When you need to power air tools, air compressors are vital. No home garage or workshop should be without one. But not everyone needs a large air compressor. Say hello to pancake air compressors.
The best pancake air compressors are small, lightweight, and perfect for home and commercial use.
- Includes 3 nail guns
- Has a 6-gallon tank
- Strong air pressure
- Rust resistant
- Safety glasses included
- Oil-free pump
- Cold start motor
- Fast tank recovery time
- Added motor protection
- Quiet 78.5 dB operation
- Maximum PSI of 150
- Great value for money
- Cold start feature
- 165 pressure rating
- Has a high-flow regulator
- Quiet 68 dB operation
- Low maintenanance
- Durable construction
- Compact & portable
- Includes accessory set
- 1-gallon tak
Product Reviews
Here are the top seven pancake air compressors on the market.
Bostitch Air Compressor Combo Kit
Best Pancake Compressor for Framing Nailer
If you need to finish fitting frames and skirting, this Bostitch air compressor is an ideal choice. It comes with a brad nailer for lighter duties, a crown stapler for upholstery and insulation, and a framing nailer for the tougher tasks.
The compressor has a 6-gallon tank, so you should have an ample supply of compressed air, and it generates 2.65 SCFM at 90 PSI. The maximum pressure allowance is 150 PSI, so it has all your nailing needs covered.
It has an oil-free pump for ease of maintenance and a high-flow regulator to maximize your air tool’s performance.
What We Like
Includes 3 Nail Guns
This is a nailer’s dream set. It has a brad nailer, a heavy-duty crown stapler, and a finish nailer to cover every aspect of your projects. Use the brad nailer for lighter tasks, the stapler for upholstery and foam insulation, and the finish nailer for skirting and door frames.
Excellent Value
If you add up the cost of buying 3 separate nail guns and the hoses, plus the compressor, it would be way more than the price-tag for this combo kit.
Strong Air Pressure
You need a strong pressure level to power nail guns, so having 150 PSI at your disposal makes all the difference to your work rate and it improves efficiency.
What We Don't Like
Not High Quality
To produce such a comprehensive nailer kit at this price means that some of the quality has been forfeited. Cheaper components and parts hamper the reliability of the set.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 41.8 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 21.13 x 19.5 x 18 |
| Max PSI | 150 |
| SCFM | 2.65 at 90 PSI |
| Capacity (gallons) | 6 |
| Accessories | 3 guns and air hoses |
| Oil/Oil-free | Oil-free |
| Price | $$ |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
Our Ratings
Metabo HPT Air Compressor Combo Kit
Best Pancake Compressor Combo Kit
This Metabo combo kit comes with an 18-gauge brad nailer gun for all the delicate projects inside your home. This compressor creates a maximum of 150 PSI, as well as an CFM of 2.8. The pump is oil-free, has a 6-gallon capacity, and also includes safety glasses.
The kit also includes a spiral hose that withstands extremely cold temperatures. Plus, the gun has a tool-less, easy to clear nose.
What We Like
Rust Resistant
If awards were given for rust-resistance, this Metabo would be at the front of the line. The nails have undergone electrogalvanization thereby coating it with a layer of zinc. It ensures peace of mind and instills confidence.
Safety Glasses Included
This kit comes with everything you need to start brad nailing, and that includes the safety glasses. It also comes with an air compressor hose.
Oil-Free Pump
Oil-free pumps are better for the environment because you have zero waste product to dispose of. It also reduces the running costs of the compressor, thanks to no oil and reduced maintenance.
What We Don't Like
Loud
Majority of users complained about how noisy this machine gets when in full operation. Others say that the noise is tolerable but some say otherwise. I guess this one is subjective.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 36.5 |
| Dimensions (inches) | Not specified |
| Max PSI | 150 |
| CFM | 2.8 at 90 PSI |
| Capacity (gallons) | 6 |
| Accessories | 1 brad nailer, air hose, safety glasses and brad nails |
| Oil/Oil-free | Oil-free |
| Price | $$$ |
| Warranty | Not specified |
Our Ratings
Porter-Cable 6-Gallon Air Compressor
Best 6-Gallon Pancake Compressor
The best all-rounder is the Porter-Cable pancake compressor. It has a high satisfaction rate, sells in the thousands and is affordable. It has a maximum PSI rating of 150 and generates 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI.
The tank’s recovery time is rapid, it has rubber feet for added stability, and the induction motor provides a long and efficient lifespan. This model benefits from an oil-free pump, and it only weighs just over 31 pounds, so it is also portable.
The motor starts easily on cold days, and thanks to its low amperage, it works with the supplied extension cord.
What We Like
Cold Start Motor
A cold start motor ensures that even on the coldest days, this compressor starts without a struggle. And because it’s a low amperage engine, it won’t stall even when you attach it to the supplied extension cord.
Lightweight and Portable
This Porter-Cable compressor weighs just over 30 pounds, making it one of the lightest models to make the review. Weight is crucial when you want your compressor to be portable.
Added Motor Protection
The engine is protected by a large shroud, handle and console cover to increase the motor’s lifespan. It also improves the portability and provides a home for the cord.
What We Don't Like
No Accessories
Unlike many pancake compressors featured, this model doesn’t have any accessories. While this isn’t a fault with the actual compressor, it does mean you need to buy the extra kit at an added cost.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 31.2 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 19 x 19 x 18 |
| Max PSI | 150 |
| SCFM | 2.6 at 90 PSI |
| Capacity (gallons) | 6 |
| Accessories | N/A |
| Oil/Oil-free | Oil-free |
| Price | $$ |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
Our Ratings
Bostitch Oil-Free Pancake Air Compressor
Best Cheap Pancake Compressor
This Bostitch compressor is such great value for money and would make the ideal starter compressor for a home hobbyist. It has a 6-gallon tank, a maximum PSI of 150, and an SCFM of 2.6 at 90 PSI.
It has the same high-flow regulator that the combo kit has, and it creates 78.5 decibels, making it a touch quieter than some to make the list. It also has the same long-life and oil-free pump to ensure reduced maintenance.
Because it’s a Bostitch, it has the same cold start motor with the low amperage feature that enables you to use an extension cord, provided it is a 14-gauge with a length no longer than 50 ft.
What We Like
Amazing Value for Money
This compressor offers everything that the Porter-Cable model does, but it costs less. If you are looking for a budget option, this is ideal, especially as your first compressor.
Oil-Free Pump
For a budget model, getting an oil-free pump is really special. It reduces the running costs, increases efficiency, and preserves the life of the pump and motor. It also benefits the environment.
Low Decibels
Everybody should work in a comfortable environment, so choosing a compressor with a running volume of 78.5 dB should improve your experience and reduce the punishment on your ears.
What We Don't Like
Even though the makers claim it runs at 78.5 decibels, it is deafening when it initially starts up. Once the tank fills, the volume decreases slightly.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 31 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 17 x 17 x 19.25 |
| Max PSI | 150 |
| SCFM | 2.6 at 90 PSI |
| Capacity (gallons) | 6 |
| Accessories | N/A |
| Oil/Oil-free | Oil-free |
| Price | $ |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
Our Ratings
DeWALT DWFP55126 Pancake Air Compressor
Best Heavy-Duty Pancake Compressor
If you are looking for the highest air pressure you can get in a pancake compressor, look no further than the DeWALT. It can sustain a massive 165 PSI, and it also generates 2.6 SCFM, so the tank will last a decent amount of time between recharges.
It is also a quiet compressor, running at 75.5 decibels, with only the Campbell Hausfeld beating it for sound levels. Like the Bostitch, it has a high-flow regulator to increase the control over your air tools, and a cold start feature, as well as compatibility with a 50 ft, 14-gauge extension cord.
What We Like
High Pressure
Most 6-gallon pancake compressors have a maximum PSI of 150, but this DeWALT takes it a step further with a pressure rating of 165. This improves the efficiency of the compressor and gives you greater scope to tackle different projects.
Trust Brand
DeWALT is a name loved the world over. They are a brand steeped in American history and famed for quality and reliability. Go to any construction site across the globe and you will find DeWALT tools.
Low Noise
Okay, so it isn’t the quietest air compressor to make the list, but it is still a low volume device. At 75.5 decibels, it is a lot less noisy than most of the other compressors to make the list.
What We Don't Like
Pricey
DeWALT products are not budget options. This pancake air compressor will set you back quite a bit.
No Accessories
Given the cost of this compressor, you would think DeWALT would throw in some accessories, but all you get for your dollars is the compressor. The rest is an added expense.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 30 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 17.2 x 16.6 x 20.1 |
| Max PSI | 165 |
| SCFM | 2.6 at 90 PSI |
| Capacity (gallons) | 6 |
| Accessories | N/A |
| Oil/Oil-free | Oil-free |
| Price | $$$ |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
Our Ratings
Campbell Hausfeld Portable Quiet Air Compressor
Best Quiet Pancake Compressor
If you like the quiet life, try this Campbell Hausfeld pancake compressor. The maker claims it is 50 percent quieter than the competition. With a decibel rating of 68, it is significantly less noisy.
It has a maximum pressure rating of 125 PSI, and it creates an airflow of 2.4 CFM at 90 PSI. Interestingly, Campbell Hausfeld has chosen CFM as a rating rather than SCFM, so while the numbers may be lower, it might be that this compressor has a more impressive airflow.
Like most pancake compressors, this boasts an oil-free pump, which increases the motor’s lifespan and decreases the impact on the environment. It also requires less maintenance.
What We Like
Super-Quiet
This air compressor is 50 percent quieter than the competition. When you spend all day working with air tools, that can make a significant difference to your working environment.
CFM and Not SCFM
Most of the compressors featured are measured in SCFM, which assumes perfect working conditions for the compressor, but this model is rated in CFM. CFM is a more realistic gauge of everyday conditions the compressor will operate in, making it more accurate.
Durable Construction
Campbell Hausfeld claims that this compressor will last up to 4 times longer than other similar models, thanks to the quality of their components. The initial outlay might make good sense because you save on replacement costs in the future.
What We Don't Like
Quite Expensive
This compressor is twice the price of the Bostitch model, so it might not be affordable for everyone. And it doesn’t even come with any accessories.
Weighs 62 Pounds
This pancake compressor weighs 62 pounds! That’s twice the weight of the DeWALT. If you want a portable compressor, this will wear you down every time you lift it.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 62 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 16 x 23 x 16 |
| Max PSI | 125 |
| SCFM | 2.4 at 90 PSI |
| Capacity (gallons) | 6 |
| Accessories | N/A |
| Oil/Oil-free | Oil-free |
| Price | $$$ |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
Our Ratings
PowerMateVx 1-Gallon portable Air Compressor
Best Portable Pancake Compressor
Portability usually means lightweight and maneuverable, so say hello to this 1-gallon pancake compressor that weighs just 12 pounds. It doesn’t have the same capacity as the competition, but it is compact and easy to carry.
It has an oil-free, easy maintenance pump, and comes with an accessory set that includes inflation tips and a 25 ft hose, and has a maximum PSI of 100. It is the ideal, small project compressor. And it even stows in the car trunk in case of emergencies.
It will easily inflate car tires and small trucks with a tire PSI rating up to 90. The downside is you are limited to the types of work you can undertake with this compressor.
What We Like
Lightweight and Portable
You cannot deny that this compressor wins hands down for weight and portability. It stores away easily and fits in car trunks for emergency flat tires.
Accessory Set
It comes with replacement inflation tips so you can swap and change the things it inflates, and it even comes with a 25 ft hose, saving you further expense later on.
Great Price
This is the cheapest compressor to feature, and it is incredible value for money. We didn’t make this the budget option because it has a limited capability, which offsets the savings.
What We Don't Like
Limited Capabilities
This is an air compressor for light users and hobbyists. You won’t find it gracing auto repair centers and workshops.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 12 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 12.8 x 11.8 x 14.3 |
| Max PSI | 100 |
| SCFM | Not stated |
| Capacity (gallons) | 1 |
| Accessories | 25 ft hose, 4 replacement inflation nozzles |
| Oil/Oil-free | Oil-free |
| Price | $ |
| Warranty | Not stated |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Weight | Dimensions | Max PSI | SCFM | Capacity | Oil/Oil-free | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bostitch Air Compressor Combo Kit | Framing Nailer | 42 lbs | 21.13 x 19.5 x 18″ | 150 | 2.65 at 90 PSI | 6 gal | Oil-free | 1-year limited |
| Metabo HPT Air Compressor Combo | Combo Kit | 36.5 lbs | N/A | 150 | 2.8 at 90 PSI | 6 gal | Oil-free | N/A |
| Porter-Cable Air Compressor | 6-Gallon | 31.2 lbs | 19 x 19 x 18″ | 150 | 2.6 at 90 PSI | 6 gal | Oil-free | 1-year limited |
| Bostitch Oil-Free Pancake Compressor | Cheap | 31 lbs | 17 x 17 x 19.25″ | 150 | 2.6 at 90 PSI | 6 gal | Oil-free | 1-year limited |
| DeWALT Pancake Air Compressor | Heavy-Duty | 30 lbs | 17.2 x 16.6 x 20.1″ | 165 | 2.6 at 90 PSI | 6 gal | Oil-free | 1-year limited |
| Campbell Hausfeld Quiet Compressor | Quiet | 62 lbs | 16 x 23 x 16″ | 125 | 2.4 at 90 PSI | 6 gal | Oil-free | 1-year limited |
| PowerMateVx Portable Compressor | Portable | 12 lbs | 12.8 x 11.8 x 14.3″ | 100 | N/A | 1 gal | Oil-free | None |
What Can I Do With a Pancake Air Compressor?
It might be better to ask, “What can’t I do with a pancake air compressor?” They are so versatile that they open up so many options.
Inflatables and Tires
Have you ever tried to inflate a kids swimming pool manually? It takes a lot of energy to do it. A pancake compressor does it in minutes, leaving you free to get on with your day. Plus, beach and pool toys pump up easily too.
Pancake air compressors are also ideal for stowing in the car in case of a flat tire. Most compressors will handle SUV and truck tires, as well as bicycle and motorbike tires.
They also blow up balloons and sports balls, plus air beds.
Auto Repairs
DIY auto repairs are a breeze with a pancake air compressor. Air wrenches, ratchets and other pneumatic tools used in car repairs mean you can tackle basic tasks knowing you have all the power you need in your compressor.
It saves you spending money at the repair shop, and you get the satisfaction and experience of fixing it yourself.
Airbrush Painting
Small pancake compressors make small paint repairs easier. They power spray brushes for precision tasks. And if you are an artist, why not use a pancake compressor to release your creative side.
Blowgun Cleaning
Sometimes you need a blast of compressed air to clear dust and debris away from hard to reach places. Air filters benefit from blowgun cleaning, as does some machinery.
You can even use a blowgun to clear debris and weeds from your driveway or blow away the dirt on the garage floor. The beauty of a blowgun is it is targeted and powerful, directing the air where you need it.
Nail Guns and Other Pneumatic Tools
Pancake compressors power air tools like nail guns, impact wrenches, and ratchets. As long as the airflow is sufficient and the pressure levels exceed the tool’s minimum requirements, you are in business.
Imagine how easy things would be when laying a deck or wooden siding if you had a nail gun. It speeds up the process immeasurably, leaving you free to get on with other tasks when you are done.
Most air tools like nail guns require a minimum of 2 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) and a 6-gallon tank.
How to Choose
With so many variables and choices galore, how do you find the pancake air compressor that’s right for you? Here are some pointers to consider.
Tank Capacity
Most pancake air compressors have a tank capacity of 6 gallons. However, it is possible to buy smaller models. A 6-gallon tank allows you to take on light to medium tasks without the need to stop every minute as the tank recharges. It isn’t going to see you through heavy-duty jobs and long projects, but it should have enough compressed air for 80 percent of your tasks.
Also, 6 gallons is adequate to drive most pneumatic tools, so it could be a useful aid in a repair shop or small commercial shop.
Maximum Pressure
Air pressure is vital if you want to power air tools. PSI, or pounds per square inch, is how your air compressor is rated for air pressure. The higher the PSI, the more pressure it creates and the better the airflow.
How the air gets delivered is crucial, and the pressure the compressor produces means you can increase your versatility and scope of tasks, making you more productive. Most pancake compressors have a maximum PSI of 150.
To ensure the best performance, make sure your air compressor has a PSI greater than your air tool. A 20 percent differential is a good rule of thumb. So, if your impact wrench has an operating pressure of 70 PSI, the minimum you will need from your compressor is 90 PSI.
This is not an issue for modern pancake compressors, especially as most pneumatic devices are rated between 70 and 90 PSI.
How Loud Is It?
Small air compressors tend to be quieter than their beefed-up cousins. However, this is only half the story because, in the main, air compressors are noisy. Most will produce 70 dB, which is the equivalent to the volume of a normal conversation.
Others are louder, turning in 90 dB. This is the same noise level as a car traveling at 60 MPH with all the windows open.
The good news is some compressors get sub-70 dB, which is a much more manageable level.
CFM
The amount of airflow at a standard PSI level of 90 is measured in units of CFM. Cubic feet per minute is the test of how strong the compressor delivers the compressed air. This is fundamental if you want to power air tools and get an efficient outcome.
A higher CFM means the compressor can run for longer between refills, and it also indicates the types of tools you can run. Like PSI, the CFM rating of your air device needs to be compatible.
Portability and Weight
Pancake air compressors are compact in comparison to 20-gallon, 30-gallon, and 60-gallon models. It makes them lighter and easier to maneuver. It also means they are more storable in the home garage or workshop.
Pancake compressors need to be portable because it is a principal reason to buy one. If you didn’t need a go-anywhere compressor, you might as well buy a larger model. And that’s the second key reason why someone would choose a pancake compressor; the size.
It is likely that space is a premium and a pancake compressor fits that space perfectly.
Pancake Air Compressor FAQs
How Long Do Pancake Air Compressors Last?
Air compressors give a remarkably long service life. A good pancake air compressor can last 12 years or more, depending on how well you look after it. Some of the high-end models can last even longer, but you pay a premium for those.
Can a Pancake Air Compressor Inflate Tires?
Pancake air compressors produce about 100 working PSI, which is different from maximum PSI. However, this is more than enough to inflate car tires and possibly even truck and SUV tires.
Is a Pancake or Hot Dog Air Compressor Better?
If you compare them like for like, pancake compressors deliver more for your money. Obviously, some hot dog compressors have a higher capacity air tank, but in the main, pancake compressors are a better shape, lighter, easier to store away, and more user-friendly.
Do Pancake Compressors Need Oil?
For the most part, pancake compressors do not need oil, but some models do. Look for an oil-free model because it usually requires less maintenance, as you don’t have to worry about oil changes.
How Many CFM Is a Pancake Air Compressor?
While this number can vary from one compressor to another, you will most likely find pancake air compressors operating at 2.6 CFM at 90 PSI. This may be enough for many household applications, but it’s not a very powerful output.
If you’re wondering what you can use such a compressor for, know that it tackles jobs such as inflating tires, running stapling or brad nailing guns, and inflating different sports balls.
Can a Pancake Compressor Power a Framing Nailer?
A pancake compressor can power a framing nailer and every other similar tool you might have around your garage. If you’re looking to redecorate your home or revamp an old kitchen cabinet, you can use a pancake compressor for everything from trim to finish nailing.
Can I Leave My Pancake Compressor Pressurized?
Leaving your pancake compressor pressurized won’t damage it on the spot if this is not a frequent occurrence. However, doing it regularly will end up damaging the unit.
Pancake compressors are typically not designed for daily use. That means that you should drain them once you’re done using them.
If you postpone it, chances are you will forget to do it altogether. This will severely damage the tank in time, and you will have to buy a new air compressor.
Where Should I Store My Pancake Compressor?
You should store your air compressor following the same guidelines for storing any other air compressor. If you own a garage or a shed, you can find some proper storage space in one of these areas.
When looking for proper storage:
- Avoid direct sunlight.
- Don’t leave the compressor in a humid area.
- Keep the compressor out of the way.
- Consider elevating the compressor off the floor. Pallets are great for this purpose.
- If you have a cabinet/locker that’s big enough, use it to store the compressor.
Pancake Compressors Are Sweet
Pancake compressors are compact, lightweight, and easy to move around. They are a stalwart of the home garage and the workshop, thanks to their usability. They also benefit from oil-free pumps, which increase their lifespan and reduces running and maintenance costs.
If you are thinking of investing in a small compressor, take a look at the pancake models. It could be a smart purchase.
