Best 20-Gallon, 30-Gallon, 60-Gallon, 80-Gallon Air Compressor Of 2020 – Buying Guide

A size air compressor is actually a compressor that is normally used to capture air and increase the amount or level of air in a space at atmospheric pressure and then delivering it at higher pressure. The increased air pressure will finally create energy which is useful in different industrial, commercial, manufacturing, and personal purposes. These tools are basically more essential than merely pumping ballons and tires. They can also be used in powering spray guns, nail guns and many other tools.

Generally air compressors are useful tools that are used to power tools such as sanders and nailers. If you are planning to buy this device, it is actually important to know a bit about the tool so that you can come up with the right decision as to which type of tool you will buy. These tools comein different sizes with different power to perform various duties. There are many factors and tips that you should consider before buying a size air compressor. Some of those factors are discussed below and will help you make a good decision.

Factors To Consider Before Choosing Air Compressor

Portability needs

Air compressors come in different sizes and shapes. Some of the compressors are light, small and very portable. There are also others which are huge and stationary. First of all you need to think about if you need the tool that can be transported from different places to another place. If so how small the size of the machine you need to be. You can find small compressors called pancake which are quite small and light. These machines have small handle built for easy handling. They are convenient more especially for those individuals who like moving locations. Thee are also machines that are portable and bigger in size. These machines can be wheeled around for easy movement. Finally we have stationary machines that are bolted into the floor. So it is important to know well the type of machine that you want in consideration with the portability of the machine.

Preferred power source

Air compressors can either be powered by gas, electricity or diesel. Every source of powering has its benefits and disadvantages. Electric powered air compressor is mostly the best choice for those individuals in woodwork and it is most used inside, and in a small enclosed room. In situations like this diesel or gas air compressors are not the best option. This is because they have harmful emissions. Contractors or individuals who will use these tools on outside purposes will go for air or diesel compressors for easy functioning.

The amount of power needed

The amount of power needed is one of the greatest things to consider before choosing your size air compressor. Make sure you buy the machine that will have the correct output needed. To find this out, you will simply look at all of the machines and find out the air compressor with the highest cubic feet per minute rating. The rating is normally located on the tool but you can also find it in the owner’s manual. After finding the ratings, you can then check it against deliverable power on the air compressor you are considering.

Check pressure capacity of the compressor

For you to achieve a targeted flow rate, you require pressure. This pressure is generally given in pound per square inch. It normally changes depending to the size of the compressor, design and brand. For heavy applications, you need a higher pressure. With higher pressure , the output rate of pressure is also increased. It is therefore important to consider pressure capacity of the compressor so that you match the flow rate with the targeted consumption.

Why do you want the air compressor

The usage of the air compressor you want to buy actually dictates the ratings of the compressor you should be looking for. For domestic and home purposes, you actually need something small. However if the user has a number of air tools and any other equipments to use from the same source, then it is important to go for a bigger air compressor. You can easily check for the ratings of every tool from the indicated value and then add up all the capacities of the tools then include the 30 percent allowance.

Best 20-Gallon, 30-Gallon, 60-Gallon, 80-Gallon Air Compressor Reviews 2020

Images	Dimensions (Inches)	Weight (Lbs)	Maximum Pressure	Gallon	Power (Volt)	Editor’s Rating
Industrial Air IL1682066.MN 20-Gallon Belt Driven	28.5 x 19.75 x 48.5	186	135	20	120V	4.8/5
DeWalt DXCMPA1982054 20-Gallon	32 x 21 x 32	166	155	20	120/240v	4.9/5
NorthStar Belt Drive Single-Stage - 2 HP	22 x 23 x 43	-	135	20	115/230v	4.0/5
Industrial Air ILA188354 ILA1883054 30-Gallon Belt Driven	24.75 x 24.75 x 49.75	185	155	30	120V	4.3/5
DEWALT DXCM271.COM 27 Gal	54.5 x 26.8 x 23.5	136	200	27	120v	4.0/5
Quincy QT-54 Splash Lubricated Reciprocating	29 x 21 x 64	-	175	60	230V	4.1/5
Puma Industries PK-6060V	-	305	135	60	230V	4.2/5
PowerMate Vx PLA3706056	30 x 27 x 68	247	155	60	240V	4.5/5
Powermate Vx PLA4708065	31.5 x 34.8 x 77	354	155	80	240V	5.0/5
Industrial Air ILA4708065	31.5 x 34.8 x 77 inches	350 pounds	155	80	240v	4.9/5

Best 20-gallon air compressor

1 – Industrial Air IL1682066.MN 20-Gallon Belt Driven Air Compressor with V-Twin Cylinder

The 20 gallon air compressor offers great performance compared to many air compressors in the market. This machine includes the quick-set regulator which can be set easily and quickly without any complications. Other features in this machine include the gauges. There is also an on/off switch function that helps to start and switch off the machine. of the machine ensures that the machine operates in a quiet mode hence no noise pollution.

Apart from the , the pump of the machine, combines the cast iron cylinders within the help in reducing heat. This will also help to maximize the CFM and the extend the life of the pump. In order to get a standard 120-volt outlet, the machine comes with a dual voltage motor which is well wired for 120 volts outlet. The dual voltage motor can also be converted into the 240- voltage application. It has a pneumatic tires that offer maximum portability.

Pros

• Pneumatic tires to give maximum portability
• Quiets vibration
• Quick connect air outlet
• The regulator can be set quickly
• Has a heavy duty dual voltage motor
• Less noise compared to direct drive compressors
• It is durable and offers dependable performance
• Easy operation
• Reliable power and performance

Cons

• Not strong enough compared to 30 gallon air compressor
• Cannot perform heavy duty functions

2 – DeWalt DXCMPA1982054 20-Gallon Portable Air Compressor

Many notable features in one package: Heavy-duty dual voltage motor; the maximum pressure at 155 PSI; 7.0 CFM @ 40 PSI and 5.7 CFM @ 90 psi; 12’’ cast-iron balanced flywheel; quickset regulator; faster heat dissipation with twin cylinder pump, and more.

I recommend this DeWalt DXCMPA 1982054 air compressor for both home repairs and industrial work thanks to its compact construction and heavy-duty induction motor, which is available for either 120-volt or 240-volt outlet.

Not to mention, the structure is compact and portable with automotive style ball bearings, V-twin cast-iron pump, 1-piece crankcase, stainless steel reed valves, oil level sight glass, etc.

Pros

• Rich in features to apply widely, from home to workshop
• Portable construction: pneumatic wheels, small footprint, and convenient handle
• Efficient and durable performance even during the long run times
• Quickset regulator for ease of operation
• Surprisingly quiet
• Reliable warranty

Cons

• A tiny leak at the T-housing of the safety valve

Overall, DeWalt 1982054 is helpful for airbrushing, inflation and cleaning tasks, paint sprayers, etc. There are two things to praise. The quickset regulator supports 20% more torque, making it lightning-fast to adjust and regular the air pressure in a matter of seconds.

In other words, your work productivity remains at the maximum level. Also, the cast-iron flywheel keeps the air compressor to be durable and easy-to-maintain even in demanding workloads.

3 – NorthStar Belt Drive Single-Stage Portable Air Compressor – 2 HP, 20-Gallon, Vertical, 5.0 CFM

The next in today list is among the best compressors for the price, which is provided by NorthStar. In general, this air compressor is well-constructed with balanced motor, directly mounted wheels, air filters, and convenient cart handle.

About features: 2HP dual voltage induction motor; 6.0 CFM @ 40 PSI; 5.0 CFM @ 90 PSI; twin-cylinder cast-iron pump; oil-lubricated pump; the support of both 115V and 230V operation.

The charcoal and fine-wrinkle finish look durable. Moreover, there is an air-release valve located at the tank’s bottom so I can open and get rid of air and moisture effortlessly.

I like the cast iron pump, especially the V-twin pump for good reasons. The pump from cast iron is usually larger and substantially denser. As a result, it is durable and robust enough for industrial work.

Besides, the V-twin pump is efficient for heat dissipation by reducing the heat between cylinders. The belt drive oil-lubricated pump is another bonus point. Not only does the pump remains several times longer but the air compressor runs much quieter.

Pros

• Advanced features in consideration of the affordable price
• Thoughtful construction making it easy to operate and adjust
• Run quieter

Cons

• Be weight to move around
• Susceptible to rust since the primary material is cast iron

From my experience, this air compressor has enough capacity for air ratchet, airbrush, siphon feed sandblaster, impact wrench, or touch-up spray gun.

Best around 30-gallon air compressor

4 – Industrial Air ILA1883054 30-Gallon Belt Driven Air Compressor

The 30 gallon industrial air compressor is designed exclusively to offer heavy duty functions in mechanic shop, service truck and livestock operation. The machine features extra heavy duty componets and it is built to last for long even during heavy duties and in most demanding conditions. The 30 gallon air compressor is sure to please any person from do it yourself to the farm and finally to professional users. The machine includes the cast iron, an oil lubricated pump and a twin cylinder for easy functioning.

The cast iron pump and the twin cylinder pump of the machine features the aluminum head and the valve plates that ensures there is a faster dissipation of heat. The compressor also includes a 155 PSI maximum pressure that gives an optimum tool performance. You will also find a heavy duty dual voltage induction motor that is able to give a high pump performance that helps in ensuring trouble-free operation. The on-board controls of the tool offers easy to access and a quick-set regulator, pressure gauges and tank. The wheels of the machine are made in a way that enables excellent mobility.

Pros

• Maximum portability
• Easy operation
• 155 PSI pressure for an optimum tool performance
• Equipped with a quick to set regulator
• Portable tank
• Heavy duty voltage induction motor
• Oil lubricated pump
• Reliable power and performance

Cons

• Pricier initial investments
• Not good at heavy duties

5 – DEWALT DXCM271.COM 27 Gal. 200 PSI Portable Air Compressor

A snapshot of features: Heavy duty 1.7-HP induction motor, 27-gallon air tank, 200 PSI max pressure, oil-free motor, 5.1 CFM at 90 PSI, 6.8 SCFM at 40 PSI airflow, 78 dBa, operation with the extension cords of 12 gal. and 50 ft. or less.

With a portable vertical construction, this DeWalt 27 GAL compressor has a low volt start and high flow regulator, which is designed to boost the overall performance. The maximum pressure of 200 PSI supports 3 times air run time longer than similar oil-free compressors.

Besides, get rid of the frequent maintenance and awful noise thanks to its 78 dBa noise rating. This air tool produces flexible power from 6.0 CFM @ 40 PSI to 5.1 CFM @ 90 PSI. Such a faster recovery time helps increase project efficiency significantly.

What’s more, the 2-inch gauges allow reading the tank’s surface at a glance.

Pros

• Handy and portable design
• Low voltage, easy start, and high capacity
• Fast recovery time to optimize the performance
• Significantly quiet when it comes to oil-free air compressors

Cons

• Not compatible with 240 voltage input

DeWalt DXCM271.COM can handle large projects such as automotive maintenance repairs, blow guns, spray painting, etc. I use this air compressor for my plasma cutter. The results are great.
Also, I save on purchasing the oil separator. Although it is no need to wire it in the cutter, this tool cannot run on a 240V circuit. A small convenience, but the features and price are far from enough.

Best 60-gallon air compressor

6 – Quincy QT-54 Splash Lubricated Reciprocating Air Compressor – 5 HP, 230 Volt, 1 Phase, 60-Gallon Vertical, Model# 2V41C60VC

The 60 gallon air compressor is a that is well engineered for efficiency and offers a lower operating costs. This machine produces a more compressed air using low horsepower compared to many machines in the same category. It runs at the slower RPM generally known to run cooler at less operating costs. It offers high performance with a 30,000 plus pump life. The machine also has an aluminum head that offers strength and an optimum heat dissipation.

It is also made of stainless-steel and corrosion resistant valves that has controlled lift to give maximum efficiency. The high efficiency finned tube intercooler gives maximum cooling and increased valve life. It also helps in eliminating the carbon build up at the head. The 60 gallon air compressor is equipped with a low oil pump temperature protection with an extra oil reservoir capacity that assures a low oil temperature. The balanced cast iron wheels of the machine ensures that the user experiences a smoother operation with maximum cooling.

Pros

• More stable and offers less vibration
• Built-in thermal overload in the capacitor
• Smooth, trouble-free operation
• Better energy efficiency with maximum durability
• Extra oil reservoir capacity
• High efficiency tube intercooler
• High performance cast iron
• Engineered for maximum efficiency

Cons

• Consumes space
• Heavy to carry

7 – Puma Industries PK-6060V Air Compressor, Professional/Commercial Single Stage Belt Drive Series, 3 hp Running, 135 Maximum psi, 230/1V/Phase, 60 gal

This machine is perfect for commercial and home use purposes. This is because it offers maximum power and the machine itself is sturdy, reliable and can last for longer. It is made of valve plate, crankshaft and cast iron cylinder for efficiency and strong functioning. The machine is made with that helps in dissipating heat to ensure that the machine is running cool at all times. The start-stop function automatically starts the air compressor the moment the system pressure drops.

It develops 14.6 CFM at 40 PSI which is actually plenty of power to run the wide range of tools. The machine is 100 percent factory tested using full pressure. It is well equipped with lubricant and the machine is fully enclosed with the belt guard that protects the user and the belt. This is an easy to maintain machine and it offers maximum efficiency with a long lasting solution.

Pros

• Easy to maintain
• Perfect for commercial and home applications
• Strong cylinder
• The aluminum head helps in dissipating heat and ensures the compressor runs cool
• The units lasts for longer
• Has a start-stop pressure function for easy functioning
• Offers plenty of power to run various air tools

Cons

• Uses a lot of energy
• Has to be bolted on the ground

8 – PowerMate Vx PLA3706056 60-Gallon Single Stage Vertical Cast Iron Air Compressor

You can find this air tool on almost all top 5 60-gallon compressors.

The feature list is really high-quality: 60-gallon capacity; cast-iron twin oil-lubrication pump; 12’’ balanced flywheel; the max pressure at 155 PSI; heavy duty 240V induction motor; one-piece cast iron crankcase.

PowerMate heavy-duty air tank is made from the vertical cast-iron components, especially the twin cylinder pump. This part goes along with stainless reed valves, aluminum head, and automotive ball bearings. The tool is more durable and able to run at a maximum of 3.7 HP.

Thanks to its industrial-size tank (60 gallons) and 155 PSI maximum pressure, this air compressor sets you free from sudden drops due to air pressure. Also, the electric induction motor allows running the compressor either on 208V or 240V without rewiring the circuit.

Pros

• Powerful due to the significantly large tank
• Easy to drain and fill up the oil
• Be affordable for industrial usages

Cons

• Less portable
• Lack of regulator

This unit is recommended for large industrial projects and craftsmanship. The maintenance servicing is available so you can be more relaxed if something goes wrong. The package even includes a synthetic oil to lengthen the lifespan and optimize the performance.

Best 80-gallon air compressor

9 – Powermate Vx PLA4708065 80-Gallon Electric Air Compressor

The 80 gallon air compressor is well known for its high performance with high-quality components. This machine is one of the world’s leading brands and designs of portable and stationary air compressors. This is the machine that can fill your needs whether you want a one gallon compressor or an 80 gallon compressor for a professional work. It features components with high quality and efficiency. Offers high air flow with a single stage and oil lubricated pump, three cylinder and a cast iron.

Because of the cast iron and the three cylinder pump, the machine offers a more overall cooling surface and ensures that there is faster dissipation of heat. The induction motor of the machine is actually able to drive a high pump performance that ensures there is a trouble free operation. The in-built tank pressure gauge helps controls the functioning of the machine and it also offers convenience. This unit is normally shipped with a synthetic air compressor oil to give an optimal performance and a long life.

Pros

• Easy operation
• Added durability
• Offers a 155 PSI maximum pressure
• Reliable power and great performance
• Drive high pump performance
• Offers cooling operation
• Large capacity
• Wired formed belt guard

Cons

• A bit expensive compared to other air compressors in the category
• Consumes a lot of energy

10 – Industrial Air ILA4708065 80-Gallon Hi-Flo Single Stage Cast Iron Air Compressor

Industrial Air ILA4708065 is one of the highest-capacity air compressors on the review list.

Highlight features: 80-gallon vertical tool; V-twin cylinder hi-flow cast iron pump; oil-lubricated and sight glass; 155 maximum PSI; 16.1 CFM at 40 PSI & 14.0 CFM at 90 PSI; Stationary; 4.7 RHP induction motor at 230 V.

As can be seen, the features are much like other air compressors. However, the capacity as large as 80 gallons provides more air to run the tool longers. This is important in case of tools for industrial work such as spray guns, ratches, hammers, and other more.

What’s more, this air compressor is integrated with a handy control panel including an air flow regulator, a large tank, pressure gauges, fast-connected air outlets, and pressure relief valve.

Pros

• Vertical design to reduce the storage room
• Super large tank for longer air tool run times
• High-quality and convenient components

Cons

• Heavy to carry around

This air compressor by Industrial Air is a popular choice at the medium price range. This tool is exclusively developed for mechanic shops, service trucks, livestock operations, and other demanding conditions thanks to its heavy-duty capacity.

Here comes a small reminder for the reliable starting and the best performance. You should install this air tool on a dedicated circuit. During the first start, the Industrial Air ILA4708065 will draw its specified amperage momentarily several times.

Conclusion

One of the biggest challenge most people have is choosing the best air compressor to buy. Most of the new compressors in the market are almost the same and they do the same work. But with proper ideas and tips on how to buy the air compressor, you will definitely find the right machine to buy for your various jobs. As indicated above, those are some of the factors you need to consider before you buy the air compressor. Follow them and you will get a reliable, efficiency, quality and most durable air compressor that will help you finish your job well.

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