Best Air Compressor For an Impact Wrench – Top 12 Picks Reviewed!

Impact Wrench is commonly found in automotive industries. It can be used to tighten or remove bolts and screws and retighten or remove the lug nuts from the tires.

But they need air pressure which only the best and most robust compressor can provide. When looking for the best air compressor for an impact wrench. You need to consider your wrench first and get accurate information about the tool and its requirements.

But what if I tell you we’ve done almost your work and gathered some of the best air compressors that can come along good with impact wrenches.

Mainly in the compressor, you need to consider its CFM rating, HP, PSI, and most importantly, air capacity, which is Gallons. There are more features that we will discuss further in this article.

It will make your searching process quicker and highlight some of the best brands and their best features compressor with their pros and cons so that you can choose the suitable air compressor for you.

Best Air Compressor for an Impact Wrench

1. PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor (C2002)

Specification:

These are the following features and specifications of the porter-cable compressor:

• It has a tank pressure maximum of up to 150 PSI, allowing it a longer running time.
• Works at 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI with quick recovery time
• It has a 6-Gallon tank.
• It comes with pancake style tank
• It has rubber feet and a water drain valve.
• The compressor works on a low amp of 120V.
• Motor easily starts in cold weather.
• It is an oil-free/maintenance-free compressor.
• Console cover gives protection with shrouds and handles to make transportation easier.
• Air couplers with two regulators.

Porter is an incredible air compressor because of its highly efficient features, allowing it to easily handle an impact wrench. The tank allows more run time with a fast recovery time because of its 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI.

This electric air compressor is a pancake-style air compressor which is an ideal portable air compressor for impact wrenches. This design compressor provides portability and stability and comes with a water drain valve and rubber feet.

This low amp motor works on 120V and easily starts in cold weather: You can use an extension cord. This oil-free compressor does not require maintenance. It comes with shrouds, handles, and consoles to provide extra protection to components, easily carry compressor and transport it.

 

2. BOSTITCH Pancake Air Compressor

Specification:

These are the following features and specifications Bostitch air compressor:

• It is an oil-free/maintenance-free compressor.
•  It has a tank pressure of a maximum of 150 PSI
• It comes with a 6-Gallon tank.
• Working on 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI, with recovery time.
• It can work in cold weather
• It is a quiet compressor with 78.5 dBA noise levels.
• Weightless compressor with only 29lb.
• It is a high flow regulator and couplers to maximize performance.
• Two universal couplers.

Bostitch is a portable air compressor that provides an air compressor that does not need any maintenance and is easy to use. This pancake air compressor is an oil-free compressor, and its pump does not require maintenance, making it convenient.

This 6-Gallon air tank capacity compressor is considered small, but its high flow regulators and couplers maximize its performance. Working on 2.6 SCFM ensures the quick recovery time of this electric compressor.

This electric compressor has high efficiency and easy startup in cold weather. You can use any extension with this compressor without any need for a professional hand. This less noisy air compressor has only a 78.5 decibel sound level.

 

3. CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor (CMEC6150K)

Specification:

These are the following features and specifications of the Craftsman air compressor:

• It is a portable air compressor
• The compressor comes with a 6-Gallon tank capacity.
• It is an oil-free/maintenance-free compressor.
• It is a durable and long-life air compressor
• The maximum working pressure of this compressor is 150PSI
• It works on 2.6 SCFM allowing quick recovery time.

Craftsman air compressors are simple and easy-to-use air compressors that provide high maintenance and efficient performance. For impact wrenches, this portable air compressor is an ideal choice.

This compressor is made in the USA with global Materials in Jackson. With its 6-Gallon capacity tank, you can use any pneumatic tool with it easily. Providing portability and high efficiency, it does not need any maintenance because of its durable pump.

Providing a maximum of 150 PSI pressure to ensure cut-inch pressure working gives a variety of applications. Working at 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI makes it quick in recovery time.

 

4. DEWALT Pancake Air Compressor

Specification:

These are the following features and specifications of the Dewalt air compressor:

• It comes with a 6-Gallon tank capacity.
• It works on 2.6 SCFM at a 90 PSI pump, allowing quick recovery time.
• The motor has great capabilities for working in cold weather.
• Quiet compressor with only 78.5 dBA noise level.
• Works on high flow regulator to help maximize air tool performance.
• It is an oil-free/maintenance-free compressor.
• It comes with a console cover to give protection
• Outlet tube rerouted.

Dewalt is one of the great compressors because of its high-efficiency features and performance ability. To use an impact wrench with this compressor, you do not need to worry: because of its 2.6 SCFM. The tool will work well.

This compressor provides support for various pneumatic tools and delivers more SCFM to allow the compressor to run for a longer time and make its recovery time quick. This cord wrap provides convenience and easy storage on any job site or home.

This portable air compressor is great for impact wrench because of its 6-Gallon capacity with an easy startup in even cold weather. You can use extension cords with it without any professional help.

It is a less noisy compressor and comes with regulators and couplers to maximize its performance. Its oil-free features make it less maintenance needed compressor and console provide protection.

 

5. Makita MAC2400

Specification:

These are the following features and specifications of the Makita air compressor:

• The compressor has a cast iron pump.
• It comes with a big bore cylinder and piston.
• Working on 2.5 HP, which is powerful and helps the tool.
• The compressor produces 4.2 CFM air at 90 PSI.
• It has low noise levels.
• It has roll-cage construction to protect extreme job sites.
• It has fewer chances of tripping because of the low amp.
• It is an oil-lubricated compressor and lasts longer.
• Cast iron reduces wear.

Makita air compressor is great and provides many amazing compressors for users. The best air compressor, which is oil-lubricated and makes them last longer, is Makita MAC2400, and it is a cast-iron pump design compressor.

This compressor comes with a big bore cylinder with a piston: that is designed to give more protection and allow faster recovery time to the compressor and avoid delays in work. It provides durability and high performance.

It is a powerful air compressor with 2.5 HP, with a 4-pole motor design that produces 4.2 CFM at only 90 PSI. This increases productivity and reduction in noise levels. It is a roll-cage-designed compressor to provide extra protection at the job sites and indoors.

 

6. Makita MAC5200

Specification:

These are the following features and specifications of the Makita air compressor:

• The compressor has a large capacity tank with 5.2-Gallons.
• The compressor has a cast iron pump.
• It comes with a big bore cylinder with a piston.
• It has the power of 3.0 HP.
• The motor produces 6.5 CFM at 90 PSI.
• The compressor is oil-lubricated and has reduced wear.
• Cast iron reduces wear.
• Handles to provide easy transportation.

Makita provides many amazing impact wrench handling compressors, one of which is the Makita MAC5200. It is a big-bore designed with an engineered pump cylinder compressor, and this compressor comes with a piton which provides higher output for two nailers.

Having fewer noise levels and great for indoor and job sites: who would like to skip it? It is powered by a 3HP motor and a built-in thermal cylinder for protection. This compressor has a big bore with a fast recovery time and creates less noise.

It is an oil-lubricated compressor with durability, and these compressors last longer than oil-free. This compressor has automotive-style air filters to increase air intake and provide efficiency.

The 5.2 Gallon compressor does not count as a small compressor, and it has quite a big tank with 140 PSI to use two nailers easily. Constructed with roll-cage allows it to protect the pump and motor.

c

 

7. California Air Tools 10020C

Specification:

These are the following features and specifications of the California air compressor:

• The compressor is quiet with 70 dBA noise levels.
• It is an oil-free/maintenance-free compressor.
• It is a powerful compressor with 2 HP
• It has low amps of 7.0
• It works on 6.40 CFM at 40 PSI.
• It has a maximum working of 30-40 minutes.
• It has a 10-Gallon, large capacity tank.
• The maximum working prI.essure is 125 PSI.

Provides many other California quiet compressor, which does not require maintenance: this series is one of them. It is an ultra-quiet with an oil-free featured air compressor, designed to be the coolest compressor working at 2HP with only 70 decibels of sound level.

It is a new powerful HP compressor which works on a 1680 RPM rating to reduce wear and sound levels. This design increases the duty cycle and allows longer and continuous run time, and this compressor provides durability and high performance.

This dual-piston pump-designed air compressor has 300 hours of life cycle and can work at every temperature. This compressor has easy start valve features, which allow it for an easy startup at fewer starting amps.

This start valve provides a no-load condition allowing the motor to spin easily and freely. This large 10-Gallon compressor has a great capacity to run impact wrench with ease and efficiency. Thi steel-made tank is easily moveable around homes and job sites with less maintenance.

 

8. California Air Tools 8010

Specification:

These are the following features and specifications of the California air compressor:

• It comes with a large capacity 8-Gallon tank.
• It is a lightweight 48 lbs compressor.
• It comes with wheels and handles to make transportation easier.
• It is an oil-free/maintenance-free compressor.
• Powerful working at 1 HP.
• Working capacity 30-60 minutes.
• It has a low amp of 8.5 amps.
• It is a quiet compressor with 60 dBA.

California’s great air compressors are ultra-quiet compressor series. It is designed to be the greatest and coolest compressor in the industry because of its only 60 decibels sound level. This powerful air compressor motor works with a 1 HP motor on only 1680 RPM and reduces wear and noise levels.

This oil-free air compressor, which is less maintenance needed, is high in performance and provides durability. This compressor has a dual-piston pump design to provide 3000 hours of the life cycle compared to other compressors with only 500 hours.

This compressor has a variety of temperatures and uneven terrains. A large 8-Gallon air compressor provides more capacity to work for a long time without any delay. The 8-Gallon compressor is steel made with wheels and a handle to make transportation easier.

 

9. Makita MAC210Q Quiet Series

Specification:

These are the following features and specifications of the California air compressor:

• It is a 2-Gallon tank capacity compressor
• It is a quiet compressor with only a 60 dBA sound level, ideal for indoors.
• Motor runs at 1750 low RPM.
• It has a roll-cage to provide protection.
• It is an oil-free/maintenance-free compressor.
• Dual-piston pump to make maintenance easier.
• It is a lightweight design with only a 44lbs compressor
• Works on 1 HP motor.

An Air compressor needs to be compact and easy to use, which this Makita compressor is. Compressors are like workhorses for any job site, and this Makita air compressor offers a fast recovery time with fewer noise levels.

Having a longer life span with consistent performance. It is an ideal compressor for efficient working. This compressor is 1HP with 2-Gallon is ideal for small projects. This compressor is an oil-free electric air compressor with only 60 decibels of noise.

This compressor is ideal for indoors, and you can easily use it for trimming, carpentry purposes, and cabinets. Powered by a 1 HP motor, an induction motor that provides more strength and allows a max of 135 PSI.

This roll-cage construction protects the compressor’s pump and motor during any transportation.

 

10. California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S

Specification:

These are the following features and specifications of the California air compressor:

• It is a quiet compressor with only 56 decibels of sound level.
• It has an oil-free pump.
• Its 29 lbs make it lightweight and easier
• It is a 1-gallon tank capacity compressor.
• It has an HP rating of 0.6 with 1.2 CFM at 90 PSI.

California air compressor has a lot of series of quiet and compact compressors, one of which is 1P1060S. This compressor is an ideal portable air compressor for impact wrench. With its only 56 decibels noise level, you can place it anywhere at home or in quiet places.

Having a motor of 0.6, which works on 1680 RPM, allows a reduction in wear and less noise. This oil-free, which makes it a maintenance-free compressor, is a single-piston pump ideal for high performance and durability.

This 1-Gallon compressor is easy to transport and has a life cycle of 3000 plus hours compared to the compressors, which have only 250 hours. It is because of its single-piston design pump.

This compressor generates 1.2 CFM at 90 PSI, which allows you to easily use staple guns, brad nails, finish guns, nail guns, airbrushes, blowguns, and impact wrenches but at a lower scale.

 

11. Metabo HPT (EC914S)

Specification:

These are the following features and specifications of the Metabo air compressor:

• It has 25% more pressure than a pancake compressor.
• The maximum pressure of the compressor is 200 PSI.
• The compressor geenrates 4 CFM at 90 PSI.
• It can run 2-nailers, roofing, siding, and framing with 3-finish nailers and 5-brads.
• It is a lightweight 41 lbs compressor.
• Compared to the twin-stack compressor, it is 22% lighter.
• It is a 6-Gallon ait tank capacity compressor.

This compressor is one of the best compressors for small-scale projects. You can easily and efficiently perform your tasks. Thi compressor is 25% better than the general pancake compressors and offers more stability and efficiency.

Having a light body weight of only 41 lbs with more buildup capacity makes it ideal for many job sites and workshops. You can easily do roofing, framing, and nailing with this compressor.

This 6-Gallon compressor allows small tasks to continuously and efficiently work and completes them in no time without waiting and wasting your time again and again. Having 200 PSI max at 4 CFM is much more than a normal compressor, and it is highly efficient.

 

12. WEN 2202T

Specification:

These are the following features and specifications of the WEN air compressor:

• It is a 20-Gallon large-capacity compressor.
• The tank is constructed with reinforced steel for a max pressure of 135 PSI.
• It provides airflow of 3.8 CFM at 90 PSI.
• Also, 5 CFM at 40 PSI.
• It is an oil-lubricated compressor.
• It has an easily reachable drain valve with a coupler and two pressure gauges.
• It has handles and wheels for easy transportation.
• It has an auto shut-down function.

Wen 2202T offers a large 20-Gallon tank which is great for impact wrench working. WEN provides a 20-Gallon oil-lubricated compressor, which makes it last longer. This compressor is one of the great choices for garages, workshops, and job sites.

This compressor allows its users to work with nailers, staplers, spray guns, and impact wrench without any delay. You can use your pneumatic tools continuously without waiting for pressure buildup because of their large capacity.

Having two rubber on its legs with wheels gives stability, makes it less noisy, and prevents tripping. Motor made of reinforced steelworks can work maximum at 135 PSI. This compressor has an auto shut down function when it reaches its max pressure, preventing extra buildup.

Comes with two pressure gauges to monitor the internal pressure tank and rate of airflow.

 

What are the Features You Look For In An Air Compressor for an Impact Wrench?

Impact Wrench Size

You need to choose your compressor, but you need to buy an impact wrench before. Always buy a compressor after buying an impact wrench. Your impact wrench size and rating will help you buy your compressor. There are many sizes of impact wrench ¼, ¾, ⅜, ½, and 1 inch: with different CFM productions.

Performance

Consider the performance of the compressor, which means its running rate. Your compressor running rate should be atleast 30-0 minutes to be able to work continuously. Also, its working hours should be higher.

Tank Size

Tank size of the compressor matters because it helps in continuous work and allows you to store a lot of air without wasting your time waiting while its pressure again builds up. To handle small impact wrenches, and you atleast of 4-6 Gallon compressor. However, you need atleast a 15-20 Gallon compressor for professional use.

PSI (How Much Air Pressure?)

PSI of the compressor must be atleast 10% more than the impact wrench, and your impact wrench has 90-100 PSI, and you must consider a compressor with atleast 120-150 PSI.

CFM

CFM of the compressor is what amount of air an air compressor generates. Atleast small impact wrenches need 4-5 while 1-inch impact wrench needs atleast 8-10 CFM from the compressor according to their features. So, you must select a compressor with atleast 7-10 CFM

Weight

Always choose an air compressor with less weight. Choose a compressor which is portable and compact. If you need to move it around, it must be lightweight to move it around.

Durable or Not?

You must consider a durable compressor for longer use because it lasts longer. The durable compressor might need maintenance, but it also lasts longer, and you do not have not to buy it again and again.

Stability

The stability of the compressor is important because it is which helps make your work easier.

Drain Valve

Always choose a compressor with an easily accessible drain valve because it helps in easy drainage and does not cause rusting.

Oil-Free or Oil-Lubricated – Which one to choose?

Oil-free compressors are compact and portable, and it does not require maintenance. At the same time, the oil-lubricated compressor can be heavy and needs maintenance. You must decide according to your needs, and Oil-lubricated is not for homes or quiet places.

Noise Level

The noise level of the compressor must be less than 70-80 decibels because more than that is not considered a quiet compressor and not suitable for quiet places or indoors.

Stationary or Portable – Which One to use?

A stationary air compressor means you cannot move it around while working, and it will be fixed at its position. While the portable compressor is easily moveable, you can move it while working, and the portable is a great choice when you need to move it around.

Electric or Gas Powered – Which One to use?

An electrically powered compressor is great indoors because it does not emit toxic fumes. At the same time, a gas-powered compressor emits toxic fumes. Because of this, the gas compressor is not for indoors or in homes, and eclectic ones are safe.

What Size Air Compressor Do I Need for the Impact Wrench?

The decision about the compressor size needs some points to consider:

• Consider the size of your impact wrench before the compressor
• For a ½ “impact wrench, you need atleast 4-5 CFM compressor
• A 1″ wrench needs atleast of 10-12 CFM to work
• Your project matters for PSI and CFM requirements
• According to your work requirements: for small you need 5-10 Gallon tank
• If you have heavy-duty projects, you need a maximum of 20-Gallon compressors.
• ¼ inch needs about 2-3 CFM compressor.
• A larger capacity compressor works longer and helps in completing works quickly.
• Always choose a compressor size double the size and requirements of your wrench size.
• For 4-5 CFM impact wrench, choose atleast 8-10 CFM compressor.
• If your impact wrench uses 90-100 PSI, choose a compressor with atleast 120 PSI.

Learn More: What Size Air Compressor For An Impact Wrench? 5 Crucial Factors!

What are Other Applications Where Air Compressor is Used?

The other places where compressors are used are the following:

• Inflating bike tires, car tires.
• Painting in different areas, furniture.
• Sanding: auto shops or woodworking.
• Nails guns for roofing
• In hospitals for dental or medical services
• In construction sites for drilling and hammering
• Sandblasting for machinery and manufacturing.
• Natural gas plants
• In refrigerators
• In oil-refineries
• Chemicals
• Pharmaceuticals
• In Homes
• Spray painting
• For pressure washing
• Agricultural purposes
• Industrial purposes.

What are the traits of a good air compressor?

• It should be portable and compact
• CFM rating of the compressor should be higher to handle pneumatic tools
• PSI and recovery built-up should be fast.
• Maintenance should be minimum or oil-free is great.
• Thermal protection and console cover compressor are great for protection.

Conclusion

There are many impact wrenches in the market with different requirements and features. It is up to you which one is according to your needs and the budget you buy. However, to buy the best air compressor for an impact wrench, you need to know your requirements: tasks, needs, and running time.

In deciding how big of an air compressor you need for an impact wrench, you must consider your wrench’s exact rating and what your needs are. Then consider the compressor’s CFM, PSI, HP, and Gallon because they help your compressor run smoothly and allow it to work continuously.

FAQs

Can a portable air compressor run an impact wrench?

The portable air compressor for the impact wrench is a great choice, and it is small, compact, and efficient. You can easily run your impact wrench with your suitable featured air compressor.

How many PSI do I need to run an impact wrench?

The minimum impact wrench of ⅜ needs atleast 90 PSI to run. SO, you need atleast 100-120 PSI for your compressor. An impact wrench of ½ needs atleast 100 PSI ¾ impact wrench needs 100 PSI at 7CFM. In conclusion, you need atleast 120-PSI to run your impact wrench easily.

What size air compressor do I need for air tools?

For air tools, you need to know air tools requirements and what is their CFM and PSI running rates. It will help you decide on your air compressor. Always choose a larger CFM compressor than your requirements: if your tool needs 3-4 CFM to run. Choose a compressor with atleast 5-7 CFM to easily use the tool and continuously. The gallon size of the tank should be atleast 10-12Gallon.

Will a 10-gallon air compressor run an impact wrench?

Although it seems like a 10-Gallon compressor is a quite large tank, you can easily handle an impact wrench with it, which is true, but only in that condition when your compressor has atleast of 8-10 CFM with a 10-Gallon compressor. A ⅜ impact wrench needs atleast 3-4 CFM, with ¾ needs atleast 7 CFM to run. So, you need a higher CFM compressor.

Will a 3-gallon air compressor run an impact wrench?

Even the smallest impact wrench needs atleast 1 or 1.5 CFM to run easily, which a 3-Gallon compressor usually does not have. Suppose your 3-Gallon compressor has more than 1-2 CFM. Then the answer is yes. You can use a 3-Gallon compressor. Otherwise, the 3-Gallon compressor cannot give enough pressure to run an impact wrench.

Will a 6-gallon air compressor run an impact wrench?

Yes, it is possible to use a 6-Gallon tank to run an impact wrench. A 6-Gallon tank that comes with at least 4 CFM is enough. Although, a 6-Gallon air compressor tank is considered small for heavy-duty projects with an impact wrench. You cannot perform tasks continuously with a 6-Gallon tank. Always remember 6-Gallon tank is the minimum size. Though, it can perform many tasks easily and efficiently.

Will a pancake compressor run an impact wrench?

The pancake air compressor can easily handle an impact wrench, and it only needs to be powerful enough to handle an impact wrench. The powerful compressor will generate enough air to tighten or lose the bolts you are working on. You need atleast a 4-5 CFM with 90-100 PSI pancake compressor with a ½- an inch impact wrench to easily work with it. Also, you will need a larger tank of atleast 10-20-Gallon to easily work with it. You can also work with a 5-10Gallon compressor tank.