You need to spend almost thousands of bucks if you take your car to an automobile shop for painting. Those thousand bucks can be saved when you bring the best air compressor for painting cars at home. The best air compressor comes with several features that let your spray gun paint your vehicles without keeping flaws. If you want to use your sprayer for painting, then having a quality air compressor becomes a must.
Best Air Compressor for Painting Cars

Getting the best compressor of the market is like a hard nut to crack. Though it is not rocket science, it still requires some deep knowledge to reach to the right product. As you are willing to buy a good compressor, we have eased your work by finishing our research earlier and showing the result today. We are showing you five of the best compressor for painting purposes. Apart, we are also showing a necessary buying guide and other criteria to enrich your knowledge in this matter.

Preview
Rolair Air Compressor,2.5 HP,115V,130 psi (VT25BIG)
Industrial Air ILA1883054 30-Gallon Belt Driven Air...
Powermate Vx PLA4708065 80-Gallon Electric Air...
California Air Tools 8010 Steel Tank Air Compressor |...
DEWALT DXCMPA1982054 20-Gallon Portable Air Compressor
Product Name
Rolair Air Compressor,2.5 HP,115V,130 psi (VT25BIG)
Industrial Air ILA1883054 30-Gallon Belt Driven Air...
Powermate Vx PLA4708065 80-Gallon Electric Air...
California Air Tools 8010 Steel Tank Air Compressor |...
DEWALT DXCMPA1982054 20-Gallon Portable Air Compressor
Voltage
115 Volts
120 Volts
230 Volts
110 Volts
120 Volts
Capacity
5.3 Gallons
30 Gallons
80 Gallons
8.0 Gallons
20 Gallons
PSI
130
155
155
120
155
Motor
3400 RPM
-
15 Amp
1680 RPM
-
Style
Portable
-
-
-
Portable
Warranty
-
2 Year
2 Year
1 Year
2 Year
Preview
Rolair Air Compressor,2.5 HP,115V,130 psi (VT25BIG)
Product Name
Rolair Air Compressor,2.5 HP,115V,130 psi (VT25BIG)
Voltage
115 Volts
Capacity
5.3 Gallons
PSI
130
Motor
3400 RPM
Style
Portable
Warranty
-
Details
Preview
Industrial Air ILA1883054 30-Gallon Belt Driven Air...
Product Name
Industrial Air ILA1883054 30-Gallon Belt Driven Air...
Voltage
120 Volts
Capacity
30 Gallons
PSI
155
Motor
-
Style
-
Warranty
2 Year
Details
Preview
Powermate Vx PLA4708065 80-Gallon Electric Air...
Product Name
Powermate Vx PLA4708065 80-Gallon Electric Air...
Voltage
230 Volts
Capacity
80 Gallons
PSI
155
Motor
15 Amp
Style
-
Warranty
2 Year
Details
Preview
California Air Tools 8010 Steel Tank Air Compressor |...
Product Name
California Air Tools 8010 Steel Tank Air Compressor |...
Voltage
110 Volts
Capacity
8.0 Gallons
PSI
120
Motor
1680 RPM
Style
-
Warranty
1 Year
Details
Preview
DEWALT DXCMPA1982054 20-Gallon Portable Air Compressor
Product Name
DEWALT DXCMPA1982054 20-Gallon Portable Air Compressor
Voltage
120 Volts
Capacity
20 Gallons
PSI
155
Motor
-
Style
Portable
Warranty
2 Year
Details

Reviews of the Best Air Compressor for Automotive PaintingA good air compressor is a pump that can produce consecutive pressures without any break. It also features the necessary CFM range in the required PSI level. Moreover, a compressor needs to contain solid metal on the outside to ensure durability. You can also expect consistency from the compressor along with the quality regulation system.

Reviews of the Best Air Compressor for Automotive Painting

There are a bunch of compressors that people usually buy for paint jobs. We cannot consider each of them eligible for painting cars. Very few are available that work great with most automotive air tools. We are introducing only five of them. You can use any of those to paint cars, furniture, or walls.

VT25BIG Air Compressor by Rolair

Rolair Air Compressor,2.5 HP,115V,130 psi (VT25BIG)

The product has gained the top spot of our list because of the stability. The functioning of this pump is stable to respond at your command with ease. You can expect this air compressor to last for several years if you are using it for indoor painting. 


The air compressor can hold the pressure well. Because of it, you can find consistency in the performance of the air compressor. 

As the compressor runs on the electricity, it has the ability to control the pumping even on a sudden voltage rise or any other related issue. You can use most types of machine oils as a lubricant here. 


The compressor features 130 PSI maximum pressure. Anything around this range is perfect for painting cars or other stuff. 


You are going to be surprised to know that the pump's lifespan is more than six thousand hours. You can never expect such a lifespan from a normal compressor. 

The induction motor used here maintains the balance between the pressure and CFM well. So, you can get the expected force to paint perfectly. 


The material of the cylinder is cast iron. Such material can put positive impacts when you are doing a bulk project. Here, 5.3 gallons tank also pushes the construction to do better in any condition.

The compact size allows you to carry the machine without any difficulties. The weight is not too much that can cause you trouble. Besides, there are two tires to feature portability.

Pros

  • The tank contains cast iron that ensures durability
  • You can use the compressor for any purpose, along with painting
  • The pump is easily portable
  • The pump life is around 6000 hours
  • The compressor weighs around 108 lbs

Cons

  • The compressor makes unwanted noises when you use it for bulk tasks

ILA188354 ILA1883054 Belt Driven Air Compressor (30 Gallon) by Industrial Air

Industrial Air ILA1883054 30-Gallon Belt Driven Air...

This is one of the best auto air compressors to ease the job of painting. The construction of the machine can come handy in more than 200 volts application. You can do bulk painting jobs with the help of this compressor as it can produce maximum PSI and CFM. 


There is a couple of voltage motors for stable performance. The dual voltage system also ensures maximum pumping. Such a feature ensures you the best painting. 


There is an aluminum plate installed in the main construction. The sturdy aluminum part stops heat leakage. That is why you don't have to put extra pressure on the system for performing better. 


The body of this machine is pretty stiff. The thick iron body protects the main pump in any condition. It increases the durability of the compressor and lets you use roughly. 


The maximum range of pressure this pump can produce is 155 PSI. Along with this, the compressor can maintain the right CFM you require to finish your job. 


Moreover, you get the control board on the top of the tank. It lets you turn the motor on and off within a jiffy. The board also allows you to regulate the machine according to your demand.


Portability is a handy feature of this pump. The vertical tank has a couple of pre-installed tires. Apart you can find a handle attached to the main construction. They help to carry the pump wherever you want.

Pros

  • The control board allows you to operate the pump with ease
  • The pump can create almost 155 PSI pressure
  • The cast iron pump is durable
  • You get a packet of air compressor oil as a lubricant
  • The dual voltage pump can work with most of your tools

Cons

  • Switches on the board are not much durable

PLA4708065 Electric Air Compressor (80-Gallon) by Powermate Vx

Powermate Vx PLA4708065 80-Gallon Electric Air...

This is one of the handy air compressors you can get from today's market. This best air compressor is ideal for most types of indoor jobs. The sturdy construction allows the pump to maintain its natural performance in various cases. You can get help from this pump even for bulk projects.


Though we are showing you pump for paint jobs, this machine can do a lot more stuff than only painting. People use this pump for even professional jobs too. The capacity and endurance of this machine are quite pleasing. You can buy it for consecutive uses. 


Besides, the capacity of 80 gallons is enough for any type of paint job. The machine can keep up the balance of pressure and CFM to let you paint your car within a short time. 


The maximum pressure you can get from this pump is almost 155 PSI. Such a range can help you to use your hammer or sprayer fluently. 


The integration of silencers in this product is vital in many cases. You can do your job in your home without disturb any other person near you. 


Besides, flex-valves ensure the pump to perform in the same way it should. 

You get 14 CFM at 90 PSI pressure. Pleasing horsepower from the pump pushes the construction to feature the best. Moreover, the sturdy steel construction protects stuff inside the air compressor.


The wired formed belt guard is an exceptional part of this product. It takes part in the cooling system of the pump. It also does the job of protecting some other parts on the top.

Pros

  • The pump features a user-friendly operation
  • Fast responding helps to deliver exactly what you want
  • You get a package of synthetic oil with the compressor
  • The manufacturer offers two years limited warranty
  • The compressor also features a durable cooling system

Cons

  • The voltage drop in your home can cause the machine some trouble

8010 Ultra Quiet 1.0 hp Air Compressor (8 Gallon) by California Air Tools

California Air Tools 8010 Steel Tank Air Compressor |...

The air compressor comes with the construction that can fill all your needs. To finish your car painting without any hustle, you can use this compressor to spray paints fluently. The modern design keeps the necessary parts protected and secure in the construction. The construction also helps to finish your job by creating the maximum pressure in short. 


The most promising feature of this product is fast response. The pump takes less time in filling. The latest experiments show that this product takes less than three minutes to fill the tank when it's empty. 


The maximum pressure this pump can create is around 120 PSI. Such a range might not be the best. But you can complete any type of indoor paint job having this range. Not only this, the pump can maintain the perfect CFM range along with a constant PSI level. You can expect to have at least 3 CFM at 40 PSI or less.

 

The fast recovery time is another good side of this pump. This feature allows you to regulate the pump whenever you want without putting any pressure. 


You can have the same performance as new ones in any condition. You can also use the pump on an uneven surface. You don't have to worry about the temperature. The solid construction doesn't allow the temperature to put any effects.


You don't have to spend a lot of money on the maintenance issue. The pump doesn't need any oil or lubricant to do better jobs.


We are considering this product as one of the best because of its silent functioning. The air compressor only makes sounds around 60 decibels. It is the best choice if you are looking for something to use indoor.

Pros

  • The air compressor has a wheel kit and a handle for portability
  • The compressor features not more than 120 PSI pressure
  • The pump is an eligible option in any place
  • Weather cannot put any impacts on the pump
  • The oil-free pumping doesn't need any serious maintenance

Cons

  • The connection of the pump with the regulator is a bit sensitive

DXCMPA1982054 Air Compressor (20 Gallon) by DeWalt

DEWALT DXCMPA1982054 20-Gallon Portable Air Compressor

We are suggesting you buy this air compressor if you are looking for something compact and portable. Despite having the compact design, this compressor is a great option for bulk paint jobs. You can do industry-level tasks with the help of this air compressor.


The induction motor of this air compressor is durable. It lasts longer, even after consecutive uses. The pump features the necessary efficiency you need to do your job well, without any hustle. 


Like other quality compressors, the product features 155 PSI maximum pressure. In such a range, you can do your bulk paint jobs such as painting cars, walls, ceilings, and much more. 


The dual voltage functioning of the motor brings balance to the performance. It helps the pump to respond well. It also lets the compressor to perform consistently without having any break.


The regulator part of this air compressor plays a positive role here. It ensures the quick responsiveness of the machine. Besides, the connection of the regulator with the main construction is quite secure. It cannot break so easily. 


The head, made of aluminum, takes part in heat dissipation. The valve plate accelerates the dissipation to help the pump do tasks with ease. Not only these, but the twin-cylinder pump can also work as usual in any weather condition. So, you can take this machine anywhere you want to finish your paint jobs.


The air compressor works with any type of tool. It can even help you in other sectors too. You can buy the pump for sanders, sprayer, or any type of air tools.

Pros

  • The sturdy construction can complete bulk tasks within a short time
  • The capacity of the tank is 20 gallons
  • Pre-installed tires help you to take the compressor in any place you want
  • The high flow regulator can control the performance of the pump well
  • The manufacturer features two years limited warranty for the pump

Cons

  • The attachment of the handle is not strong enough

Master Airbrush Professional Cool Runner

Master Airbrush Cool Runner II Dual Fan Airbrush System...

If you are exhausted from your existing airbrush for overheating or want to have a new one that does not overheat even for long time use, Master Airbrush has the perfect solution. 


The ⅕ horsepower single-piston airbrush air compressor makes TC-320 one of the best air compressors for painting cars. The powerful single-piston air compressor will allow you to spray 25 ltr of paint per minute.


Master AirBrush TC-320 has 2 built-in cooling fans inside. So you will not have to face overheating issues for a long and continuous running time. There are premium rotor windings that increase the lifespan of the AirBrush.


Another downside users face more often with controlling the airbrush. But the TC-320 has the proper air pressure controlling mechanism to deliver a precise and smooth finish on your car. It has a true diaphragm pressure regulator with a water trap filter and a gauge that ensures clean and dry air for smooth paint application.


The compact compressor design makes the TC-320 more lightweight that also ensures easy portability. The built-in carrying handle will eliminate the extra labor to move the airbrush around your car.


One of the most striking features of this airbrush is its air on-demand system. This air on-demand feature will save the compressor power by shutting the airflow off when you do not use the brush. This feature is to ensure full performance when you actually use the airbrush. Isn't this amazing?

Pros

  • Does not overheat for its cooling mechanism
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Air-on demand system
  • The powerful compressor of ⅕ HP
  • Excellent control
  • Affordable price

Cons

  • Less amount of HP at this price

PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor

PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor, 6-Gallon, Pancake,...

PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor is well known for its small compact pancake designed compressor size. If you are looking for the best compressor for automotive painting, you can bet your money on PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor.


PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor is a beast with beauty. You will be amazed by its look and shape. Its compact pancake design makes it lightweight. So moving the compressor around your automobile project will be much more easy and convenient.


The size and design of the PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor do not undermine the performance. The high capacity motor of PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor produces 150 PSI max pressure, which is perfect for optimum performance and long run time. Its low amp motor is weather resistant. That means you will be able to power the motor up even in cold weather.


You don't need to worry about controlling the air pressure of this air compressor. The high-pressure air regulator of PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor will allow you to work on high pressure with the utmost flexibility on your work.

Most importantly, this air compressor has an oil-free tank to eliminate the extra labor for cleaning after use.

Pros

  • 6-gallon tank
  • Oil-free tank
  • Compact size
  • Lightweight
  • Value for money

Cons

  • It produces noise while spraying at high pressure

NorthStar Portable Gas-Powered Air Compressor

Senco PC1010 1/2- Horsepower 1-Gallon Matte Finish and...

If you are looking for an air compressor for heavy use without any interruption in your painting work, you should put your attention on the NorthStar portable air compressor. This is the ultimate air compressor for spraying cars with long time durability and consistent performance.


NorthStar portable air compressor runs by a Honda GX160 OHV engine that will ensure the superior performance and longevity of the compressor. Sometimes you may face an unintended shutdown of your compressor, which may cause interruption to your work. But the Honda GX160 OHV engine prevents the unintended breakdown in the middle of your painting job along with fuel efficiency and easy operation.


NorthStar portable air compressor has in-built low vibrating technology (LVT) that will give you the convenience of using the compressor for a long time. Also, it will give you the balance for smooth application of paint on your car.


Overheating is a threat for every user of an air compressor because it can shorten an air compressor's lifespan. And keeping that in mind, NorthStar portable air compressor is designed with a V-style cylinder for continuous cooing support that will eliminate the chance of getting overheated by long time use. Also, the pump is constructed by cast-iron for ultimate durability and smooth pumping.


Therefore, if you are going to spend your money on an air compressor, you can certainly rely on a NorthStar portable air compressor for ultimate control, superior performance, and longer life.


Best Air Compressor for Automotive Painting? NorthStar portable air compressor should be the ultimate choice.

Pros

  • Low Vibrating Technology
  • Its powerful engine eliminates the chance of an unintended breakdown
  • Fuel efficient
  • Greater control
  • V-style pump for ultimate cooling
  • Floating type Swedish steel valve

Cons

  • Heavy-weight

Campbell Hausfeld 60 gallon 2 Stage Air Compressor

Campbell Hausfeld 60 Gallon Vertical 2 Stage Air...

Finding the best air compressor for spray painting on your car can be frustrating sometimes. But if you know the brand you can truly rely on, then half of the job is done. Campbell Hausfeld is such a name. This is one of the most renowned brands for producing high performing painting tools. And there is no exception for Campbell Hausfeld 2 Stage Air Compressor.


This air compressor has a 2 stage pump, which is suitable for tackling any heavy painting project. If you are expecting durability from this air compressor, the cast iron constructed body will not disappoint you. Campbell Hausfeld 2 Stage Air Compressor will give you 5000 hours of consistent performance.


The motor of this air compressor is more powerful than any other air compressor available in the market. Campbell Hausfeld 2 Stage Air Compressor has a 3.7 horsepower induction motor that creates the maximum pressure of 170 PSI for smooth and uninterrupted paint application.


The vertical shape tank of this model will save your space and give you the utmost convenience of carrying the tool around your project. Also, the noise-free compressor will give you the ease of working for a long, long time.


So, if you want to accomplish your painting task faster and easier than ever, Campbell Hausfeld 2 Stage Air Compressor should be the ultimate choice.

Pros

  • 2 stage air compressor
  • 3.7 HP motor
  • 5000 hours runtime
  • Durable and space-saving design
  • Ensure high air pressure for smooth spraying
  • Noise-free

Cons

  • Heavyweight for easy portability

Senco PC1010 1-Horsepower Peak, 1/2 hp running 1-Gallon Compressor

NorthStar Portable Gas-Powered Air Compressor 20-Gal...

What compressor do I need to paint a car that produces no noise? If you ever asked this question to yourself, then the Senco PC1010 air compressor is the answer. The small compressor doesn't compromise with the power that makes the Senco PC1010 air compressor an ideal air compressor for auto painting.


Senco PC1010 is one of the best budget-friendly yet powerful air compressors available in the market. The ½ horsepower air compressor is perfect for any job that needs to be done single-handedly without so much effort. The one-gallon paint capacity is more than enough for any painting project. The compressor also works smoothly and accurately with any airbrush.


The lightweight and portable design really help to accomplish any task with the utmost ease. For the lightweight, you will be able to carry the tool with more convenience.


There are so many high-end air compressors that can disturb your painting task, producing so much noise while producing high pressure. But Senco PC1010 will give you ultra-quiet operation in your go-to painting project. While working with this tool, you won't even realize that you are using a tool to paint your car.

Pros

  • Small and lightweight design
  • Best budget-friendly tool
  • Noise-free operation
  • ⅕ HP compressor
  • Consistent performance

Cons

  • Not powerful enough for heavy painting tasks
  • One gallon capacity tank

What to Consider before Buying the Best Air Compressor for Automotive Air Tools?

These are some facts you need to consider before buying an air compressor.

Your Sprayer

Your sprayer might have some special criteria. Depending on those, you need to buy a compressor. Buying a good compressor goes in vain when you don't get the right combination between sprayer and compressor.

Budget

You can get something that features less than 200 volts applications. Such compressors also feature not more than 110 PSI maximum pressure. So, make a budget depending on your demand to finish the job.

Power Source

There are mainly two types of compressors. The usual type's power source is gasoline. But the latest type requires electricity to run.

CFM & PSI

Having deep knowledge about these two terms for buying a good compressor is undeniable. You have to know the difference between them and their meanings. Otherwise, you can spend your money on useless stuff.

How to Choose the Best Air Compressor for Painting Cars?

Controlling

If you can't control or regulate the compressor well, you surely fail to paint your car perfectly. There should be a good regulation system so that you can operate the pumping with ease.

CFM Range

CFM range is a pretty critical issue. In simple words, the perfect CFM range is nearly 5 to 18 units.

PSI Range

There is a fixed PSI range globally for painting cars. You have to buy something that offers nearly 120 PSI as the maximum pressure.

Tank Capacity

The tank capacity around 20 to 45 gallons is enough. But the best ones of the market feature nearly around 60 gallons.

Cooling system

A good cooling system is necessary to maintain the consistency of the compressor. Make sure the compressor you are buying can leak the unnecessary heat or stabilize the temperature inside.

Conclusion

Buying the right compressor is not the only job you have to perform. You also need to take good care of your pump so that it stays durable. You need to be perfectly judgmental to operate a compressor without difficulties. We hope you have understood what we are trying to say in our article and you get a precise compressor that lets you paint cars easier than others.

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