Nailing is a common step in every DIY project. Therefore, the best air compressor for nail gun is quite handy to make nailing more straightforward. It reduces the use of a hammer and nail so quickly with air pressure.
There are various nail guns, but pneumatic nailers are the best choice. They use air pressure for knocking nails to the surface. Also, they are durable but a little noisy.
Remember that you will need a very portable compressor to be as versatile as possible when using a nail gun, and we will also discuss how it works below. Doing heavy tasks or even working indoors requires a certain degree of versatility and noise control.
DIYers Pick: 5 Best Air Compressor for Nail Gun
| Image | Product Name | Specification | Price |
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CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor, 6 Gallon | Color: Red Dimension: 16.5” x 16.5” x 17.88” Customer Rating: 4.7/5 Weight: 32.5 lbs |
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Bostitch Air Compressor | Color: Yellow Dimension: 21.13” x 19.5” x 18” Customer Rating: 4.7/5 Weight: 41.8 lbs |
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DEWALT Pancake Air Compressor, 6 Gallon | Color: Yellow Power Source: Corded Electric Dimensions: 16 x 16 x 17.5 inches Capacity: 6 Gallons Voltage: 120 Volts |
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PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor, 6-Gallon | Color: Red Dimension: 19” x 19” x 18” Customer Rating: 4.7/5 Weight: 31.2 lbs |
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DEWALT 1-Gallon Air Compressor | Color: Yellow Power Source: Electric Dimensions: 48 x 40 x 41 inches Capacity: 1 Gallons |
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After testing and research, we have selected the perfect air compressor for your nailing project. Don’t worry; now, things are pretty easy for you.
We have listed the best compressor for nail gun for various budgets, features, and durability. So, here we go!
Top Air Compressor
CRAFTSMAN: Air Compressor for Nail Gun
- This easy-to-maintain air compressor is manufactured in the USA.
- The CRAFTSMAN air compressor has a maximum of 6-gallon capacity, making it easy to carry.
- This oil-free Air compressor pump is designed for a long lifespan.
- This air compressor has come with a complete set of tools to help you get the work done quickly and efficiently.
- It generates a maximum pressure of 150 PSI, ensuring sufficient cutting pressure for various uses.
- The compressor regeneration time is faster with this air compressor.
- Brand: CRAFTSMAN
- Dimensions: 16.5” x 16.5” x 17.88”
- Capacity: 6 Gallons
- Weight: 32.5 lb
- Customer Rating: 4.7 out of 5
The award-winning Craftsman air compressor is part of the company’s redesigned and expanded range. You can use this best portable air compressor for nail gun to inflate truck and bicycle tires and a power source for nailers.
There are 13 extra kits included with this air compressor package. Anyway, the compressor’s overall design is fantastic, with superb build quality. The masses are fast flocking to this product, owing to this and, of course, its efficiency.
This air compressor has become quite popular because of its excellent performance and long life. It’s also simple to move and requires little maintenance. Also, it is entirely oil-free, which is a fantastic benefit.
- This compressor is less loud and fills the tank rapidly. Another advantage of this compressor is that it comes as a package, making air tool buying much more effortless. It’s simple to operate and maintain, and it’s also the best value for money on the market.
- The package includes many little accessories but no instructions on using them. Sometimes, the safety control valve may leak and need to be changed for optimal functioning.
Runner Up
BOSTITCH: Air Compressor for Nailer
- This air compressor is oil-free and eliminates the risk of grease marks on working surfaces.
- The tiny tank size of this 29 lb air compressor makes it easy to transport and store.
- This compressor’s excellent flow control capability ensures optimal performance.
- High-quality manufacturing materials ensure long life and user safety.
- This air compressor produces very low noise and provides a quiet working environment.
- It comes as a complete package of all necessary components included.
- Brand: Bostitch
- Dimensions: 16.9” x 16.5” x 19.1”
- Capacity: 6 Gallons
- Weight: 29 lb
- Customer Rating: 4.8 out of 5
This Bostitch air compressor is very lightweight, easy to use, and suitable for light to medium applications in and around the home. It is oil-free and portable, and maintenance-free.
The pump can deliver 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI. Moreover, this small air compressor for nail gun is equipped with a high-performance BOSTITCH engine for easy starting. In addition, two universal channels support two users at the same time.
This compressor provides an excellent output at a reasonable price. The high-quality manufacturing materials provide dependability and longer service life. It is handy when it comes to portability. You can move the compressor around quickly.
- Quicker recovery time is also an excellent benefit for saving time. This machine has dual-channel support, allowing two users to utilise it simultaneously. The engine can run smoothly and without jerking on flat ground.
- The power chord is just 5 ft long, sometimes an issue for power connection. Users complain that the machine is louder than specified on the website.
Best Overall
DEWALT: (DWFP55126) Air Compressor
- This DEWALT compressor can produce a maximum of 165 PSI, ensuring the ultimate functionality.
- This air compressor comes with a high-performance electric motor designed for quick starting even in cold temperatures.
- It includes a longer cable for a better power connection in a more extended range.
- Its lower sound level makes it ideal for working in a quiet workplace.
- The best quality regulator and connectors maximise the performance of the compressor.
- This oil-free, long-lasting compressor is simple to operate and move.
- Brand: DEWALT
- Dimensions: 16” x 16” x 17.5”
- Capacity: 6 Gallons
- Required Power: 120 V
- Customer Rating: 4.6 out of 5
This DEWALT air compressor has become popular due to its high performance and long lifespan. The compressor has a 6-gallon capacity and a maximum pressure of 165 PSI. Besides, this best compressor for nail gun is lightweight and has simple operating functions.
You can use it for a variety of pneumatic operations. This oil-free pump has a rapid recovery time and can deliver 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI. It’s easy to store at work or in the garage, thanks to the provided cable wrap.
- It is one of the fastest air compressors in this price range. This compressor is easy to maintain and very portable to move around. The compressor is ideal for small to medium pneumatic works. For new users, this comes with a detailed instructions guideline. It is an affordable and value-for-money air compressor with an oil-free electric engine.
- This compressor is designed for small to medium-sized tasks and should not be used for larger-scale projects. Customers sometimes complain about defective pressure meters in the compressor machine.
Premium Pick
PORTER-CABLE: Pancake Air Compressor for Nail Gun
- This reliable oil-free air compressor provides longer service life with no maintenance.
- This standard compressor tool produces 90 PSI and ensures a faster recovery time.
- The air tank can contain a maximum of 150 PSI, giving extended service time.
- Using this 6-gallon air compressor, you can quickly complete your small or medium-scale pneumatic jobs.
- This electric-powered compressor uses only 120V and can operate even in low temperatures.
- Two users can use this machine simultaneously, which helps to multitask.
- Brand: PORTER-CABLE
- Dimensions: 19” x 19” x 18”
- Capacity: 6 Gallons
- Weight: 30 pounds
- Customer Rating: 4.7 out of 5
This low-maintenance air compressor for nailer is highly cost-effective. It features a 6-gallon compressed air capacity and a powerful 150 PSI air pressure. This compressor contains high-quality materials that make it long-lasting and tear-resistant.
As part of the package, you’ll get a variety of accessory kits. This compressor is small enough to transport fast. It can be an excellent choice for easy activities like air painting and pressure cleaning. This air compressor is incredibly cost-effective. The tank capacity of this compressor is large enough for proper output delivery.
- It comes as a package that includes a 15-tool accessory set and an official Porter cable. The best price-to-quality package offers excellent value for money. Also, this air compressor is ideal for occasional use at your home and workplace. It is easy to transport due to its small size.
- It is a little louder than the website claims. Because the bottom pad isn’t covered in a rubber grip, it’s unsteady on a rough surface. Some users have expressed dissatisfaction with the low-quality accessory kits.
Best Budget
DEWALT: Small Air Compressor for Nail Gun
- It is a compact, heavy-duty air compressor with a Guard Roller.
- With a 1-gallon tiny compressor size, it’s incredibly portable and simple to maintain.
- The outer roll cage and control panel protect key compressor components.
- The entirely oil-free pump produces very little noise and requires less electric power.
- With a compact size of 9 in and 24 lb, this is an excellent choice for simple tasks.
- It includes one compressor with a hose for appropriate functioning.
- Brand: DEWALT
- Dimensions: 48” x 40” x 41”
- Capacity: 1 Gallon
- Weight: 24 pounds
- Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5
This DEWALT (D55140) is a compact air compressor that is convenient to carry. Compared to similar products, this small air compressor for nail gun produces relatively less noise.
Moreover, this air compressor uses less power to operate, resulting in lower electric bills. Also, it delivers long-term service and can perform flawlessly under pressure. This small-sized DEWALT air compressor has gained popularity for its compact size and high performance. With the help of its roll case, you can easily carry this wherever you need it.
- It has a handy control panel for proper maintenance and operations. You can easily control the regulated pressure from the control panel. Also, it features an oil-free pump to keep it neat, clean, and grease-free.
- The 1-gallon small tank is not enough for large-scale work. It takes more time to refill the tank again. The tank gets empty quickly as it is not large enough to contain more air.
Wondering if you can leave air in your air compressor? Find answers to key questions in the related article.
Professional
California: Best Portable Air Compressor for Nail Gun
- This California air compressor is one of the most efficient and effective compressors on the market.
- The oil-free pump keeps the machine clean and grease-free.
- This compressor requires very little maintenance.
- It can produce up to 120 PSI for excellent performance.
- Another fantastic advantage of this compressor is its low power consumption.
- The time it takes to refill the tank is minimal, saving a lot of time.
- While running, this compressor creates a small amount of heat, keeping it safe from heat burn.
- Brand: California Air Tools
- Dimensions: 19.5” x 9.5” x 24”
- Capacity: 4.7 Gallons
- Weight: 53 pounds
- Customer Rating: 4.8 out of 5
This high-performance air compressor can fill the tank in only 106 seconds which is an excellent benefit for rapid working environments. It includes a 1 HP electric motor capable of producing a maximum of 120 PSI pressure.
This air compressor gun is quite enough for small-to-medium scale pneumatic jobs. It produces minimal sound around 65dB, comparatively the lowest sound produced from the compressor machines available in the market. This little sound doesn’t bother the users while working.
- The high-quality steel-made tank ensures the safety of the users and provides a long-time service. It also comes with a universal connector for hassle-free connections. The thermal-overload protection protects the machine from heat bursts. The tank is oil-free, which keeps the device clean and long-lasting.
- Customers complain about faulty regulators and pressure meters. Inflating large tires, such as truck tires, takes a longer time.
Customer Choice
Makita MAC2400 Air Compressor
- This Makita air compressor’s powerful cast-iron piston-cylinder pump delivers a faster recovery time for increased productivity.
- It contains two fast connectors that make it simple to connect and support two users simultaneously.
- This compressor has a 2.5 HP motor and produces 4.2 CFM at 90 PSI for more remarkable performance.
- It creates relatively little noise while running, resulting in a quieter working environment.
- The roll cage design provides complete protection for working in harsh environments.
- This compressor is very economical in power consumption.
- The compressor pump is well-lubricated with oil to keep it cool and prevent wear.
- Brand: Makita
- Dimensions: 20” x 18” x 18.75”
- Capacity: 4.2 Gallons
- Weight: 77 pounds
- Customer Rating: 4.8 out of 5
The Makita MAC2400 air compressor is one of the most widely used air compressors. It is a professional-grade compressor with adequate power to perform most jobs around the house or in the garage.
With a 2.5 HP motor, this Big Bore air compressor is one of the most powerful portable compressors on the market. Moreover, this air compressor for nail gun has high-quality materials that ensure durability and excellent performance.
- Two quick connectors support two users at the same time. Its outstanding build quality and lower noise level help to use it for a long time without bothering. Its well-lubricated pumps stay calm and quiet while running. You can quickly move this compressor using its rubber-coated handle.
- It is insufficient to support two users utilising two air tools simultaneously, as both require a large amount of CFM. It is not portable because of its heavyweight of 77 pounds and the lack of a wheel to carry it around.
Factors to pick the Best Air Compressor for Nail Gun
Finding the best air compressor for your nailer isn’t easy, with so many factors going into the selection process. In addition to these factors, having various options makes the decision-making process tedious.
Portability
Some air compressors are not lightweight, but they are easy to carry around. For pro construction companies, it makes more sense to invest in them. Because you needn’t worry about durability for harsh working conditions, it creates enough power to operate many tools.
PSI
Most standard devices provide sufficient PSI to support nailers. However, it is best to buy a model with around 120 to 150 psi air pressure. Moreover, if you want to use a compressor for multiple purposes, you can choose a more elevated PSI model.
Oily or Oil-free
The design of the oiled system requires periodic oil changes to keep your compressor running friction-free. On the contrary, oil-free designs are maintenance-free and leak-free.
Some professionals opt for oiled ones for more satisfactory performance. The rest is your choice.
Tank Size
The tank size decides the pressure your air compressor generates. But it makes your compressor heavier. If you want to carry out small projects, you can try out a small air compressor. For long projects, you need a bigger compressor.
Recovery time
The recovery time is the time it takes the engine to fill the air reservoir to ignite the next nailer. The shorter the repair time for professional roofers, the better the job.
Source of power
All engines need a power source to operate, and the compressor is the same. Generally, the oiled compressors are not much portable but powerful.
Moreover, it can be noise free and produce sufficient air pressure. Yet, the oil-free model is more delicate, but they have less power. Either way, both offer excellent performance.
One or two-phase
Single-stage air compressors have the lowest PSI rating, also, the two-phase model is more attractive. The single-stage compressors will be affordable and lightweight if you need an air compressor with the smallest capacity. However, people who require more power will use the two-phase model.
Don’t know how to increase CFM on air compressor? Read helpful guide here.
CFM
The device’s air volume is estimated in CFM. Ensure that the compressor you buy has the CFM level in sync with the nail gun level. The average airflow for a typical portable compressor will be 2 CFM @90 psi.
It is perfect for a large nailer producing 15 units per minute. Anyway, a medium-sized nail gun can do 30 operations per minute. Moreover, a small size nail gun guarantees 70 drives per minute.
Silent mode
Louder noise disturbs your productivity. That’s why it’s essential to select an air compressor that guarantees noise-free operation at not more than 70 decibels. They are perfect for indoor use.
Horsepower
HP indicates the total work that an air tool can do. Compressor HP does not matter much in regular use. For commercial use, you need a lot of power.
Air cooling system
The air cooling system prolongs the service life of the pneumatic tool. Also, it protects your air tools from overheating and failure. So ensure that your device has an improved air cooling system.
How do you use an Air Compressor with a Nail Gun?
If you don’t know how to use an air compressor with a nailer properly, a good quality product alone can’t complete your task correctly. So, find out more in this section!
Initial Step: Select the right pneumatic nail gun for the project
There are different nail guns out there. You can use finishing nail guns for repairing old furniture or other DIY projects. A framing nail gun is ideal for larger tasks.
It has 2.8mm diameter nails that can drive into the wood without tearing it or harming its plaster. On the other hand, the brad nail guns have smaller nails and are perfect for small tasks.
Step 2: Choose nails for the nailer (nail gun)
Nails are usually fixed with paper, plastic, wire, or a small glue. Glue nails stick better to the surface as the glue cools and hardens. Most housework and other chores around the house require round or D-shaped nails.
The main difference between them is that the nail gun will hold around 20% to 30% more cut nails due to its design than round head nails. The decision depends on your preference and the type of nails in your area.
Step 3: Choose the Proper Air Compressor
You must ensure that your air compressor is correct in size and type. If you use a roof or framing nailer, you will require an air compressor of around 3HP. Also, if you use a staple gun or finishing nail, a 2 HP air compressor is ideal for this.
Step 4: Turn on the air compressor
Connect the air compressor and switch it on. Allow the compressor to pressurize the storage tank. Also, check the exhaust pressure gauge reads 0 psi.
Connect the female NPT connector to the compressor coupler. Attach the standard connector to the nail gun at the other end. With both ends of the air hose secured, turn on the pressure controller knob on the compressor to direct air out of the exhaust pipe.
Turn the control knob till the power output meter gets the recommended PSI value for the nail gun. Read the user manual to set the correct PSI for your instrument.
Step 5: Take Safety Measures
Before starting work, wear safety goggles and a hard cap to defend yourself from dust particles and injury from improper use of the equipment.
Never attempt to wash the nail gun after or during use. Do not use a nail gun attached to the air compressor where electrical sparks occur.
Step 6: Start Your Task
After turning on the air compressor, adjust the pressure depending on how in-depth you have to pierce your nails. You will require high psi for fully recessed nails.
Be cautious not to push the air compressor over the regular pressure limitation. Push the gun nozzle all the way down to the surface and fire to go through the nail.
Final Step: Finish The Job
When finished, do not turn off the compressor immediately. Slowly release pressure by lowering the regulator. Please turn it off once you get to the end and open the security valve to discharge the remaining air.
Disconnect the nailer from the air hose; then, clean the nailer with a bit of grease. When the tools become cool, store them in a safe place.
If you’re looking for what size air compressor for framing nailer, see full information in the related article here.
FAQs
What size air compressor for nail gun?
A pneumatic nailer is a sporadic tool that does not need a constant air supply. You need some air to attach the nails to the wood. Then all you require is a portable air compressor with a minimum capacity of 2 CFM and a tank capacity of 2-6 gallons. If you go for a more significant task, you have to use an air compressor with a big tank and CFM.
What kind of air compressor do I need for a framing nailer?
HP and CFM are the two most important metrics for any compressor and pneumatic tools (such as a nailer). It is crucial that they fully meet both machines’ HP and CFM requirements for best results. A typical air pressure ranges from 130 psi to 100 psi is perfect for the framing nailer. However, a 4-6 gallon air compressor with 4CFM is ideal for the framing nailer.
Do you need an air compressor for a nailer?
Yes, you need an air compressor for a nailer. While no nail gun requires a dedicated compressor, each has its own air requirements. Air pressure is required for nailing. However, nail guns run over a pressure range measured in PSI. In fact, nail guns need minimal air to function correctly. This volume is expressed in CFM (cubic feet per minute).
Can you use a nail gun without an air compressor?
An air compressor must power the pneumatic tools and an air hose to attach with that tool. Wireless mounting nailers provide free movement, but heavy tasks like framing increase battery drain. With brad nails, you have a length of around 2-1⁄8 inch maximum for a 15 or 16 finish nail with a smaller fill hole. Battery or gas-powered braid nailers work like their pneumatic counterparts without the hassle of dragging the hose and air compressor.
How long should it take for air compressor to fill?
It depends on your compressor’s tank size, at what pressure you are filling it and at what start pressure, as well as the capacity of the air compressor. But the usual filling takes an average of 10 to 30 minutes. Speedy filling causes the filling tank to heat up excessively, and as it cools, it loses pressure and, therefore, volume in your tank.
Final Verdict
A nailer is an effective power tool that you can use for various purposes. At the same time, without an air compressor, it is entirely useless since it hammers a nail into multiple surfaces. Before we finish, let’s take a quick look at our main recommendations.
The CRAFTSMAN (CMEC6150K) Air Compressor is economical for people on a budget. The BOSTITCH (BTFP02012-WPK) Air Compressor is ideal for industrial reliability and enhanced durability in harsh environments. Finally, the California (CAT-4710SQ) Air Compressor is an oil-free tool that requires less maintenance.
You can go a little higher, not less, by properly maintaining the PSI requirements and CFM rating; increasing your standard’s capacity much higher than required will give you no extra return. So, an air compressor that meets your needs and budget will be the best air compressor for nail gun.
