For spray painting, you need the best air compressor so you can get the right airflow and pressure and use different types of paint sprayers. But it can be hard to choose the right air compressor that is strong, flexible, and works with most paint sprayers if you don’t do a lot of research.
The painting will also take a lot less time if you use a paint sprayer. The job can’t be done without an air hose, a spray gun, and an air compressor. Cover anything you don’t want to paint, and connect your sprayer to an air compressor. Then you can start painting.
So, reading the guide will help you get ready to choose the best air compressor. Even you can use the list of recommendations to find the best air compressor for spray painting.
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Best Air Compressor for Spray Painting
There are two main kinds of compressed air shower guns. The HVLP shower gun and the LVLP spray gun. As the names suggest, you do not have to weigh too much. Both kinds of shower handles work with a small amount of air pressure.
Anyway, it can be hard to find the best air compressor for spray painting because it needs to meet some of the things we talked about above. But we’ll go over the details here, and we hope that will help you choose the right thing to buy.
There are a lot of different products and options on the market, and we’re here to help you get what you want. Check out our list of the seven best air compressors below!
Craftsman: Air Compressor for Spray Painting
- At 2.6 CFM, the Craftsman air compressor can deliver up to 150 psi of pressure. So, you’ll have enough air pressure to paint with a spray gun.
- The air compressor for spray painting is also very portable and weighs only 32.5 pounds.
- Because the pump doesn’t use oil, the compressor is very durable and needs little to no maintenance.
- This compressor can hold up to 6 gallons of air.
- This item was made in the US with high-quality parts.
The Craftsman Pancake Compressor is a great compressor that is both light and easy to move around. People say it is easily one of the best air compressors for painting, at least for small jobs.
You get a clutch, a PVC air hose, a tire tensioner, a plug, a pressure gauge, a gun, a rubber tip, and three adapters for all kinds of inflatables. The air gun plug works with OSHA as well. So you don’t have to worry about your safety when you use the compressor.
You can use the compressor without any problems because it comes with a one-year limited warranty. You are safe if something happens! In fact, it is a great choice for people who like sprays.
What we like
The craftsman has made this item so that it can be changed easily and is light and easy to adjust. This item comes with a variety of parts that can be used in different ways. 2.6 SCFM has quick compression and recovery times so you can get back to your color quickly. With 150 psi maximum pressure and 2.6 cu nominal Ft/min, this element provides fast compression and tremendous pressure.
What we didn’t like
Some users say that because it is small, it doesn’t hold much, but most reviews have been good! We’ve also heard some bad things about its power, but as an air compressor, it’s strong enough to handle anything.
DEWALT: Best Pancake air compressor for painting spray
- This air compressor can hold 6 gallons of air.
- At 2.6 SCFM, it can make 90 psi. So it’s easy to spray paint with this air compressor.
- If you need air with higher pressure, it can give you up to 165 psi.
- This compressor’s best feature is how quiet it is. With a rating of 75.5 dBA, it can be used in both businesses and homes.
- The Dewalt compressor has a high flow regulator and couplings so that air tools can work as well as possible.
The Dewalt Pancake compressor is a good choice for painters who want a lightweight air compressor. It has a built-in carry handle and weighs only 30 pounds, so it’s a great choice for moving around a lot.
The Dewalt compressor is the best air compressor for spray painting because it is small and powerful. Also, it works well for small painting jobs around the house.
The air compressor stays nice and cool, so it doesn’t overheat or cause other problems with how it works. Universal connectors give you a lot of options and make it possible to move the compressor beyond the paint spray. A long extension cable is also helpful because it lets you cover a lot of space without having to turn off the compressor or move it.
Even though it costs more than other 6-gallon air compressors, you will be glad you bought it and paid the extra money.
What we like
With a volume of about 70 decibels, you can talk to anyone, even when the computer is on. The large tank on this item can hold up to 6 gallons. Surprisingly, it starts up quickly even in the coldest weather and anywhere outside. This tool from Dewalt has a great cooling system to keep it from getting too hot. This lets you reach places that are hard to get to or fill larger areas with fewer people.
What we didn’t like
Since this air compressor doesn’t have wheels, some people think they always have to carry it. But because it is small, you can move it quickly to where you want. And you need to be careful when you use it. Some people use it badly and have problems with leaks.
California: Best Portable air compressor for paint spray
- It is an 8-gallon air compressor that puts out 90 psi, 2.2 cu ft/min, and can store and compress air up to 120 psi.
- The one-horsepower motor only spins at 1680 rpm, which keeps the two-piston pump going and makes the air compressor last longer by reducing pump wear.
- The compressor is a bit heavier at 48 pounds, but it comes with great wheels that make it easy to move around. So, a spray blower can be used anywhere.
For those looking for the best air compressor for painting with a bigger tank and extra power, California Air Tools has a compressor for them! The steel hot dog compressor works the same way every time and doesn’t slow down even the biggest painting jobs.
The wheel set is easy to put together, so you can start painting and moving around right away. It also doesn’t need much care. The oil-free pump needs almost no maintenance after it has been used. It also works well at different temperatures, so you can cross that worry off your list. This compressor makes a small amount of noise, about 60dB.
This air compressor is great because it is so quiet. With a power rating of 60 dBA, the compressor shouldn’t be too loud, so you can spray paint whenever you want.
What we like
This thing uses less energy and gets rid of heat better. This product from California Air Tools came out with an 8-gallon tank that can handle bigger jobs. Surprisingly, this item has a built-in wheel that makes it very easy to move. The company made this item with a steel container that will last for a long time. The California Air Tools 8010 is great because it is an oil-free air compressor that doesn’t need much care.
What we didn’t like
This item is a little more expensive, but the price seems fair when you think about how useful it is. Also, you have to buy the hose separately, even though this item is very portable.
WEN 2289: Best 10-Gallon Air Compressor for Paint Spray
- Large 10-gallon tanks are made of strong steel and can hold up to 150 psi of pressure, which is perfect for spray painting.
- A 20-gallon air compressor is also available for an extra fee if you want an even bigger tank.
- At 90 psi, the Wen compressor lets in 4 cfm of air, and at 40 psi, it lets in 5 cfm.
- It is one of the most reliable air compressors on the market because of this ratio.
- Also, the vertical tank has two 7-inch wheels that never stay flat. This makes it easy to move the compressor quickly.
- There are also rubber handles that are easy to hold and let you move the compressor while it is running.
- This pump doesn’t need any extra oil to work.
The 10-Gallon Oil-Free WEN Steep Air Compressor is a great addition to any garage, office, or workshop. Attach staplers, nailers, spray guns, or any other pneumatic tool to make an installation that can be used for a variety of woodworking and painting tasks.
The best thing about this air compressor is that the drain valve is easy to get to. The valve makes it easy to let all the fresh air out, which makes it great for putting away when you’re done.
Even though this choice is heavier than the others, if you want a big tank, you won’t be sorry if you buy it today.
What we like
This WEN 10 air compressor has a large 10-gallon tank, which makes it great for bigger jobs. Surprisingly, this item has an oil-free pump that makes it easy to keep up. The company has big wheels that don’t go flat and are easy to move around. WEN has put out this product, which has great CFM and PSI ratings for great performance. WEN has a quick drain valve that is easy to get to and makes it easy to drain.
What we didn’t like
It sometimes seems heavier than the other air compressors that came with the kit, which makes it hard to move. But if you tell me what you want, everything is fine! Some customers also say that it is sometimes more powerful, but anyone can fix the problem with regular maintenance.
PORTER CABLE: Best Portable Air Compressor for Painting
- The weight of the Porter Cable air compressor package is less than 100 lbs.
- The air compressor is easy to move because it is not too heavy and has wheels attached to the bottom.
- It has two rubber feet that hold it down very well.
- The highest amount of power that this 20-gallon air compressor can handle has been approved by ASME and CSA. It has 4.0 cc/min @ 90 psi flow rate and 5.0 cu.
- Just 15 amps of electricity are needed.
- The oil-free setup lets people do work on any tract without having to change oil, add oil, or worry about the uneven ground.
The Porter cable is what you need if you want an air compressor that doesn’t need oil and has a big tank. Porter Cable is a well-known brand, so you know you’ll be happy with an air compressor with the Porter Cable name on it.
There is no oil in the air compressor. That means there are no bombs. Oil-free air compressors have a lot to offer their users. 7-inch semi-pneumatic wheels make it easy to move, and rubber feet keep it steady. It has a regulator, meters, and an easy-to-use connection. It produces 84 dBA noises.
It was made for business travelers, like subcontractors, by the company. The 20-gallon portable Porter Cable PXCMF220VW air compressor is also easy to use. This one can be used for a wide range of tasks, like painting cars and doing a variety of housework. It is the right model for you if you want to use a gadget without worrying about whether or not it is sitting on a level surface.
What we like
This unit is easy to service because it has controls, meters, and a quick disconnect device. Other pneumatic tools can be used with this feature to help with different kinds of tasks. It doesn’t have any oil in it, so it will last longer and cost less to maintain. This product is certified by ASME and CSA, so you don’t have to worry about how well it works or how long it will last. This item came from Porter Cable with wheels already attached to make it easy to move and transport.
What we didn’t like
Some customers say it’s too loud and they need earplugs, but anyone can fix this problem with regular maintenance. Yes, the model is expensive, but many users think it’s worth it because it works well.
Makita MAC2400: Air compressor for paint spray
- It has two 4.2-gallon tanks so it can run longer before it needs to be refilled.
- At 90 psi, your compressor can handle up to 130 psi of pressure and can pump out 4.2 cu-ft per minute.
- Also, the company sent it in a roll inside a cage.
- The compressor can handle the vibrations of everyday life.
- It also stays lit no matter the weather because it is well-made.
This is another powerful air compressor that can be used to spray paint. The company is also one of the strongest things we’ve found about it. Check out the Makita Air Compressor if you want to have a lot of power in your hands.
The cast iron air compressor is made up of two compressors with two cylinders each. These compressors deliver high air pressure and volume while staying small and portable.
The air compressor also has an AMP that uses less power, which cuts down on the number of switches that need to be turned on at startup. Low AMP makes sure that your air compressor starts up quickly the first time, so you can keep working. This cast iron pump with a big bore is easy to keep up with.
The Makita Air Compressor has a large industrial air filter that helps it work better and keeps airflow going. Overall, people who bought the air compressor were happy with it. They found that it was very strong and could be used at home or in a business.
What we like
The oil-lubricated pump works best when the temperature is low. It can be used in more ways than others because it has two hose connections. This part has a safety cage around it to protect it from harsh environmental conditions. The cylinder and pump are made of cast iron, which makes them strong and prevents wear. The business sells a large industrial air filter that works very well.
What we didn’t like
Lubrication with oil must be done regularly, which means more maintenance. If you don’t want to do regular maintenance, you can use a good lubricant instead. Also, this item has a small tank capacity, which isn’t great for big jobs but is fine for everyday use.
Industrial Air: Portable air compressor for paint spray
- The air compressor has a pump that doesn’t need oil and is easy to keep up. You don’t have to clean the compressor a lot so you can use it more!
- The air compressor has a unique two-piece cooling system that makes it durable and long-lasting.
- Also, the compressor is great for home use and small projects because it has a Honda gasoline engine with 5 hp.
- It also has two small cylinder-shaped tanks and a motor that works well and gives it great power when it’s in use.
Check out the 4 Gallon Portable Air Compressor if you want a very portable tool. When painting, the mobile pontoon is easy to hold and move around. The Industrial Air portable air compressor also has a real air compressor that is still portable enough to be useful.
Because of its small size, the compressor is light and easy to move around. This makes it a great choice for people who are traveling near an air compressor. The short lead time means that you can only do small projects. Don’t use the compressor too many times a day.
The Industrial Air Contractor compressor can make five cubic feet per minute at 40 pounds per square inch (psi), and it works very well. Because it is small and works well, it doesn’t last very long. It charges quickly, which means you can use it more than once a day.
With this great compressor, you can make your home dreams come true. Why not invest today, even if you are just finishing small projects?
What we like
The company made it in a small size that makes it easy to carry around. This part is powered by a huge 5hp Honda gasoline engine. This small thing also has a pump that doesn’t need oil and doesn’t need much maintenance. For best performance, the machine makes an amazing 155 psi of pressure. This thing can be used for more than just spray painting.
What we didn’t like
Even though the product is a little more expensive, it works very well. Also, the smaller size is better for smaller tasks; some clients weren’t happy with their bigger jobs.
How to Choose the Best Spray Painting Air Compressor
When you’re looking for the best air compressor for spray painting but don’t know which one to choose because there are so many, these small details will help you make the right choice.
The most important thing to look at is the horsepower (hp). A 1 to 2 HP motor works best for home and other non-industrial uses. With injectors rated at 6 CPM and 30-40 PSI. Today, you can buy a two-horsepower compressor in most stores, but it needs to have at least eight CFM at 40 PSI.
Cubic Foot per Minute is the definition of CMF. The name makes it clear that it has to do with how much air the compressor gives out. It won’t tell you how long the compressor has been running, but it will tell you how much volumetric power it has.
Noise and disturbance reduction: Compressor noise is a big problem, and it gets worse if you are working in a safe place. Make sure you buy and install some accessories while you’re looking for the compressor with the lowest decibel (dB) level.
Weight is another important thing to think about before you make your final choice. How portable this product depends on how much it weighs.
The size of the air compressor’s tank is also very important. Look for an air compressor that can hold at least 5 gallons of air. It will work more quickly and efficiently at this size.
Safety Cage: The cylinder-shaped cage can protect the air compressor’s most important parts. So, if you have a lot of experience and don’t want to buy again, make sure the product you choose meets these requirements.
Price: If you are worried about price, portable air compressors and pancake air compressors may be the best choice for you. Most of the time, they are smaller, lighter, and linked together, so you don’t need a 220V outlet.
How to Spray Paint with an Air Compressor?
It can be hard to use paint rollers to paint. Instead, use the spray gun and air compressor to give your walls a regular coat of paint.
Get yourself ready
There are a few things you need to know before you become an artist. First, choose the right paint and paint thinner. If you mix paint with the right solvent, you can get more color out of the sprayer. Aside from that, it makes the paint look better.
Next, you have to rub the paint’s surface to get rid of any flaws. Also, wipe the surface with an anti-static cloth to get rid of any sanding dust.
How to Choose the Right Spray Gun
You can make a small painting with the siphon gun. This one has a base that fits under the gun’s body. A gravity gun is also like a siphon gun because it has a container for paint.
But the gravity pistol’s container is attached to the top, not the bottom, of the gun’s body. It needs less air force because gravity pulls the paint into the gun body.
Start to paint now
As soon as you have everything you need, you can start painting. Just connect the gun to the air hose, and then press the trigger lock switch. Make sure that all of the hoses are connected to the right plugs and that the power cords are plugged into an outlet.
When everything is set up, you can fire your spray gun. Adjust PSI so that it has the right amount of air pressure, and then check the flow of paint on the piece of paper before you start painting the walls.
Questions and Answers about the Best Air Compressor for Spray Painting
How big should an air compressor be to spray paint?
Instead of looking at the size of an air compressor to judge how well it works, operators should look at how much air it puts out in cubic feet per minute (CFM). About 10–110 CFM is the range of the most powerful tool air compressors. Some air spray guns have a CFM rating of less than 10, but for spray painting, we recommend at least 12 CFM.
For spray painting, what kind of air compressor is used?
Since they were first made in 1887, spray guns have changed a lot. People use two different kinds of air compressors these days. They’re,
Painting is less messy and more fun with HVLP paints. They cut down on how long it takes to finish the painting.
These devices take in compressed air and turn it into a fine mist of colored particles that change color in the waste tank. These tools make it easier to draw quickly, and they are easy to use.
Can I spray paint with an air compressor?
Of course! Using an air compressor and spray gun can help you paint a larger area at once and make sure the paint is spread evenly. In particular, if you are using a spray gun instead of an airless gun, you will need an air compressor to power the spray gun.
Which air compressor is best for painting cars?
Look for a pressure of at least 15 psi if you want the best air compressor for painting cars. It would help if you also tried this with some applications, like a clear coat, which works best at 20 or 25 psi. Power: Most of the time, a 10-hp compressor is enough to paint a car. Larger compressors, on the other hand, can work more efficiently and be used for other things.
How many CFM do I need to paint with a spray gun?
If you want to use a spray gun, you will need an air compressor with at least a three-gallon air tank and the ability to make at least 12 CFM. These spray guns don’t need a lot of pressure per square inch from the compressor, but they do need a lot of air over a longer period of time.
Use the Best Air Compressor for Spray Painting
A handy tool for spray painting is an air compressor, and this article is all about the best air compressors for spray painting. I like the Craftsman air compressor because it works well and is easy to use. The California Air Tools 8010 Steel Tank air compressor can do a lot of work.
We’ve already talked about what each air compressor does best. So, you can choose the one that you like best.
