Air compressors are an excellent substitute for electric tools because they bring more torque and power. However, it can be rather frustrating for many users to work with all the noise that comes with most air compressors. If you need peace of mind or are living in a crowded neighborhood, you need to find the best quiet Air Compressor in the market.
Due to advancements in technology, quiet operation air compressors are now a reality. You can get to work with a variety of air tools without having to worry about high noise levels. All you have to do is pick out a quiet air compressor from our review section that suits your needs.
We understand that finding a perfect air compressor is not an easy task. Therefore, we have included a comprehensive buyer’s guide to help you navigate the market. By the end of this article, you should be in a position to purchase the ideal quiet air compressor.
The 7 Best Quiet Air Compressor For 2020
1. California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S
California Air Tools brings you an ultra-quiet air compressor that delivers high-performance at all times. The California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S is a lightweight and compact machine that has a loudness of merely 56 decibels. The 29.5 lbs machine is an excellent choice if you are looking for something practical for most of your air tools.
Note that this quiet-operation air compressor is specially designed for small jobs such as powering a nailer and inflating tires. It is, therefore, not suitable for large tasks around the workshop or home. You must ensure that you only intend to use the air compressor for light operations before making a purchase.
What I love about the California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S is its small and compact design. You can easily transport this air compressor from one location to the next. You will find it rather easy working with a portable air compressor.
Some of the included features that caught my attention were the steel tank, overload protector, a regulator, two gauges, and a steel frame. Note that this is a long-lasting machine that will provide the ultimate performance. You will get value for your money when you purchase this model.
Note that the California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S only needs 50 seconds to get filled. You will also need an average of one second for every PSI of pressure added to your car’s tires. Notice that you can complete small projects quickly with this quiet air compressor.
The oil-free pump reduces maintenance costs and ensures you get long-lasting services. Understand that repairing or replacing the tank can be rather costly. Having a low maintenance oil-free pump will save you a lot of headaches in the future
Pros
- Quiet air compressor at only 56 decibels
- Ideal for crowded locations
- Compact and lightweight construction
- Can produce up to 1.6 CFM
Cons
- It is not ideal for large air tools
2. DEWALT Air Compressor (DWFP55130)
If you are looking for a portable and lightweight machine that is backed by a reputable brand name, the DEWALT Air Compressor (DWFP55130) is an ideal choice. At a rating of 71.5 decibels, this machine will ensure you enjoy quiet operations.
The DEWALT Air Compressor (DWFP55130) was specially designed for heavy-duty work. It packs a lot of power despite its small size, making it an ideal tool for both professionals and DIYers. The 200 max PSI tank will give you the ideal flow rate for most air tools for long periods.
What I like about this quiet air compressor is its 2.5-gallon tank capacity. Note that you can complete most projects in the home without having to worry about constant refills. Reduced rest breaks ensure you get a professional finish on all types of projects.
Note that the DEWALT Air Compressor (DWFP55130) unit comes with a dual air outlet coupling. What this means is that you get to connect two tools at the same time. Understand that you can get more work done since you can operate two air tools simultaneously.
The easy access control panel ensures the user has more control over the machine. Note that the clean case makes this machine more convenient and portable. You will find it so much easier to work and transport this machine.
However, note that running two tools at the same time will deplete the 2.5-gallon tank capacity quickly. You may have to refill several times before you can complete a project. On the positive side, you will be saving a lot of time working with two tools.
Pros
- Lightweight and solid design
- Can be used either vertically or horizontally
- Easy to transport
- Easy-access control panel
Cons
- Isn’t the quietest air compressor in the market
3. California Air Tools 8010
Are you looking for a high-powered air compressor with a large tank and considerably low noise output? The California Air Tools 8010 is an excellent choice if you are such an individual. It is an ideal machine that features a 1 HP motor and an 8-gallon tank. You will get high-end services from this machine even when using large air tools.
Note that the users gets 3.1 cubic feet per minute of air supply. The beauty of this quiet-operation air compressor is the fact that it can be used with larger air tools that are considered air hogs. At only 60 decibels, you are guaranteed low noise levels at all times. You can comfortably use this machine in a crowded place without any problems.
The California Air Tools 8010 features a dual-piston pump and oil-free motor. Understand that the above features ensure your tank is always ready to deliver. You will find it quite easy to attain maximum pressure when working with different tools. Note that you will also get long-lasting services thanks to the oil-free motor.
Note that this air compressor also includes wheels and handles for easy transportation. Having a portable model gives you more versatility and convenience around your workshop and home. Movement is made considerably easier, thus ensuring you can get to work quickly.
However, I did not find the aesthetics and design of this model to be satisfactory. California Air Tools need to find a way to improve the aesthetics and design of this model. Note that homeowners need a machine that looks good around the garage.
The California Air Tools 8010 is an excellent buy for both regular DIYers and professionals. It is an easy to use and clean air compressor that offers unmatched performance. The good news is the fact that it can work with most air tools.
Pros
- Oil-free pump guarantees better operation and easy cleanup
- Includes wheels and handles for easy transportation
- Rated at just 60 decibels
- Large 8-gallon tank
Cons
- Isn’t beautifully designed
4. Campbell Hausfeld (DC080500) Quiet Air Compressor
Campbell Hausfeld is widely known for its high-quality products, and the DC080500 Quiet Air Compressor is no exception. Note that this air compressor comes at only 68 decibels loud, which guarantees quiet operations.
The dual-piston pump and oil-free motor pair beautifully with the 8-gallon tank to give you top performance. You can complete large projects without needing to refill your tank. This ensures you get a smooth and professional finish when working on different projects.
Campbell backs this machine with a 1-year warranty to ensure you get the peace of mind you deserve. Note that this machine includes heavy-duty components that can last up to 4 times longer than other compressors. You will, therefore, get long-lasting services from this impressive machine.
What I like about the Campbell Hausfeld (DC080500) Quiet Air Compressor is its versatility. You can use this model for inflation, painting, sanding, air wrench, and finish nailing. It offers impressive performance due to its 1 HP motor and 8-gallon tank.
Note that you get the opportunity to buy this machine with the complete kit. What this means is that you can start using your air compressor as soon as it arrives. The kit will include a 17-piece accessory toolkit, a 3-in-1 gun, a 25-foot air hose, and a gauge. Beginners will, therefore, find this machine to be rather practical.
The Campbell Hausfeld (DC080500) Quiet Air Compressor is a dependable and high-quality machine. You will enjoy working with lots of power and dependable components. It is a nice-looking system that comes from one of the biggest manufacturers in the market.
Pros
- Comes with a large 8-gallon tank
- Backed with an extensive 1-year warranty
- You get the option of purchasing a complete kit
- Rated at only 68 decibels
Cons
- It is a bit heavy for most users
5. California Air Tools 10020C
The California Air Tools 10020C is an excellent choice if you are looking for a low-noise machine with high-volume air delivery. It is a 10-gallon air compressor that comes fully packed with wheels and handles for easy transportation.
This 2 HP system delivers an outstanding 6.4 CFM with low noise levels. Working at 70 decibels ensures that the entire process is relatively quiet. Although it isn’t the quietest model on our list, it is rather practical for crowded places.
Understand that you will need about two minutes to fill the tank. You will then only need about 25 seconds to top it off when the pressure drops. Note that the reduced downtime ensures you complete projects faster. You will also find it easier to get a smooth and professional finish, regardless of the project at hand.
What I love about the California Air Tools 10020C is that you get a large tank that is constructed from cast aluminum. Even the drain valve is made from high-quality material to ensure you get long-lasting services. Note that you have to get value for your money when you purchase an air compressor.
Note that you can purchase this device with an automatic drain tank. If you are a beginner, you will find the automatic variant to be rather practical. Understand that you won’t need to worry about draining your tank now and then. You can, therefore, get long-lasting services from your quiet-operation air compressor.
A huge plus for the California Air Tools 10020C is the easy to use controls. You get a tank pressure, a regulator, two universal quick couplers, and regulated pressure gauges. Note that working with this air compressor is made considerably simple.
Pros
- Rust-free cylinder
- High-powered 1 HP compressor
- The oil-free system guarantees long-lasting services
- Ideal for large tasks
Cons
- The design is rather awkward
6. Metabo HPT Air Compressor
At only 59 decibels, the Metabo HPT Air Compressor is an excellent choice for any individual looking for quiet operations with air tools. Note that you can comfortably use this machine in crowded neighborhoods without any problems. Understand that the noise level with this machine is so low that you can have a normal conversation while it runs.
This air compressor comes with a steel roll cage that makes transportation quite easy. The rubber grip also provides comfort while moving the machine from one place to the next. Note that you will need to move your air compressor a lot since you will be working on multiple projects.
The oil-free pump ensures that you get long-lasting services from this quiet-operation air compressor. Note that air compressors cost a fortune and you need a machine that will deliver. Having a durable machine ensures you get value for your money.
The included gauges and regulators ensure that you can accurately and easily make PSI adjustments. Note that different air tools will need different PSI to deliver a smooth and professional finish. Having industrial-grade gauges and regulators increases the versatility of this already impressive machine.
What I like about the Metabo HPT Air Compressor is the fact that it is maintenance-free. This machine will deliver high-performance without needing regular maintenance. However, understand that you have to perform certain practices such as draining the tank.
The Metabo HPT Air Compressor is an ideal buy for both beginners and professionals. However, the -gallon tank makes it suitable for small projects only. You will not find this model practical if you intend on using it for large projects.
Pros
- High-end performance
- Super quiet operations at 59 decibels
- Steel roll cage for easy transportation
- The oil-free system guarantees longevity
Cons
- Not ideal for large air tools
7. California Air Tools 2010A
The California Air Tools 2010A is a compact air compressor that packs a lot of power. You get a quiet-operation machine that delivers high-quality services at a low noise rating of 60 decibels. You can use this air compressor without having to worry about getting too loud.
What I like about this machine is its oil-free engine. For starters, the company guarantees that you can get over 3,000 hours without experiencing any kind of glitch. Understand that having a durable machine ensures you get value for your money.
The 2-gallon tank is constructed from aluminum to ensure you enjoy long-lasting services. However, note that the tank size might not be ideal for larger air tools. This air compressor is designed for hobbyists and DIYers. You will find it quite easy to work with small air tools such as brad nailers and airbrushes.
The California Air Tools 2010A comes with a dual-piston motor that is instrumental in keeping the noise levels at a minimum. The stainless-steel valves and Teflon cylinder rings ensure you get reliable service life from this impressive machine.
You might be thinking that the California Air Tools 2010A is rather weak due to its small size and quiet operations. However, this machine is capable of delivering up to 3.1 CFM. It also comes complete with a 1-year warranty and two pressure gauges.
The California Air Tools 2010A is an excellent choice if you want a practical machine for different activities around the home. The small tank size makes it ideal for beginners and regular DIYers. It is not a recommended air compressor for workshops that handle large projects.
Pros
- Produces just 60 decibels of noise
- Available in 0.75 and 0.5 HP versions
- The oil-free system provides long-lasting services
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
Cons
- A bit pricey when compared to similar products
What Should I Look for When Buying a Quiet Air Compressor ?
Before you embark on your journey to find an ultra-quiet air compressor, you need to understand what factors and features to look out for. In this next section, we will take a closer look at some of the things that you have to consider when purchasing a quiet air compressor.
Purpose
Why are you purchasing an air compressor? Understand that this question will dictate both the noise levels and specifications of the ideal machine for you. The reason for wanting to buy an air compressor will also play a huge factor in determining your budget.
Did you know that air compressors tend to cost considerably more when they get quieter? Knowing why you need an air compressor will determine how much you are willing to spend. The intent of buying the machine will also determine other factors including tank size, pressure, and volume.
Noise Level
Understand that this entire review is about quiet-operation air compressors. The noise level of the machine is, therefore, an important consideration. First, the noise level is calculated in decibels in all air compressors. When it comes to decibels, every 10 increase pints will account for double the volume. For instance, note that 40 decibels are almost two times louder than 30 decibels. What this means is that 50 decibels will be four times louder than the same 30 decibels.
Understand that over 80 decibels is considered noisy, while between 60-80 decibels is considered quiet. The 60 decibels and below models are super quiet and ideal for crowded locations. Understanding this small fact will help you find a suitable model.
Pressure and Tank Size
The amount of attention that you channel towards the tank size and pressure is dependent on your air tool requirements. Since the tank size is given in gallons, you need to combine it with the maximum pressure to know the amount of air it can store.
The maximum pressure for most compressors is rated at 150 PSI. Although tank sizes range from 1-30 gallons, the average size is rated at 6 gallons. Knowing the pressure and tank size will help you figure out whether the air compressor is ideal for your air tools.
Air Volume
Different air tools have different needs when it comes to air volume. Some tools thrive with high quantities of air while others prefer less air. Note that air volume is commonly measured in CFM (cubic feet per minute). Most small air compressors will have an air volume range of somewhere between 2-3 CFM. Ensure you find a quiet air compressor that delivers sufficient air volume for your pneumatic tools.
Maintenance
Air compressors with oil-free motors are easy to maintain. Ensure you find a model that will deliver high-performance with no maintenance. By doing that, you will ensure you get a long-lasting model that gives you value for your money. Ensure the tank features a simple drain valve because this will help make maintenance much easier.
Oil vs Oil-less Air Compressor, Which is Better?
Oil-less air compressors are lighter, cheap, and require less maintenance. Note that these air compressors are pre-lubricated, thus ensuring that they don’t need constant maintenance. However, the Teflon tends to start wearing out when the unit starts to dry. You will, therefore, not enjoy long-lasting services from this machine.
The oil air compressors, on the other hand, are much more durable. The only problem is the fact that you will need to change the oil from time to time. The good news is that the user manual clarifies when and how to make the oil change.
Oil-compressors are ideal for industrial applications since they guarantee long-lasting services. However, if you are looking for a small air compressor for your home, the oil-less air compressors are an excellent choice. Whether you choose an oil-less or oil compressor usually comes down to the kind of work you have in hand.
Why do You Need a quiet Air Compressor?
A quiet air compressor is a great choice for most homes and workshops due to one vital factor; reduced noise levels. Understand that working with loud noises can be rather frustrating, especially when the working area is small.
If you also live in a crowded neighborhood, a quiet air compressor will ensure you have no quarrels with your neighbors. Understand that loud air compressors can be rather annoying, especially when you have young kids around.
Which quiet Air Compressor is best for You?
Finding a quiet air compressor that suits your needs is not as simple as it might seem. There are a lot of factors that you need to consider apart from the noise levels. Understand that the air compressor has to be a perfect fit for your pneumatic tools.
Ensure you find a quiet model from our list that packs enough power for your air tools. Having a quiet-operation air compressor is non-beneficial if it can’t power your pneumatic tools. Look at tank capacity, the air volume, and pressure levels.
Simple Ways on How to Make an Air Compressor Quieter
Do you already have a noisy air compressor? Well, below are tips to help you make your machine quieter.
Use Rubber Grommets
You probably know that rubber is a noise absorbing material that is used in different machines. Place rubber grommets between the surface and your air compressor to reduce the noise. There will be reduced vibrations which means that the noise levels will also go down.
Go to your local tool store and purchase the rubber grommets. The good news is that they are relatively cheap. However, ensure you take your time when installing these rubber grommets to avoid any injuries in the workplace.
Lubricate the Bearings
Any machine that has a few movable parts will also have some bearings. Because the bearings move in different directions, the friction will cause a lot of noise. Note that lubricating the bearings of your air compressor will greatly reduce the noise level.
Understand that lubrication will also help ensure you get long-lasting services from your machine. Because you spent a fortune on your air compressor, you need to get value for your money. Without proper lubrication, the high friction might damage your machine.
Place your Air Inlet Outside
Placing the air inlet in your basement, home, or garage will lead to increased noise levels. Start by placing the air inlet where noise is not an issue. Use a well-ventilated area or your lawn to guarantee reduced noise levels.
However, understand that you need to use a strong bracket to hold the installed hose in place. Run your compressor to check whether the setup will hold during a project. placing the air inlet outside will reduce the noise levels to a more tolerable level.
Final Verdict
The Campbell Hausfeld (DC080500) has to be my best quiet air compressor from our extensive list. At just 68 decibels, this impressive machine features a powerful 1 HP motor, 8-gallon tank, and lightweight construction. It is also a versatile machine that is suitable for all types of projects around the home and workshop.
Understand that the Campbell Hausfeld (DC080500) Quiet Air Compressor also allows you to purchase the entire kit. If you are a beginner, then you will get an extensive tool kit to go with your air compressor.
Note that all the models discussed in this review will give you quiet operations. However, ensure you find a machine that suits your pneumatic tools. Look at customer reviews to help you get a clear picture of what you are purchasing.
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