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Keeping a quiet home can be a challenge, but the goal can seem nearly insurmountable when you have to use some kind of power tool. Rather than opt for a motorized model, one way of alleviating the noise created by traditional power tools is to opt for quieter pneumatic options instead.
Unfortunately, pneumatic power tools require high levels of airflow and air pressure which can be difficult to achieve without an air compressor. In this instance, it may seem like you simply trade one type of noise for another, but there are air compressors on the market that do not make quite as much noise.
That is why we put together a list of the 5 best quiet air compressor reviews of this year, highlighting what each one does best. We also answer some of the most pressing questions related to quiet compressors as well as provide a helpful buyer’s guide, so you can work in relative peace and quiet.
Best Quiet Air Compressor Reviews
Best Seller: California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S Light & Quiet Portable Air Compressor, Silver
- Ultra quiet only 56 Decibels
- Oil-Free pump for less maintenance & costs
- Lightweight for easy transporting - 29 lbs
California Air Tools may not be the most well-known company on our list, but they have plenty of experience with nearly 2 decades under their belt. It also does not hurt that California Air Tools is one of the few companies we reviewed that specializes in quiet air compressors and their accessories.
That being the case, it should come as little surprise that the California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S Air Compressor is one of the quietest reviewed, generating only 56 dB of noise which is quieter than your average conversation. Unfortunately, this air compressor has to sacrifice a bit of performance to achieve these whisper-quiet volumes.
Part of the reason the California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S Air Compressor is quiet comes down to its relatively underpowered motor that only generates ⅗ hp and pushes just 4 ½ amps. This translates to one of the weakest performances we came across with this air compressor maxing out at 118 PSI– the lowest on our list.
As if that were not bad enough, the California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S Air Compressor also produces one of the lowest airflows we found at only 1 ⅕ CFM @ 90 PSI. Finally, this air compressor should not be used for professional purposes given its tank only holds a list-low 1 gal.
However, all of these qualities mean that the California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S Air Compressor recovers far quicker than most, taking only 50 seconds. On top of that, this air compressor is one of the more durable we found, able to handle 3000 cycle hours thanks to a motor that spins at only 1680 rpms.
Keep in mind, the California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S Air Compressor is one of the few models that does not come with a rollbar chassis, so be extra careful when transporting it.
Features
- Hums along at a quieter 56 dB
- Comes equipped with a decent ⅗ hp, 4 ½ A motor
- Blows out a decent 1 ⅕ CFM @ 90 PSI of airflow
- Provides a functional maximum pressure of 118 PSI
- Has a quick recovery time of only 50 seconds
Verdict
The California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S Air Compressor is likely a best seller due to its low price combined with its extremely quiet operation. However, you give up a lot of performance to meet both of those standards, and this air compressor is nowhere near professional-grade in any capacity except recovery.
Pros
- Only generates 56 dB of noise
- Is more durable
- Recovers quicker than most
- Is less expensive
Cons
- No the most airflow
- Has a lower maximum PSI
Top Pick: Makita MAC320Q Quiet Series, 1 HP, 2 Gallon, Oil-Free, Electric Air Compressor
- Quiet Series design at only 60 dB for operator and crew comfort; ideal for indoor use
- Runs at a lower RPM (1, 750) resulting in longer motor and pump life
- Complete roll-cage construction provides protection to withstand a variety of job-site, transporting, and storage environments
Anyone familiar with power tools should know Makita which is not only a professional-grade power tool manufacturer but the most experienced company on our list. What you might not know is that Makita started out making electric motors which serves the Makita MAC320Q Quiet Series Air Compressor especially well.
For starters, this air compressor is one of the quieter models that we encountered, generating only 60 dB of noise or about as much as a quiet office. What is even more surprising is that the Makita MAC210Q Quiet Series Air Compressor did not have to sacrifice performance to achieve this feat.
For one, this air compressor comes with one of the most powerful motors on our list, generating a list-leading 1 ½ hp and pushing an impressive 8 ½ amps. The Makita MAC320Q Quiet Series Air Compressor’s powerful motor serves it well as it also generates the second-highest maximum pressure on our list at 135 PSI.
As if that were not enough, this air compressor also boasts the second-best airflow reviewed, producing 2 ⅗ CFM @ 90 PSI. Thankfully, you do not have to worry about running out of airflow when using the Makita MAC320Q Quiet Series Air Compressor as it also comes with the largest tank on our list at 3 gal.
While that performance is exceptional, this air compressor can recover quicker than most as well with a recovery rate of only 65 seconds, allowing you to work all day. The only real downside of the Makita MAC320Q Quiet Series Air Compressor is its weight which tips the scales at a hefty 52 ½ lbs.
That said, you will also likely want to keep a reasonably thick gauge extension cord handy as this air compressor comes with a shorter cord.
Features
- Hums along at a quiet 60 dB
- Comes equipped with a powerful 1 ½ hp, 8 ½ A motor
- Blows out a powerful 2 ⅗ CFM @ 90 PSI of airflow
- Provides a good maximum pressure of 135 PSI
- Comes with a large tank of 3 gal for long term use
Verdict
The Makita MAC210Q Quiet Series Air Compressor is the clearcut choice when it comes to our top pick thanks to a combination of quiet operation and high-end performance. While not the highest maximum pressure rate, every other meaningful category ranks first or second on our list.
Pros
- Only generates 60 dB of noise
- Produces plenty of airflow
- Has a large maximum PSI
- Has a large tank
Cons
- Is more expensive
- Is less portable
Best Value: Eagle EA-2000 Silent Series 2000 Air Compressor 125 psi MAX psi Hot Dog with panel, Blue, 1 gallon
- QUIET PROFESSIONAL GRADE COMPRESSOR: The EA-2000 features a slow RPM motor, reducing noise, heat and friction; quiet enough to have a...
- SLEEK DESIGN: The integrated control panel features an adjustable pressure regulator and a 'push to lock' quick coupler for ease of use
- OIL FREE: Oil free double-piston pump provides high durability with no maintenance
Eagle Abrasives is actually a brand owned by Wood Industries INcorporated and has a little over a decade of experience. While not the most well-known or experienced company on our list the Eagle EA-2000 Silent Series 2000 Air Compressor offers one of the best values we found combined with an extremely quiet operation.
Speaking of that quiet operation, this air compressor is far and away the quests entry on our list, generating only a whisper-quiet 44 dB. However, like many other whisper-quiet entries, the Eagle EA-2000 Silent Series 2000 Air Compressor gives up some performance to achieve this extremely low volume.
For one, this air compressor employs one of the least powerful motors on our list, generating only ¾ hp and pushing just 3 ½ amps– the second-lowest and lowest rating reviewed, respectively. As you might expect, this limits the Eagle EA-2000 Silent Series 2000 Air Compressor somewhat, though it still achieves a solid maximum pressure rate of 125 PSI.
Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of this air compressor’s airflow which is the lowest on our list, offering only 1 CFM @ 90 PSI. It also does not help that the Eagle EA-2000 Silent Series 2000 Air Compressor is tied for the smallest tank reviewed at just 1 gal– though this cuts down on the recovery time a bit.
On the positive side, this air compressor is more portable than most, weighing in at a lightweight 27 ⅓ lbs with a compact profile of 15” x 14 ¼” x 12 ⅗”. The Eagle EA-2000 Silent Series 2000 Air Compressor is also an inexpensive option given the mixed performance with its small footprint and extremely quiet operation.
Features
- Hums along at a whisper-quiet 44 dB
- Comes equipped with an acceptable ¾ hp, 3 ½ A motor
- Blows out a functional 1 CFM @ 90 PSI of airflow
- Provides a decent maximum pressure of 125 PSI
- Is easily transported at only 27 ⅓ lbs and 15” x 14 ¼” x 12 ⅗”
Verdict
If you absolutely need the quietest air compressor you can find, the Eagle EA-2000 Silent Series 2000 Air Compressor is a decent bet. However, just understand that you are giving up plenty in the way of performance, though this model still offers a better than expected maximum pressure.
Pros
- Only generates 44 dB of noise
- Is more durable
- Is more portable
- Is less expensive
Cons
- Not the most airflow
- Has a smaller tank
Runner Up: Stealth Portable Air Compressor, 3 Gallon, Ultra Quiet, Oil-Free Pump, 1 HP, 150 PSI, Electric Air Tool SAQ-1301
- Quiet operation with noise less than 65dB thanks to Stealth’s innovative quiet systems.
- It delivers 2.5 CFM@ 90PSI & 3.5 CFM@40PSI and a maximum tank storage of 150 PSI for longer tool run time with quick recovery.
- Powered by a 1.0 HP motor, delivers enough power to finish toughest jobs.
Stealth Compressors is by far the least experienced company on our list with its founding only a little over a year ago, but it is also one of the only brands reviewed that specializes explicitly in quiet air compressors. That said, the Stealth SAQ-1301 Air Compressor is more of a mid-tier model in general and not even the best at its intention.
Granted, this air compressor is still reasonably quiet, all things considered, generating only 65 dB of noise, hovering around the volume of a normal conversation. Though there does not seem to be a mechanical reason for this as the Stealth SAQ-1301 Air Compressor sits in the middle in terms of power.
Keep in mind, this is not a bad thing as this air compressor comes with a motor that still generates 1 hp and pushes a solid 6 ½ amps. What is even more surprising is that the Stealth SAQ-1301 Air Compressor also boasts the second-largest maximum pressure at 150 PSI.
This air compressor stands out further when you consider it also boasts the second-best airflow on our list with 2 ½ CFM @ 90 PSI. One area where the Stealth SAQ-1301 Air Compressor comes up a bit short is in the portability department as it is the second heaviest model we reviewed, weighing in at 44 pounds.
Though, this weight likely comes from its steel tank and roll-bar chassis with an ergonomic handle that at least makes it a little bit easier to carry. Another aspect of the Stealth SAQ-1301 Air Compressor that stands out is its tank which tops our list at a massive 3 gal, reducing the number of cycles required to finish a long job.
Even better, this oil-less design and relatively low rpms of the motor provide this air compressor a solid lifespan of 1000 hours.
Features
- Hums along at a fairly quiet 65 dB
- Comes equipped with a solid 1 hp, 6 ½ A motor
- Blows out a good 2 ½ CFM @ 90 PSI of airflow of airflow
- Provides a great maximum pressure of 150 PSI
- Comes with a large tank of 3 gal for long term use
Verdict
The Stealth SAQ-1301 Air Compressor might be one of the best all-around options we reviewed, though it could be a touch quieter for our purposes. Still, this air compressor is plenty quiet enough considering it also produces plenty of airflow and offers one of the best maximum air pressures reviewed.
Pros
- Is more durable
- Produces plenty of airflow
- Has a large maximum PSI
- Has a large tank
Cons
- Not the quietest
- Is lease portable
Also Consider: DEWALT Air Compressor for Trim, 200-PSI Max, Quiet Operation (DWFP55130)
- 3.0 SCFM delivered @ 90 PSI pump, 2.5 gallon tank and 200 max PSI of the portable air compressor enables large amount of nails to be fired...
- Durable oil free pump of the electric air compressor provides extended maintenance-free operation
- Low 71.5* dBA of DEWALT portable air compressor allows for quieter operation (*Tested per ISO3744)
DEWALT is by far one of the oldest and most experienced companies we reviewed, but it also positions itself as a professional-grade power tool manufacturer. While this works great if you need an air compressor that can push harder than most, it carries with it some caveats for our specific purposes.
To wit, the DEWALT DWFP55130 Air Compressor is the loudest model that we reviewed, though it still technically falls under the market’s “quiet” demarcation, generating 71 ½ dB. However, what this air compressor lacks in subtlety, it more than makes up for in performance with this being the all-around most capable air compressor on our list.
For starters, the DEWALT DWFP55130 Air Compressor’s motor puts most of the competitors’ to shame, generating 1 hp and pushing an incredible 12 amps. As if that were not enough, this air compressor can also handle longer jobs than most thanks to the second-largest tank we reviewed with a 2 ½ gal capacity.
Still, the motor is not just for show as it also produces the best airflow on our list, able to send up to 3 CFM @ 90 PSI. Keeping in line with its powerful performance, the DEWALT DWFP55130 Air Compressor also boasts the largest maximum air pressure reviewed at 200 PSI– more than enough to handle your average pneumatic power tools.
Unfortunately, you do not get the best performance for nothing as this air compressor is an expensive entry. It is also worth noting that the DEWALT DWFP55130 Air Compressor’s motor runs faster than most at 2300 rpms which is in part to blame for the noise and will ultimately reduce its longevity.
This air compressor is another model that requires an extension cord due, but its more powerful motor dictates an even thicker gauge than most.
Features
- Hums along at a reasonably quiet 71 ½ dB
- Comes equipped with a powerful 1 hp, 12 A motor
- Blows out an impressive 3 CFM @ 90 PSI of airflow
- Provides an impressive maximum pressure of 200 PSI
- Comes with a large tank of 2 ½ gal for long term use
Verdict
While the DEWALT DWFP55130 Air Compressor is nowhere near the quietest model on our list, it is easily the most powerful. If you are a professional contractor who needs a powerful air compressor to run pneumatic tools but do not want to deal with loud motors, this is a good choice.
Pros
- Has a powerful motor
- Produces plenty of airflow
- Has a large maximum PSI
- Comes with a larger tank
Cons
- Not the quietest
- Is more expensive
Best Quiet Air Compressor Buying Guide
Volume
As our topic centers on quiet air compressors, this is clearly one of the more important aspects to consider, though it does not come without its own caveats. Specifically, most air compressors reduce their volume by simply employing a weaker motor which often limits the model’s performance.
That said, there are a couple of different design choices that can further reduce the volume with multiple air intakes being one of them as it reduces the amount of work the motor has to do. On top of that, particular types of motors that do not work quite as hard or employ as many moving parts can also limit the noise generated.
Power
As mentioned prior, the power often– though not always– correlates with volume for air compressors, forcing you to engage in a bit of a balancing act. In general, the more powerful an air compressor’s motor, the more noise it will make without a closed chassis further muffling the noise.
That said, there are a couple of different specs to consider when choosing an air compressor with the horsepower being the most notable as this often determines the maximum pressure an entry can achieve. After that, the amps provide a gauge for how well the air compressor performs under load, though this does not work quite the same as with other power tools.
Pressure & Airflow
In terms of raw specs, these are likely the two most important aspects to consider as they functionally determine the limitations of a given air compressor. It is also worth noting that while a more powerful motor will often increase both of these qualities, the various types of seals and general compressor design will also influence them.
Another thing to consider is that these factors generally apply to different tasks, with the more common use of inflation focused more on the maximum pressure as this limits what can be inflated and by how much. If you need an air compressor to power pneumatic tools, you will want to pay closer attention to the airflow since most compressors offer the necessary air pressure anyway.
Recovery
Depending on what you need your air compressor for, this is either one of the more important factors or a relatively unimportant one. If you need to use the air compressor for extended periods, then you will want to make sure that it boasts a quick recovery– generally refilling the tank in under 2 minutes.
For the most part, the recovery of an air compressor matters far more for those who intend to use it for powering pneumatic tools than for inflation purposes. Granted, if you need to inflate many different things (like multiple tires) all at one time, the recovery will be meaningful here as well.
Capacity
Similar to recovery, capacity tends to be more important for some purposes than others, though in this instance it is not designated so sharply by the particular task. Instead, the capacity of an air compressor’s tank will weigh heavier depending on how long you need to use the tool in a given instance.
For those who use their air compressor to power pneumatic tools, you will likely prefer a larger tank that does not need to cycle quite as often. However, even those who need an air compressor for inflation purposes may want to find one with a larger tank if the objects being inflated require a fair amount of air.
Durability
Durability is important for any product, but thankfully, air compressors tend to be all-around durable for the most part– at least on the exterior. Depending on whether the air compressor favors outright durability or aims for a portable design, it will be made out of either steel or aluminum.
Outside of the materials, it is also important to look for an air compressor that comes with a rollbar chassis as this will protect the motor and tank from impacts. Finally, the internal components work best when they use an oil-less system and run at lower rpms– which also reduces the amount of noise generated.
Portability
Unless you intend to exclusively use your air compressor in a dedicated garage or workshop, chances are you will need to move it from time to time. As such, the portability of your air compressor is something worth considering but should not be the primary concern when making your choice.
It is worth noting that while air compressors come in a range of different weights, the more powerful models tend to weigh more– though the use of aluminum over steel can reduce this impact. Another good portability feature to look for is an ergonomic hand grip molded to the roll bar cage which makes carrying the air compressor easier in general.
FAQ’s
What Makes an Air Compressor Quiet?
This is a bit of a tricky question as air compressors tend not to come in a covered chassis which would otherwise help muffle the noise generated. This is especially difficult to gauge when you consider that some air compressors are quieter than your average conversation without much external difference.
One of the bigger factors in determining that volume generated by an air compressor is the size and power of the motor. Unfortunately, this means that you often have to balance the power of your air compressor against the amount of noise generated, though more efficient motors can narrow this gap.
One design aspect that helps reduce the amount of noise an air compressor makes is an oil-less system which also helps increase the motor’s lifespan. Another quality about the motor that both helps reduce the amount of noise generated as well as increase the lifespan is a low rpm rate.
How Much Pressure and Airflow Do You Need?
This is where choosing a quiet air compressor can get tricky, especially if you opt for minimal noise since the motor will almost always be too small to generate significant air. Keep in mind, the amount of maximum pressure and airflow that you need heavily depends on the type of tasks you need the air compressor for.
If you need an air compressor to inflate items, you likely do not need to worry about either of these factors– unless you are inflating vehicular tires. However, professional contractors who need an air compressor to run pneumatic power tools need to be far more discerning when making their choice.
In this instance, the maximum air pressure is not really as important– unlike when inflating tires– with 90 PSI covering the overwhelming majority of pneumatic power tools. Airflow, on the other hand, is a far more important spec with most professional-grade power tools requiring at least 2 CFM @ 90 PSI or more.
Things to Look For?
Outside of volume, airflow, and maximum pressure, there are a few different factors that can help you break a tie– though most of these are either convenience or quality of life considerations. Regardless of your intended purpose, one thing that you might look for is a lightweight design and compact profile for easier transportation.
If you are a professional contractor, you will also likely want to make sure that your air compressor comes with a large tank to reduce the number of cycles. Another valuable quality for professional contractors is the recovery time as this helps the air compressor recover its air once it reaches a certain level.
While the motor may include various design features to increase durability, an air compressor with a rollbar chassis will further increase the durability. Finally, one or more gauges that tell you the tank’s capacity, the current air pressure, and other stats allow you to use the air compressor more efficiently.
Conclusion
As we can see, the best quiet air compressor will differ depending on the type of tasks you need it for and exactly how quiet you need it to be. Thankfully, the Makita MAC320Q Quiet Series Air Compressor provides a great mix of specs, suitable for multiple purposes, while also maintaining a low volume.
If the volume is your utmost concern, you may not have as much of an issue with limited performance and can comfortably rely on the Eagle EA-2000 Silent Series 2000 Air Compressor. Of course, if you are a professional contractor who needs a powerful option that is not too loud, the DEWALT DWFP55130 Air Compressor offers some of the best specs reviewed.
If you prefer to split the difference and get a model that errs on the quieter side, the California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S Air Compressor provides an adequate solution. On the other hand, the Stealth SAQ-1301 Air Compressor is a great model for those who need to inflate more than power pneumatic tools.