As a DIY enthusiast working with air compressors, I know how difficult it is to find the best air compressor under 300 dollars. I have spent months finding the right air compressor for my job.
Through my research, I found some top-rated air compressors for 300 dollars or less. Here I am sharing my reviews of these air compressors. I hope you will find your desired air compressor in this article.
Table of Contents
Comparison of Top Air Compressor Under 300
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Best Air Compressor Under 300 Reviews
California Air Tools 8010A Ultra Quiet Air Compressor
Specifications
- Noise Level: 60 dB
- Weight: 37.25 lbs.
- Power: 2.0 HP (peak), 1 HP (running)
- CFM Rating: 2.20 CFM at 90 PSI
- Tank Capacity: 8 Gallons
- Operation Speed: 1680 RPM
Review
When it comes to reliability and durability, California Air Tools is one of the top brands in that list. California Air Tools 8010A Ultra Quiet Air Compressor is not different in this case. It is a portable, ultra-quiet, lightweight air compressor for home and professional use.
The rotational speed and the power of the motor in this air compressor help to create less wear and less noise. Its compact size will let you keep it anywhere you like for convenience.
You can easily use this air compressor on uneven terrains because of its unique design. As it is oil-free, so you can use this compressor at different temperatures, even in cold weather. This is why this air compressor requires less maintenance.
The whole body of this air compressor is made of rust-free aluminum which is why it is so lightweight yet it’s quite durable. There are wheels underneath to help you easily carry it. Overall, it is the best air compressor under $300 for being so quiet and lightweight.
What We Like
- Ultra-quiet air compressor.
- Lightweight.
- Easy to carry (wheels) and store.
- Less maintenance needed.
- It can be used in both the home garage and workplace.
What We Don’t Like
- The handle is not convenient.
- Not for heavy-duty works.
You can also get the California Air Tools CAT-4620AC Compressor if you want to have a higher CFM rating (5.3 @ 90 PSI) in your air compressor. Its delivery and recovery is faster (1760 RPM) than the 8010A. But, it is heavier (64 lbs.) and makes more noise (70 dB).
There is also the California Air Tools CAT-4610AC Air Compressor. It is the same as the 8010A when it comes to the basic specifications. It has the same CFM rating and noise level as the 8010A. But it has no wheels.
However, both these air compressors are twin stack compressors (4.6 gallons) and are available under 300 dollars. You can choose either of them if you want an alternative from the 8010A.
Porter Cable PXCMF220VW Portable Air Compressor
Specifications
- Max. Pressure Rating: 150 PSI
- CFM Rating: 4 CFM at 90 PSI
- Power: 1.5 HP
- Tank Capacity: 20 Gallons
- Motor Type: Oil-free
- Wheel Diameter: 7 Inches
- Noise Level: 84 dB
- Weight: 97 lbs.
Review
If you want a powerful heavy-duty air compressor under 300 dollars, you should get the Porter Cable PXCMF220VW Portable Air Compressor. This air compressor is powerful enough to run some heavy-duty air tools like the tire inflators of trucks and pick-ups.
As it is oil-free, so you don’t need to worry about its maintenance. It is also suitable for both hot and cold weather. However, this is a heavy air compressor and it will be hard to carry to the job-site. I wouldn’t worry about it much because there are wheels under this compressor to carry it. The good thing is it has a huge tank capacity.
This air compressor has pressure on/off switch and pressure gauge for the tank. You can always keep track of the pressure of this air compressor with the help of the gauge.
Draining the tank is faster with this air compressor. There is a pressure release valve mounted here to help you with that. This air compressor requires low voltage to startup and this reduces the draw of current. All in all, it is the best air compressor for under $300 to conduct heavy-duty jobs.
What We Like
- Includes useful accessories (couplers, gauges, etc.).
- Durable and long-lasting but less maintenance.
- Good for both light and heavy-duty jobs.
- Long and convenient power cord.
- Less vibration because of the rubber feet.
- It takes less space to store.
What We Don’t Like
- It’s heavy.
- Louder than most other compressors.
Campbell Hausfeld DC080500 Air Compressor
Specifications
- Noise Level: 68 dB
- Max. Pressure Rating: 125 PSI
- Tank Capacity: 8 Gallons
- Motor Power: 1 HP
- Pump Type: Oil-free, Dual Piston
- Weight: 67 lbs.
- CFM Rating: 2.2 CFM at 90 PSI
Review
Air compressors are not only used professionally but also for DIY projects at home garage/workshop. The Campbell Hausfeld DC080500 Air Compressor is the best air compressor for under 300 dollars when it comes to hobby painting, inflation, fastening, stapling, bolting projects, nailing, and other DIY projects.
It is a quiet air compressor that you can use at your home without disturbing your neighbors. You can use it for both indoor and outdoor works. Its weight is moderate which means it’s not too heavy but not lightweight either.
This air compressor will last a long time and support you. It has an oil-free pump which requires less maintenance and so the compressor will last longer. Though it’s not lightweight carrying it won’t be a problem because of the wheels. The rubber grip of the handle makes it easier to carry.
The tank capacity, pressure level, CFM rating everything is in your favor with this air compressor for your DIY works. So, if you want an air compressor under $300 for such DIY works, I recommend you get this one.
What We Like
- Extremely reliable and powerful motor.
- Longer life-span.
- Portable and easy to carry.
- Very strong handle.
- It’s quiet.
What We Don’t Like
- Not so stable on uneven terrain.
If you want you can get the Campbell Hausfeld DC040500 Air Compressor. Instead of the DC080500. This is a twinstack compressor, lighter in weight (38 lbs.), and has a lower tank capacity (4.6 gallons).
This one is easier to carry and more convenient to store. There are no wheels under the DC040500 air compressor. Other than that, both are similar when it comes to pressure rating, CFM rating, noise level, etc.
Makita MAC700 Big Bore Air Compressor
Specifications
- Power: 2 HP
- Noise Level: 80 dB
- Tank Capacity: 2.6 Gallons
- Weight: 52 lbs.
- Power Source: Electric 120 volts
- Max. Pressure Rating: 130 PSI
- CFM Rating: 3.3 CFM at 90 PSI
- Pump Type: Oil Lubricated
Review
The Makita MAC700 Big Bore Air Compressor is a unique air compressor that you will find under 300 dollars. Its big-bore engineered pump is powerful enough to run most of the air tools. The cylinder and the pump allow higher output which results in improved performance.
This air compressor has copper finned discharge tubing that allows increased heat dissipation. This is essential for keeping the compressor from overheating. There is an industrial-grade air filter included. This filter increases air intake and improves the efficiency of the compressor.
The handle of this air compressor is very strong and comfortable to grab. The pump is made of cast iron which is very durable. Unfortunately, you cannot use it conveniently in cold weather. However, you can find out more about this air compressor right here.
What We Like
- Sturdy construction.
- Very fast pressure recovery.
- Rubber feet reduce vibration.
- Includes a more powerful pump.
- Easy to operate and store.
What We Don’t Like
- It requires more maintenance.
- It’s heavy.
Ingersoll-Rand Twin-Stack P1IU-A9 Air Compressor
Specifications
- Power: 2 HP
- Max. Pressure Rating: 135 PSI
- Tank Capacity: 4 Gallon
- CFM Rating: 4.3 CFM at 90 PSI
- Weight: 77 lbs.
- Noise Level: 79 dB
Review
Whether you are a DIYer or a professional, you will love the Ingersoll-Rand Twin-Stack P1IU-A9 Air Compressor for its ergonomic design and portability. Though its weight is heavier compared to other air compressors, the handle is designed ergonomically to make it easier to carry.
Its noise level is a bit high for some people but I find it tolerable. However, there is a user-friendly front panel on this air compressor that will help you to easily operate it.
What I like most about this air compressor is that you can run multiple air tools using this compressor. There are two couplers included here. Say you want to run your nailer as well as your tire inflator at the same time. You can do that using this compressor. This is why I consider it the best air compressor under 300 dollars.
Ingersoll-Rand has focused a lot on the durability of this air compressor. First of all, the cylinder is made of cast iron. Secondly, there is a protective back shroud. Thirdly, the frame is enclosed. And finally, the long-lasting pump altogether makes this air compressor one of the toughest ones in the market.
What We Like
- Versatile use (multiple air tools can be used).
- Tough body (long-lasting).
- Faster recharge time.
- No assembly required to run.
- Ampere draw is low.
What We Don’t Like
- Not oil-free (requires more maintenance).
- It’s heavy.
Husky 20 Gal. 175 PSI Portable Air Compressor
Specifications
- Max. Pressure Rating: 175 PSI
- Tank Capacity: 20 Gallons
- Noise Level: 83 dB
- CFM Rating: 4 SCFM at 90 PSI
- Weight: 150 lbs.
- Wheel Diameter: 7 Inches
Review
The heaviest air compressor you will see on my list is the Husky 20 Gal. 175 PSI Portable Air Compressor. Good thing it has wheels underneath. Otherwise, it would be really tough to carry.
However, the weight may scare you but wait till you see its good sides. This air compressor has a maximum pressure level of 175 PSI which is 80% higher than most other air compressors you find under 300 dollars.
This air compressor also has the largest tank capacity you will find under 300 dollars. Though you need a more powerful air compressor for painting you can perform medium duty spray painting operations using this air compressor. No other air compressor under 300 dollars can do this.
The pump and the motor of this air compressor are quite powerful. The pump provides high pressure and the motor helps to achieve a higher rate of airflow. This combination helps you to achieve peak level performance for your air tools. That’s why I have added it to this list of the best air compressor for $300.
You will love the fact that it is designed vertically to save up a lot of space. The smaller footprints and the vertical shape will help you keep this air compressor in a small place. This way you can save space in your home garage or workshop.
Finally, this air compressor is perfect for finishing, inflation, stapling, nailing, hobby painting, fastening, bolting, medium-duty roofing, framing, HVLP painting, drilling, and cutting with different air tools.
What We Like
- Easy to use and operate.
- Huge applications (nailer, inflation, drilling, etc.).
- Very powerful motor.
- Durable and tough.
- Faster air recovery and efficient flow.
What We Don’t Like
- Uncomfortable handle.
- Too much heavy.
DEWALT DWC1KIT-B Air Compressor Combo Kit
Specifications
- Tank Capacity: 6 Gallons
- Noise Level: 75.5 dB
- Weight: 30 lbs.
- Max. Pressure Rating: 165 PSI
- CFM Rating: 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI
- Power Source: Electric, 120V
- Pump Type: Oil-Free
- Cord Length: 50 Feet
- Nailer Magazine: 100 Nails
- Nailer Configuration: 18ga Nails (5/8″ to 2″)
- Nailer Weight: 2.65 lbs.
Review
The DEWALT DWC1KIT-B Air Compressor Combo Kit has an air compressor and a brad nailer in the kit along with some other useful accessories. So, it goes without saying that this air compressor is mainly for brad nailers. But you can also use it for other applications.
This is a lightweight pancake air compressor that you can easily carry to your job-site. It is great for using at the home garage for DIY applications. You can run two air tools at the same time using this air compressor because it has two couplers mounted on it.
You will get a long extension cord with this air compressor that you can use from a distant place. Its pump is oil-free and the high-efficiency motor will allow you to start the motor even in cold weather. You will get a lot more benefits from this air compressor.
What We Like
- Suitable for both cold and hot weather.
- It is lightweight.
- Tough and durable body.
- Oil-free pump, easy to maintain.
- Supports both female and male air hose.
- The belt hook of the nailer is adjustable.
- Nailer allows depth adjustment.
What We Don’t Like
- The hose leaks air (small bearings).
Dewalt is a renowned brand for air compressors. If you don’t want the kit and only want the air compressor you can get it here. Aside from the one I have talked about above, you can choose the DEWALT DWFP55130 Air Compressor too under 300 dollars.
The DWFP55130 is a trim compressor with 3 SCFM airflow at 90 PSI, max pressure rating of 200 PSI, a noise level of 71.5 dB, and a tank capacity of 2.5 gallons. However, it weighs more and costs more than the above air compressor because of being a heavy-duty compressor.
Rolair JC10 Plus Oil-Less Air Compressor
Specifications
- Noise Level: 60 dB
- Tank Capacity: 2.5 Gallons
- Weight: 42.9 Pounds
- Power Source: Electric, 120V
- Max. Pressure Rating: 100 PSI
- CFM Rating: 2.35 CFM at 90 PSI
- Pump Type: Oil-Free
Review
Rolair manufactures some of the most awesome air compressors, especially for home use. The Rolair JC10 Plus is not any different.
There are very few air compressors on the market with them as low noise level as the Rolair JC10 Plus. This compressor produces only 60 decibels of sound which is the least produced sound for an air compressor you can get.
One of the quietest air compressor as it is, the Rolair JC10 Plus includes an unloading valve with it. This valve allows dropping the head pressure of the compressor to zero, instantly, if it is required by any chance.
Get less vibration on your floor with this amazing air compressor, as it has rubber mountings all over its frame. With such low vibration combined with the least noise, this compressor will bother neither you nor your neighbors at all.
The cast aluminum cylinder used in this compressor is what makes it a bit heavier. So positioning this compressor will be tricky at first but once you get used to it, it won’t bother you.
Overall, you can see that this compressor is providing pretty much everything you can ask for. So choosing this compressor will definitely be a smart choice.
What We Like
- Extremely quiet operation.
- Great for staplers and nailers.
- Pressure build and recharge is very fast.
- Very lightweight yet tough body.
- The compact size makes it easy to store.
- No sign of excessive vibrations.
What We Don’t Like
- The release valve is not that strong.
- The pressure gauge is difficult to read.
The JC10 Plus is not for heavy-duty works as I have said earlier. But if you want a Rolair air compressor for heavy-duty work under 300 dollars you should get the Rolair FC2002 Twin Stack Air Compressor. Its CFM rating is 4.1 CFM at 90 PSI and it has a larger tank capacity (4.3 Gallons).
Its cylinder is made of cast iron which is stronger than the JC10 Plus. The JC10 Plus is oil-free hence requires less maintenance. But the FC2002 requires more maintenance because its pump is oil lubricated.
Senco PC1131 Air Compressor
Specifications
- Noise Level: 77 dB
- Tank Capacity: 4.3 Gallons
- Weight: 60 Pounds
- Power Source: Electric Powered, 115V
- Max. Pressure Rating: 125 PSI
- CFM Rating: 4.4 SCFM at 90 PSI
- Pump Type: Oil-Less
Review
For performing heavy-duty operations no other portable air compressor can be compared with the Senco PC1131. This one comes with an induction motor, powerful enough to easily handle heavy-duty tools.
Build with cast iron, there is no question about its durability. It is sturdy enough to work under critical circumstances. With that, its weight gets a bit higher. So moving this compressor may bother you a little.
But it’s not the weight that makes it the best portable air pump. It has not one but two cylinders to allow air to flow through. The twin stack design adds up to the durability. Also, it helps to enhance the performance which takes this compressor to the top.
You may have to be careful about directly plugging it in, to your house electricity as it requires less voltage than regular household current. Aside from this, you can, without a doubt, rely on this compressor for its performance.
What We Like
- Faster pressure recovery.
- The air intake filter is washable.
- Super durable and long-lasting.
- Great for semi-heavy-duty jobs.
- The pump is more heat-efficient.
What We Don’t Like
- It’s heavy.
- Difficult to store (not compact).
BOSTITCH BTFP1KIT Air Compressor Combo Kit
Specifications
- CFM Rating: 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI
- Pump Type: Oil-free
- Tank Capacity: 6 Gallons
- Weight: 29 Pounds
- Power Source: Electric, 120V
- Max. Pressure Rating: 150 Psi
- Noise Level: 78.5 dB
- Nailer Configuration: 18 GA Brad Nails (5/8 to 2 inches)
Review
It is the second air compressor combo kit on my list that you can get under 300 dollars. Its noise level is slightly higher than the Dewalt DWFP55123 but it is not too different. Also, its maximum pressure level is lower.
Just like the DWC1KIT-B, you will get a brad nailer in this kit too. The BTFP02012 weighs less than the DWFP126 air compressor. This is a plus point. Also, the air hose included in this kit is made of PVC and it is better than the one added in the DWC1KIT-B.
You can find out more about the air compressor added in this kit right here. The BTFP1KIT and the DWC1KIT-B are not so different in quality and performance. Some people like Bostitch and some like Dewalt. This is why I added both of them here.
What We Like
- Easy to run and operate.
- Regulators and couplers allow high flow.
- User-friendly.
- Less maintenance needed.
- Sturdy body (lasts longer).
- Lightweight (easy to carry).
- Easy to store.
What We Don’t Like
- It’s noisy.
- The power cord is short.
How to Choose the Best Air Compressor Under 300 Dollars?
The first thing I want to clear out is when you are looking for an air compressor under 300 dollars, you mostly need it for DIY jobs. Such jobs include inflating tires, nailing, hobby-painting, etc.
The air compressors on my list are capable of supporting you in your DIY projects. I picked them by doing deep research. Here I am sharing my knowledge on how you can get the best air compressor for 300 dollars or less.
Why Do You Need the Air Compressor?
This is the first question you should ask yourself. Do you need the compressor mostly for nailing? Or do you need it for inflation? Or is it for any other work? You have to set up your mind first on this point.
It’s important because different air tools require different airflow and pressure rating for the air compressor. Any air compressor under 300 dollars can be used for nailing, inflation, and many other small DIY projects.
As longs as you are clear about this point, I can take you to the next step of how to choose the right air compressor under 300 dollars.
The Features That You Have to Keep in Mind
There are some key features of an air compressor that makes it the best among thousands of other compressors. These features are:
The Pressure Rating
When you get an air compressor under 300 dollars, make sure to check the maximum pressure limit of the air compressor. If the pressure limit is not high enough to run your air tool, it will be a loss for you to get that air compressor.
Suppose you need to run an inflator which requires 150 PSI pressure. If your air compressor’s maximum pressure rating is 125 PSI it won’t be able to provide sufficient pressure to perfectly run the inflator.
Airflow Rate of the Compressor
This rate is defined by the unit CFM. CFM stands for cubic feet per minute. It’s the volume of air that flows within a minute in the air compressor. A large air tool will need a higher CFM rating to run. But a small air tool will need a lower CFM rating.
So it is very important to check how much CFM you need for your tool. Get an air compressor that is able to provide that much CFM. Otherwise, the tool won’t work.
Is It Portable or Not?
The portability of the air compressor is very important. If your job requires the air compressor to move around, you must get a lightweight and easy-to-carry air compressor.
On the other hand, if you don’t need to move the air compressor too much then a heavy air compressor is not a problem. Remember that the weight of the compressor has nothing to do with its performance. The weight only makes it easier or harder to move.
I would like to give you another tip. If you want to save a little space, you can get a vertical air compressor instead of a horizontal one. Again, the position of the cylinder (vertical or horizontal) won’t affect the performance of the compressor.
Tank Size of the Compressor
The size of the tank is not a big thing to worry about. Let me tell you how the tank size works for an air compressor.
The bigger the tank size the more air it will hold. Thus you can use it for long before the compressor stops and starts refilling. A smaller tank will make you stop more in the middle of your work.
So, if you get an air compressor with a bigger tank size, it will allow you to work longer before stopping and refilling.
A Few Words on Air Compressor Combo Kits
You have seen that there are a few air compressor combo kits in this article. Yes, you can have a combo kit within 300 dollars if you want. The combo kit may include nailers. inflators, and other accessories.
Getting a combo is for those who don’t have the additional tool already. For example, if you are new to nailing and need both an air compressor and a nailer, I suggest you get a combo kit. That way you will save some money.
If you already have the tool and you just need the air compressor, then you should avoid the combo packages.
My Final Words
I hope now you won’t have any problem in finding the best air compressor under 300 dollars. Simply follow my instructions and you will surely get the best one from the market. Each of the air compressors on my list is the best, one way or another. That’s why I have added all of these here.
If you have any more questions regarding this topic, you can ask me in the comment section below. I will get back to you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your time.