Best Air Compressor Under 300 Dollars For Home Garage & Shop
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DIY-ers, homeowners and even contractors can’t miss the benefits of an air compressor. There is an endless list of things you can do with an air compressor, from inflating, bolting, wrenching to framing or finishing. A right air compressor is the key to the success of your next DIY projects.
If you are still wandering around the market and don’t know where to start, we have here a list of 9 best air compressors under $300 for your different needs. Whether you are a casual DIY-er or you have a shop to run, you can find what you need here. Read on!
| Image | Product | Features | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Editor’s Choice Craftsman CMEC6150K |
| |
 | High PSI Dewalt DWFP55126 |
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 | High CFM For Shop California Air Tools 4620AC |
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 | Best Air Compressor Nailer Combo PORTER-CABLE PCFP12234 3-Tool Combo Kit |
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 | Ultra Quiet Option California Air Tools 8010 |
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 | Vertical Option WEN 2289 |
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 | Horizontal Option Stark 3.5HP Ultra Quiet Compressor |
| |
 | Editor’s Choice Porter Cable PXCMF220VW |
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 | More Lightweight Option Briggs & Stratton 074064-00 |
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Best Under-10-Gallon Air Compressor Under 300 Dollars - Best For Quick Jobs Around Home
Craftsman CMEC6150KEditor’s Choice
Pros
- Best value for the money with accessories included
- Fast tire inflation for even trucks and RVs
- Powerful enough for nailers
- Lightweight and compact
- High max PSI allows less intervals when you run air tools
- Simple to use
Cons
- On the noisy side
- The included hose can be better
If you need an air compressor for tires and occasional air tools for your home projects, Craftsman CMEC6150K is made for you. Delivering 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI, it can operate all types of nailers, and it refills quickly.
With 150 max PSI, which is considered high compared to other models of its size, this lightweight and compact air compressor gives you extra tool run time to complete your projects quicklier.
Its oil-free pump requires less maintenance and helps prolong the engine’s lifespan. What we like most about Craftsman CMEC6150K is that it comes with 13 accessory pieces, all at such an affordable price.
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Application Use | Inflating, Bolting, Brad Nailing/Stapling, Finish Nailing, Framing Nailing, Roof Nailing |
| Max PSI | 150 |
| Tank Capacity (Gallons) | 6 |
| Air Delivery SCFM @ 90PSI | 2.6 |
| Noise Level | 82 dbA |
| Weight (lbs) | 31.3 |
| Highlight Features | 13 piece accessory kit included, Lightweight, Oil-free pump |
Craftsman CMEC6150K is an all-around air compressor coming with extra accessories, giving great value for the DIY-ers and weekend warriors.
Dewalt DWFP55126High PSI
Pros
- Longer tool runtime compared to other units of its size
- Ideal for light-duty quick tasks
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Run quiet
- Great for jobs requiring numerous extension cords
- Convenient cord wrap for storage
Cons
- Hose is not included
Sick of your air compressor keeping running out of air before you can finish your job? Then you should consider buying this Dewalt DWFP55126. It offers 165 max PSI and 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI pump, enabling longer tool runtime with quick recovery.
Nailers, staplers, air brushes won’t be a problem to this air compressor. Oil-free pump means maintenance-free and high flow regulator and couplers pump up the performance of pneumatic tools.
This machine also features a ball drain valve for fast and thorough tank draining, 2 couplers for running 2 air tools at the same time and cord wrap for convenient storage. Moreover, it is super lightweight with 32.2 lbs, making it portable for transport and storage.
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Application Use | Inflating, Bolting, Brad Nailing/Stapling, Finish Nailing, Framing Nailing, Roof Nailing, Hobby Painting |
| Max PSI | 165 |
| Tank Capacity (Gallons) | 6 |
| Air Delivery SCFM @ 90PSI | 2.6 |
| Noise Level | 75.5 dbA |
| Weight (lbs) | 32.2 |
| Highlight Features | Extension cord application, Convenient cord wrap, Long tool run time, Oil-free pump |
Noone can find fault in DeWalt quality products, and Dewalt DWFP55126 is no exception.
California Air Tools 4620ACHigh CFM For Shop
Pros
- Super quiet operation
- Twin tank design delivers consistent pressure
- More powerful for high demand tools
- Portable
- Impressively fast recovery
Cons
- Could be better with wheels included
- The frame and control panel could be better built
Your wife complains about your noisy air compressor? Then California Air Tools 4620AC will make your family happy with only 70 dbA of noise level without compromising the power.
Compared to other air compressors of its size, California Air Tools 4620AC delivers much more air with 5.3 SCFM at 90 PSI to handle more power demanding tasks such as running impact wrenches, air drill, paint sprayer and angle grinders. Honestly, it is a must-have tool for any home shop.
Its dual tank design with a total capacity of 4.5 gallons allows running pneumatic tools longer between compressor cycles. Since air flows from the lower tank to the upper one through a pipe, moisture is trapped only in the lower tank and the tank system acts as surge suppression to put out more constant pressure to prolong the lifespan of the air tools.
Moreover, dual tank design reduces the weight for the same volume of air compressed at a certain pressure and allows greater transportability and easier storage compared to a single tank version.
Easy start valve helps start up the motor easily, even in cold weather. The oil-free pump boasts an incredible life cycle before wear out and requires no maintenance.
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Application Use | Stapler, Brad/ Finishing Nailer,Roofing/ Framing Nailer, Impact Wrench, Air Drill, Paint Sprayer, Angle Grinder |
| Max PSI | 125 |
| Tank Capacity (Gallons) | 4.6 |
| Air Delivery SCFM @ 90PSI | 5.3 |
| Noise Level | 70 dbA |
| Weight (lbs) | 64 |
| Highlight Features | 30% less noise, Low amp, Twin aluminum tank, Easy start valve, Oil-free dual piston pump |
With California Air Tools 4620AC featuring less noise and more power, you now have the reason to complain about the noise of your wife’s blender.
PORTER-CABLE PCFP12234 3-Tool Combo KitBest Air Compressor Nailer Combo
Pros
- Great value for the money
- Lightweight air compressor
- Quick recovery
- Solid, high-quality and effective included air tools
- Nail depth is easy to adjust
- Durable and maintenance-free
Cons
- The compressor is a bit loud
- The included hose is a little flimsy
- Nailers tend to jam over time with a lot of usage
Planning on a new project or taking up a new hobby but you don’t have any tool yet? Then consider this Porter-Cable PCFP12234 3-Tool Combo Kit.
With under $300, you will have an light-duty air compressor, a 16 gauge 2-1/2 inch finish nailer, a 18 gauge 2-inch brad nailer and a heavy-duty 3/8 inch crown stapler delivered to your door. How cool is that?
The 6-gallon air compressor is lightweight and with 2.6 SCFM delivered at 90 PSI, it is capable of inflating tires, running brad nailer, stapler, finish nailer and also suitable for hobby painting. Along with the decent capacity tank, the 150 max PSI allows longer tool runtime and maximizes air tool productivity.
The tools included are of excellent quality. The nailer's depth settings for working on different materials, despite some reported jams (I mean nothing is perfect right?), this combo is of great value for DIY-ers.
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Max PSI | 150 |
| Tank Capacity (Gallons) | 6 |
| Air Delivery SCFM @ 90PSI | 2.6 |
| Noise Level | 82 dbA |
| Weight (lbs) | 31.3 |
| Kit Included | 16 GA 2-1/2 inch finish nailer, 18 GA 2-inch brad nailer, 3/8 inch crown stapler, 25 ft. of 1/4 inch air hose, Coupler and plug |
| Highlight Features | Lightweight air compressor, Durable and maintenance-free tool motors, Easy depth adjustment, Quick jam release |
Everything you need for your next DIY project is this Porter-Cable PCFP12234 3-Tool Combo Kit. That's a steal!
California Air Tools 8010Ultra Quiet Option
Pros
- Whisper quiet for indoor use
- Compact for storage and transport
- Reliable and consistent pressure
- Air tight and fast to fill up
- Simple to set up
Cons
- Low handle can bother taller folks
- Tires are small and not durable
If your priority is noise level, not the power, then go with this California Air Tools 8010 air compressor. With just 60 dbA, you don’t ever have to stop your conversations with someone or raise your voice when doing your jobs. I could almost fall asleep with this thing running next to me. No joke!
It is powerful enough to cater for inflating, bolting, stapling, framing, finishing works without a hitch. Recently, I have used it to make built-in shelves and workbenches in my garage and holy cow, I was impressed by how efficiently this little thing works!
It doesn’t take long to refill the tank, and is well-built. Though this unit is not the most lightweight air compressor on the list, it is quite compact and portable for transport and storage.
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Application Use | Tire inflator, Stapler, Brad/ Finishing Nailer, Roofing/ Framing Nailer, Hobby Painting |
| Max PSI | 120 |
| Tank Capacity (Gallons) | 8 |
| Air Delivery SCFM @ 90PSI | 2.2 |
| Noise Level | 60 dbA |
| Weight (lbs) | 54 |
| Highlight Features | Ultra quiet, Low amp draw, 130s to refill |
Your ears (and your neighbors too) will thank you when you decide to purchase this California Air Tools 8010 air compressor.
Best 10-Gallon Air Compressor Under 300 Dollars - Best For Most Power-Hungry Diy Air Tools
WEN 2289Vertical Option
Pros
- Vertical design for easier storage
- Auto-shut-down function for safety
- Never-flat wheels for greater maneuverability
- Easy-to-reach quick drain valve
Cons
- Long refill time
- Not so nice to your ears
WEN 2289 is an excellent tool that can cater power-hungry tools, from impact wrenches, sanders, to spray guns, air ratchets and air hammer. With 150 max PSI and a large tank of 10 gallons, this air compressor makes sure that you run your pneumatic tools continuously and with minimal breaks.
It may not be the most powerful air compressor on the list but in terms of user-friendliness, this unit takes the lead. Anyone who owns a small storage space will appreciate the vertical design that leaves a small footprint. A rubber-padded handle plus the large wheels allow greater maneuverability through various job site terrains.
The unit features an oil-free pump that requires low amp draw, allows easy start even in cold weather and saves you from spending time taking care of the machine. A snap-lock connection coming with the hose connectors prevents air from leaking.
The auto-shut-down feature shuts down the compressor off when the PSI reaches maximum for safer compressing. Though its noise and refill time may exceed those of others on the list, WEN 2289 has no further downsides.
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Max PSI | 150 |
| Pump Type | Oil-free |
| Tank Capacity (Gallons) | 10 |
| Air Delivery SCFM @ 90PSI | 4 |
| Weight (lbs) | 71.5 |
| Highlight Features | Small footprint, Oil-free pump, Large wheels, Easy-to-reach quick drain valve |
WEN 2289 is a safe choice for those who have limited space for storage and time for maintenance and won’t be bothered by a little noise.
Stark 3.5HP Ultra Quiet CompressorHorizontal Option
Pros
- Super affordable
- Portable
- Quieter compared to other units of its size
- Dual lines for multi-tasking
- Build up pressure quickly
- Easy to upgrade and replacement parts are readily available
Cons
- Oil-lubricated pump needs frequent maintenance
- Oil leaks sometimes
- Instructions on assembly and operations are poor
Delivering air flow at 3.5 SCFM at 90 PSI and up to 7.2 CFM at 40 PSI, the Stark 3.5HP, though less powerful than WEN 2289, does good jobs at keeping some high-demand air tools such as impact wrenches and roofing nailers running continuously. I even used it to sand blast some metal parts at 60 PSI and it does the magic.
This unit has an edge on portability compared to WEN 2289. With just 55 pounds and a compact silhouette, you will be happy carrying it around the job sites without difficulty. The greatest thing about this air compressor is how quiet it is when set side by side with other units of its size. It is not “California Air Tools” quiet but definitely nicer to the ears than WEN 2289.
The cylinder is built from cast iron, which ensures longer pump life and less wear. Recovery time is fast thanks to the cast iron pump with big bore cylinder and piston. Large industrial-graded air filter optimizes the air intake and its quality for greater efficiency.
The motor is oil-lubricated, which means it is more durable than oil-less ones, but then you will have to do more maintenance work to maximize its performance.
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Max PSI | 125 |
| Pump Type | Oil-lubricated |
| Tank Capacity (Gallons) | 10 |
| Air Delivery SCFM @ 90PSI | 3.5 |
| Weight (lbs) | 55 |
| Highlight Features | Large air filter, Cast iron pump, Automatic shutoff |
Stark 3.5HP air compressor is a good companion for those who appreciate lightweight and portability over the power.
Best 20-Gallon Air Compressor Under 300 Dollars - Best For Longer Tool Run Time
Porter Cable PXCMF220VWEditor’s Choice
Pros
- Unbeatable Porter-Cable quality
- Take up little space
- Portable with wheels
Cons
- Noisy (Aren’t all compressors?)
- Take a bit longer to build up pressure
The Porter-Cable PXCMF220VW comes with an oil-free induction pump and motor for less maintenance, oil checks and change and dependable performance. The 20-gallon air tank and max pressure of 150 PSI feature a longer run time on power-demanding tools.
Its low voltage start-up cut downs on the current draw and reduces the starting torque on the engine. The twin cast iron pump extends the motor’s lifespan and boosts the compressor’s efficiency.
It delivers an airflow of up to 4 SCFM at 90 PSI and 5 SCFM at 40 PSI, more than enough to operate heavy consumption tools for your next projects at home and job sites. You will wish to purchase more tools to run with it.
The vertical design and 7" semi-pneumatic wheels lend a hand when you have to move the compressor around and the rubber feet adds more stabilization and reduces vibration when the unit is running.
Honestly being in the same room with this compressor kicking off isn't my favorite thing to do, but at least it is fairly quiet regarding its power and size.
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Max PSI | 150 |
| Pump Type | Oil-free |
| Tank Capacity (Gallons) | 20 |
| Air Delivery SCFM @ 90PSI | 4 |
| Noise level | 84 dbA |
| Weight (lbs) | 97 |
| Highlight Features | UL and CSA certified, Twin-V cast iron pump, Low voltage start-up, Fully enclosed shroud |
Porter Cable PXCMF220VW is considered a safe and solid pick for anyone who wants to step up their DIY game.
Briggs & Stratton 074064-00More Lightweight Option
Pros
- Lightweight for its size
- Maneuverable with large wheels and handle
- Take up less storage space
- Easy to adjust tank pressure
- Build up pressure quickly
Cons
- On the noisy side
Portability doesn’t have to come at the expense of power. With this Briggs & Stratton 074064-00 air compressor, you will have the chance to enjoy both.
Its 20-gallon tank, coupled with the powerful 1.5 HP induction motor ensures lasting performance with nailers, impact wrenches, ratchets and more. Next-to-nothing maintenance is needed thanks to the oil-free pump that requires no oil checks or changes.
Large rugged wheels and handles make maneuvering this unit through rough terrains a piece of cake. The reinforced frame keeps the motor housing under protection and prolongs its lifespan. On top of that, for its size and power, it is quite lightweight with only 83 lbs.
However, power does come with noise. So we suggest you should prepare yourself ear protections when you have to work near the compressor.
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Max PSI | 150 |
| Pump Type | Oil-free |
| Tank Capacity (Gallons) | 20 |
| Air Delivery SCFM @ 90PSI | 3.5 |
| Noise level | 87 dbA |
| Weight (lbs) | 83 |
| Highlight Features | Reinforced handle/frame, Large wheels & handle |
With Briggs & Stratton 074064-00 air compressor, your dream of having a powerful, yet portable unit with large tank capacity finally comes true.
How To Choose The Best Air Compressor Under 300 Dollars (Buying Guide)
Does air compressor tank size matter?
Air compressor tank sizes run from 1 gallon all the way to 80 gallons. A large tank simply means more air held inside itself and allows you to run air tools longer before the pressure drops and the motor has to turn on again to refill the tank.
Some tools that require consistent airflow like grinders and sanders require larger tanks than tools operating in short bursts like nail guns. The more the amount of times the motor idles, the longer it can last and the less energy it consumes.
But bear this in mind: When your tools require a lot of air volume to run, a large tank can’t make up for the inadequate CFM. A 5 CFM compressor will never catch up to a 7 CFM air tool no matter how large the tank is.
How much SCFM do I need for air tools?
A lot of us may be confused about the difference between CFM (Cubic feet per minute) and SCFM (Standard cubic feet per minute) when it comes to air compressors. They are both used to measure the volume of air delivered by an air compressor to an air tool.
The difference is SCFM is measured in a controlled environment of 14.5 PSI atmospheric pressure, 68°F and 36% relative humidity. Due to the variations in the environment, an air compressor’s CFM rating is most of the times lower than its SCFM, because the manufacturers rate the CFM at 90 PSI.
So to choose an air compressor, look at the SCFM rating at 90 PSI. The best way is to determine the tool with the highest CFM requirement and multiply it by 1.5.
Here is a chart of some common air tools and their average SCFM @90PSI requirements. If you intend to use these tools daily, it is advisable to multiply the requirements by 4 since the figures are measured based on 25% duty-cycle.
What is a good PSI for an air compressor?
Usually, PSI (Pounds per square inch) is not an important factor to consider when choosing an air compressor. You just need to remember that higher max PSI allows smaller tanks to store more air and operates air tools as long as larger tanks. So if you can’t afford a large tank air compressor, it is always better to opt for a unit with a high max PSI.
Which is better, oil-free or oil-lubricated air compressors?
Oil-free air compressors use self-lubricating materials which allow the motion of piston in the cylinder without using oil. On the contrary, we have many air compressors that use oil-lubricated pumps. Like a car engine, they will need regular oil adding and changing to operate efficiently.
Oil-lubricated air compressors are a common choice among contractors because they boast longer product life and provide the air flow and size for several power-hungry power tools at the same time on the jobsite.
In the meantime, oil-free models are becoming a norm in household and small-duty tasks since they are portable, quiet, maintenance-free, affordable while powerful enough to keep up with quick jobs around home.
Oil-lubed compressors cost two to three times more than an oil-free compressor, but their durability and power make them worth the investment. With proper oil changes and care, oil-lubed air compressors can run from 100 to 15,000 hours.
Oil-free air compressors have a lower cost of ownership because they do not need oil changes and have a more budget-friendly initial purchasing price. However, a low-end oil-free air compressor only lasts 200 hours of use, and with a higher-end product, the lifespan can last up to 2000 hours.
How many decibels does an air compressor produce?
You should keep in mind that more power comes with more noise. While a small air compressor features 60-70 dbA, a larger one can shoot up to 80-100 dbA. 20 dbA may not seem big, but it actually is.
10 dbA higher means the loudness is doubled. An air compressor rated at 80 dbA is twice as noisy at the one rated at 70 dbA, and the one that has 90 dbA is four times as loud. So a minor reduction in decibels (even if it’s 1 or 2) can make a huge difference that is much nicer to your ears.
Will you carry your air compressor around much?
Most of the cases, you will only use the air compressor in our garage and workshop, so you don’t need to pay much attention to its weight and shape. But if you need to work here and there around the home or job sites, this is when weight and shape matters.
If it is impossible to find a lightweight model in a more powerful range, opt for units with large rugged wheels and handle for greater portability. And personally, we prefer air compressors with vertical design since they take up less space in the storage.
Conclusion
Believe us, you won’t regret buying an air compressor because it is so versatile and handy for jobs around your home and garage. For DIY fanatics and weekend warriors, air compressors will be the best gift in this whole world.
We hope you have chosen the best air compressor under 300 for your next project or for your loved ones. Thank you for reading ‘till the end of this post and happy shopping!