Air Compressors
Best Air Compressors for Home Use
An air compressor is a must-have if you want different home and garage projects or tasks done more effortlessly.
Some years ago, air compressors were machines dedicated to industrial settings. However, thanks to technological advancements, you can now buy an air compressor better suited for a less industry-like surrounding, precisely your home.
If you've never considered having an air compressor in your house, you're missing out on all its wonderful benefits. Indeed, the primary advantage of having an air compressor is that it helps with most of the work, especially regarding hammers and wrenches.
These incredible devices ease the effort required to utilize such tools. Oftentimes, air compressors come in handy in cleaning brick and powering tools like hammers, staple guns, and saws. This is good news, as you can now seize putting off these cumbersome tasks once you purchase an air compressor.
Today we review the best air compressors for home use, including their pros and cons and why they stand out.
Here we go!
Best Overall: Makita MAC5200 Air Compressor
Our top pick is the Makita MAC5200. Makita is well-known for its top-quality home improvement gear, and the MAC5200 is no exception!
This is the ideal air compressor if you're looking for something more robust. Its sturdiness, quietness, and compactness are unmatched. Arguably the best thing about the MAC5200 device is its durable build quality.
I found the solid construction quite impressive, especially since it has cast iron through the entire body. Whether you're using it at home or the job site, this beast will endure any challenge.
While some might argue that it's too sturdy for a home-use air compressor, having durable home gear is never a bad idea.
That said, the cast iron does translate to a heavier, thus less portable tool. Nonetheless, it seems the manufacturer did consider this and integrated wheels, making it easier to move it from one place to another.
Regarding the wheels, they, unfortunately, do seem to have a hard time hauling this handy yet heavy equipment. However, it is hushed while working, which I think is a huge advantage for such a powerful air compressor.
It sports a potent 3Hp motor, which at 90 PSI delivers 6.5 CFM. The air tank can hold 5.2 gallons, which sounds less considering its size, but don't fret; it has a swift recovery period. Again, the MAC5200 is an oil-lubricated pump and thus has coolers.
Overall, I found that the Makita MAC5200 is the best air compressor for home use.
Why it stands out
The MAC5200 stands out in terms of power. It is an excellent device for the homeowner who requires to power two framing nailers at the same time or utilize a high-power pneumatic tool like an impact wrench.
Even though most air compressors deliver 2 or 3 CFM at 90 PSI, this impressive device gives more with its increased CFM; thus, it's perfect for home or job site use.
If you are yet to be convinced that this is the best air compressor for home use, check out the pros and cons below.
Makita MAC5200 Pros and Cons
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Conclusion:
With the in-built thermal overload control mechanism, you can rest sure that this device is safe enough to have around your home.
Rating by features
Features 4.0 / 5.0
Ease of use 3.5 / 5.0
Portability 3.5 / 5.0
Design 4.0 / 5.0
Runner-Up: Husky C271H Air Compressor
Second in this review is the Husky C271H. This magnificent device came close to beating the MAC5200 and is certainly worth taking a look at. It has air tanks that can hold 27 gallons, and its optimum pressure stands at 200 PSI, which is quite impressive. All the same, it's relatively weighty, though if you don't mind its heavy weight, this is an excellent air compressor.
What's more, the legible gauges on this air compressor, along with the swift connect system, are an appreciated bonus. The powerful motor of 1.7 HP offers a quiet operation of 78 decibels. Besides, I loved that the package comprises a high-flow controller.
Nevertheless, if portability is essential for you, then this machine might not be a suitable pick. Additionally, this is a corded machine; thus, you'll have to remain close to a power outlet.
Why it stands out
The 27-gallon air tank is why the C271H is a great air compressor. This makes it powerful enough to handle all the tasks around the house effortlessly. Besides, it is affordable, hence won't take off a huge chunk of your savings.
There's no denying that this is an excellent and potent unit for your house.
Husky C271H Pros and Cons
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Conclusion:
Husky has a reputable line of air compressors; hence it's no surprise that this one made its way into our review. The best part is that you won't have to break the bank to purchase it. The 27-gallon tank is quite incredible, and it's the largest we've reviewed. Additionally, it can reach 200 PSI, sufficient for numerous tasks around your home.
Rating by features
Design 4.5 / 5.0
Features 4.5 / 5.0
Ease of use 4.0 / 5.0
Portability 3.5 / 5.0
Best Portability: Makita MAC2400
Lastly is yet another highly efficient product from Makita; MAC2400. Seeing as the two options above aren't as portable as some would like, I thought it best to include a mobile option. With this model, Makita doesn't leave much to be desired, regardless of the task you have in mind.
This is one of the models on the Big Bore lineup, and it features a bigger cylinder and piston to compress air better and at the same time surge CFM. At 90 PSI, this unit delivers 4.2CFM, and with dual fixtures, you can have two pneumatic tools simultaneously without giving up performance or pressure.
Again, the MAC2400 is an oil lubricated compressor; hence, you'll have to do basic maintenance to keep it working at maximum power. Nonetheless, there are advantages to having oil-lubricated units.
For instance, they usually maintain low friction, and the components don't overheat. This results in an extended lifespan provided you properly take care of it. Moreover, oil-lubricated air compressors are frequently quieter, with the MAC2400 running at 78 decibels.
Why it stands out
The MAC2400 has plenty to offer, including its unique design. Again, this is a great option for the homeowner searching for a tool to do larger projects and simple tasks. It's perfect for outdoor functions as it provides an optimal protection level.
Makita MAC2400 Pros and Cons
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Conclusion:
It features additional safeguards like the oil drain, and oil sight gas, to mention a few. Lastly, the Makita MAC2400 stands out thanks to its portable, compact build and the fact that it has excellent customer reviews online.
Rating by features
Lightweight 3.0 / 5.0
Portability 3.8 / 5.0
Maneuverability 3.8 / 5.0
Noise level 4.4 / 5.0
In conclusion
The Makita MAC5200 is our top pick due to its potent CFM, which is relatively high for a home-use air compressor. This is the way to go if you need to operate an impact wrench or work any demanding task efficiently!
