. You might be looking for an electric, portable one to use with your car or truck tires; or a powerful one that can take care of any job around the house. Whatever type of garage air compressor you’re looking for, we’ve got you covered in this article!
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What Does an Air Compressor Do?
An air compressor pump increases the pressure of air that is being delivered to a space to allow for increased movement and application of power.
They are found in most garages, factories, and workshops because they’re one of the best ways to improve productivity.
An air compressor does for a home and garage is: without carrying an extra tank of air around, using an air compressor allows the user to power pneumatic tools without having to carry around a CO2 or compressed nitrogen tank.
5 Best Air Compressor For Home Garage
BOSTITCH Pancake Air Compressor

Your go-to tool for any job, BOSTITCH Pancake Air Compressor can do it all. Its very portable and designed to be used in the home or garage. Whether you are looking for efficiency or need great results with your air tool purchase, this product is perfect.
The versatility of use while still maintaining a convenient size makes this air compressor an excellent option when purchasing high pressure tools [<150 PSI].
When detailing the quality of machine, we want potential customers to know that they will have no problem powering their project despite using cold weather as a factor in its design.
California Air Tools 8010 Steel Tank Air Compressor

The California Air Tools 8010 Steel Tank Air Compressor is a heavy duty, light-weight and reliable air compressor that can last for years. It has a two-horsepower motor with 8.5 amps of draw power and an oil-free pump for less maintenance and costs.
This product comes complete with a wheel kit that makes it more mobile plus its large steel tank gives you over four hours to work without stopping!
The product includes a wheel kit for ease in transport (48 lbs), as well as an air filter to keep your compressor running at peak performance.
This tireless work horse is capable of pumping 120 PSI max with a 1.0 HP Unique Oil-Free Pump for less maintenance and cost than other options out there.
At 60 dBA this unit is quieter than some competitors too so get in touch before stocks run low or that project fails miserably due to lack of air pressure!
Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP Big Bore Air Compressor

Take on the toughest jobs and help your team be as productive as possible with our Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP Big Bore Air Compressor!
Engineering features such as cast iron pump and the big bore cylinder ensure a fast recovery time while also providing increased productivity with less noise for projects that require close attention to detail.
Roll-cage construction provides complete protection from extreme environments, so you can be confident it will withstand whatever comes your way.
This durable device is oil lubricated which helps keep cooling temperatures down and reduces wear, saving you time in case of maintenance needs
WOW FACTOR: With a high output rate at 4.2 CFM (at 90 PSI) this compressor operates more efficiently than others!
PORTER-CABLE Compressor

The PORTER-CABLE Compressor is designed for the air compressor user who needs a dependable and robust machine.
Advanced features like an oil-free pump ensure long use without costly maintenance, while rugged construction lends stability and durability to this tough, yet portable air compressor.
For outdoor enthusiasts or commercial contractors where every second counts, this easy-start electric compressor won’t disappoint.
California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S Light & Quiet Portable Air Compressor

Might not be a surprise to you, but the problem with heavy portable air compressors is they’re just that. Heavy and bulky! California Air Tools has engineered a perfect solution for your mobility needs with our super compact CAT-1P1060S Light & Quiet Portable Air Compressor.
This powerhouse of an air compressor weights in at only 29 pounds so it’s easy to take anywhere. We were able to do this by developing an oil-free pump which reduces maintenance costs and there will also be lower electricity bills because power consumption is less than comparable models (which we probably should mention are 4 times as loud!).
It may seem like a small thing, but 56 decibels make this product quieter than any other on the market at only 56 decibels- making it the perfect option for any environment!
Things to Consider When Buying an Air Compressor
There are some considerations to take into account when selecting an air compressor.
Size
The size and portability of the compressor can make a difference as well as the power of the model. It’s important to think about what you will be using the air compressor for because this will affect your choice too.
For instance, if you need an air compressor mainly for car tires, then an electric model with low power would suffice; however, if you’re looking for one that can handle any type of job in your garage or workshop, then look for something with at least five horsepower.
Power Source
You should also consider what type of oil is used in the machine, how loud it is and how easy it is to maintain.
Tips for Using Your New Air Compressor and Maintaining It Properly
There are a few tips to keep in mind for using your new air compressor and maintaining it properly.
First, be sure to follow the instructions for charging the machine. Failure to do so will shorten the lifespan of your product!
Next, clean thoroughly after each use. Dust and dirt can lead to corrosion and other issues down the line if not cleaned away. Keep an eye on the pressure gauge since too much or too little pressure is bad for the pump head (the brass part).
Finally, lubricate the fill valve monthly, check all fittings monthly, and check hoses monthly for leakage.