Are noisy air compressors taking away the peace and comfort you get from indulging yourself in DIY projects?
Not only is the uproar of an air compressor irritating, but it can also impair your hearing.
No need to be concerned though, the world of engineering has blessed us with a wide option of much quieter air compressors.
Let us look at the best quiet air compressors that don’t just save you time and money but also protect you from risks of noise-induced deafness so you can have a more pleasant working experience.
Buyer’s Guide
If you’re looking to buy a quiet air compressor, it’s normal to feel a bit lost as you will come across different terms, which are equally confusing.
This is where a buyer’s guide will come in handy. It will help you narrow down your preferences as you will be well informed of all the key things to look out for.
The following pointers will help you gain some basic understanding of different specifications and features you need to keep in mind when buying a quiet air compressor:
Cubic Feet Per Meter
CFM, for short, represents the time it takes for an air compressor to supply air.
It is one of the most important points to consider as if the air compressor utilizes air faster than it supplies, it would cause delays midway as you would have to stop and wait for the compressor to catch up.
Tank Size
Always keep in mind what you need the air compressor for.
This will help you decide on the tank size is usually a household and day-to-day projects don’t require a larger tank size due to the uncomplicated nature of the work.
But if you’re looking for an air compressor for professional reasons, go for heavy-duty air compressors with a much larger tank size.
Portability
If you fall under the ambitious DIY’er category, someone who utilizes an air compressor to perform various jobs in the house, it’s a better idea to stick with something smaller that you can maneuver around easily, and portability should be a preference.
Keep a lookout for air compressors that are slimmer in design and have handles for your ease.
However, if the compressor is for the workplace sticking with a stationary one doesn’t hurt.
Oil Lubricated or Oil-Free
Air compressors come in two categories: oil-lubricated and oil-free.
The oil-lubricated air compressors need small amounts of oil and thus require regular maintenance and care.
But they offer the advantage of being comparatively less noisy.
Whereas the oil-free air compressors require no constant checking and are require no such maintenance.
However, they do come with the cost of being the noisier option between the two.
Top 12 Quiet Air Compressors Reviews
Now let’s delve into the top 12 recommendations for quiet air compressors and look at their specifications, features offered as well as pros and cons so that you find the perfect fit.
1. California Air Tools 8010 Tank Air Compressor
California Air tools give all its competitors a run for their money with this model.
An air compressor that’s oil-free and doesn’t need to be dissected now and then for maintenance, unlike its oil-lubricated substitutes.
And even though it’s an Oil-free air compressor, it is just as its name promises ‘ultra-quiet.’ Its sound level reaching up to only 60 dB, which is equal to the level of a normal conversation what’s interesting is that they don’t make any compromises with its motor that can easily supply up to 2.2 CFM of air at 90 PSI.
On top of that, its tank is made up of steel, which makes it heavier, but, in the long run, will prove to be more durable and provide better efficiency.
The tank has a capacity of 8- gallons, which is just enough for any home project. You also get an air compressor that is easy to move around thanks to the wheels attached and a thermal overload protector, which is just the cherry on top.
If you want a product that does the job, is squeaky quiet comparatively and requires no maintenance, this may be one of the best choices for you.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Silent up to 60 dB
- Steel tank with a capacity of 8 gallons
- Durable
- Low Maintenance
- Easy mobility
Cons
- Not a modern design
2. California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S Quiet Portable Air Compressor
An air compressor that comes again from California Air tools which have built a reputation for itself when it comes to pneumatic tools.
This is a smaller unit in contrast but is equally attractive for users looking for a quiet air compressor that can power small tools and inflating and clean tires.
It’s even quieter than the California Air Tools 8010 ultra quiet and oil-free air compressor. Coming in 56 decibels, it’s super lightweight and thus portable.
The steel tank does have a smaller capacity of 1 gallon but will have less wear and tear.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Silent up to 56 dB
- Easy to maintain
- Lightweight
- Produces less heat
- Quick recovery time
Cons
- Not heavy duty
3. Campbell Hausfeld 6 Gallon Quiet Air Compressor
The air compressor is slightly louder as compared to the previous two air compressors that I have reviewed so far.
Operating at 68 dB, the product comes in a stylish contemporary pancake model. It also has a larger capacity tank of about 6 gallons meaning that you can use it for all your air tools along with hobby paint.
Coming from a reputable company, the air compressor offers longevity, power, and speed.
It is a great pick for anyone who’s looking for a portable air compressor with a 6-gallon tank capacity, especially if you work in an area where noise is a huge issue.
The performance exceeded my expectation; however, it might be a little problematic to use for people who live outside of the US as while it runs smoothly on a 120 watts connection, it doesn’t support 220 volts.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Oil-free
- Portable
- Stylish design
- Silent 68 dB
- 6-gallon tank capacity
Cons
- Cat accepts a 220-volt connection
4. Campbell Hausfeld DC040500 Quiet Air Compressor
Another equally notable alternative, it runs at 68dB sound level, which is much lower than most air compressors.
Campbell Hausfeld offers a twin stacked lightweight contractor design, which is a smart way to make the product easy to carry around for users.
Along with a tank capacity of 4.6 gallons and a 1 HP motor can get work such as inflation, nailing/stapling, and a little bit of hobby painting done without a sweat.
The oil-free pump offers low maintenance and better performance.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Durable
- Maintenance-free
- Portable
- Quiet 68 dB
Cons
- Only supports 120V
5. Campbell Hausfeld DC080500 8 GallonQuiet Air Compressor
Similar to Air California’s 8-gallon air compressor in both style and functionality.
Supports a 1Hp motor and functions at 68dBs however, it takes the prize away in terms of power.
It offers a 3.7 CFM at 90 PSI, which is 40% greater than that of Air California. However, it is on the heavier side.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Silent 68dB
- More powerful
- Sufficient storage
Cons
- Heavy
6. Stealth 20 Gallon Ultra Quiet Air Compressor
Now if you’re looking for an air compressor that has a much higher capacity tank and a powerful motor while also being much quieter than its contenders;
Stealth gives you its ultra-quiet compressor with a tank capacity of 20 gallons and a motor that runs on 1.8 Hp higher than all the compressors we have analyzed until now.
Yet it works on the sound level of 70dB only, which is significantly low for an air compressor of its size and power. It can handle multiple tools and also support two outlet ports.
The design has an enclosed motor that cancels out much of the noise yet packs a whole lot of power.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Large capacity
- Powerful motor
- Silent up to 70 dB
- Oil-free
Cons
- Heavy to lift
7. DEWALT Air Compressor DWFP55130
The electric air compressor offered by Dewalt comes in a closed-packed design that is travel-friendly and easy to store as it occupies little space.
The tank capacity amounts to 2.5 gallons. The motor has 1.1 hp, drawing only 120 V of energy only.
Yet it is louder than other quiet operation air compressors that come in smaller units. It claims to be 70 dB on the sound level.
It comes with an oil-free pump that is efficient in supporting small trim jobs.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Highly portable
- Easy to store
- Quiet 70dB
- Runs 2 tools at a time
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy-duty power tools
- Short cable
8. Excell Sac22Hpe 2 Gallon Quiet Air Compressor
This is another 2-gallon capacity air compressor by one of the more obscure brands in the market. But that is not a concern when you look at the functionality of this product.
The air compressor works at 61dBs only, which is 80% less noisy than regular air compressors. It has a low voltage startup of only 90V best for colder temperatures and operating at old buildings.
It can also operate at a slower speed, making it last longer. The compact design is easy to carry, store, and move around.
It can be used by both professionals and home-based DIY’ers and works excellently for trim work.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Durable
- Portable
- Very quiet 61dBs
- Oil-less pump
- Low voltage
Cons
- Limited tank storage
- Not suitable for heavy application
9. Metabo HPT Ultra-Quiet Air Compressor
Hitachi power tools are back with a Metabo HPT air compressor that purrs just like a kitten; the operational sound level is so quiet it is as loud as a normal speaking volume (59 dB).
Its motor of 0.451 hp is powered by 120V. The design is impeccable showing off an industrial regulator and gauges that ensure an easy-to-read experience for you.
The rubber grips and feet make the vibrations much more tolerable as well as reduce impact noises.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Industrial gauges and regulator
- Quiet 59dBs
- Low-Maintenance
- Durable
- Light Weight
Cons
- Limited tank Storage
- Low CFM
10. Stark Portable Quiet Air Compressor
Claiming to be only half as noisy as its comparable 10 Gallon tank air compressors, the product offers value for money despite being oil-lubricated.
It’s lightweight in contrast and performs well when it comes to activities such as nailing, bolting, hobby painting, fastening, etc.
It has two large wheels and rubber fasteners so you can transport it without any complications. It also has the most powerful motor at 3.5 Hp.
It is a quality air compressor that runs smoothly and quickly builds up pressure.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Portable
- Substantial storage capacity
- Fast Recovery Time
- Low Noise
Cons
- Requires Maintenance
11. Briggs & Stratton 4.5-Gallon Air Compressor
The two-cylinder design not only takes very less space but also hums beautifully at as low as 58 dB, which is the quietest air compressor when it comes to a 4.5-gallon capacity holding air compressors.
The extendable handle makes maneuvering the air compressor feel like you’re hurling a suitcase.
The model has a lower placement, which can be covered easily, reducing the noise further. What is not to love about the Briggs and Stratton 4.5 gallon air compressor?
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Truly Ultra-quiet 58 Db
- Highly portable
- Energy efficient
- Maintenance-free
Cons
- None
12. Estwing E5GCOMP 5 Gallon
Rated at 68 dB, this air compressor comes with a 5-gallon tank and provides 50% more useable air in contrast to others.
It has a high functioning motor of 1.6 Hp. Airflow is sufficient to power multiple tools. The compressor is protected from damage due to the steel roll cage present.
The two oil-filled gauges make sure that accuracy is not a problem.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros
- Silent 68 dB
- Oil-free
- Low maintenance
- Durable
Cons
- Slightly expensive
Frequently Asked Questions
How loud is a compressor?
It can range from 90-60 dB.
How can I make my oilless air compressor quieter?
You can do that in various ways, from installing a silencer to using rubber or sound blankets. You can even put it in a soundproof box.
How do I increase the CFM of my air compressor?
The best option is to buy another air compressor and utilize them by connecting them.
Are belt drive compressors quieter?
As they are far more powerful as compared to their size, they tend to be much quieter, durable and can operate at lower temperatures as well.
Why are air compressors so noisy?
This is mostly due to friction, as various metal parts come in contact with each other.
However, it may also be because the power source as electrically powered compressors tends to be quieter than gas-powered ones.
Conclusion
Air compressors are important tools that tend to be a long-term investment; hence it’s equally important to find a comparatively less noisy option.
If you’re still having trouble choosing to take a look at the buying guide again so you can decide which air compressor suits your style best.
