If you're looking for the best air compressor for impact wrench, read on. I'll review a shortlist of some of the most popular models out there and provide in-depth analysis to help you decide which one is right for you.
An air compressor is essential when working with pneumatic tools such as an impact wrench or nail gun, but it can be difficult to know which one will give you the performance that you need. The wrong choice could lead to frustrating downtime while waiting for your tool's pressure to build back up before continuing work. So how do you find the best air compressor? Let's take a look at the five great options below! Hopefully, our comparisons help you decide on what would work best for your situation!
1. Campbell Hausfeld FP209499AV Air Compressor
No matter what you're doing, Campbell Hausfeld FP209499AV Air Compressor is always by your side. With a little air power, whether it's for inflation, brad nailing, stapling, or air brushing - this three-gallon tank can handle them all! In addition, it comes equipped with easy-to-read gauges and accessories that make any project quick and seamless.
Whether you're looking for powerful or precise inputs, it doesn't matter as Campbell Hausfeld FP209499AV Air Compressor makes sure both are covered. Conveniently placed controls allow easy input of pressure output in stable operations, while the 25-foot hose ensures a range of motion never gets limited.
Campbell Hausfeld FP209499AV Air Compressor is the best portable air compressor for impact wrench. The Campbell Hausfeld has a slew of nifty features that make this powerhouse worth every penny, and you'll be glad to have it on hand when you need some quick power in your workshop or garage!
This is a perfect tool to have around if you're on the go or traveling and want to fill up your tires with ease quickly! With this powerful machine in hand, there's nothing that will keep it from inflating like a charm. So not only does it work well as a tire inflation device, but it also works great for powering other small tools, too - such as impact wrench, nail guns or ratchets!
Top Features
Lightweight Design
Campbell Hausfeld FP209499AV is the ideal air compressor for those who like to do their work. It has a lightweight design and handles, making it easily transportable, and an electric motor that eliminates the need to fill up with fuel or pulling cords to start!
Reliable Power
The compressor boasts 0.5 CFM @ 40 PSI, making it perfect for homes with small living spaces or tight budgets that require something quiet but effective. Plus, its 110 maximum PSI ensures you'll never have trouble getting the job done.
User-Friendly Design
This air compressor is a 3-gallon horizontal design that makes it very portable and user-friendly. It also includes an easy-to-read gauge for pressure control, which can be accessed with the carrying handle on top of the unit.
Tackle Variety of Projects
This air compressor is a versatile device that can be used in many different situations. For example, this machine does staple/fastening with ease, and it also inflates tires around the house or at work for you, so there's no need to hassle with filling up your tire all by yourself! This handy tool even comes equipped with an easy-to-use hobby painting feature which will let you express your creativity on things like wood furniture - they're perfect for touching up scratches too.
Pros
- Quiet operation
- Get the job done with ease
- Compact design for portability
- Powerful enough to power airbrushes, nailers, and more
- The oil-less pump helps keep it working at peak performance longer than other compressors
Cons
- Noise can be annoying if you need your compressor on all-day
2. BOSTITCH BTFP02012 Pancake Air Compressor
Are you worried about finding the perfect air compressor for your impact wrench? Look no further. This is a great, affordable option with all the features you could want and more! Of course, it's designed to maximize the performance of an impact wrench too, which is always a bonus.
The Bostitch BTFP02012 Air Compressor is the perfect machine if you're looking for high quality yet low-cost compressor. This is the best cheap air compressor for impact wrench and will be a welcome addition to any tool shed or garage.
Don't let your projects be stifled by air loss! This 6 Gallon, 150 max PSI Pancake Compressor will serve you well as it offers a quick recovery and long tool runtime. In addition, it features an oil-free, maintenance-free pump for convenience, with one of the only motors that can start up in extreme cold or extension cord applications.
Where other competitors fall flat on noise pollution (78.5dB), the Bostitch Air Compressor operates at 78.5 decibels to provide a quiet working environment-- without sacrificing power and performance!
It also offers a convenient cord wrap for easy storage when you're done using it, so all your tools will stay nice and tidy in one place!
Top Features:
Maintenance-free pump
This portable air compressor is perfect for keeping on hand for any on-the-go need. The long-life, maintenance-free pump ensures convenience and reliability!
High-efficiency motor
The BOSTITCH 6 gallon air compressor is equipped with an innovative, high-efficiency motor that can start and run without any problems regardless of the weather or extension cord length.
High flow regulator
BOSTITCH is the industry leader in air tool performance. The high flow regulator and couplers are designed to maximize optimum performance for your tools by providing maximum airflow while also conserving energy on impact with their shock-absorbing technology!
Two universal couplers
The Bostitch BTFP02012 Air Compressor is one highly efficient tool in every homeowner's garage. Its most notable feature is its two "universal" couplings which allow it to be used by more than one user simultaneously without needing adapter connections; this saves time while providing convenience for those who want their handyman work done right away!
Pros
- Handles multiple projects and tasks
- Easy to read gauges
- Works with a variety of air tools.
- Save time and energy by reducing the number of trips to the air pump
- You'll be able to finish your projects on time and under budget
- Save time with an easy start-up in cold weather
Cons
- Its compressor is noisier than others; however, this can be remedied by adding hearing protection
3. PORTER CABLE C2002 Air Compressor
Meet the quiet hero of your tool shed. Highly portable and exceptionally easy to use, this Air Compressor is the best small air compressor for impact wrench. The Porter-Cable C2002 150-PSI Six-Gallon Oil-Free Pancake Compressor packs a big punch in a small package perfect for filling tires to firing nailers.
PORTER CABLE C2002 Air Compressor is perfect for renovation and construction jobs and excellent for anyone who's constantly moving around. It's lightweight and easy to carry around – so you can take it anywhere!
For convenience, this efficient unit runs off of typical household circuits and offers mess-free, oil-free operation. And while you may be using this Air Compressor as the first line support guy on any given day or project, no one will know it thanks to its powerful induction motor that provides long life and optimum performance—all without making much sound at all!
Top Features:
Longer tool runtimes
This portable air compressor is durable and has a longer runtime.
This unit features 150 psi max tank pressure, which provides more air in the tank for long tool runtimes up to 50% faster!
Work in a variety of conditions
The Porter Cable C2002 air compressor is perfect for winter weather. The low amp 120V motor starts easily, even when the temperature drops or you're using an extension cord to power it~which means that this machine will work in various conditions and on different types of projects.
Durable oil-free pump
The Porter Cable C2002 features an oil-free pump that never requires maintenance and ensures a long life span.
Shroud, handle, and console cover
The Porter Cable C2002 air compressor is a heavy-duty machine that will keep you going for whatever project needs to get done. This unit provides an enclosed shroud, handle and console cover, which protects vital components while making the entire unit easier to carry with your hands-free. In addition, the cord wrap helps protect against tangles at all times!
Two regulated
The Porter Cable C2002 will make your work more efficient with its dual regulator that allows you to support two people at a time without any decrease in performance or quality, which can save you on construction costs.
Pros
- One of the most affordable compressor
- Faster recovery time
- Fully protected components in case any break or get damaged
- Regulated air coupler for dual usage
- Save time and energy by reducing the number of trips to the air pump.
Cons
- The thermostat needs set manually, or it'll overheat
4. Craftsman CMEC6150K Air Compressor
When power tools at home require a punch to the pressure it takes, you know only an air compressor can provide what you are looking for. Craftsman CMEC6150K Air Compressor is the right tool to bring any job at hand with ease. This air compressor has all the goods, from doing small home maintenance tasks like spraying paint to repairing anything from the faucet in your kitchen sink to hammering out sharp edges on furniture or cabinets!
This air compressor is so powerful; it can help you bash out some pesky lug nuts that are giving you a struggle. The Craftsman CMEC6150K Air Compressor can also be used to power up your impact wrench or nail gun for your first home improvement project! Keep pumping, and the air will never end. This is the best home air compressor for impact wrench. A significant investment that will give you years of use!
It features sturdy steel construction and 6 gallons of space to never run out of air even when under pressure. Plus, its oil-free pump means added durability and less chance of a breakdown, so we don't have to worry about high repair costs.
Top Features:
Proudly made in the USA
The Craftsman CMEC6150K Air Compressor is proudly Made in the USA with Global Materials. This reliable air compressor, made of high-quality materials that can withstand wear and tear from use on a construction site or at home, comes to you straight out of Jackson, Tennessee!
Adequate cut-inch pressure
The Craftsman CMEC6150K Air Compressor will help you get the job done in less time. This model has a max pressure of 150 PSI, ensuring adequate cut-in pressure for many applications.
The Craftsman CMEC6150K is designed to provide high performance and years of service with its maximum capacity at 150 PSI!
Quick recovery time
A Craftsman CMEC6150K Air Compressor is designed with a 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI to provide you quick and efficient recovery time when the pressure drops below 50 psi, which means less of a wait for your next project!
No maintenance
The Craftsman CMEC6150K 6 gallon air compressor can be an excellent option for those looking to avoid maintenance on their equipment. It has an oil-free pump that is durable and will last you forever!
Pros
- The compressor features a heavy-duty cast iron cylinder.
- Oil-free design helps extend the life of your compressor.
- Get the power you need to finish jobs quickly and efficiently
- Never have to worry about running out of air pressure
- The fuel system has an automatic shutoff valve to prevent leaks
- Keep your family safe on the road with good tires and air pressure.
Cons
- Combustion fan and other parts can even be found covered in rust
5. California Air Tools 8010A Aluminum Tank Air Compressor
As one of the quietest air compressors on the market, this is the perfect product for those concerned about noise pollution. It's engineered with a life cycle of up to 3000 hours -- when most comparable air compressors have a life cycle of 500 hours or less! This means you can enjoy this beauty in any season without worrying about wear. It will also withstand uneven terrains and high operating temperatures without the worry of clogging. So enjoy your gadgets and gizmos- whether they're for camping, carpentry, lawn care- without creating harmful noise pollution on top of it all!
The California Air Tools 8010A Ultra Quiet air compressor is engineered for both power and efficiency - meaning that it will be easy to use whether you're a do-it-yourself mechanic with a repair shop or an Industrious DIYer.
This is a beast. I'm talking high-performance, low-speed motor, rust-free tank (because that's always such a big concern), and more life cycles than any of its competitors. Makes for some sweet, sweet silence too. Buy with confidence because this is some sturdy stuff!
Top Features
Two Pressure Control Gauges
The California Air Tools 8010A features durable and reliable construction. In addition, it includes two pressure control gauges for easy monitoring of air consumption, making this a practical tool in the garage or workshop!
Fill tank in 165 Seconds
The California Air Tools 8010A is the perfect product for you if you want to save time. It only takes 165 seconds, on average, from an empty tank to a full one - which can be incredibly advantageous when it comes down to your next project!
Thermal Overload Protector
The California Air Tools 8010A features Thermal Overload Protectors that will stop them from overheating, so they're safe even if you use them on more significant projects that are more time-consuming!
Engineered For High Performance
This air compressor is versatile enough to handle any job you throw its way! This 1.0 HP motor operates at 1680 RPM and will keep up with the toughest jobs no matter where they are being done, whether it be on a construction site or around your own home.
Rust-Free Aluminum Tank
The California Air Tools 8010A is the perfect tool for all your air needs, no matter where you are. It has an oil-free pump that makes it ideal to use in any environment, and its portable design with included tools makes it easy even when on the go!
Pros
- Quiet operation
- Heavy-duty cast iron pump and motor
- Durable aluminum tank with a gauge to monitor pressure
- It provides a constant, uninterrupted air supply.
- You can be confident that your tools will have the power they need.
Cons
- The fan is meant solely for cooling the motor, not has high CFM circulation
6. Makita MAC100Q Electric Air Compressor
The Makita MAC100Q electric air compressor is a powerful and portable option for those who need to inflate tires or operate power tools.
This unit features durable construction, an oil-free pump for maintenance-free operation, and a quiet motor ideal for use in any home garage or workshop.
The MAC100Q includes an easy-to-read pressure gauge and a quick-connect air hose for added convenience.
Pros
- Durable construction
- Oil-free pump for maintenance-free operation
- The quiet motor makes it ideal for use in any home garage or workshop
- Easy-to-read pressure gauge
- Quick-connect air hose for added convenience
Cons
- Not as powerful as some other air compressors on the market
Overall, the Makita MAC100Q is a great air compressor with a lot to offer. It's powerful, quiet, lightweight, and comes with some great features. If you're looking for an electric air compressor, the MAC100Q should be at the top of your list!
7. DEWALT FLEXVOLT DCC2560T1 Air Compressor Kit
DEWALT's FLEXVOLT DCC2560T1 Air Compressor Kit is a top of the line air compressor that offers a variety of features to make your life easier. This air compressor has a high max PSI of 200, which gives you plenty of power to get the job done quickly.
The cordless design means that you can take this compressor anywhere, and the included battery means that you don't have to worry about running out of power. The digital display is easy to read and gives you all the information you need to know about your air compressor at a glance.
The built-in regulator means that you can easily adjust the pressure to suit your needs, and the LED light means that you can always see what you're doing. The kit also includes a carrying case, so you can easily take your air compressor with you wherever you go.
Pros
- The high max PSI of 200 gives you plenty of power to get the job done quickly.
- The cordless design means that you can take this compressor anywhere.
- The included battery means that you don't have to worry about running out of power.
- The digital display is easy to read and gives you all the information you need to know about your air compressor at a glance.
- The built-in regulator means that you can easily adjust the pressure to suit your needs.
- The LED light means that you can always see what you're doing.
Cons
- The kit does not include a hose, so you'll need to purchase one separately.
- The compressor is a bit heavy, so it may be not easy to carry for long periods.
8. WEN 2202T Portable Vertical Electric Air Compressor
Today, we'll be looking at the WEN 2202T Portable Vertical Electric Air Compressor. This compact and lightweight air compressor are perfect for inflating tires, filling up sports balls, and operating air tools. It has a maximum psi of 135 and a 20-gallon tank capacity. Let's take a closer look at the features of this air compressor.
One of the best features of the WEN 2202T Portable Vertical Electric Air Compressor is its portability. This air compressor only weighs 86 pounds, so it can easily be carried from one location to another. It has a built-in handle and casters so that you can roll it around with ease. It also has a compact design, so it takes very little space.
Another great feature of this air compressor is its oil-free pump. This means that you don't have to worry about maintaining or changing the oil, making it very easy to use.
The WEN 2202T Portable Vertical Electric Air Compressor also has a very long cord to reach any outlet in your home or garage. It comes with a quick-connect coupler, so you can easily attach it to your air tools. It also includes an inflation kit to fill up tires or sports balls easily.
The WEN 2202T Electric Air Compressor also comes with a one-year warranty to be confident in its quality. Overall, this is a great air compressor, perfect for anyone who needs a portable and lightweight option. It's easy to use and maintain, and it comes with everything you need to get started.
Pros
- Portable and lightweight
- Easy to use
- No maintenance required
- Quiet operation
- Comes with an inflation kit
Cons
- The cord is a bit short
- It may not be powerful enough for some air tools
Overall, the WEN 2202T Portable Vertical Electric Air Compressor is a great choice for anyone who needs a portable and lightweight air compressor. It's easy to use and maintain, and it comes with everything you need to get started. It's also very quiet, so you won't have to worry about disturbing your neighbors.
9. Metabo HPT EC914S Pancake Air Compressor
The Metabo HPT EC914S Pancake Air Compressor is a small, portable air compressor ideal for use in the home or garage. This unit features a powerful motor that can deliver up to 4.0 CFM airflow.
The compact design of this unit makes it easy to store and transport, and the built-in handle makes it easy to carry from one job to the next.
The Metabo HPT EC914S Pancake Air Compressor also features an oil-free pump that requires no maintenance and is designed for long-term use.
This air compressor is the go-to for all your needs. Whether you're running 2 framing nailsers or 2 roofing guns or 2 siding nailers or 3 finish nailers or 5 brad nailers, this little guy has got what it takes!
Pros
- The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to store and transport
- Powerful motor delivers 4.0 CFM of airflow
- The oil-free pump requires no maintenance
- The built-in handle makes it easy to carry from one job to the next
- The affordable price makes it a great value for the money
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the air compressor not starting up properly.
- The unit is not as quiet as some other air compressors on the market.
Overall, the Metabo HPT EC914S Pancake Air Compressor is a great choice for those looking for a compact and lightweight air compressor that is easy to store and transport. The built-in handle makes it easy to carry from one job to the next, and the affordable price makes it a great value for the money.
10.Stark 65151 Portable Quiet Air Compressor
The Stark Portable Quiet Air Compressor is one of the quietest air compressors on the market, making it perfect for use in various settings. Its portability means that it can be easily moved from one location to another. Its quiet operation makes it ideal for use in offices, homes, and other noise-sensitive environments.
Thanks to its simple controls and clear display, the Stark Portable Quiet Air Compressor is extremely easy to use. It comes with a variety of accessories that make it perfect for various applications, including inflating tires, powering air tools, and more.
Pros
- Quiet operation makes it perfect for use in noise-sensitive environments.
- Portable design makes it easy to move from one location to another.
- Simple controls and a clear display make it easy to use.
- It comes with a variety of accessories that make it perfect for various applications.
- Affordably priced.
Cons
- The air tank is small, so it will need to be refilled frequently if you use it for extended periods.
- It's not as powerful as some other air compressors on the market.
Overall, the Stark Portable Quiet Air Compressor is an excellent choice for those who need an air compressor that is portable and quiet. It offers a variety of features that make it perfect for several different applications, and its low noise level ensures that it will not disturb those around you. The Stark Portable Quiet Air Compressor is a great option if you need a reliable and quiet air compressor.
What Air Compressor for Impact Wrench?
The general rule of thumb will be that a portable air compressor will do the trick when you are working on smaller projects. However, an in-ground high-pressure air compressor is for you when it comes to larger projects and more extended periods between loading up your compressor with more air.
Also, a good idea to keep in mind is that the type of tire inflator you purchase depends on what tires need to be filled - car tires typically take pretty low PSI levels, while truck tires require much higher PSI levels. This means that if you don't have access to an air hose around your worksite or home and don't want to run out every time someone else needs compressed air only has one compressor, you're going to want to purchase a portable air compressor.
How Big Air Compressor for Impact Wrench?
Typically, the air compressor for an impact wrench is best about 1/3 the power of the wrench. The operating pressure is the most important thing to consider when deciding on a tire for an impact wrench.
Some online calculators can tell you how much air it needs if you know what size and brand your tool is. Of course, you could also check any manual instructions for troubleshooting - but some manufacturers will include this information in their product descriptions directly.
How Many Gallon Air Compressor for Impact Wrench?
There are various air compressor sizes (check your manual), but most air compressors come with five or 6-gallon tanks. I would recommend 10 gallons if you were constantly using the device, but also make sure that the compressor can deliver the required PSI at your desired working pressure. For occasional use, it might not matter too much as long as the compressor does its job. But, again, check your manual to determine how many gallons a particular air impact wrench runs off of for best results."
How Much Air Pressure Do You Need for An Impact Wrench?
The size of an air compressor and the required volume for an individual's usage needs will determine what they get, but factors like PSI, CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute), power, and type of work being done will also be taken into consideration. That said, a gauge reading between 80 and 100 psi is recommended for DIY jobs since these numbers are suitable for most standard wrenches used in this application. For more professional systems or users with heavier workloads, one should expect pressure levels to fall between 150-250 psi.
Which Air Compressor Is Best for Air Impact Wrench?
The best air compressor for impact wrench applications is the one that will provide sufficient pressure at the required rate, with minimal stress on its machinery.
A mechanic should assess which tools the customer wishes to use against how much power they need in pounds per square inch (PSI). They also need to consider how often they use their grinders and what type of surface works well. In general, you want an air compressor that runs 30 psi at a minimum. In addition, 8 PSI for valve grinders and 150 PSI for diamond grinding are other factors to consider when deciding on your purchase.
Do You Need an Air Compressor for an Impact Wrench?
If you're using a pneumatic impact wrench with adjustable air pressure, you'll need an air compressor. However, if the impact wrench works without any pressure, you do not need one.
An impact wrench is a tool powered by compressing and releasing the air at high speeds. This same process - compressing and releasing - can be achieved manually, but it would take an incredible amount of effort to complete the same task as quickly. In addition, in manual usage, there's no reliable way to maintain high enough compression rates or deliver sufficient energy levels to produce rapid rotational movement for adequate torque and speed without damaging the material being manipulated. With an electric screwdriver or cordless drill instead of manual exertion, we don't have these challenges in the same way.
Can You Use a Small Air Compressor for Impact Wrench?
Sure.
The leverage provided by the air compressor and blowgun is a vital part of the process. When this happens, it creates a torque that helps loosen any detached bolts that would have otherwise been hard to reach with just an impact wrench alone. So you're essentially doubling both your chances of success and your ability to get the job done in half the time (provided you've got power).
How Much PSI Needed for Impact Wrench?
Pneumatic torque wrench, also called an air impact wrench, is a powerful tool used in both automotive and aircraft maintenance lines. It combines cylinder compression and releases with a synchronized hammering action to provide quickly high-powered rotational movements with the tool's fastener or socket attached. The higher the barometric ratings for an air compressor, the better it can create enough pressure (psi) when delivering material demands to tools such as this one.
Ideally, you'll want at least 150 pounds per square inch of pneumatic pressure and 100 feet per second discharge rate. More preferably, 200 pounds per square inch minimum displacement before impact wrenches will function most efficiently. As always, though, we recommend consulting your manufacturer's recommendations when considering purchasing a torque wrench.
What is a good air compressor for impact wrenches?
Answer: A good air compressor for air impact wrenches is one that produces at least 35 psi.
The most common type of air compressor, the scroll compressor uses a spinning impeller to draw in ambient air and move it along a series of blades which squeeze, or "scroll" it into high-pressure fluid. The more changes an impeller makes between atmospheric pressure and high-pressure, the more efficiently it will work. Scroll compressors are therefore better suited to the task of vertical lifting than piston compressors are because they can make many more changes in pressure per revolution.
Will a pancake air compressor run an impact wrench?
A pancake air compressor operates at a rotational speed of approximately 3,000 RPM and an impact wrench operates at a rotational speed of 10,000 to 15,000 RPM. Hence it is not possible for the pancake air compressor to run an impact wrench.
If it operated with the same frequency as the wrench (i.e., rotation per minute), its slower rotation rate would reduce pressure and damage tool parts by stagnating gas flow around fast-moving pistons that shift up and down inside cylinder heads or slides that activate tools like driver bits or wrenches. This means it ain't happening!
Will a 3 gallon air compressor run an impact wrench?
It is possible but not recommended. An air compressor needs to be sized for the tools it is going to be used with.
A 3 gallon tank size does not have enough capacity to run an impact wrench, which typically requires much more volume and pressure than a small air compressor can provide.
Using an undersized air compressor can lead to inconsistent performance and even damage the tool in some cases.
Therefore, for optimal performance and safety, we recommend using a more powerful air compressor with at least 5-6 gallons tank size with sufficient power output required by most impact wrenches.
Will a 6 gallon air compressor run an impact wrench?
Yes, a 6 gallon air compressor can efficiently run an impact wrench. Impact wrenches require high torque to loosen and tighten fasteners provided by the compressed air tank of the air compressor.
The tank size is important because it determines how long you can use your impact wrench before letting the tank recharge.
A 6 gallon tank should provide enough capacity for regular DIY projects, work around-the-house tasks throughout day-to-day activities, and most basic mechanic works.
However, if you plan on using your impact wrench for heavy-duty jobs such as construction sites or in workshops requiring extended use, you might want to opt for a larger size when selecting an air compressor for your needs.
Final Verdict
The best air compressor for impact wrench has enough power to keep up and provide sufficient pressure. You'll also want a reliable, durable model that will last you through years of use. Check out customer reviews on Amazon to see what other people say about their experience. You should also consider what size of tank you'll need to power your tool and how much money you're willing to spend on this investment. If it's time to buy a new one, make sure that you read through our list before making any decisions!