If you are using pneumatic tools, you need an air compressor. Air hammers, wrenches, spray guns, and ratchets all connect to an air compressor to get a supply of pressurized air.
20-gallon air compressors are versatile and have enough capacity for both commercial and home use.
In this guide, we look at the best 20-gallon air compressors on the market to help make your buying decision as easy as possible.
- Quiet 80 dB operation
- Maximum of 135 psi
- 2,000 hour runtime
- Lightweight design
- Maximum 150 PSI
- Oil-free pump
- Pretty quiet at 68 decibels
- 1.8 horsepower motor
- Oil-free motor
- Maximum 135 PSI
- Weighs 86 pounds
- Highly-portable
- Oil-free pump
- Only 70 decibels
- 2 hp motor
- 17-piece accessory set
- Fully enclosed motor
- Weighs 92 pounds
- Dual voltage
- Maximum 155 PSI
- Quick-connect air outlet
Review Methodology: At Sensible Digs, our hands-on experience and thorough research drive our analysis and assessment of the best 20-gallon air compressors. We evaluate products from a user’s perspective, tracking performance and comparing design choices to offer you the most reliable data. Our criteria include power, efficiency, noise levels, durability, and ease of use. Our professional team rigorously tests each air compressor, measuring its performance, and ranking it based on facts and evidence. We identify key decision-making factors, such as the compressor’s performance under various workloads, and provide first-hand evaluations to help you make an informed choice. Our findings are always based on evidence, ensuring that you get nothing but the most trustworthy reviews.
The Best 20-Gallon Air Compressors of 2024
Here are seven great 20-gallon air compressors to consider.
Ingersoll Rand 20-Gallon Single Stage Air Compressor
Best 20-Gallon Air Compressor for Home Garage
Ingersoll Rand is a trusted name in the world of air tools and compressors, so it is only fitting that we start the review with this model. It has a low decibel level at 80, which is quieter than some vacuum cleaners, and it has an ergonomic handle and semi-pneumatic tires to make it easy to cart around.
Instead of oil-based lubricants, this compressor uses a synthetic version that is more efficient and gives you a longer run time between changes. You get 2,000 hours, which is 4 times longer than traditional lubricants provide.
It has a 2 horsepower motor that delivers a maximum of 135 PSI, so it is ideal for commercial and home garage duties. It has a protective belt guard and a manual overload motor to ensure smooth running and a very long lifespan.
What We Like
Great Brand Name
Ingersoll Rand makes excellent products that are loved by professionals and hobbyists alike across the globe. This model is undoubtedly popular, given the high rating it gets on Amazon.
Quiet Operation
Running a compressor for long periods can damage your ears, so it is recommended you use ear defenders to quell the noise. However, some are louder than others, and this compressor is among the quietest.
Maximum of 135 PSI
135 PSI is more than enough pressure to handle a multitude of air tools. You can connect nail guns, air hammers, spray guns, and just about anything else to this compressor.
What We Don't Like
Steep Price
Ingersoll Rand is not a budget brand. They provide high-quality products, and you have to dig deep to buy them. While this is not the most expensive air compressor to make the list, it is up there.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 200 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 22 x 23 x 43 |
| Voltage | 115 |
| Max PSI | 135 |
| Decibels | 80 |
| Price | $$$$ |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Our Ratings
User Experience
Porter-Cable PXCMF220VW 20-Gallon Air Compressor
Best 20-Gallon Upright Air Compressor
This Porter-Cable compressor has 7-inch wheels to make it more portable. It also has an oil-free pump, a low voltage startup, and no belts or pulleys to maintain. It has a maximum PSI of 150, making it one of the most powerful compressors you can buy. It certainly meets the needs of professionals and hobbyists.
The working components are fully enclosed to protect them from the elements, and it has a consumption rate of 5 CFM (cubic feet per minute) at 40 PSI and 4 CFM at 90 PSI. The tank is made of stainless steel, and the twin-V pump is cast iron.
This model is slightly louder than the Ingersoll Rand model, at 84 dB, but not so much that you would notice. Where this does differ is in the weight. This compressor weighs 97 pounds, compared to 200 pounds for the Ingersoll, making the Porter Cable easier to move.
What We Like
Lightweight Design
At just 97 pounds, this is one of the lightest air compressors around. Coupled with the large, 7-inch wheels, you have a highly-portable compressor, which is great for professionals and hobbyists alike.
Affordable Price
This model is almost half as much as the Ingersoll Rand, and yet you get equivalent quality. It produces more PSI and weighs half what the Ingersoll does.
Oil-Free Pump
The oil-free pump makes this such a convenient compressor. It requires minimal maintenance to keep it in full working order, which has to be a bonus. It is the ideal compressor for a beginner.
What We Don't Like
Quality Control Issues
It seems that several buyers have complained that parts were missing when they opened the box or that the compressor leaked, resulting in a low-pressure reading. Others expressed their frustration that the compressor failed to work from day one.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 97 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 17 x 18 x 43 |
| Voltage | 120 |
| Max PSI | 150 |
| Decibels | 84 |
| Price | $$ |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
Our Ratings
Personal Perspective
Stealth 20 Gallon Ultra Quiet Air Compressor
Best 20-Gallon Horizontal Air Compressor
When spending a small fortune on a 20-gallon air compressor, you’ll want to be sure you’re buying one that’s built to last. That’s where the Stealth air compressor comes in. it has been built to last three times longer than standard induction motor compressors will. That equates to over 1000 working hours!
Overall, you will save money because it will last longer than other options out there. To back up this promise, the manufacturer provides a limited lifetime warranty. So you can focus on getting on with your work and worrying less.
What We Like
68 Decibels — Pretty Quiet
One of the main selling points of this air compressor is the volume. At 68 decibels, it’s pretty quiet and won’t get on your nerves all day long. To put that into perspective, 68 decibels is about the same as a vacuum cleaner or a toilet flushing.
1.8 Horsepower
The induction motor runs at 1.8 horsepower, so you get a lot of power behind your machine. Combine that with the 20-gallon capacity, and you can enjoy seamless working. Even when you do need to recharge the air tank, it only takes 70 seconds!
Oil-Free Motor
Oil-free means one main thing: fewer maintenance costs. It also means you don’t have to do as much upkeep running the appliance. This design also means the pump and motor last longer. So overall, you can save money.
Easy Transportation
You’ll likely be wheeling this from place to place. That’s why we love the vertical standing feature and rubber handle. This makes it easy to maneuver but park in your desired spot. The wheels are also rubber reinforced which makes maneuvering simple.
What We Don't Like
Manual Air Valve
Some customers felt misled as they were expecting an automatic air valve. Unfortunately, the air valve is manual, and the instructions aren’t the clearest, so it’s a bit of a challenge to figure it out.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 121.4 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 20 x 18 x 42 |
| Voltage | 120 |
| Max PSI | 150 |
| Decibels | 68 |
| Price | $$ |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
WEN 2202T 20-Gallon Vertical Air Compressor
Best Budget 20-Gallon Air Compressor
This is the budget model, and it costs a fraction of the price of the most expensive compressors to feature. This model has a CFM of 3.8 at 90 PSI and 5 at 40 PSI, as well as a maximum pressure of 135 PSI.
This oil-lubricated vertical compressor is the ideal tool to use when space is limited, thanks to its smaller footprint. It has an auto-shutdown feature, which turns off the compressor when the correct PSI gets reached, and two large wheels and a prominent handle to make it maneuverable.
The best thing, by far, is the price. You could buy 5 of these and still have change compared to the NorthStar!
What We Like
Budget Price
The price alone justifies its entry in the review. It’s 5 times cheaper than the most expensive and just under 3 times the cost of the Ingersoll Rand model. And yet, you don’t seem to suffer from a lower quality or performance.
Weighs 86 Pounds
At just 86 pounds, this might be the lightest 20-gallon compressor to make the review. It means you won’t put your back out when you are maneuvering this to the worksite.
Highly-Portable
The large handle and big wheels with a chunky tread make this a portable compressor. Couple that with the lightweight design, and you have one of the most portable air compressors available.
What We Don't Like
Build Quality Issues
Many customers have complained about damaged packaging and missing parts on delivery. Others remarked that the compressor failed after a couple of uses.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 86 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 19.5 x 17.5 x 42 |
| Voltage | 110 |
| Max PSI | 135 |
| Decibels | Not specified |
| Price | $ |
| Warranty | 2-year |
Our Ratings
First-Hand Impression
California Air Tools 20020 Ultra Quiet Air Compressor
Best Quiet 20-Gallon Air Compressor
This is the quietest air compressor to make the list, operating at just 70 decibels. That is about the same noise as the inside of a car doing 60 MPH. It has an oil-free pump for less maintenance and better convenience. It also means this is an ideal beginner’s compressor.
The motor is 2 horsepower, and the CFM rate is 5.3 at 90 PSI. This compressor is designed to have a longer continuous runtime thanks to the dual-piston pump, designed to run for 3,000 hours at a minimum.
It also has an easy start valve that uses fewer amps when you initially fire it up. It releases a small amount of air to give the motor just enough to spin freely under no-load conditions.
What We Like
Oil-Free Pump
If you are the sort of person who hates maintaining their air compressor, this could be the answer. Oil-free pumps reduce the amount of time you spend keeping the compressor working smoothly.
Only 70 Decibels
70 decibels! That’s how quiet this model is. Compare that to the others, and this compressor is as quiet as regular office noise or the inside of a car doing 60 MPH. That’s about 30 percent less noise than the competition.
2 Horsepower Motor
The 2 horsepower motor is a class-leader. It delivers 1,680 RPM to reduce the wear and tear on the engine and help dampen the sound. It’s the reason why this air compressor is so quiet.
What We Don't Like
Reasonable Price
Okay, so it isn’t the most expensive air compressor, but watch the price as it is still a large chunk of money to spend. It is unlikely for beginners to spend this much, but professionals certainly would.
Build Quality Issues
For the price-tag, you would expect that the build quality would be better. Some have complained about substandard welding on the tank and wheels unevenly set, so it doesn’t maneuver well.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 134.7 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 20 x 20 x 45 |
| Voltage | 110 |
| Max PSI | 125 |
| Decibels | 70 |
| Price | $$$ |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
Our Ratings
User Experience
Campbell Hausfeld DC 200000 Oil-Free Air Compressor
Best 20-Gallon Oil-Free Air Compressor
This Campbell Hausfeld 20-gallon air compressor features a 1.3 horsepower motor that delivers a maximum 150 PSI. It has a CFM of 4 at 90 PSI and an oil-free pump for convenience and reduced maintenance.
The control panel is placed to make it easier to read, and the large wheels and handle make it simple to move around. The induction motor is fully encased to preserve the integrity of the working components and increase the lifespan of the compressor.
It even comes with a 17-piece accessory set, which includes a 3-in-1 inflation gun, a 25-foot air compressor hose, and a chuck and gauge. It is the best compressor to use for completing your DIY projects.
What We Like
17-Piece Accessory Set
You can start your projects straight away with the accessories included with this air compressor. It comes with a 25-foot hose, a 3-in-1 inflation gun, and gauges. It is the perfect starter compressor.
Mid-Price
Campbell Hausfeld has cleverly pitched this compressor in the mid-price range to appeal to both hobbyists and professionals. The costs are still within reach of most people, making this a good choice and great value for money.
Fully Enclosed Motor
The induction motor is fully enclosed to protect it from the elements and wear and tear. It increases the lifespan of the engine and decreases the instances of malfunctions.
Weighs 92 Pounds
This compressor weighs just 92 pounds, making it one of the lightest to feature in the review. It aids maneuverability, which is always a good thing when moving large industrial-size air compressors.
What We Don't Like
Lacks Power
The motor is only 1.3 horsepower, which is light when you compare it to the California Air’s 2 horsepower motor. While the horsepower doesn’t affect the PSI it produces, the engine has to work at capacity, putting it under unnecessary strain.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 92 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 31.5 x 14.9 x 30.3 |
| Voltage | 120 |
| Max PSI | 150 |
| Decibels | 88 |
| Price | $$ |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
Our Ratings
Personal Perspective
DeWALT DXCMPA1982054 20-Gallon Air Compressor
Best Portable 20-Gallon Air Compressor
While this DeWALT may not be the lightest air compressor, it is equipped with pneumatic wheels and a large handle that make moving this compressor easy. It also has easy controls that are large and clear with a quick-connect air outlet and easy to read gauges.
With twin cylinders and an aluminum head and valve plate, the cast iron pump ensures that it is robust and handles heat better. The regulator delivers 20 percent more torque to aid the removal of rusted bolts when using an air wrench.
It produces a maximum of 155 PSI, the most of any to feature, and a CFM of 5.7 at 90 PSI. The other neat thing is the motor is dual voltage, wired to run on 110-volt systems, but it can be adapted to work with a 240-volt supply.
What We Like
Dual Voltage
The clever people at DeWALT have given this motor a dual voltage, meaning it can switch between 110 and 240-volt systems with some minor adjustments. This makes it a versatile tool for home and commercial use.
Maximum of 155 PSI
The 155 maximum PSI makes a world of difference when dealing with stubborn applications. It makes removing stripped and rusted bolts a breeze with an air hammer or wrench.
Great Brand
If you use tools, you will know the DeWALT name. They are an international success story with a global following. If it has that distinctive yellow livery, it is a quality item and one you can trust to last for decades.
What We Don't Like
Quite Pricey
It’s a DeWALT, so you are going to pay for the quality. This compressor is not cheap, so it may appeal more to professionals, especially as it produces 155 PSI. It is still a great home air compressor, but the price-tag could put off some occasional and DIY users.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 166 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 32 x 21 x 32 |
| Voltage | 110/240 |
| Max PSI | 155 |
| Decibels | 78 |
| Price | $$$ |
| Warranty | 2-year |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
| Product | Best | Weight | Dimensions | Voltage | Max PSI | Decibels | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ingersoll Rand Air Compressor | Home Garage | 200 lbs | 22 x 23 x 43″ | 115 | 135 | 80 | 1-year |
| Porter-Cable Air Compressor | Upright | 97 lbs | 17 x 18 x 43″ | 120 | 150 | 84 | 1-year limited |
| Stealth Ultra Quiet Air Compressor | Durable | 121.4 lbs | 20 x 18 x 42″ | 120 | 150 | 68 | Limited lifetime |
| WEN 2202T Vertical Air Compressor | Budget Pick | 86 lbs | 19.5 x 17.5 x 42″ | 110 | 135 | N/A | 2-year |
| California Air Tools Air Compressor | Quiet | 135 lbs | 20 x 20 x 45″ | 110 | 125 | 70 | 1-year limited |
| Campbell Hausfeld Air Compressor | Oil-Free | 92 lbs | 31.5 x 14.9 x 30.3″ | 120 | 150 | 88 | 1-year limited |
| DeWALT Air Compressor | Portable | 166 lbs | 32 x 21 x 32″ | 110/240 | 155 | 78 | 2-year |
What Can I Do With a 20-Gallon Air Compressor?
A 20-gallon air compressor is a useful bit of kit. It has enough capacity for commercial and home use. Here is a list of the things you can use a 20-gallon air compressor for.
- Air Hammers.
- Nail guns.
- Air impact wrenches.
- Air ratchets.
- Inflate a swimming pool.
- Spray paint a car.
- Complete home projects.
- Inflate tires.
How to Choose the Best 20-Gallon Air Compressor
Choosing the best 20-gallon air compressor takes a bit of research. There are fundamental features you should look for before you buy.
Check the PSI
The pound per square inch (PSI) indicates how powerful the air compressor is. The higher the PSI, the more punch it has. The numbers can vary, depending on the model of compressor. And you should also check whether your air tool is compatible.
The rule of thumb is the air tool should not exceed 80 percent of the compressor’s PSI, so if your air hammer has a PSI of 80 and your compressor runs at 100 PSI, you will be fine.
Tank Size
It’s a bit of a moot point, given that we’re talking today about 20-gallon models, but the air compressor sizes do vary. You need a certain tank size to complete particular tasks. Spraying a car would need a 20 or 30-gallon air compressor because the job takes longer to complete.
A larger tank gives you more air before the pressure starts to drop as the tank empties. It also decreases the chances of the tank cutting out on you mid-task.
Oil-Free
Some air compressors are oil-free, and some need lubricating oil. The oil-free varieties require less maintenance and are cheaper to run because they don’t need oil to lubricate them. They are also better for the environment because you don’t have to dispose of the old oil.
How Are You Using It?
If you are using the compressor for commercial purposes, then you will need sufficient PSI and capacity. This is less important for home and hobby use. If space is a premium, consider getting an upright air compressor. They take up less space and store away easier.
Flow Rate
The flow rate is the speed at which the air gets delivered. Check before you buy because the flow rate can determine how quickly you get the task done, especially if you use the compressor for inflatables.
If time is money, get a compressor with the fastest flow rate.
Portability
Air compressors are not the lightest tools, but they still have to be portable. Make sure the compressor you choose has a large handle and sturdy wheels. Remember that most of the time, the compressor will be employed in a commercial setting where the conditions may be a little rough.
Uneven floors and rubble are commonplace on some construction sites, and your air compressor needs to cope.
115 Volts Vs. 240 Volts
Check the voltage of the machine you buy to see if it is compatible with your power rating. 115 to 120 volts suit the American and Canadian supply, but some countries operate on a 240-volt system.
Commercial settings typically have 240-volt sockets installed because the voltage indicates how powerful the compressor is, and you guessed it, 240 volts trumps 115 volts.
How To Use a 20-Gallon Air Compressor
There are 4 main parts to an air compressor: the pump, the tank, the motor, and the controls. Mastering how to use one is easy.
Before starting, if you have an air compressor in need of oil lubrication, make sure you fill the pump first.
- Attach a hose to the regulator valve and connect the other end to your tool.
- Power up the air compressor by attaching the plug to a wall socket and flipping the on switch.
- Wait as the tank fills and pressurizes. Check the gauges to determine the pressure levels and when it is safe to use.
- Once the correct pressure gets reached, turn off the switch and start working.
How Long Can a 20-Gallon Air Compressor Tank Last?
Air compressors are reliable and built to last. You should expect a working life of between 20 to 30 years. That’s about 40,000 to 60,000 hours of work!
20-Gallon Air Compressor FAQs
How Long Does It Take for a 20-Gallon Air Compressor to Fill?
It can take one to five minutes to fill an air compressor. The power of its motor has a say in the matter, as more powerful units will take longer to fill.
Is a 20 Gallon Air Compressor Big Enough to Paint a Car?
A 20-gallon air compressor isn’t big enough to paint a car; you should use one with at least 50 gallons of capacity.
Using an air compressor smaller than recommended isn’t just an inconvenience but can also lead to a sloppy paint job. Smaller air compressors are likelier to release variable pressure and paint flow, so your paint coats could be uneven.
The tank size is inconvenient because you’ll likely have to fill it three times to paint the car entirely. If you’re wondering what size air compressor is ideal for painting cars, you can’t go wrong with a 60-gallon unit.
What is the Best 20 Gallon Air Compressor?
The Ingersoll Rand P1.5IU-A9 20-gallon air compressor is an excellent choice for a portable, easy-to-use, low noisy operational device.
You’ll love this product if you need an air compressor that can do a bunch of different around-the-house duties because it’s intuitive and quite affordable.
But even at 80 decibels of noise output, it’s still quieter than many models out there. Other noticeable features include efficient synthetic lubricant and 135 PSI output capacity.
Under Pressure
If you feel the pressure of choosing the best air compressor, think about what you want it for. The types of applications you undertake directly affect the make and model of air compressor you need to buy. Do you go upright or horizontal? What about the PSI?
There are many considerations, but hopefully, you can see the wood for the trees thanks to our review of the best 20-gallon air compressors.
