Nail Guns are very handy tools for carpenters, designers, DIY project workers, and other wood working people. And all nail guns are useless without the best air compressor for nail gun. This crucial power tool makes your work very easy, fast speed, and less tiring.
We have selected the highest-reviewed nail gun air compressors that have pleased a lot of users. We checked them for the premium features. You can find these features in our buying guide section. You will find a care guide and an FAQ section where we have answered some of the most asked questions.
So, here we go!
Best Air Compressor for Nail Gun Reviewed – Our Top Picks
Here are all the air compressors on our top picks for you to decide from!
CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor, 6 Gallon
Craftsman is one of the leading industry manufacturers of workmen tools on the market. It’s no wonder that this is the top pick on our list. This is also the highest rated, highest reviewed air compressor on the market. You will see all the compressor features now.
CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor is a portable air compressor for your work needs. It is a pancake style compressor that is easy to carry from job site to job site.
The CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor has a 6 gallon capacity for long term use of the air compressor for your tough job site conditions. This oil free design pump is a maintenance free pump that can be used for long service.
The maximum air pressure or PSI of the CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor is 150, while the CFM is 2.6, allowing you to have a quick recovery and flawless work. You can use the CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor for various types of work.
There are many alternatives available for you to choose from. CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor is pretty lightweight. The price point of this air compressor is affordable, and the service it provides is very high. You can buy this without any worry.
Pros
- Portable compressor with long life
- High-performance motor, easy start on cold weather, max psi 150
- Maintenance-free operation best value for money
- High flow regulator
- High-efficiency motor with rubber feet for maximum pressure
- High industrial power 50 feet extension cord
- Portable pancake compressor with low maintenance
Cons
- Can be a bit loud, no oil sight glass
Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP Air Compressor
Makita is a very famous brand when it comes to tools for workmen. Many customers very highly recommend the Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP Air Compressor Big Bore. It has all the top features for the best use and the highest efficacy.
The Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP Air Compressor is made with a cast iron pump. This is very durable, and you can use it for many years on end. There are Big Bore cylinder and piston. This ensures faster recovery and is very convenient for workers.
The 2.5 HP 4 Pole motor of the Makita mac2400 big bore produces 4.2 CFM. The PSI Unit is 90 PSI. This allows for increased productivity. This also makes sure that the noise level of the Makita air compressor is very low. The Roll cage construction gives you the utmost safety for almost all work conditions of all job sites. Makita air compressor comes with a durable cast iron cylinder. This makes sure of the longevity and functionality of the pump.
The Makita air compressor comes with a low amp motor is useful for faster start up in all weather conditions. There is an air filter for increased air intake and greater efficiency. The Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP Air Compressor has lower noise levels for better work conditions.
The Makita MAC2400 Air Compressor pump is run with oil lubrication, ensuring that the pump runs cooler
Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP Air Compressor comes with a steep price tag and 30 days satisfaction warranty. And has a one year compressor component warranty. This is a cordless air compressor.
Pros
- Portable air compressor
- Easy start on cold weather
- Powerful 2.5 HP 4 pole motor
- Quietest air compressor, durable
- Cast iron compressor pump with big bore cylinder and piston
- Roll cage construction for stability
- 1 year limited warranty on compressor components
Cons
- Can be a bit expensive, no air tools included
BOSTITCH Pancake Air Compressor
Bostitch is the highest reviewed air compressor for nail guns on our list. It has received the highest number of reviews from users and customers. It also has all the features that the experts have suggested we should look for.
BOSTITCH Pancake Air Compressor has a tank capacity of 6 gallons. This is an electric air compressor that needs to be connected to a power source. It is an oil-free pump. That means it is less maintenance, or as BOSTITCH claims, maintenance-free pump and very efficient.
BOSTITCH Pancake Air Compressor has a PSI rating of 150 maximum air pressure. And it delivers 2.6 SCPM. This makes sure that you can use the air compressor for a long time.
The BOSTITCH motor starts up pretty easily, even in the cold. There is an extension cord of 50 feet in length. The storage tank and the highly efficient motor are a friend for workers and DIY projects.
The BOSTITCH Pancake Air Compressor has low noise, and this gives you a quiet working environment. The dBA level of the air compressor is 78.5, which is not so bad.
This air compressor is lightweight; this is very easy to carry around and store. The portability of the machine makes it very convenient for workers who have to change job sites.
The BOSTITCH Pancake Air Compressor has a high flow regulator that maximizes tool performance. The hinges and the hoses are very durable for heavy airflow. There are rubber feet for your stability; this also makes sure the floor you are working on will not scratch.
There are two universal couplers that can support two users at the same time. BOSTITCH Pancake Air Compressor comes with 1 year limited warranty. The price of the BOSTITCH Air Compressor is on the higher side of the mid-range. But the qualities make sure it is worth the money. It comes with Pneumatics, Automotive Air Tools, and Portable Compressor.
Pros
- Portable air compressor with an oil-free pump
- Easy start on cold weather, max psi 150
- The package includes pneumatics, automotive air tools
- High air pressure
- Pancake-style air compressor with high flow regulator
- Highly efficient motor with rubber feet
- 50 feet extension cord for electricity
- Portable pancake compressor with 78.5 dba low noise
- 1 year limited warranty
Cons
- Can be a bit loud, not like two-stage air compressors
PORTER CABLE Air Compressor C2002 Oil-Free Pump
The PORTER CABLE C2002 Air Compressor has a PSI rating of 150. This allows you to work a long time. The CFM rating is 2.6, which adds to the convenience of the air compressor for working for long times.
The PORTER CABLE Air Compressor is a pancake-type tank for easy carry. The recovery time of this air compressor for nail guns is very low; this means it will refill very quickly.
This is an electric air compressor. There is no oil and no need to change the oil regularly. The oil-free pumps are very convenient for workers who need to move from one site to another.
The tank is made to endure all weather conditions and is very easily portable. So, you can take it with you to any job site. There are water drain valves for easy condensate clean and rubber feet for stability.
PORTER CABLE C2002 Air Compressor has a low amp powerful motor, the motor is 120V, and the 6 gallon air compressor is easy to start because of the motor. The durability of this compressor is unquestionable, and you can use this for a long time.
The weight of the PORTER CABLE Air Compressor is 34 pounds; it is very portable. There are two regulated, factory installed air couplers. Two people can use it simultaneously.
There are two options on the PORTER CABLE Air Compressor; you can select the one you need. The price points are affordable. There is a 1 Year Limited Warranty on Compressor Components.
Pros
- Portable air compressor with an oil-free pump
- Easy start & exceptional performance in the cold
- Max psi 150
- Easy access drain for water
- Small air compressor for quiet operation
- High-efficiency motor with rubber feet
- Portable pancake compressor
- 1 year limited warranty on compressor components
Cons
- Can be a bit expensive, no air tools included
DEWALT Air Compressor Combo Kit with Brad Nailer (DWC1KIT-B)
Dewalt is a famous brand of toolmaker on the market today. They make very high end, and premium products. This air compressor is one of their flagship product. Let’s see the feature of the DEWALT Air Compressor.
The DEWALT Air Compressor comes with a 6 gallon tank that gives you 165 PSI at 2.6 SCFM. This allows for a high run time; you can use the air compressor longer. This makes sure of faster recovery as well.
This is an oil-free pump that is maintenance free for your convenience. This 6-gallon pancake-style air compressor is very portable and comes with many handy accessory kits for your work.
The hose is reinforced and can withstand 300 PSI of pressure. This keeps the hose free from abrasion and gives you a longer hose life. The DEWALT Air Compressor has a low noise; the dBA reading is 75.5, which makes sure of the quiet work environment.
The hoses are made with PVC/ rubber. The hose is non marring, lightweight, and durable.
DEWALT Air Compressor comes with a precision point technology. The nail placement becomes precise and convenient. Also, the smaller nose is used on the framing nailers. The Brad Nailer comes with a tool free jam release for easy nail removal.
DEWALT Air Compressor comes with an affordable price tag, but there is a one year limited warranty. The combo gun kit includes-
- DWFP12231 18 gallon Brad Framing Nailer
- DWFP55126 Compressor,
- Air hose with fittings
- Sample fasteners, and
- owner’s manual
Pros
- Portable air compressor
- Comes with air tools
- High power motor, mess-free operation
- Comes in a combo pack
- Longer air tool performance
- Quietest air compressors, durable, low amp motor
- 1 year limited warranty on compressor components
Cons
- Costly
BOSTITCH Air Compressor Combo Kit with Brad Nailer (BTFP1KIT)
This is another BOSTITCH Air Compressor on our list. This is also a very high end product for your work. Bostitch is known for its quality and promise, so you can be sure this is here on the merits. We will tell you about the features of this air compressor packs.
The BOSTITCH Air Compressor combo kit with Brad Nailers has a maximum air pressure or PSI of 150, the gallon size is 6.0, and the SCFM is 2.6. These specs make this air compressor very useful for workers. The tool has a long tool run time, and the specs make it easier for faster recovery.
The nail gun and compressor kit are oil-free, clean, and durable. It is very efficient for workers and users of all capacities. This is a maintenance-free machine; you can use this for a long time without having to worry about much of anything.
Bostitch Air Compressor combo kit has a Bostitch high-efficiency motor. It starts up fast, even in the cold, and you can use this in almost all weather conditions.
There are high flow regulators that make sure the air tool performance is perfect for your work. This can maximize air tool performance.
The Bostitch air compressor has an 80 dBA operational noise level for a quiet work environment. There are ¼ inches x 15 inches PVC air hoses that are made to withstand the great force of air pressure. The hoses do not wither, wear, or wrinkle under pressure.
This is a high end product with a mid-range price. But if you decide to buy this, you can be sure that you have made a worthwhile investment.
Pros
- Portable air compressor with oil-free pump
- Easy start on cold weather for maximum performance
- Durable hoses can withstand air pressure
- Maintenance-free & quiet operation
- 6 gallon Pancake style air compressor with high flow regulator
- Efficient motor with rubber feet
- Combo kit
- Portable pancake compressor with 80 dba low noise
- 1 year limited warranty on vital components
Cons
- Can be a bit loud
Campbell Hausfeld 6 Gallon Portable Quiet Air Compressor (DC060500)
Campbell Hausfeld is another famous brand of air compressor among the workmen around the world. This air compressor from Campbell Hausfeld is one of their best air compressors and hence has been made into our list.
The Campbell Hausfeld air compressor has a 6 gallon tank with a max PSI 125. It is an oil-free pump, and that makes it maintenance free. You can use this quiet air compressor for a variety of nailing projects, bolting, stapling, fastening, hobby painting, and inflation.
This oil-free pump is very clean and convenient for users. This makes sure that the experience is very user friendly.
This is an ultra-quiet compressor; the dBA is 68. It is 50% better at noise level reduction than any other competitors in the market. This makes the Campbell Hausfeld air compressor one of the best for working at home or indoor use.
The Campbell Hausfeld air compressor has a longer duration; the components are made with a 4x longer life span for your use. You can use this compressor for airbrushing T-shirts, air nailing baseboards, air stapling carpet projects, crafts, décor and art projects, pool toys, craft projects, sporting equipment, stencils, drive nails, filling tires, trim, own garage work, and upholstery, etc.
The price of the Campbell Hausfeld air compressor is in the higher range, and the variety of use and the top quality of the air compressor is worth the price. There is a one year limited warranty with the Campbell Hausfeld air compressor. If the cash is not an issue, and you are looking for a durable air compressor, this is the one for you.
Pros
- Easy maintenance air compressor with max PSI 125 for more air pressure
- Versatile uses for the air compressor
- Quiet operation, low noise, high air pressure for maximum performance
- 50% more durable, low amp motor for powerful air compressor
- 1 Year Limited Warranty on Compressor Components
Cons
- Not for people with a tight budget or price restraint
Makita MAC100QK1 Quiet Series 1/2 HP, 1 Gallon compact design
This Makita MAC100QK1 air compressor is one of the best in the market today. Let us see why!
This is an oil free, maintenance free air compressor for workers and DIY enthusiasts. The compressor has a low RPM rate that ensures longer motor and pumps life.
The Makita Air compressor MAC100QK1 is a combo kit with the best tools for workers. It comes with Quiet Series 1/2 HP, 1 Gallon Compact, Oil Free, Electric Air Compressor (MAC100Q); 2″ Brad Nailer, 18 Gauge (AF506); 1/4″ Universal Quick Coupler, Male (447013-E); 25′ PVC Hose; Pneumatic Nailer Oil; No mar Tip; 3 Air Fitting; Tool Case; and Safety Glasses.
The Makita Air compressor is an electric air compressor that is designed for the portability and convenience of the worker. It is simple and easy to use, even for novices.
The price of the Makita Air compressor is in the mid range, and it comes with a one year limited warranty.
Pros
- Portable air compressor, run smoothly in industrial use
- Easy start and operating on the cold
- Equipped with kits for workers, easy transport
- Low noise, durable, high air pressure
- Convenient oil drain with lever handle tank drain valve for easy air release, sturdy handle
- Cast iron pump with big bore cylinder and piston
- Roll cage construction for stability
- 1 year limited warranty on compressor components
Cons
- Some users had a problem with nails sinking
Metabo HPT EC914SM “THE TANK” High Capacity Pancake Air Compressor with Finish Nailer
There was no shortage of power when it came to such a pancake compressor from Metabo. The performance and the storage are excellent, but Metabo HPT EC914SM “THE TANK” High Capacity Pancake Air Compressor has added a few additional unique characteristics to this tank.
The tank has a maximum pressure of 200 psi and a maximum flow rate of 4 cfm/90 psi. When using the Tank, you can fuel either 2 frame nail gun, 2 roof or panel nails or 3 finishing nails, or 5 Brad nailers, depending on what you need. This is a flat compressor, as you can see, and it only weighs 41 lbs., which isn’t awful for this sort of compressor at all. It would normally take a double stack compressor and a lot more weight than 41 pounds to operate these kinds of instruments together.
In addition to filling up to 200 PSI, this Metabo HPT EC914SM “THE TANK” High Capacity Pancake Air Compressor with Finish Nailer is capable of delivering 4 CFM at 90 PSI. For a pancake compressor, those are impressively high figures!
At 90 PSI, a basic budget-friendly version should be able to deliver about 2.5 CFM at 150 PSI. We’re talking a 25 percent increase in pressure and a 60 percent increase in air supply here.
You need a powerful compressor to run pneumatic tools. There are three things you’re looking for in a power tool: affordability, lightness, and power and adaptability. At least that’s how it works when you use The Metabo HPT EC914SM “THE TANK” High Capacity Pancake Air Compressor with Finish Nailer.
All of it and more is what sets The Tank apart. The pricing is reasonable, it’s not too heavy, and it’s powerful enough to power several nailers at once.
It’s an oil-free construction like many current compressors, which lowers the cost of service you have to perform.
The weight and durability of this compressor are both improved. This pancake weighs a whopping 41 pounds, compared to the average 6-gallon pancake’s weight of around 30 pounds. Twin stack variants are considerably heavier, though.
Pros:
- oil-free construction
- capable of delivering 4 CFM at 90 PSI
- has a maximum pressure of 200 psi
- only weights 41 lbs
Cons:
- Costs a bit much
Buying Guide for Best Air Compressor for Nail Gun
We have shortlisted some great air compressors for nail guns, as you have seen. But there are a few further points you need to know.
You may have seen an underlying theme to the product we have reviewed here; that is very good if you have caught it. Kudos to you, sir!
If you haven’t, we are listing the features we have looked for in each product for it to make the cut. We will discuss these and more in our buying guide section that will follow!
Let’s familiarize you with the best features that you need in the right air compressor.
Air compressors for nail guns, or air compressor in general, throws a few abbreviated words around. You should know these important factors for purchasing the right air compressor and becoming conversationally fluent in the field. If you know features, you can become aware of what to look for and what to expect!
The First Word is- PSI
PSI stands for pounds per square inch. This is a unit that measures the amount of air pressure the compressor is capable of producing. Most air compressor for nail gun comes with a good range and support for nail guns. Most people, therefore, do not worry about the unit.
Only professionals care about the PSI, but it is imperative for people to focus on this unit while buying an air compressor.
The PSI Depends on The CFM
CFM stands for cubic feet per minute air volume. This is also a unit of force measurement.
The CFM level of the air compressor needs to match that of your nail gun for functionality and safety. If the two don’t sync, you will get malfunctions and stalling. Delays are also a common outcome of not syncing the CFM with the nail gun.
This is a very important buying consideration for you. You need to make sure that the air compressor you are willing to buy matches the CFM level of your nail gun.
If you have no idea about the CFM level, go for the ones that have a 2 or higher CFM rating.
The PSI rating has to be above 90 PSI. A 90 PSI and 2 CFM will work with most nail guns on the market.
Tank Capacity
All air compressors have a tank that stores the air; this air is then let out through an opening that is attached to the nail gun. This is why the tank capacity or the range of compressed air on the compressor is an important consideration for you.
Generally speaking, an air compressor with 1 to 6 gallon tank capacity works better for nail guns. They store enough compressed air for you to work through the day, depending on your work.
Tank Durability
The tank of the air compressor needs to be sturdy and weather resistant. This is important.
Most tanks come with features that allow you to work with the air compressor even in cold weather. If your tank is not sturdy and thick, the air compressed will not be usable. Warm weather conditions will thin the air, while cold weather can make the air condensed and turn it into liquid.
This is not just an inconvenience for your work; this can seriously damage your nail gun and air compressor tank.
Portability
Air compressors for nail guns should have a portable design. You need to carry the air compressor with the nail gun around at the job sites.
There are many types of easy portability options. Many large tank air compressors with wheel kit and roll bar handle make it easier for you to take the air compressor with you on the go. In such cases, you need to make sure that the wheels are durable and made of good quality materials.
It is very common that the air compressor’s weight causes the wheel to melt because of the added pressure on the wheel. Make sure the wheels are made with durable, heat resistant materials.
Noise Level
This is a minor concern. A loud machine can be a hassle to work with for long hour workers. The sound can cause fatigue, boredom, headache, and in some cases, irritation in the eyes!
The machine’s loudness has nothing to do with the functionality of the machine.
There are noiseless options that produce zero noise levels. These usually cost a bit more, but you can get one of these if you are looking for them.
Less noise can be a significant factor for some people. The list of products that we have reviewed features the best budget air compressors that are noiseless. These cost a bit more, but that shouldn’t be an issue for your convenience!
Machine’s Size
The tank size of the air compressor is an important factor. Usually, bigger is better, but if that causes issues with the portability, you should look for a highly portable small compressor tank.
A larger tank makes sure that you have enough power for your nail gun almost all the time. This makes your job easier and convenient for you to work longer hours. These are also the most effective ways of working.
But, as we have said, if you think portability is a bigger issue for you than efficiency, you can choose a smaller tank.
Price
Price is always an issue with all purchases. If you are not buying for pleasure or collecting, you need to make sure you are getting the most for the money you are paying.
Air compressor is not a product that anyone buys for show or collection. It is a work tool that helps you work and earn. For this reason, you need to make sure you get the best product for the money you are paying.
Our list features something for almost everyone. It is not always the case that the most expensive product is also the best. We have selected the products based on their features and functionality according to the users and customers.
All of these products are usable, functional, and top quality products. The ones with a lower price tag are just as good as the expensive air compressor. You just need to make sure that if it is perfect for what you need it for!
Brand Recognition
The brand is a particularly important consideration for buying an air compressor. Brands make sure they manufacture the best and flawless products.
If they make a tiny mistake, the competitors will capitalize on that and make sure they never can get back up on their feet!
This insecurity is an advantage for the customers. You can choose the branded products, provided they come with all the best features, reviews and falls within your price range.
User Reviews
Selecting a product online can be a gamble sometimes. But reviews make it easier and less risky to invest in a product. Reviews make sure everyone knows if the product is as good as they claim.
Our review is based on real customer feedback and expert suggested features. These are the best products according to the customers and users.
Regular Maintenance Guide For Air Compressors
Air compressors serve you best if you take good care and focus on maintenance. Here are a few tips that can make sure your air compressor for nail gun stays in the tip-top shape for a long time.
Manual:
All tools come with manuals of how to maintain the tool. Reading it is a good idea. You can solve some common problems with the air compressor by yourself.
Tighten the Bolts and Nuts:
Air compressor works for months on end. The regular vibration can loosen the screws, nuts, and bolts; it is natural and very common. You need to make sure all the nuts and bolts are in the best shape and tightened. Checking them once every week will do the trick for you. Maybe on the weekend!
Clean the Valve:
It is very important to clean the valve of an air compressor regularly. It is very common for dust particles and other debris to get stuck on the intake valve. This clogging can damage the air compressor, explode the pipes, and cause further trouble and damage. So, clean the intake valve regularly.
Inspect the Pipe/Hose:
Hoses are the most vulnerable parts of an air compressor, and they are the most necessary too. So, it’s important that you make sure the hoses are okay. The hoses can stretch while transferring air from the compressor to any pneumatic tools. The airflow causes friction and heat that can stretch the hoses. Look for signs of wear, creases, or crack. Change the hose if needed.
Air Filter:
The air filter keeps out the dust and junk from the air, which is why it can become dirty and often clogged. This can, in turn, damage the pneumatic tools that you are using the air compressor for. Cleaning the air filter regularly is vital.
Drain the Condensate:
Air moistures are the inevitable byproduct of compressed air. The air accumulates and condenses to make moisture and eventually water. It might cause the metal to rust and erode with time. You need to make sure you drain the condensate from the moisture tank regularly.
Check for Fuel and Lubricants:
Oil free air compressors do not need oil, but the ones that do need to be checked for the fuel each time before running. Lubricants are the other important thing to look out for. You need to make sure the cogs and pieces are well oil-lubricated so no metal on metal contact can damage the mechanism.
Following these steps can help you save money, time, and hassle in the long run.
Final Words
To wrap things up, we will reiterate that the products we have selected are the highest reviewed air compressor for nail guns and made sure that these products have all the best features.
We know that these are the best products for you, and the products have pleased a lot of people. We stand by the choices of the people.
If you have used a product that you would like to see our review, please write to us. You can surely share this piece with your friends, family, or colleagues. You can share your support, suggestions, and comments with us (data rights reserved by our privacy policy).
Thanks.
FAQs
Can I use a tire air compressor for a nail gun?
Ans: You can, but that won’t do as good a job! Better stick with an air compressor for nail gun.
How much pressure or CFM do I need for a nail gun?
Ans: Anything over 2 CFM is best for a nail gun. Most manufacturers make tools in that range.
How much PSI air compressor do I need for a nail gun?
Ans: The minimum PSI range for an air compressor for nail gun is 90. You can go higher, but the 90 PSI is the minimum. Anything over 90 should work best for you.
How often should air compressors be drained?
Ans: It should be drained daily if you are a regular user. Otherwise, once a week will do just fine.
What is the best air compressor for a roofing nailer?
Ans: Craftsmen Air Compressor, California air tools, Porter Cable air compressor is better for roofing nailer.
What is the best air compressor for the finish nailer?
Ans: Bostitch, DeWalt, California air tools is known to make the best air compressors for the finish nailer.
What is the best nail gun compressor?
Ans: Craftsmen Air Compressor makes the highest-quality air compressor for nail guns, but Bostitch, California air tools, and Makita also make the top-rated air compressor for nail guns.
What kind of oil should I use for an air compressor for a nail gun?
Ans: Always use lubricants specifically for pneumatic tools. Otherwise, this can cause damage to your tools.
What size air compressor do I need for a framing nail gun?
Ans: You can use any air compressor from our list. Generally, 6-gallon tank size air compressors with a 2 CFM rating or above are better for the framing nailer. You can look for California air tools as well.