The Best Portable Air Compressor For Framing Nailer In 2024

Sarah Combs By, Sarah Combs
Updated
Best Portable Air Compressor For Framing Nailer
Best Portable Air Compressor For Framing Nailer

Our Top Picks

1. Best Of The Best: CRAFTSMAN Compressor Combo Kit, 6 Gallon, Pancake, 3 Tool (CMEC3KIT)

A perfect starter set for the home-owner looking for a little more than just a handheld air compressor. The CMEC6150 Compressor features an oil-free design, 150 max PSI and is lightweight, portable and proudly made in the USA from global materials. Read Review

2. Runner Up: BOSTITCH Pancake Air Compressor, Oil-Free, 6 Gallon, 150 PSI

Never worry about your compressor getting too heavy and bulky. This BOSTITCH unit is lightweight, weighing in at only 29 pounds, making it easy to carry and store so you can keep your work area neat. Plus, with a 6-gallon tank capacity and 150 maximum PSI, the electric air compressor can run for up to six hours on a single tank of gas. Read Review

3. Best Energy Efficient: Bostitch Air Compressor Combo Kit, 3-Tool (BTFP3KIT)

It's always the right tool for the job when you have this Bostitch Air Compressor Combo Kit. With a nailer, compressor and hose, this kit lets you get your project done in no time. Read Review

4. Best Performance: DEWALT Pancake Air Compressor, 6 Gallon, 165 PSI (DWFP55126)

The DEWALT Pancake Air Compressor gives you the power and speed you need to finish your toughest projects. Its powerful 165 PSI allows for quick and efficient use, while the 2 universal couplers make it easier to work with others in a tight space. Read Review

Air compressors are the modern day must-have for every home and workshop. They help you in many ways, from repairing lawnmowers to assembling furniture and from painting walls to maintaining vehicles. If you own a small shop or an apartment, it gets tough to run it without having a dedicated compressor.

They are indispensable when working with wood, siding, stucco, metal, tile and so on. These machines help you get the work done much faster than other tools would. So if you’re looking for a perfect portable air compressor for framing nailer, here’s our top pick.

Our team spent about 16 hours researching, sifting, and selecting many high-quality models. CRAFTSMAN Compressor Combo Kit, 6 Gallon, Pancake, 3 Tool (CMEC3KIT) is the product that receives the highest award from us. In addition to the other suggestions on this list, which are equally deserving of your consideration, we have also compiled a helpful buyer's guide to assist you in making your decision.

Our Top Picks

  • CMEC6150 Air Compressor: Proudly Made in the USA with Global Materials in Jackson, Tennessee
  • 18 GA POWER: CMPBN18SB 18 Ga. Brad Nailer has the power to drive up to 2-in. brad nails
  • 16 GA POWER: CMPFN16SB 16 Ga. Finish Nailer has the power to drive up to 2-1/2-in. finish nails
  • HEAVY-DUTY: CMPCS38 3/8-in. Stapler has the power to drive up to 9/16-in. heavy-duty staples
  • PORTABLE: CMEC6150 Compressor with 150 max PSI is lightweight, portable, and oil-free
  • 150 max PSI 6.0 gallon tank (22.7 L) and 2.6 SCFM* delivered @ 90 PSI pump enable long tool run time with quick recovery of the electric air compressor
  • Two universal couplers to easily support two users
  • 29 lb. weight makes unit easy to carry and store
  • BOSTITCH high efficiency motor of the 6 gallon air compressor is made for easy start up in cold weather or extension cord application [14 GA or larger, 50 ft. (15.2 m) or less]
  • The portable air compressor has a long-life oil-free, maintenance-free pump for convenient use
  • BOSTITCH high flow regulator and couplers to maximize air tool performance
  • 78.5 dBA** operational noise level for a quiet work environment
TOP Choice #3 Bostitch Air Compressor Combo Kit, 3-Tool (BTFP3KIT)
Our Score:
9.5
Bostitch
  • BTFP71875 heavy-duty 3/8-inch crown stapler drives 3/8-inch crown staples from 1/4-inch to 9/16-inch and 18GA brad nails from 1/2-inch to 5/8-inch
  • SB-1850BN 18 GA brad nailer in the air compressor combo kit drives 18GA brad nails from 5/8-inch to 2-inch
  • SB-1664FN 16 GA straight finish nailer drives 16 GA straight finish nails from 1-1/4-inch to 2-1/2-inch
  • 1/4-inch x 15' PVC air hose includes fittings
  • High flow regulator and couplers of DEWALT portable air compressor are designed to maximize air tool performance
  • 2 universal couplers to easily support two users
  • Outlet tube rerouted to avoid being catch point
  • 165 max PSI 6.0 gallon tank (22.7 L) and 2.6 SCFM delivered @ 90 PSI pump, enable long tool run time with quick recovery for the portable air compressor
  • Ball drain valve for quick & thorough tank draining
  • 78.5 dBA noise level of the 6 gallon air compressor is made for a quiet work environment
  • High efficiency motor of the electric air compressor is made for easy start up in cold weather or extension cord application. [14 ga or larger, 50 ft. (15.2 m) or less]
  • 30 lb weight makes unit easy to carry/store
  • Long life oil free pump for maintenance free operation
  • Console cover protects controls and is removable to allow easy repair
  • Compressor features long-life oil-free, maintenance-free pump for convenient use
  • SB-1850BN 18 GA brad nailer drives 18GA brad nails from 5/8-inch to 2-inch
  • SB-1664FN 16 GA straight finish nailer drives 16 GA straight finish nails from 1-1/4-inch to 2-1/2-inch
  • BOSTITCH high efficiency motor for easy start up in cold weather or extension cord application [14 ga or larger, 50 ft. (15.2 m) or less]
  • 78.5 dBA operational noise level for a quiet work environment
  • 150 max PSI 6.0 gallon tank (22.7 L) and 2.6 SCFM delivered at 90 PSI pump, enable long tool run time with quick recovery for the air compressor combo kit
  • 1/4-inch x 15 ft. PVC air hose includes fittings
  • 3.0 SCFM delivered @ 90 PSI pump, 2.5 gallon tank and 200 max PSI of the portable air compressor enables large amount of nails to be fired and provides quick recovery
  • Dual quick couplers to easily support 2 nailers
  • Durable oil free pump of the electric air compressor provides extended maintenance-free operation
  • Low 12 amp draw motor provides easy start-up and reduces breaker tripping
  • Low 71.5* dBA of DEWALT portable air compressor allows for quieter operation (*Tested per ISO3744)
  • Convenient cord wrap for easy storage
  • Compressor can be operated/stored in either the vertical or horizontal position
  • Roll cage and control panel provide protection to key compressor components
  • Ball valve drain allows for quick and thorough tank draining
  • Lightweight (36 lbs), thin (12.5 inch) and compact design is easy to carry and store
  • 1.5 max HP (running) motor of the portable air compressor draws only 12 amps for easy start up and extension cord application [14 GA or larger, 50 ft. (15.2 m) or less] without tripping circuit breakers
  • 150 max PSI 1.2 gallon tank (4.5 L) and 2.8 SCFM* delivered @ 90 PSI pump, enable long tool run time with quick recovery
  • Integrated cord wrap for improved portability
  • LED ON/OFF switch lets you know when the compressor is on to eliminate low-pressure misfires
  • 1.2 gallon compact design of the electric air compressor weighs 23.5 lbs. for easy portability
  • Integrated control panel with roll cage protects gauges from jobsite damage
  • Convenient on-board storage pocket for tools and cord wrap
  • PORTABLE: CMEC6150 CRAFTSMAN air compressor with 150 max PSI is lightweight, portable, and oil-free
  • IMMEDIATE USE: Hose included for immediate use
  • DRIVING POWER: CMPBN18SB 18 GA Brad Nailer has the power to drive up to 2-inch brad nails
  • CMEC6150 portable air compressor is proudly made in the USA with Global Materials in Jackson, Tennessee
  • Oil-free dual-piston pump designed for maintenance-free operation
  • Quiet Series compressor design at only 58 dB for operator and crew comfort; ideal for indoor use
  • Compressor features a lightweight design for increased job site portability, an oil-free dual-piston pump designed for maintenance-free operation, and a cord wrap for convenient AC power cord storage
  • Compressor runs at a lower RPM (1,750) resulting in longer motor and pump life
  • Complete roll-cage construction provides the compressor with protection to withstand a variety of job-site, transporting, and storage environments
  • AWARDS: 2014-2019 Pro Preferred Brand for pneumatic nailers by Builder & Developer Magazine
  • LOW MAINTENANCE: Oil-free design for essentially no maintenance
  • LIGHTWEIGHT: At only 41 lbs, it is 22% lighter compared to a traditional twin-stack compressor
  • CAPACITY: 6-gallon tank provides all the air to run a crew
  • VERSATILITY: Simultaneously runs 2 framing nailers or 2 roofing nailers or 2 siding nailers or 3 finish nailers or 5 brad nailers
  • DURABLE: All metal handle outlasts the harshest demands of the jobsite
  • MORE PRESSURE: At 200 PSI, this compressor offers 25% greater PSI than a basic pancake compressor
  • 30% MORE AIR FLOW: 4 CFM @ 90 PSI allows for multiple large body nailers to be used on a single compressor
  • PRODUCTIVITY: Consistently drives nails flush with no delay

What to Look For in a best portable air compressor for framing nailer?

Until now, numerous customers trust the information and advice we offer them, which means our offers to you are accurate and up to date all the time. This objective is being pursued with tremendous zeal and attention. 

It's necessary to keep in mind the following points for selecting best portable air compressor for framing nailer:

Additional Features

Air compressors can be equipped with additional features to improve their durability and/or useability.
Roll cages with built-in steel frames or aluminum frames protect the compressor. These are especially useful in situations where the portable compressor might fall off a truck's tailgate.
The oil-cooled compressors are oil-cooled and use oil to lubricate their compressor pumps. They stay cooler, which extends their life expectancy. Low-oil sensors may be included in these models to prevent overheating and machine running dry.
Additional features include quick-connect adapters and thermal overload protection, easily operable petcock drain valves, which allow you to drain a compressor’s water buildup quickly.

Tank Size

Larger air compressors are usually attached to tanks that hold compressed air. You might be able to run your tools for longer than the compressor can turn off. You will need a bigger tank if you are using high volumes of air. This is usually 6 gallons.

Noise Rating

The loudest and most annoying machines in the air compressor world, particularly the old beasts, can be very disruptive. Tool companies know this. Machines that produce close to 70 decibels (db) are similar to washing machines.

Performance Rating

Each air compressor comes with an SCM (standard cubic feet per minute) performance rating. The compressor's performance rating is a measure of how much air it can produce. You will need to use this number to determine the power output and compare it to any other pneumatic devices you intend to connect to the compressor. If you plan to use a nailgun with a rating above 4 SCFM, your compressor must be able to deliver that force.

Weight

It can be difficult to transport a large air compressor. Although weight isn't the only factor that should be considered when considering mobility, it is the most important.

Airflow Rate

The volume of compressed air at 90 pounds per square in (psi) is the metric used to rate portable air compressors. The standard cubic feet per hour (CFM) is the unit of measurement. This is the most crucial characteristic to look for when buying an air compressor.

Power Source

Gas or electricity can power air compressors. The majority of electric units run at standard household voltage, with the exception of extremely powerful products. They are suitable for indoor use because they emit no fumes. The convenience of gas-powered compressors is greater, as you do not have to plug them into the outlet. They are also more powerful. They should not be used in areas that are poorly ventilated.

FAQs

Is It Worth Getting A Compressor With A Lower Noise Level?

Yes. We believe that the most important factor in determining a compressor’s sound volume is its tank size. Most compressors that we examined had a volume between 60 and 80 dB. Although it may not seem like much, keep in mind that every 10 decibels, the volume of sound doubles. A compressor with 70 dB sound twice as loud as one which emits 80 dB. A 60-dB compressor will produce four times the noise level of an 80-dB unit. In other words, 60 dB corresponds to normal conversation. 70 dB equals a hair dryer or vacuum cleaner, while 80 dB is equivalent to a loud restaurant or mower. A volume above 85 dB is considered to be harmful for the hearing. A lower level of noise is better for your hearing. It can also make it easier to chat or listen to music while you are listening.

Can I Use A Tank With A Tankless Air Compressor?

Yes! Yes! If you are only using your tankless compressor for air-hungry items like drills or air ratchets, but still want to have the ease of a tankless compressor all the time, this is a great option. To increase the compressor's capacity, an extra tank can be attached to an already existing tank. However, adding a tank will slow down the compressor's ability to fill your tank with water and achieve the desired pressure. This can lead to a higher chance of your compressor going out of commission.

How Much Air Pressure Do I Need?

The purpose of your compressor will determine how much pressure you require. Your compressor should only be used for the purpose of inflating cars tires. You will need to have pressures at least 90 PSI, and possibly higher than 110 PSI if you plan on using the portable compressor to power your air tools. Every tool is different and requires different pressures, so make sure you check them before buying an air compressor. You should also check the flow rate of your air compressors, as pressure is just half of what it takes to run an air tool.

How Do You Use A Portable Air Compressor?

A portable compressor can be used with many pneumatic tools such as a paint sprayer or nail gun. Simply connect the pneumatic tool you prefer to the portable compressor using the air compressorhose. After the compressor is turned on, wait for pressure to build inside the tank. The compressor will shut off once the pressure reaches its maximum. The stored air in the compressor can be released by pressing the trigger of a nail gun or paint sprayer. This will allow the sprayer to produce the required force to apply the paint to the material. Remember that the compressed air will run out as soon as it is used up. The compressor will turn on again and pull in additional air.

What Size Air Compressor Do I Need For My Garage?

The common question can be compared to asking for the size of your engine in your car. It all depends on how you plan to use it. Many buyers refer to the size of their tank in terms of gallons. We'll begin with the size, but this is only a small part. The compressor's tank stores compressed air. Therefore, the larger the tank, the more time you can work with it without having to stop and fill the tank. A compressor that has a tank of one or two gallons will need to stop for refilling much more often than one with a larger, ten-gallon-or greater tank. A smaller tank will work well for jobs that do not require continuous pressure over extended periods of time. A spray painter will need a bigger tank to ensure that the paint does not get interrupted. Experts recommend using a 60-gallon or larger tank for spray painting cars, as it requires long, continuous applications.

Should I Get An Oil-free Compressor?

Portable compressors can now be described as "oilless" or "oil-free". This means that the interior components are coated with friction-reducing coatings, instead of traditional oil lubrication. The main benefit is that you won't need to change your oil. All of our compressors were tested for garage usage. However, the oil content varied between the larger models. If all other specifications are identical, then we would consider the oil-free model to be an advantage.

Why Do Portable Air Compressors Come In Various Shapes?

Manufacturers can be creative in designing compressors with different shapes. The compressor can be separated into smaller containers to improve portability.
Sometimes, however, they take up less space. A horizontal compressor, for example, can be placed under a table, but a vertical compressor is better suited to a corner.

In general, we keep collecting and researching new information for best portable air compressor for framing nailer. Please pay more attention to checking our website regularly or subscribe to our newsletter to read the latest updates.

Along with product-related issues, we can also support you more. So please give us your feedback and response whenever you need it. It will be a significant motivation for us to improve everything


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About Sarah Combs

Sarah Combs
Sarah Combs is a visual editor who loves to travel and hike. She enjoys taking photographs of her journeys, which help her to remember the beautiful places she's been to. Sarah is grateful for the opportunities that she has had to see the world and looks forward to continuing to explore new places in the future. Sarah is the editor of CampfireHQ since 2021 and has written on a variety of topics, from camping, and hiking to other outdoor guides.

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