Buying an air compressor can be daunting for some, but this list has the best air compressors that you can buy at a reasonable price. It is essential that you are still able to have a suitable air compressor for your needs without breaking the bank.
Also, if you need additional help to figure out what kind of air compressor you need, check out our guide on buying an air compressor.
CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor
The CRAFTSMAN air compressor is perfect for those who want a pancake air compressor that can be easily moved. It weighs only 32.5lbs, so it is a portable air compressor that everyone can enjoy. Also, it only reaches 71 decibels, so it is one that people can use to have a quieter work environment.
Additionally, it comes with rubber feet, so there is less chance of marking any flooring underneath it. After tightening the right valves, you will not lose air pressure with the CRAFTSMAN because of its design. It is only available in red and no other additional colors. Also, there are two other options that you can buy if you do not want the accessory kit and still only want to spend $200. You can buy the air compressor with the Blow Out Plug for less than $200, or you can buy the air compressor with the 57pc Hand Tool Set for less than $200.
However, if you do purchase the CRAFTSMAN air compressor with the accessor kit, then you will receive a PVC air hose, tire chuck with plug, tire gauge, a blow gun with plug, rubber tip, a blow gun with safety nozzle, and three inflator adaptors. The accessory kit is full of useful tools that you will need in order to finish your jobs.
Another pancake compressor that this one is usually compared to is the Bostitch pancake air compressor, but this one is also good for all of your air compressor needs. It is a small air compressor, which is useful when it comes to storing or transporting it. Overall, this air compressor by CRAFTSMAN is perfect for those who want a good-quality machine that will clean out your sprinkler system.
Additional Features
Made in the USA
It can hold up to six gallons of air so that you can have enough air anywhere you are
Comes with an oil-free pump, so there is less maintenance
The maximum pressure is 150 PSI
PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor
The air compressor by PORTER-CABLE is one of the best air compressors for people who want one that can get a lot done in a small package. It is a portable air compressor because it only holds up to six gallons of air, but it weighs 31.2lbs. Additionally, it is a pancake air compressor, so you will have an easier time storing this air compressor compared to other ones on the market.
It comes with an induction motor so that you will have a long life with this air compressor. Additionally, it was made for everyone to use because it can run off of normal household circuits, perfect for those with projects at home. Also, it will easily start in cold weather and comes with an extension cord and replaceable brushes.
Similar to the CRAFTSMAN, this air compressor by PORTER-CABLE only comes in red. However, there is another option you can buy that is also under $200, and that is the improved packaging. There is no large difference between the two air compressors, so they are both perfect options for the person who needs one for their tools. It is similar to the DEWALT pancake air compressor, but if you wanted a different air compressor, then this is a good option for you.
Additional Features
The max tank pressure is 150 PSI
There is a water drain valve and rubber feet, which is user-friendly
It uses a low AMP of 120V to start in cold weather
There is an oil-free pump used
SENCO PC1010 Air Compressor
The SENCO air compressor is perfect for jobs to do at home. It is small but is powerful with its one-horsepower peak. Also, it does work with an Air Brush, so you do not need to worry about additional air tools you may need. However, unlike the previously mentioned air compressors, this one holds one gallon of air.
It does come with an ultra-quiet operation, so you can use it in the home and not have to worry about making your family upset. Additionally, it only weighs 20lbs, so you will be able to carry it around easily.
Also, this air compressor is only available in grey, and there are no other options for this air compressor. However, the grey air compressor is similar to the California Air Tools, which many people may enjoy because it can fit in with other tools that people have bought. The maximum pressure that it reaches is 125 PSI, so it is perfect for most job types.
Additional Features
It comes with a one-year warranty
Has 20 to 44 drives per minute
It runs on 1/2 horsepower when it is not at its peak
CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor, 2 Gallon
Another CRAFTSMAN air compressor has made it onto this list, but it is different from the previously mentioned one. This air compressor comes with a one-year limited warranty, so you can use this air compressor knowing that you are covered. It comes with one standard quick coupler so that you can fit your air tools properly. Also, the company has said that this air compressor will work for over 3,000 hours before you need to do any maintenance.
There is an automatic safety valve, but you can manually adjust it. Additionally, two gauges are available so that you can see the air pressure for your tools and output. It does weigh 22.8lbs, so you can move this air compressor around. The handle also comes with a rubber grip, so the user will not hurt their hands while moving it. Moreover, the drain valve is easily positioned at the bottom, so you can release any built-up liquid that is found within the tank.
Also, this CRAFTSMAN air compressor is only available in red, which is good for those who need to keep an eye out for their air compressor. There are no other packages available with this air compressor compared to the previously mentioned CRAFTSMAN, but it is still the best air compressor for those who want one but do not want to spend commercial air compressor prices.
Additional Features
It can hold two gallons of compressed air
The noise level of this air compressor is below 78 decibels
Comes with an oil-free pump, so you have less maintenance to do
Perfect for home renovations
The cord is five-feet in length
It uses a brush motor design
Makita MAC210Q Air Compressor
This air compressor by Makita is a part of its quiet series so that you can use it during your renovations. It only reaches 60 decibels, which is why it is one of the best air compressors under $200. There is cord wrap storage to place your cord out of the way. It weighs 44lbs, so you can move this air compressor around quickly.
Additionally, this air compressor can reach one horsepower, which is enough power for any work at home. Also, it has large pressure gauges, so you will see how much pressure you are using. Moreover, Makita does make other air compressors that you may be interested in if you want to spend more money.
This air compressor does come in the Makita blue that everyone knows, but it does not come in any other color. However, there are other features that many people will enjoy when it comes to this desired air compressor. The handle has soft rubber on it, so people can comfortably move their air compressor.
Also, the tank drain valve is found at the bottom of the air compressor, so it is in an easy spot for people to drain their air compressor. The pressure regulator dial is also found at the front of the machine, so people can easily change the pressure without moving around too many knobs.
However, it does only come with the compressor, cord, and manual, so you will need to purchase any tools you want with it separately. Lastly, it does sit on rubber feet, so it will not vibrate or make any scratches while in use. Overall, this air compressor from Makita has been praised as the best quiet air compressor and it is no surprise how well it works. That is what makes this air compressor perfect for those who have jobs to do at home and do not want to interrupt the family too much.
Additional Features
It uses a lower RPM so that it will last longer
There is roll-cage construction protection so that it will be safe on any job site, during transportation, and during storage
Comes with an oil-free pump, so there are no maintenance costs
Cord wrap for convenient cord storage
Conclusion
You must choose the air compressor that is right for you and your needs. Many of the machines on this list use an air hose that aids in any tasks that need to be completed. Also, they all use an air filter, so you are only using the best air pressure that you need.
When choosing the correct air compressor for under $200, it is essential not to pick the cheapest one because you will lose quality. Instead, have a look at the ones on this list, so you have a better idea of what you can get at an affordable price.