Air compressor is an excellent product to have in your house. It provides a good alternative to electric power tools because they use more torque and power. Having an air compressor at home means you will be able to do a variety of odd jobs at home instead of going to a professional. They can be used for air tools in a variety of jobs in the house, garage, construction, or industrial projects.
This greatly useful device does come with an inconvenient problem. They tend to make a lot of noise when in use. This can be extremely irritating and annoying to many people. People who use air compressors at home will face a lot of problems because of this noise. You might get complaints from your family, roommates, partners, and children because of this distracting noise. It will be difficult to work during the night or in the early morning because the noise might disturb your sleeping family or neighbours. If you use an air compressor on a fairly regular basis or have a job that requires the device, you will find this a problem to be a great inconvenience.
There is however a simple solution. Air compressors do come in a silent variety that is now available in the market. You will actually be quite surprised by the amount of silent air compressors that you will find. Not only is this the perfect solution to the noise problem, it will also spare you from daily headaches and irritation after being exposed to the noise for long hours.
To help you in your mission to find the best quiet air compressors, we have compiled a list of 10 air compressors that in our opinion are the best silent ones in the market right now. Here is the complete list:-
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Makita MAC2400 Air Compressor |
| Check Price On Amazon |
 | Briggs & Stratton Quiet Tech Air Compressor |
| Check Price On Amazon |
 | Campbell Hausfeld Air Compressor |
| Check Price On Amazon |
 | California Air Tools 2010A Air Compressor |
| Check Price On Amazon |
 | Kobalt Quiet Tech Electric Twin Stack Air Compressor |
| Check Price On Amazon |
These are some amazing air compressors that are silent and efficient. You can easily use them without worrying about disturbing others or developing headaches after long work hours. We have also given a detailed account of the specifications, pros, and cons, about these products so that you can compare them and choose your preferred one. You can also look them up on Amazon and see pricing details along with original reviews from customers. Keep reading to know more about these awesome air compressors.
Makita MAC2400
(Recommend by us for overall features)
Specifications
- Dimensions: 20 x 18 x 18.75 inches
- CFM: 4.8 40 PSI and 4.2 at 90 PSI
- Horse power: 2.1
- Price: $$$ Expensive
- Rating: 4/5
- Noise level: 79 decibels (Moderately silent)
Makita MAC2400 Air Compressor 2 is an amazing air compressor that has many special features. It comes with a cast iron pump and a Big Bore cylinder that produces enough power for two nailers. These two features combine to give very low noise that is almost unrecognisable. The compressor has a piston pump system that is specially engineered for and has a quick recovery in less time. MAC2400 has a 4.2 dual gallon tank capacity that can sustain pressures up to 130 PSI during use and supplies air at 4.8 and 4.2 CFM at 40 and 90 PS, respectively. It can easily power paint spray guns and nailers. It has a built-in thermal overload protector for device protection. Its roll cage design saves it from damage. MAC2400 is oil lubricated but easy to maintain due to its oil drain and oil glass. However, the device is very bulky and weighs a whopping 77lbs.
PROS
- High CFM rating
- Oil sight glass with oil drain
- Big Bore cylinder
- Cast iron design
- Thermal overload protector
- Quick recovery time
- High quality
- Low noise levels
CONS
- Heavy
- Expensive
- Not oil-free
- Not portable
- Extension cables are not satisfactory
Briggs & Stratton Quiet Tech
(Recommended by us for being quietest)
Specifications
- Dimensions: 20 x 17 x 23 inches
- CFM: 3.3 at 40 PSI and 2.4 at 90 PSI
- Horse power: 1.0
- Price: $$ Moderate
- Rating: 3.9/5
- Noise level: 54 decibels (Super Quiet)
Briggs & Stratton Quiet Tech Air Compressor 2 claims to be 80% quieter than all other models of the said brand. This device features a four-pole induction motor that runs at only 1700 RPM. It also comes with two air pumps that allow air to flow continuously. These two features are what makes it a very quiet air compressor. The special Quiet Power Technology, or QPT results in an extended motor life of upto three times longer than normal air compressors. This means it can be used for a long period of time. It also has an oil-free pump that is pretty low maintenance. The maximum pressure is capped at over 120 PSI. The vibration of this is very quiet. Given that this air compressor has a lower draw, it has higher energy efficiency. The motor also requires a low amperage and runs only on alternating current. It has three tank size variations that are 1.8, 4, and 4.5 gallons. It weighs 61 pounds for the largest tank size.
PROS
- Quiet Power Technology
- Tank size vibrations
- Long motor life (3x compared to normal)
- Energy-efficient
- Easy to maintain
CONS
- Poor warranty
- Leaky air regulator
- Not very portable
Campbell Hausfeld
(Recommended by us for being value for money)
Specifications
- Dimensions: 18.9 x 17.3 x 22.6 inches
- CFM: 2.5 at 90 PSI
- Horse power: 2.0
- Price: $ Affordable
- Rating: 4/5
- Noise Level: 68 decibels (Moderately silent)
Campbell Hausfeld Air Compressor 2 has a 6 Gallon portable quiet air compressor designed vertically to reduce space occupancy. It comes with an induction motor and is designed more for the DIY enthusiast or weekend home use.
The compressor is ideal for inflation, painting, stapling, and nailing, which are usually quite loud machine jobs. However, the sound this machine makes is at around 68 decibel levels, making it relatively quiet.
It has an oil free pump to keep it low maintenance, no need to check on it before every use.
It can withstand pressure over 120 PSI and is perfect for a wide range of home workshop projects thanks to the maximum pressure of 150 PSI and delivery of 2.4 CFM at 90 PSI.
It is user-friendly and has a control panel that allows complete control of air manipulation.
With steel handles and large wheels, it makes this pancake air compressor portable. Finally, the power source is corded electric.
PROS
- Reliable
- Compact
- Low maintenance
- Ideal for DIYand home projects
- User-friendly
- Affordable
- Low noise
CONS
- Heavy
- Not ideal for large machine projects
- Low warranty
California Air Tools 2010A
Specifications
- Dimensions: 18.5 x 12 x 13.5 inches
- CFM: 3.10 at 40 PSI
- Horse power: 2.0
- Price: $$ Moderate
- Rating: 4.0/5
- Noise level: 60 decibels (Super quiet)
California Air Tools 2010A Air Compressor 2 has several excellent features and can easily compete with the top 3 on their list. This uber quiet air compressor has a sound rating registering at only 60 decibels which is significantly low. This California air compressor is quite portable and weighs only 35 lbs which is amazing when you compare with other air compressors. Its maximum CFM is 2.20 at 90 PSI and can be easily used with a nailer. It comes with a 2.0 HP motor that operates at 1680 RPM that reduces the noise and causes less wear and tear. It also has a two-piston pump system that’s oil free, which entails it to have high performance and makes it durable. What’s more striking about this quiet air compressor is that it’s designed to have an extended life cycle of upto 3000 plus hours where standard air compressors give 500 hours or less. It has an oil-free pump feature which means it’s easy to clean and maintain. This air compressor has a tank that is lightweight and is made of rust-free aluminum.
PROS
- Easy to use
- High quality
- Long life cycle
- Quick tank refill
- Oil-free
- Durable and long-lasting
- Very quiet
CONS
- Terrible customer service
- Short plug wire
Kobalt Quiet Tech Electric Twin Stack
Specifications
- Dimensions: 12 x 26 x 21 inches
- CFM: 3.3 at 40 PSI
- Horse power: 1.0
- Price: $$ Moderate
- Rating: 4.0/5
- Noise level: 65 decibels (Moderately quiet)
Kobalt Quiet Tech Electric Twin Stack Air Compressor 2 has a great design with amazing features. The control panel is made with precision as the gauges, buttons, and knobs are big for convenience. Those with poor eyesight will have absolutely no difficulty while operating it. The tool regulator knob also has a good bit of resistance and feels high-quality that is rare while buying affordable tools. For better portability, it has solid, sturdy plastic wheels and a nicely designed handle. It is made of metal and can be retracted easily. There is a top grip provided for easy handling. Twin tanks are stacked on top of each other to make it compact . It has a 4.30 gallon tank for fast air refill. The motor is powered by a 120-voltage 1-horsepower induction motor and has two oil free pumps. Its maximum PSI is 125 with a CFM of 3.3 at 40 PSI.
PROS
- Big tank
- Requires less space
- Decent CFM
- Easy handling
- Great for continuous work
CONS
- Frequently overheats
- Power is very less
Rolair JC10
Specifications
- Dimensions: 17 x 16 x 15 inches
- CFM: 2.35 at 90 PSI
- Horse power: 1.0
- Price: $$ Moderate
- Rating: 4.0/5
- Noise level: 60 decibels (Low)
Rolair JC10 Air Compressor 2 is also a good quiet air compressor with low noise levels. It has an oil free pump and 1HP air compressor it requires less maintenance and downtime. Its motor goes at 1725 RPM and is placed in an aluminium cylinder. It has a small tank capacity of 2.5 Gallons but the speedy recovery time of 11 seconds helps it last long. As everyone knows, Rolair air compressors are built for professional use. This means that they are tough, quiet, and produce a lot of power for their size. They are also quite long-lasting and can withstand strain. It has extra features like an unloading valve. This helps in unloading and preserves the life of the air compressor and motor. The air compressor also has double isolation. Both the frame and the compressor itself has rubber that makes less vibration onto the floor. This in turn reduces noise from the vibrations. However some noise can be heard if used on a wooden floor. The fitting of bolts and other fittings have a tendency to get loose. It’s special roll cage design protects the machine motor, and pump.
However, they do have a hard time adjusting to drastic temperature changes like very hot and cold temperatures.
PROS
- Quick recovery time
- Efficient
- Long service life
- Less downtime
- Rubber frame for low vibrations
- Oil-free
- Heavy duty
- Easy transport
CONS
- Temperature sensitive
- Bolts tend to loosen – check on them as often as possible
California Air Tools 4610A
Specifications
- Dimensions: 17 x 17 x 20 inches
- CFM: 2.35 at 90 PSI
- Horse power: 1.0
- Price: $$$
- Rating: 3.7 out of 5
- Noise level: 60 decibels
California Air Tools 4610A Ultra Quiet Air Compressor 2 is another great model from the brand. It has almost the same specs as the other air compressors. It is ultra-quiet, with sound levels at 60db, its oil-free dual piston pump system is high performance, durable, and allows it to work in different temperatures and terrains. The primary feature of this California Air Tools ultra-quiet air compressor is not the powerful 1.0 HP motor that operates at 1680 RPM creating less compressor noise and less wear and its 4.6-gallon rust-resistant twin aluminum air tank is a great bonus. The control panel on this air compressor allows you to use two tools at once.
PROS
- Fast air tank refill
- Good air tank size
- Gauge easy to read
- Large capacity
- Rust-resistant
- Low noise
CONS
- California Air Tools can have unreliable customer service
- Inferior quality as described by customers
California Air Tools 1P1060S
Specifications
- Dimensions: 12.5 x 14.7 x 14.75 inches
- CFM: 1.20 @ 90 PSI
- Horse power: 0.6
- Price: $$ Moderate
- Rating: 3.6/5
- Noise level: 56 decibels (Super Quiet)
This model California Air Tools air compressor is regarded as one of the quietest in the industry. Its sound levels register at only 56 decibels. Not only is it quiet, but lightweight, too. The 1-gallon steel air tank weighs a minimal 29.5lbs. The motor runs at 0.6HP at 1680 RPM that creates minimal noise. It also avoids fast wear and tear of the machine. The California Air Tools quiet air compressor is high performance and durable which makes it one of the best silent air compressors. Its oil-free pump feature makes it easy to clean and maintain. It can work in all kinds of temperatures and uneven terrain. The Single Piston pump has a life cycle of 3000 hours which is significantly high. The California Air Tools 1P1060S air compressor produces 1.2 CFM at a pressure of 90 PSI.
PROS
- California Air Tools is a trusted brand
- Great for indoor work
- Easy cleaning
- Quiet operation and has a 3,000-hour life cycle
- Can handle all kinds of temperature and uneven terrain
CONS
- Unreliable customer service
- Low cubic feet per minute
Hitachi EC28M
Specifications
- Dimensions: 14 x 14 x 13.5 inches
- CFM: 0.8 at 90 PSI
- Horse power: 1.0
- Price: $$ Moderate
- Rating: 3.5/5
- Noise level: 59 decibels (Super Quiet)
Hitachi EC28M Air Compressor 2 is known to be extremely quiet with noise levels at a mere 59 dB. It has a very low humming sound that is non-intrusive to the ear. This air compressor is oil free which makes it easy to clean. It is also good quality and durable with low maintenance. Its stainless steel tank air compressor has a braided discharge air hose that is resistant to corrosion and the steel cage roll is protected by a rubber grip. This is, however, not built for heavy duty work.
PROS
- Compact design
- Super quiet
- Durable and long-lasting
- Corrosion-resistant
- Portable
CONS
- Low CFM rating
- Mixed user reviews
Dewalt D55140 1-Gallon
Specifications
- Dimensions: 20.5 x 15.8 x 10.8 inches
- CFM: 0.75
- Horse power: 0.3
- Price: $$ Moderate
- Rating: 3.5/5
- Noise level: 71 decibels (Low)
Dewalt D55140 1-Gallon Air Compressor 2 is the last one on this list. It is not very quiet with noise levels of just over 70 decibels, but it’s still better than standard air compressors. It has an oil-free, long-lasting pump. It’s easy to maintain and clean regularly. There is no possibility of oil spills or stains on your work surface. It is also super lightweight at only 24lbs and a width of around 9 inches. The DD55140 has a one-gallon tank and a 2.6 motor that delivers quite low CFM, 0.75 at 90 PSI. However, its maximum PSI is 135 that ensures good performance and fast recovery time. This product is very affordable in terms of the quality. The thing to note is that some reports warn about tank leakages and faulty regulators.
PROS
- Sleek
- Affordable
- Oil-free
- Fast recovery time
- Ball valve drain for easy draining
CONS
- Slow
- Small tank
- Reports of leaking tank
- Some negative reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What tank size should I use?
Tank sizes are extremely important to note as it can affect efficiency and put limitations on the amount of work you can do with it. A small tank would be a problem for jobs like inflation, which requires continuous work. A larger tank would be able to work continuously without any issue. A small tank would be ideal for DIY projects and small home projects that don’t require continuous operation for a long time. For industrial use or professional use a larger tank is recommended. Keep in mind that tank sizes also mean space problems and you need to check if you have enough space for storing large tanked air compressors.
Q. Which air compressor is low maintenance?
Oil-free air compressors are the most easy to maintain air compressors in the market. It causes much less wear and is fairly easy to clean and maintain regularly. Oil-free air compressors are also good for homes and workplaces as it does not cause problems of oil stain and also oil leakages which can be a hazard.
Q. What to look for in a head duty air compressor?
A heavy-duty air compressor requires many features to make sure it does its task correctly. A big tank size will ensure that the air compressor can work continuously for long periods. A powerful air compressor also makes it easier to complete heavy-duty tasks. Lightweight air compressors should be avoided as they may not be able to last long or be very efficient in their work. Try to spend a few more bucks to get a good air compressor from a well-known brand so that you can be sure of its superior build quand long-lastingness.
Q. How to select the best quiet air compressor?
The best quiet air compressor will need to have many special features. It will not be an all rounder but you can simply choose the combinations that you require to make it worthwhile for you. A good silent air compressor will cause very low vibrations which is the primary source of the noise. Try to work on concrete floors instead of wood to cause less vibrations. Many air compressors come with rubber padding and attachments to reduce vibrations. However, do not that heavy duty air compressors will not be super quiet but a noise level 70-74 decibel would be ideal for these machines.