All air compressors operate on the same principles. They create pressurized air for use with air tools, machinery, and even jet engines. However, not all air compressors have the same capacity.
We look at the best 60-gallon air compressors to bring you 7 outstanding options.
- 100 percent duty cycle
- Motor made from the US
- 30,000 hours of runtime
- Quiet 75 dB operation
- Oil-free pump
- Weighs 213 pounds
- Professional & commercial use
- 3 horsepower motor
- Cast iron pump
- Strong airflow
- Single-phase 5 hp motor
- Value for money
- Cst iron, twin-cylinder pump
- Trusted brand name
- 3.7 horsepower motor
- 3.7 horsepower motor
- 2-stage operation
- Weighs 255 pounds
- Weighs 228 pounds
- Heavy-duty construction
- Twin piston compressor
- Our Top Picks
- Why Do I Need a 60-Gallon Air Compressor?
- How to Choose the Best 60-Gallon Air Compressor
- The Best 60-Gallon Air Compressors of 2021
- 60-gallon Air Compressor Comparison Chart
- How to Use a 60-Gallon Air Compressor
- How to Install a 60-Gallon Air Compressor
- 60-Gallon Air Compressor FAQs
- Size Matters
Why Do I Need a 60-Gallon Air Compressor?
The most obvious reason why you might need a 60-gallon air compressor is the tank capacity itself. You can fill that tank with pressurized air and transport it to the job site and work away for long periods without the need to plug the compressor in.
The other reason, beyond the capacity, is increased power. These air compressors can power more substantial machinery and equipment, meaning you can increase the types and scale of tasks you can undertake.
60-gallon air compressors are excellent for sandblasting, pressure washing, working on car restorations, and any environment where air tools are used.
How to Choose the Best 60-Gallon Air Compressor
Here are the important factors to keep in mind when looking to purchase a 60-gallon air compressor.
Type of Compressor
Do you buy a single-stage or two-stage compressor? Single-stage compressors are excellent if you are using air tools like nail guns, air impact wrenches, and air hammers, but they are less effective when tackling industrial or commercial applications.
Double-stage compressors are more powerful and are favored by auto repair shops because they can produce up to 30 horsepower.
How Many Cylinders
The number of cylinders directly affects the efficiency of the compressor. Typically you can buy one or two-cylinder air compressors, but you can buy a three-cylinder version that is ultra-efficient.
However, the number of cylinders you have impacts the overall running costs of the compressor.
Oil Vs. Oil-Free
Oil compressors are common and marginally cheaper than oil-free varieties. This is largely due to the reduced lifespan of the device and the maintenance costs of keeping it in full working order.
Oil compressors have more moving parts and wear out quicker, although they generally keep going for 10 to 15 years if maintained well. There is an environmental factor with these compressors because the old oil needs to be disposed of safely. The upside with lubricated compressors is they are accepted as being more powerful.
With oil-free models, there are no such worries. They last a good 20 to 30 years and require minimal maintenance. The downside of oil-free air compressors is they cost more and don’t quite match the power of the lubricated models.
PSI Rating
PSI stands for Pounds Per Square Inch and reflects how much punch the compressor has. You need to get one with a minimum of 100 PSI because most air tools have a rating of about 80 PSI, and you need a 20 percent difference if they are to work correctly.
With a 60-gallon compressor, expect the PSI to be about 150 as a minimum. They have thicker tank casings and can take higher pressures.
It’s All About the Airflow
The airflow is measured as Cubic Feet per Minute or CFM for short. The CFM represents the strength of the airflow and the amount of air you can expect to get through in a given application. The higher the flow, the more powerful the compressor. Look for a compressor with a high CFM in relation to the PSI.
The CFM and the PSI are directly connected because the airflow rate is dictated by the pressure the compressor creates.
Where Are You Using It?
You cannot escape the fact that 60-gallon air compressors are heavy. These are bulky items, so if you are working in a confined space, the last thing you want is for the air compressor to take up every available inch.
You might be tempted to keep it outside, but that presents challenges because of the weather and the temperatures the compressor gets exposed to. Remember, once these compressors are in position, they stay put, so choose the location wisely.
What About the Budget?
Everything comes down to the budget unless you are Jeff Bezos. 60-gallon air compressors are going to be costly, but you still want value for money. Typically, the mid-price range is where you get most customer satisfaction with the quality and performance.
The Best 60-Gallon Air Compressors of 2021
Here are some excellent 60-gallon air compressors to choose from.
1. Quincy QT-54 Reciprocating 60-Gallon Air Compressor
Quincy is proud of its US-made Baldor motor. They also boast that this compressor will give you 30,000 hours of service, so it’s built to last. This compressor runs at a lower RPM to reduce heat build-up and preserve the life of the motor.
The motor produces 5 horsepower, and it operates on a 230-volt electrical system. This compressor is a 2-stage model, so it generates more power than a single-stage version, and it is more efficient.
It also has a working PSI of between 145 and 175, so it can handle pretty much all you can throw at it, and the pump runs at 1,310 RPM. It has a CFM of 15.2 at 175 PSI, so you will never have airflow problems.
The only downside is this compressor is a stationary version, meaning that it doesn’t move, and given that it weighs 475 pounds, once it’s in position, we doubt you could move it anyway.
Why We Love It
100 Percent Duty Cycle
The 100 percent duty cycle means that you can use this compressor continually without rest stops for the motor to cool down. It speeds up your work rate and increases the scope of projects you can undertake.
US Motor
You may not care where the motor comes from, but buying American goods is a big deal for some. If you want to support US businesses, this Quincy compressor will make you feel patriotic to the core.
30,000 Hours of Runtime
Quincy is so confident that this compressor will last the distance they have given it a specific lifespan of 30,000 hours. That equates to 1,250 days of solid non-stop use.
Keep In Mind
Poor Customer Service
Quincy makes quality compressors, but when there is an issue, their customer service department fails to make the grade. It seems to be a recurring theme among the dissatisfied customers.
Additional Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 475 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 29 x 21 x 64 |
| Max PSI | 175 |
| CFM | 15.2 at 175 PSI |
| Oil/Oil-free | Oil |
| Horsepower | 5 |
| Price | $$ |
| Warranty | 1-year |
2. California Air Tools CAT-60040CAD Ultra-Quiet 60-Gallon Air Compressor
When you want a quiet 60-gallon compressor, there is only one model you should be looking for. This California Air Tools compressor is super-quiet at just 75 decibels. That’s the equivalent of office noise or a standard volume conversation.
It has an oil-free pump, so it will last longer and needs minimal maintenance, which increases its convenience, and it has a CFM of 10.6 at 90 PSI. The motor produces 2 horsepower, so it isn’t as powerful as the Quincy model, but with a maximum PSI of 125, it should still tackle most tasks.
The main selling feature of this compressor is that it is 30 percent quieter than the competition.
Why We Love It
Super-Quiet
75 decibels is nothing when you are dealing with a 60-gallon compressor. They are noisy devices, so to get one as quiet as this is rare. It means you won’t be going deaf any time soon.
Oil-Free Pump
If maintenance gets you down, or you lack the time to do it, an oil-free pump could be the perfect choice. They last longer and are more convenient, plus they are better for the environment because you are not tossing away old oil.
Weighs 213 Pounds
Okay, we get that a compressor weighing 213 pounds is not that light, but when you compare it to the Quincy model, at 475, it is half the bulk. These aren’t portable compressors, but it does make it easier if you wanted to move them.
Keep In Mind
Lacks Power
The CFM is 10.6 at 90 PSI, which is light when comparing it to the Quincy at 15.2 CFM at 175 PSI. It isn’t going to hinder you too much, but it might restrict the kind of work you can do.
2 Horsepower Motor
Some of this weaker power is a result of the 2 horsepower motor. If the engine is less potent, it will affect the PSI and the CFM.
Additional Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 213 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 21 x 29 x 66 |
| Max PSI | 125 |
| CFM | 10.6 at 90 PSI |
| Oil/Oil-free | Oil-free |
| Horsepower | 2 |
| Price | $$ |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
3. Puma Industries PK-6060V Air Compressor
This Puma Industries compressor has a single-stage cast iron pump, so it is built to last. It is oil-lubricated, and the motor produces 3 horsepower, so it sits squarely between the California Air and the Quincy model for power.
The maximum PSI is 135, and it has a CFM of 12 at 90 PSI, so a slightly better flow rate than the California Air model. This compressor weighs 305 pounds, so like the others, once in position, it stays there.
It has a built-in regulator and a quick coupler for pressure control of the outlet air. If you are undertaking some home garage projects, this compressor will perform well.
Why We Love It
Professional and Commercial Use
Anything rated for professional use is going to work well in your home garage situation. It has the build quality and performance ability to tackle most tasks with ease.
3 Horsepower Motor
Having a powerful motor increases airflow and PSI capabilities. 3 horsepower is enough to see you through most tasks without it being too powerful that it is unsuitable for home use.
Cast Iron Pump
After the motor, the pump is the most important component of the compressor. This pump is cast iron, so it will last the distance, which means this compressor will still work in years to come.
Keep In Mind
Very Expensive
If you win the lottery, you might have enough money to buy this compressor. It costs double what the California Air model does. Only professionals and experienced users will find this price attractive.
Additional Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 305 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 66 x 29 x 21 |
| Max PSI | 135 |
| CFM | 12 at 90 PSI |
| Oil/Oil-free | Oil |
| Horsepower | 3 |
| Price | $$$$ |
| Warranty | 1-year |
4. Ingersoll Rand SS5 Single-Stage 60-GAllon Air Compressor
Ingersoll Rand is a big name in the air compressor and tool world. They make quality products that are loved by professionals and home users alike. The single-phase motor produces 5 horsepower, so it can tackle most tasks in the home or commercial setting.
What is impressive is the airflow. It is rated at 18.1 CFM at 90 PSI, making it one of the most potent you can buy. And speaking of money, you will be pleasantly surprised that this compressor isn’t as expensive as you think it is.
It also benefits from a 100 percent duty cycle, so you never need to stop to let the machine cool down. You can keep on working until the project is complete.
Why We Love It
Strong Airflow
Compressors get judged by their PSI capacity and their airflow. This model has an industry-leading 18.1 CFM at 90 PSI, making it the best choice when you need extra potency for the task ahead.
Great Price
Considering this is less than half the price of the Puma Industries model, it represents excellent value for money. For something of such quality, it feels like it should be much more expensive.
Great Brand Name
Walk into any auto shop or commercial setting where air tools and compressors are a regular feature, and you will undoubtedly see Ingersoll Rand products. Professional and amateurs love this brand.
Quiet Operation
This compressor gives the California Air model a run for its money in the noise stakes. This one is rated at 78 decibels, just 3 dB more than the California.
Keep In Mind
Build Quality Issues
While most of Ingersoll Rand’s customers are happy, a few have complained about weld quality and substandard components failing after a few uses.
Additional Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 310 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 24 x 30 x 73 |
| Max PSI | 135 |
| CFM | 18.1 at 90 PSI |
| Oil/Oil-free | Oil |
| Horsepower | 5 |
| Price | $$ |
| Warranty | 1-year |
5. DeWALT DXCMLA3706056 60-Gallon Air Compressor
Like Ingersoll Rand, DeWALT is another great brand that is loved the world over. So it is surprising to see that this compressor is the cheapest to make the review. This model costs considerably less than the Quincy and well over half the price of the Puma.
It has a cast iron, twin-cylinder pump that is oil lubricated. It has a maximum PSI rating of 155, putting it up there with the best, and an SCFM value of 11.5 at 90 PSI. The motor produces 3.7 horsepower, and the cylinder body is cast iron.
When you consider this is the budget model, all of these statistics are pretty impressive.
Why We Love It
Great Brand Name
Like Ingersoll Rand, DeWALT is a respected global brand, favored by professionals the world over. Investing in this compressor should give you the peace of mind that it is a quality item.
Great Price
This is not a cheap item in the sense of the word, but it is really affordable for a 60-gallon air compressor. When you compare this to the competition, you are saving a lot.
3.7 Horsepower Motor
3.7 horsepower gives you the confidence that this air compressor is powerful enough to get the job done. This is proven in the maximum PSI rating of 155 and the CFM value at 11.5 at 90 PSI.
Keep In Mind
Lower Grade Components
To save money, DeWALT has invested in quantity rather than quality on this model. It has lower grade components that could affect the compressor’s longevity and cost you more money in the long run.
Additional Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 247 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 30 x 24 x 68 |
| Max PSI | 155 |
| CFM | 11.5 at 90 PSI |
| Oil/Oil-free | Oil |
| Horsepower | 3.7 |
| Price | $ |
| Warranty | 2-year pump, 1-year parts |
6. Campbell Hausfeld 2-Stage 60-Gallon Air Compressor
This is a 2-stage air compressor, so it has 2 pistons, one large and one small, to make the process more efficient, increasing the pressure rating. It is oil lubricated, so there is the ongoing cost of the oil to factor in, but it does give you 5,000 hours of service.
Like the DeWALT model, this has a 3.7 horsepower motor that generates a maximum PSI of 175, with the CFM coming in at a disappointing 7.6 at 90 PSI. This is enough to tackle a wide variety of jobs like paint spraying and heavy-duty nailing.
It’s also quite a lightweight 60-gallon compressor, weighing in at 255 pounds.
Why We Love It
3.7 Horsepower Motor
When it comes to power, this compressor has it. The 3.7 horsepower motor is enough to tackle the harshest tasks like heavy-duty nailing and auto shop resprays.
2-Stage Operation
A 2-stage operation may not sound like a lot, but it makes a massive difference to your air compressor’s efficiency and capability. The larger piston squeezes the air into a smaller chamber containing a smaller piston, increasing the pressure.
Weighs 255 Pounds
As we said before, 60-gallon air compressors aren’t famed for their lightweight qualities, but compared to others in its class, this Campbell Hausfeld is a contender. It only weighs 255 pounds, which is almost half the weight of the Quincy model.
3-Year Warranty
Unlike the competition, who seem to love a 1-year warranty, Campbell Hausfeld sells this compressor with a generous 3-year scheme. Now that’s what we call peace of mind.
Keep In Mind
Lower CFM
When all you care about is the PSI and the CFM values, this model performs at a disappointing 7.6 CFM at 90 PSI. Compare that to the 18.1 CFM of the California model, and you can see the problem.
Additional Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 255 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 71.75 x 31.75 x 28.25 |
| Max PSI | 175 |
| CFM | 7.6 at 90 PSI |
| Oil/Oil-free | Oil |
| Horsepower | 3.7 |
| Price | $$ |
| Warranty | 3-year |
7. Industrial Air ILA3606056 60-Gallon Air Compressor
If you are in the market for a lightweight 60-gallon air compressor, look no further than this Industrial Air model. It only weighs 228 pounds, making it one of the lightest to make the review. It makes relocating it a lot easier.
It generates 155 PSI and has a CFM of 11.5 at 90 PSI. The pump is twin-cylinder and cast iron, which increases the compressor’s longevity and protects it from wear and tear. It is also oil lubricated, and the crankcase is constructed from one-piece cast iron.
All this adds up to a heavy-duty compressor that will power all your air tools and get the job done.
Why We Love It
Weighs 228 Pounds
228 pounds is not what you would class as lightweight, but we are talking about 60-gallon compressors. 228 pounds is very light when we compare it to other makes and models available.
Heavy-Duty Construction
It may be light, but this compressor is a heavy-duty tool. It has a one-piece cast iron crankcase and a cast iron pump. It can take the punishment of an industrial and commercial setting.
Affordable Price
You can pick this up for less than half the cost of the Puma model. It retails at less than most of the compressors to make it onto the review. It isn’t as cheap as the DeWALT but is a contender for the budget model.
Twin Pistons
Two pistons are better than one. They make the compressor more efficient and increase the power to energy ratio, saving you money in the long run.
Keep In Mind
Build Quality Issues
This compressor may suffer from lower grade components. Many buyers have complained that the switches fail, and the weld quality is not as high as some premium brands.
Additional Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 228 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 31 x 27 x 68 |
| Max PSI | 155 |
| CFM | 11.5 at 90 PSI |
| Oil/Oil-free | Oil |
| Horsepower | 3.7 |
| Price | $$ |
| Warranty | 2-year |
| Product | Best | Weight | Dimensions | Max PSI | CFM | Oil/Oil-free | Hp | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quincy Reciprocating Compressor | 5 Hp | 475 lbs | 29 x 21 x 64″ | 175 | 15.2 at 175 PSI | Oil | 5 | 1-year |
| California Air Tools Ultra-Quiet | Quiet | 213 lbs | 21 x 29 x 66″ | 125 | 10.6 at 90 PSI | Oil-free | 2 | 1-year limited |
| Puma Industries Air Compressor | Home Garage | 305 lbs | 66 x 29 x 21″ | 135 | 12 at 90 PSI | Oil | 3 | 1-year |
| Ingersoll Rand SS5 Air Compressor | Single Stage | 310 lbs | 24 x 30 x 73″ | 135 | 18.1 at 90 PSI | Oil | 5 | 1-year |
| DeWALT Air Compressor | Budget Pick | 247 lbs | 30 x 24 x 68″ | 155 | 11.5 at 90 PSI | Oil | 3.7 | 2-year pump, 1-year parts |
| Campbell Hausfeld Compressor | Double-Stage | 255 lbs | 71.75 x 31.75 x 28.25″ | 175 | 7.6 at 90 PSI | Oil | 3.7 | 3-year |
| Industrial Air Air Compressor | Lightweight | 228 lbs | 31 x 27 x 68″ | 155 | 11.5 at 90 PSI | Oil | 3.7 | 2-year |
How to Use a 60-Gallon Air Compressor
Always connect the air compressor hose before switching on the air compressor, because voltage drop is an issue with high-current air compressors. Plus, always check the oil levels if you have an oil-lubricated model. The last thing you want to do is cause damage through a lack of maintenance.
Switch on the compressor and wait until the tank fills with air and pressurizes. It will automatically stop filling when it reaches the maximum level. Now you can attach your air tool and start your project.
As the tank empties, when it needs to recharge, the compressor will automatically repeat the cycle.
How to Install a 60-Gallon Air Compressor
Decide where the compressor is going relative to your project. This allows you to measure the length of your hose to make sure it will reach. Set the compressor on isolating pads to increase the stability of the machine and minimize noise and vibrations levels.
If you need to use an extension, use a hose extension rather than a power cord extension as the cord will cause a loss of power and affect how the compressor behaves. Consult your manual to see what the manufacturer has to say about suitable extension cords.
60-Gallon Air Compressor FAQs
Which Size Wire Is Suitable for a 60-gallon Compressor?
Most models will take a 10 caliber wire. However, some recommend a 12 caliber even though they run on the same 230-volt electrical system.
Can a 60-Gallon Compressor Be Used Outdoors?
Be mindful that your air compressor is susceptible to extreme cold conditions and rain. Exposing it to the elements can cause irreparable damage even though it drastically reduces the volume levels inside.
Sunlight is another factor that affects the performance of the compressor. If it overheats in direct sunlight, it could be catastrophic for the machine and you. The best advice is that if you are going to install your air compressor outside, make sure you cover it to keep it away from snow, rain, and sunlight, and you insulate it from extreme temperature swings.
Oh, and be prepared to increase your maintenance schedule to keep it in good working order.
How To Move a 60-Gallon Air Compressor?
The technique depends on whether the compressor has been used or not. If there is oil in the motor, try not to tilt the compressor too far down as this causes the oil to leak out and increases the amount of maintenance it needs. If you have a brand new, unused compressor, you can lay it down flat without concern.
Make sure you allow the weight to rest evenly and never try and lift it by yourself for fear of causing back strain.
Size Matters
When you are shopping for an air compressor, consider the size of the tank. 60 gallons enables you to work for longer and on bigger and more demanding projects. It also increases the pressure load and airflow to give you added power.
Just decide where you want to put the compressor before buying it because these tools are not portable in the slightest.
