Are you looking to buy an air compressor? Worried about how loud they can be? Air compressors can get incredibly loud and can easily exceed noise levels that can cause permanent hearing loss and damage.
To help keep your ears in good shape, we’ve put together a list of the quietest air compressors on the market to help you find the best one. We’ve also put together a buying guide to help answer all the questions that you might have before purchasing.
Quick Answer: The Best Quiet Air Compressors
Best Rated Quiet Air Compressor Reviews
Let’s get down to specifics with our list of the 9 quietest portable air compressors of 2022 to help you choose the best one for you that won’t hurt your ears!
#1. California Air Tools 15020C Air Compressor
- Ultra quiet only 70 decibels
- Oil-free pump for less maintenance & costs
- 15. 0 gallon steel tank with wheels
The hands-down quietest air compressor available today is the California Air Tools 15020C. It features patented technology that makes using your pneumatic tools noiseless and efficient.
The 15020C is a 2hp model that can hold up to 15 gallons of air, perfect for whatever project you have going on. It puts out a maximum of 130 psi with a cutting-edge motor that increases the duty cycle over longer periods of use. This allows it to run longer than most other air compressors might be able to.
Another cool thing about the 15020C is that it has an oil-less pump. No matter where your projects take you, you can rely on this model to start up without a hitch. It also has an easy-start valve that puts the motor into a no-load condition, perfect for colder temperatures.
However, this California Air Tools compressor only emits 70 decibels of sound despite how powerful it is. That’s the same as a vacuum cleaner! At this power output and energy efficiency, you won’t find a better air compressor out there.
Alternatively, the lower capacity California Air Tools 8010A is a great option for those of you who don’t need such a large tank.
#2. GX CS3 PCP Air Compressor
- ☆Setting the Autostop Value & Built-in Oil-Water Filter :The filling of a rifle or...
- ☆Car 12V DC or Home 110V AC Power Choice : This air compressor can be powered by...
- ☆Oil-Free & Water-Free & Built-in Fan Cooling for Long Life :Unlike traditional...
The runner-up on our list is the GX CS3 PCP, the second quietest air compressor on the market. It’s even better than the top pick in terms of portability, and with an intuitive design, you’re sure to be able to use it no matter where you’re heading.
You can tell that the GX CS3 was made with safety and efficiency in mind. It features a nifty spool for the wire, so you don’t have to worry about it being tangled or becoming unmanageable as you’re working. Also, its square shape makes it great for storing out of harm’s way when you’ve already filled up your tank.
Speaking of air capacity, this model can fill a 1.5L tank in 30 minutes or less and only requires about 20 minutes to cool down. This efficiency allows you to complete longer tasks quicker than you could with most other air compressors.
Overall, the GX CS3 PCP is an exceptionally quiet air compressor perfect for all kinds of workers, from scuba divers to cleaners.
#3. Stealth 12-Gallon Air Compressor
- ❤【POWERFUL & SAVE WORRY】Powerful induction motor generates 1.5 horsepower...
- ❤【ULTRA QUIET & LONG LIFE】Stealth’s innovative quiet systems features ultra...
- ❤【QUICK RECOVERY】Peak 150 PSI, 5 CFM @ 40 PSI and 4 CFM @ 90PSI allows the...
Rounding off the top three picks of our ranking is the Stealth 12-Gallon air compressor, easy to cart around and straightforward to operate.
The Stealth 12-Gallon has not one but two mufflers that significantly reduce the amount of sound it produces. With a powerful 1.5 horsepower motor and 150 psi pressure limit, it’s no wonder the manufacturers thought it needed both to bring down the noise to tolerable levels.
At over ninety pounds, it’s safe to say that the Stealth 12-Gallon is heavier than most air compressors. However, the giant rubber wheels do a stellar job shouldering the burden. They make this air compressor seem almost weightless and much more convenient to transport than similar models. Also, the heavy rubber padding further reduces noise from moving it around.
With an excess of soundproofing features and intelligent design, the Stealth 12-Gallon is the perfect solution for noisy pneumatic devices like nail guns, chisels, drills, and paint sprayers.
You can also choose between smaller capacity Stealth machines like their 4.5-gallon and 2-gallon models if you don’t need an industrial air compressor.
#4. Craftsman 6-Gallon Air Compressor
- 6 gallon pancake maximizes portability and stored air
- Durable, Oil free pump for long life and no maintenance
- Slip joint, groove joint, and long nose Pliers for increased access in various...
Taking the fourth spot is the Craftsman 6-Gallon air compressor, a versatile pancake built for a range of industrial applications. It’s compact and lightweight as well as incredibly energy efficient.
The Craftsman 6-Gallon is an excellent option if you’re looking for a small-scale air compressor that will last for a long time. While other models in this price range might only run well for a couple of years, the no-oil pump ensures you’ll get a ton of use out of this air compressor.
Additionally, you get a few extras included with this Craftsman model that you might not with similar competitors. It comes with a pre-assembled air hose with the necessary coupler and plug, tire chuck, blowguns, tire gauge, and rubber tip.
Not only that, but it also includes three inflator adaptors so you can pair it up with whatever pneumatic device you might have on hand. If you’re looking for a midsized air compressor that has everything you need to get going, then you should check out the Craftsman 6-Gallon.
#5. California Air Tools CAT-60040CAD Air Compressor
- Ultra quiet only 75 decibels
- Oil-free pump for less maintenance & costs
- 60.0 gallon steel ASME air tank
Coming in at number five is another California Air Tools model, the CAT-60040CAD. It is the largest air compressor we’ve included, with a 60-gallon capacity and two powerful and efficient 2.0 HP motors.
The CAT-60040CAD keeps sound levels down to 75 decibels, about the same as a household food processor despite its size and strength. Additionally, it has a rapid air intake of up to 120 bars of pressure in just a few minutes.
This air compressor is also maintenance-free, featuring a no-oil pump and durable parts that are guaranteed to last a long time. If you see yourself needing to use an air compressor often, then you can’t hope for better performance, capacity, or durability than the CAT-60040CAD.
However, it’s important to note that this California Air Tools model is more expensive than other air compressors on this list. While the air supply might make the price tag worthwhile, it may not be the right model for you if you’re simply looking for a compressor for DIY projects.
#6. Makita MAC201Q 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...
Designed specifically to deal with the noise issues of its previous models, the Makita MAC201Q is an exciting step for the manufacturer into the soundproofing arena.
While its two-gallon capacity is much lower than other models, this air compressor makes up for it by being lightweight and easy to transport. It’s a great option for the handyman driving to different job sites every day or the DIY enthusiast with an occasional need for an air compressor.
The Makita MAC201Q is one of the quietest air compressors on this list, emitting only 60-decibels of noise at peak operation. That sound reduction comes at a cost, though. The motor runs slower to maintain performance over a longer stretch of time. As a result, you won’t be able to pump or dump air as quickly as some previously listed models.
However, you’ll find that it’s perfect for quick-fix situations or to have on hand as a backup if your main air compressor fails.
#7. BOSTITCH Air Compressor
- The portable air compressor has a long-life oil-free, maintenance-free pump for...
- 150 max PSI 6.0 gallon tank (22.7 L) and 2.6 SCFM* delivered @ 90 PSI pump enable...
- BOSTITCH high efficiency motor of the 6 gallon air compressor is made for easy start...
The BOSTITCH air compressor is a neat little 6-gallon machine with an impressive motor in a compact package.
While not quite as quiet as the previous models on this list, the BOSTITCH is still a competitive player in the air compressor market. It produces just under 80-decibels when dumping or pumping air, and the high-quality connections ensure your pneumatic devices are quieter as well.
Also, it only weighs 29 pounds, lighter than most others. You can load it onto your truck or chuck it back in the shed with little to no effort at all. Plus, the bits and pieces that make up the pump and connective tubing are pretty durable. It can take more than a few bumps and bruises as you transport it from one job site to the next.
If you’re looking for a relatively cheap, easy-to-use air compressor that isn’t too loud, then give the BOSTITCH a try.
#8. Kobalt Quiet Tech Air Compressor
- This refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The...
Next up is the Kobalt Quiet Tech, an air compressor that prioritizes mobility and noise reduction over power and speed. It comes with a noise-insulated pair of rubber wheels and an easy-grip handlebar, making it much quieter to move around than other air compressors.
The one horsepower motor also runs silent, and the name Quiet Tech is definitely not far from the truth. It has a noise level rating of only 60-decibels when it’s at the peak of its duty cycle and can run for over 30 minutes before needing to cool down.
The Kobalt Quiet Tech wasn’t just designed for silence, though. It can start up almost anywhere, in any type of terrain or temperature you may be working in. While it might take a bit more time than heavy-duty air compressors, this model can handle almost anything you throw at it with ease.
Check out the Kobalt Quiet Tech if you’re looking for a cheaper alternative to some of the leading silent air compressors out there.
#9. AstroAl Air Compressor
- INCREASED SAFETY: Properly inflated tires provide better performance in all weather...
- ADVANCED ACCURACY: Professionally calibrated to always return a reading within 1% of...
- EASY AND QUICK: Simply turn your vehicle on, plug in the air compressor, and inflate!...
Taking the final spot on our list is the AstroAl, a hyper budget-friendly option for those of you who need to pump up a car tire or two. However, if you need an industrial size air compressor, check out one of the items listed above.
The AstroAI is a tiny yet powerful air compressor perfect for small DIY projects. It has a pinpoint accurate digital gauge so you can tell exactly how much air you’re putting into anything and how quickly.
This device stores perfectly in your car trunk, making it a great emergency option in case you get a flat. Also, the automatic overheat killswitch makes it super useful to have around on those hot summer days.
Because of its size, the AstroAI is probably the quietest air compressor on this list. When you consider that it fills up tires at a rate of 35L per minute, who wouldn’t want to have this one in case of emergencies?
How to Choose a Quiet Air Compressor: A Buyer’s Guide
Now that we’ve had a look at some of our favorite air compressors, it’s time to answer some of the questions you might have before purchasing one.
The Two Types of Air Compressor
There are two main types of air compressors:
- Portable air compressors
- Stationary air compressors
Let’s take a look at both of them to help you choose which one might be best for you.
Portable Air Compressors
The first type is portable air compressors. These small compressors can easily be moved from one place to another. They may have a hose and come with a compressor in the same package.
These are great if you’re looking for something that is more transportable, like if you would want to use it at home or take it with you but also carry it around with you as you travel.
For example, truck drivers often need an air compressor that they can move around easily, so they will opt for one of these portable models.
Another common application is when someone has their own garage and requires an air compressor for maintenance purposes. Oftentimes people who own boats or RVs will purchase one of these as well.
Stationary Air Compressors
The other type is stationary air compressors. These compressors are larger and heavier than portable air compressors, so they require more space and cannot be easily carried around the house or moved to different locations.
They are also used for commercial purposes, as you’ll see below. Some garages will have a permanent air compressor installed on them and use this to replenish tires or power air tools.
Stationary compressors may be located in barns and garages, workshops, or even on construction sites. They’re used in many different capacities: ranging from powering air tools to providing pressure to inflate tires of cars and trucks. The possibilities are endless!
Tank Capacity
When air is depleted during work, pressure declines and so does the airspeed. You will have to wait for the compressor to refill before you can resume work.
A large tank is useful to hold more air and allow you to operate multiple machines at a go. The high air carrying capacity enables the device to keep more air and ensure that you can work seamlessly with the machine pausing to refill the tank.
What is the CFM rating?
The cubic feet per meter rating tells you the amount of air your compressor can supply when in use. A high CFM rating means your device is providing enough air needed for the task at hand.
Before you purchase a compressor with the highest CFM available, consider what you plan to do with it. For some activities, an extremely high CFM is overkill.
Ensure to check the psi associated with the product measuring system. Ideally, you should get a machine that can deliver different CFM ratings at different pressure counts.
This will allow you to perform various tasks that require separate pressure levels
Oil vs Oil-Free Air Compressors
Some of these compressors are built to require regular oiling of the parts to minimize noise and ensure smooth running. Oil-free devices, on the other hand, do not need this lubrication.
Both of these features have their perks and tradeoffs. You should choose an option whose cons will not become a limitation to your work with this equipment.
What Does PSI Stand for?
PSI stands for Pounds Per Square Inch. This refers to the amount of pressure that the air is being put out by a pump.
The larger the PSi is, the more powerful the air compressor is and the quicker it will fill up whatever you’re using it for.
But, as you’d expect, the louder it might be so if noise is your main concern don’t always assume a large PSI
How Loud are Air Compressors?
Air compressors get their energy from a motor, which in turn generates sound. The size of the machine and the amount of energy needed to run it are directly related to how noisy an air compressor is.
Industrial-sized machines can be so loud they have been known to cause hearing loss if you stand too close for an extended period of time.
How many decibels an air compressor produces however depends on the model and make of your compressor. But to give you an idea, anything over 85 decibels is loud and if exposed to this level of noise for too long it can cause permanent hearing damage.
Around 60 dB is an ideal level of noise for a compressor and anything around 40 is very quiet and typically found in air compressors for use at home.
Q. Can I run two framing nailers on an air compressor?
Yes, there are models which are powerful enough to operate two framing nailers at once and help you get the job done.
Can I use an air compressor to inflame a 125 psi tire?
Depending on the model you have and what kind of power it can produce, yes and no. With enough tank capacity, your compressor is able to inflate your tire at a reasonable rate.
What type of connections do air compressors have?
Most of them typically come with a quarter-inch quick connection. It is called a universal connection because it connects to industrial or automotive connection plugs.
Which is the quietest air compressor?
Depending on the specs you’re looking for in a compressor, a quiet one can range from 60 to about 80 decibels. Anything higher than that is quite noisy. The quietest compressors round up to about 60 decibels as the noise level of operation.
Conclusion: Which One Should You Buy?
While every air compressor on this list serves a purpose, the best air compressor in terms of noise level, performance, and portability is the California Air Tools 15020C and its lower capacity variants.
With a 15-gallon capacity, 130 psi limit, and 70-decibel noise output, there’s no better air compressor on the market today.
- Ultra quiet only 70 decibels
- Oil-free pump for less maintenance & costs
- 15. 0 gallon steel tank with wheels
