Last updated on August 4th, 2022 at 03:05 am
Are you looking for best air compressor for painting cars? Air compressors are powerful tools that provide a consistent and smooth air flow so that you can paint your car easily without any damage to the car. These air compressors are used to have nice uniform layers of paint on the car that give the appearance of a brand new factory look.
Do you want to get best air compressor available in the market, but cannot decide which one to choose as there are many options available in the market, each one claiming to be providing best results? We have made this best air compressor for automotive air tools review underlining the details of top 8 best products available in the market.
What to look for when buying best air compressor for painting cars; buying guide
There are many things that you need to consider before buying a best air compressor to paint your car, in order to make sure that your work is hassle free.
These factors are described below;
- Power:
Power rating of painting air compressor is the first thing to consider. Many compressors available in the market are electric and thus, you need to consider the voltage rating to be sure that they will be compatible for you. Some countries have 110- 120 volt electrical grids while others have 220- 240 volts, so it will be preferable to have a 120-240 volts adapter for any auto paint air compressor to work.
Simultaneously, horsepower rating also suggests the strength of the motor so, however high the horse power rating, the better will be the air compressor. This will ensure that the compression is faster which will result in high max pressure and fast flow rate of paint.
- Cubic feet per minute:
This value determines the rate by which the compressor will deliver air at a set pressure. The higher the value of air compression delivered at a certain pressure level, the better will be the performance of the compressor. You should go for the air compressor which provide a generally higher level of CFM than your spray gun requires, otherwise the spray will not be evenly coated.
- Pressure:
Many spray guns have a set limit of pressure they require to work optimally, so you need to consider the level of pressure an air compressor provides so that you can have a graceful coating of paint on your car. Higher PSI rate is beneficial for the user as it allows you to use this compressor with a range of tools other than your spray gun. You can use this air compressor with hammers, ratchets and impact wrenches other than just your spray guns.
- Tank size:
The tank of an air compressor is an important part as the air it requires to provide when using the compressor at peak demand is stored in the tank. The air stored at high pressure in this reservoir provides the boost to the sprayer, so the larger the tank is, the higher amount of air will be stored inside the tank. As a result, higher amount of air will easily boost any sprayer which demand higher power to start. The ideal size of an air compressor tank is 60 gallon as this can store enough air to kick start any pneumatic tool easily.
- Portability:
Many auto paint air compressors weigh more than 150 pounds which can be a bit heavier to carry around and thus, can be difficult to transport. However, if you have only one place on which you will place your car and paint it, the weight of the compressor will not be a problem. But if you will be moving the air compressor around you garage or workplace often, then a lightweight and portable compressor will suit you best. There are many air compressors available that come with wheels and handles so that you can move them around easily.
Best air compressor for painting cars
Now that you have the idea about which things to consider when going to buy a best air compressor for auto body work, let us have a look at these top 8 air compressors in the market.
1. California 10020C Car painting air compressor:
Key features:
- 70 decibels of quiet function
- 0 HP moto
- 1680 RPM
- 125 PSI at max
- 3000 hours of working
The California Air Ultra quiet air is the best quiet air compressor available in the market as it generates only 70 decibels of sound even while working at top speed. The powerful 2.0 HP motor provides you with efficient working and amazing performance. The motor of this best garage air compressor operated at 1680 RPM, leaving no room for any wear.
This best auto air compressor provides you with 6.40 CFM at 40 PSI, and 5.30 CFM at 90 PSI, while providing you with 125PSI at max. The compressor makes sure you use your air compressor paint spray gun for however long you want thanks to the overload protector that doesn’t let it heat at all.
Pros
- Ultra-silent functioning
- Powerful motor
- Doesn’t overheat at all
- Allows you to use it as long as you require
- 3000 hours working without any wear
- Dual piston pump for ultimate durability
- 10 gallon tank
- Accompanied wheel kit with set
Cons
- Lacks the high horse power
Customer review:
The tank is very quiet and seeing as I bought it for its noiseless operation, I think it is almost perfect. The air compressor works with a very little vibration level.
2. California 8010 Ultra quiet Air compressor:
Key features:
- 60 decibels ultra-quiet functioning
- 8 gallons tank
- 0 HP motor
- 1680 RPM
- 120 PSI at max.
The California 8010 is the top rated air compressor due to its ultra-quiet function which is 60 decibels making it the quietest air compressor in the market. The durable body is made of solid stainless steel that provides heavy duty functioning.
The 8 gallons capacity of air storage with the light weight of the model make it one of the best air compressor in the market. The weight of this portable air compressor for painting is only 54 lbs. making it easier to move around. The 1.0 powerful motor spins faster to provide 1680 RPM.
Pros
- Noiseless ultra-quiet operation
- Durable stainless steel body
- Lightweight and easily portable
- Fast motor
- Long use without any damage
- Anti-corrosion and anti-rust coating
Cons
- Doesn’t provide high horse power
Customer review:
Great product. I wish I had bought it before wasting time and money on other products. Its operation is very quiet. It takes very little time to fill up. It holds constant pressure without any leakage.
3. Rolair VT25 Big Wheeled compressor :
Key features:
- Variety of uses
- 5 HP motor
- 110 PSI
- 3 gallon tank
- 3400 RPM
This best industrial air compressor that can be used in factories and workshops as a best air compressor for automotive painting. The Rolair Air compressor can be used with 4 framing guns and 6 trimming guns easily and it generates high PSI which provides higher pressure for even coating of paint on cars.
This best brand air compressor features splash lubrication which provides long pump life and has a big 5.3 gallon tank that is superb for an air gun. The cast iron cylinder is very strong and durable which means that this smallest air compressor for painting can be used for a long period of time without any need of repairing.
The rolair air compressor also provides handle which lets you move it around easily without any hassle, making it the best portable air compressor for painting.
Pros
- Runs on 110 PSI
- Easily portable due to the handle
- Powerful motor
- Long pump life
- Durable cast iron body
- Ideal for industry and workshop use
Cons
- Expensive
- Doesn’t provide much air storage space
Customer review:
I have been using this air compressor for 6 years and it is still as good and reliable as the first day. I use it for wet polishing and stone carving. I had to add an extra 10 gallon tank and I am very satisfied with it.
4. POWERMATE VX 80 gallons Electric Air compressor:
Key features:
- 80 gallons tank for pressurized air storage
- 15 AMP motor
- Multi-purpose use
- High quality cast-iron construction
This durable best value air compressor is highly reliable and has a large capacity which means that you can paint your car in a quick manner of time. This is an amazingly good air compressor for automotive work as it can holds 80 gallons of air and has a strong motor that means that it provides you with such strong pressure that you can use it for long time without damaging the machine.
The operation is quite and the affordable price makes it best budget air compressor available in the market. Even though it is very low price, the quality is formidable and can be compared to any highly expensive good air compressor for painting cars.
This best air compressor for painting cars has a cast iron body with a cast iron crank case and an oil lubricated pump, which means that this product is heavy weight but it still is high quality and provides a professional paint finish to the car surface.
Pros
- Reliable and durable
- Long life use
- Large capacity
- Professional paint finish
Cons
- Heavy weight
Customer review:
It is very durable and definitely worth the money. We have had this air compressor for a long time and it still works as good as first day.
5. Industrial air IL1682066 Car painting air compressor:
Key features:
- 6 HP motor
- 20 gallons air holding space
- 135 max. PSI
- 120 voltage
- Easily convertible to 240 volt
This best air compressor for home garage provides reliable power and performance. The motor is 1.5 HP and provides you with amazing speed with a special V-twin cylinder technology. The best air compressor for painting cars provides 6.2 CFM at 40 PSI, 5.3 CFM at 90 PSI and the maximum PSI you are getting is 135.
This best air compressor for air tools is connectable to a 120 voltage outlet but is also convertible to 240 volts easily providing you with enough flexibility to use it easily. The oil lubricated pump combine with the advanced belt-drive technology provides amazingly long life which means that you won’t have to care for regular maintenance. Even though the performance of this air compressor is very powerful, the silent operation is what makes it amazingly good air compressor for automotive work.
The 20 gallons air space is enough to perform many difficult tasks easily and the wheels and the front handles attached to the base make it very easy to take it anywhere you want.
Pros
- 6 HP motor provides maximum speed
- Compatible with both types of volt outlets
- Special cylinder technology provides high maintenance
- Quite noiseless operation
- Oil lubricated pump
- Belt drive technology
Cons
- Expensive
Customer review:
The compressor is super quiet. It is actually 2 times quieter than the last one. I use it with brad nailer, air ratchet, air wrench and I’ve had no problem at all. I am very happy with this air compressor.
6. Porter cable pancake compressor c2002:
Key features:
- 150 PSI max.
- 120 volts
- 6 gallons tank
- Heavy duty pump
This lightweight and high power air compressor can be referred to as the best small air compressor for home use. Even though its size is small and it is easy to carry around, the power it provides can be reckoned with. This best size air compressor for home garage provide you with 150 PSI at max, while providing you with 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI.
The heavy duty pump and high powered motor is enough to compensate for the fact that this best mid size air compressor has small tank.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Highly efficient motor
- Heavy duty pump
- Console cover to keep the vital components protected
Cons
- Small capacity
- Can be improved in durability
Customer review:
I love this awesome compressor. It provides remarkable ease and convenience. I use it for many purposes such as; a 2” finish nailer, a 3” framing nailer and for blowing dirt and dust out of many items. i am very happy with my purchase.
7. Makita mac5200 Air compressor for painting cars:
Key features:
- 0 HP motor
- 140 PSI at max.
- Large industrial filter
The highly powerful motor of this best air compressor for home use and industrial use provide efficient performance. The built-in thermal overload of the motor enhances the overall protection system of the air compressor. The compressor has an industrial style filter, which increases productivity by increasing the air intake. The solid cast iron body can withstand rough use easily.
Pros
- 0 HP highly productive motor
- Built-in thermal overload protection
- Air intake increased by industrial filter
- Solid cast iron body
- Compact and lightweight
- Rugged wheels for easy portability
Cons
- Wheels are not much durable
Customer review:
I have used many other brands and this one is my favorite. The model is solid and very durable. The function is quiet. Wheels arrived in good condition. The air compressor is compact and I change oil after using which keeps it in good condition.
8. Senco PC1010 1 gallon air compressor:
key features:
- 1 gallon tank capacity
- 125 maximum PSI
- 20 to 40 dives delivering per minute
- 68 decibels of sound level
This small sized air compressor has 1 gallon of air capacity so it might not be suitable for painting cars but it is certainly best to keep it as a backup. The lightweight air compressor is very easy to use and you can take it anywhere to use it easily. It is very efficient when considered that it is very small in size.
Pros
- Small size
- Compact and easily portable
- Get back at 120 PSI in just 2 minutes
- Pure aluminum body
- Enhanced durability
- Noiseless operation
Cons
- Not much tank capacity
Customer review:
I have been using it for 6 months and I love it. this compressor is perfect for doing small stuff and punch work. It is well built and light in weight. I can easily talk on my phone even while using the compressor. I will definitely more of these for my work.
Conclusion:
Finding a Best air compressor for painting cars is not an easy task, as there are a wide range of products available in the market, and choosing one best from within so many products can be difficult. There are many factors which need to be consider in order to select an air compressor that matches your requirements.
If you are a car owner who want to paint your car occasionally, your needs will be different from mechanic who will have a job of painting cars regularly, so you need to select an air compressor that will match your lifestyle. For the regular workers, a best high functioning air compressor with quiet and powerful motor will be necessary as they will want a heavy duty performance.
Whether you select an affordable more portable air compressor or a high quality heavy duty one, depends on your choice and the need of your job, so we suggest you to act wisely.
Faq’s:
Question 1: what size air compressor do i need to paint a car?
Answer: an ideal air compressor t paint car should have a capacity of 50 gallons and above.
Question 2: is there a spray gun that doesn’t need air compressor?
Answer: it is possible to use other tools in alteration to air compressors, but the preferable tools are air compressors which provide sufficient power to handle any paint sprayer and provide a correct pressure to deliver a correct volume of paint on the cars.
Question 3; what is the best air compressor?
Answer: California air tools make the best air compressors available in the market.
Question 4: what is the most reliable air compressor?
Answer: Porter Cables provides best reliable air compressors with powerful heavy duty motors and long life of the products.
Question 5: air compressor requirements for spray painting?
Answer: air compressors require a tank size of 50 gallons and above in order to boost the spray gun without failing.
