The construction work is done on a contract basis. So when you fulfill the contract for one of your construction work then you take the second contract. But the most important thing is that every construction work is done at other locations.
Construction is a process where you have light to heavy-duty operations, that’s why you need a compressor that you can easily carry with you and that compressor is powerful enough to do all the construction work for you.
So here we have chosen the best portable light to heavy-duty air compressors for construction and also provides in-depth reviews with their advantages and disadvantages which will give you a perfect idea about that specific product. So that you can choose one of them according to your requirements.
But if you are a beginner and not familiar with the technical terms of air compressors, we have also provided a complete buying guide where we have described all compressor terms. so that you can make better decisions.
So without any further delay let’s get straight into it.
Table of Contents
List of Top Portable Compressor for Construction
If you are in a hurry or you do have not enough time to read the complete reviews then here we have prepared the list of all our top selected air compressors with their CFM ratings and tank sizes. So that you can choose a perfect compressor in no time.
| Image | Name | Tank Size | PSI Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP Big Bore Air Compressor | 4.2 Gallon | 4.2 CFM at 90 PSI, 4.8 CFM at 40 PSI | Check Latest Price | |
| California Air Tools 10020C Oil-Free Air Compressor | 10 Gallon | 6.40 CFM at 40 PSI & 5.30 CFM at 90 PSI | Check Latest Price | |
| Makita MAC5200 3.0 HP Big Bore Air Compressor | 5.2 Gallon | 6.9 CFM at 40 PSI & 6.5 CFM at 90 PSI | Check Latest Price | |
| NorthStar Single-Stage Portable Electric Air Compressor | 20 Gallon | 6.0 CFM at 40 PSI & 5.0 CFM at 90 PSI | Check Latest Price | |
| DEWALT DXCMLA1983054 30-Gallon Portable Air Compressor | 30 Gallon | 7.0 CFM at 40 PSI & 5.7 CFM at 90 PSI | Check Latest Price | |
| Ingersoll-Rand SS3J5.5GH-WB Oiled Gas Twin Pontoon Compressor | 8 Gallon | 11.5 CFM at 90 PSI | Check Latest Price |
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Buying Guide to choose the Best Powerful Compressor for Construction
If you are facing any problem choosing the best air compressor or if you are a beginner and do not know technical terms then here we have provided the complete guide where we have discussed all technical terms about the compressor which will solve all of your problems.
PSI and CFM
PSI stands for Pounds per Square Inch. It’s the air pressure. It is basically the amount of force that an air compressor can deliver. Most light-duty air tools require 40 to 100 PSI of air pressure, but heavy-duty air tools also require much higher PSI.
CFM stands for Cubic Feet per Minute it is basically the amount of air that the compressor can produce at a given pressure level. So if your compressor can deliver a good amount of air at a certain pressure then it can easily run heavy-duty air tools.
Tank Size
An air compressor tank is used to collect the compressed air so if your compressor has a large tank then it can store more and as a result, it can last of long. And it won’t run out of air quickly. So if you have a continuous operation then always try to choose a compressor with a large tank capacity.
Horsepower(HP)
A horsepower is basically a unit of Power. So it indicates the power of the pump/motor. So if your compressor has a powerful pump then it can compress the air more quickly so that it takes less time to fill the air tank.
Oil-Free Pump or Oil-Lubricated Pump
Oil-Free Pump is a pre-lubricated pump so you do not have to check the oil level on daily basis and required less maintenance. But their efficiency is also lower as comper to oil-lubricated pumps.
An Oil Lubricated Pump requires lubricating oil and it needs to maintain the oil level properly. So it required more maintenance but they are much efficient than an oil-free pump.
Electric Compressor vs Gas Compressor
The only difference between electric and gas compressors is, Electricity is used to run the electric compressor but gas is used in the gas compressor.
Portable
If you are looking for an air compressor for construction purposes then you should look for portable compressors. so that you can take your compressor to your job site.
Should be Durable
Construction is the kind of task where things are more likely to break or spoil. So you need to ensure that your compressor has some kind of protection or build with durable material like cast iron.
Warranty
The compressor is an expensive device and you don’t want your compressor to wear out quickly and your compressor needs to be replaced. So always ensure that your selected compressor has a warranty so that you can get free service within the warranty period.
Read More: Makita Mac5200 vs Makita Mac2400
Portable Air Compressor for Construction Reviews
Here we have provided in-depth reviews of all our selected compressors with their pros and cons. And also compare them with other compressors so that you can a better idea about them and choose the perfect one for yourself.
1. Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP Big Bore Air Compressor
When we are talking about high durable and powerful air compressors then Makita is one of the top brands available in the market. And this is one of the best-selling Makita portable compressors. So let’s see all of its functions.
Key Specifications
- Horsepower(HP):- 2.5HP.
- CFM Rating:- 4.2 CFM at 90 PSI, 4.8 CFM at 40 PSI.
- RPM:- 1730
- Maximum PSI:- 130 PSI.
- Tank Size:- 4.2 Gallon.
- Pump Type:- Oil-Lubricated Pump.
- Noise Level:- 79 dB.
- Warranty:- 1 Year of Complete Warranty & 30 Days of replacement policy.
This air compressor comes with an oil-lubricated 4 pole motor with a capacity of 2 HP. And this oil-lubricated motor makes it more efficient but it required a frequent check-up of lubricating oil.
This motor maintains a very low rotation speed of 1730 RPM which helps to lower the noise level and maintain and reduce the chances of wear.
Because of this powerful motor, this Makita compressor can deliver 4.2 CFM at 90 PSI, 4.8 CFM at 40 PSI that making it perfect for low to medium-duty operations and increasing its productivity.
This compressor has twin air cylinders every 2.1 gallons that can withstand the maximum operating pressure of 130 PSI. And the two air outputs are present so you can operate 2 air tools at a time.
Here the whole compressor is protected with roll cage construction which provides complete protection and can sustain even in the toughest conditions.
Copper finned discharges tubing is also present in this air compressor which helps to dissipate the maximum amount of heat and reduces the water accumulation inside the tank.
This Makita air compressor also comes with 30 days policy and 1 year of complete warranty on the product. So if you face any problem within 30 days of purchase then you can replace it or get a full refund.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- A twin tank is available.
- Warranty is available.
- Operating pressure is high.
- Highly durable and long-lasting.
- Protection is available.
- Good heat dissipation technology is available.
- Produce less noise.
- Portable compressor.
Cons
- Tank size is a bit lesser.
Why should you buy this?
So if you want a highly durable compressor for light to medium-duty operations then this Makita air compressor is the best option available in the market and you should choose this one.
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2. California Air Tools 10020C Oil-Free Air Compressor
This is also one of the best-selling air compressors from California Air Tools which is also equipped with all the advanced functions with a powerful pump. So let’s see all of its features in detail with their pros and cons.
Key Specifications
- Horsepower(HP):- 2 HP.
- CFM Rating:- 6.40 CFM at 40 PSI & 5.30 CFM at 90 PSI.
- Pump RPM:- 1680.
- Maximum PSI:- 125 PSI.
- Tank Size:- 10 Gallon.
- Pump Type:- Oil-Free Pump.
- Noise Level:- 70 dB.
- Warranty:- 1 Year of Complete Warranty on Product.
This air compressor comes with a 2 HP of super-powerful pump which operates at 1680 RPM which is responsible to create only 70 dB of noise and less wear.
Because this is an oil-free pump so it requires less maintains. Because they are pre-lubricated and do not require lubricating oil like an oil-lubricated pump.
This compressor is equipped with a large tank with 10 gallons of capacity which can withstand the operating pressure of 125 PSI. So that you can use the compressed air continuously for a long time to get optimum performance.
It can deliver 6.40 CFM at 40 PSI & 5.30 CFM at 90 PSI. So it has a higher CFM rating. So you can operate medium to heavy-duty air tools with these air compressors.
This compressor is also equipped with two pressure gauges and a regulator to maintain the correct pressure. And two air output valve is also present so that you can operate two air tools at a time.
A thermal overload protector is also present which helps to dissipate the maximum amount of heat and also prevents water accumulation on the tank.
The Air tank is also equipped with wheels which makes it portable enough to carry wherever you want.
This also comes with 1 year of complete warranty on the product which makes it more trustworthy.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High CFM rating.
- Warranty is available.
- An overheat protector is available.
- Low noise level.
- Easily to use.
- Durable and long-lasting.
- Portable.
Cons
- No such cons.
Why should you buy this?
So if a 10-gallon capacity is enough for you then this is the best portable air compressor for construction. Because it is equipped with all the required features with great customer response.
3. Makita MAC5200 3.0 HP Big Bore Air Compressor
This Makita air compressor is also very popular and also a very powerful one so let’s discuss all of its functions with its advantages and disadvantages.
Key Specifications
- Horsepower(HP):- 3.0 HP.
- CFM Rating:- 6.9 CFM at 40 PSI & 6.5 CFM at 90 PSI.
- Maximum PSI:- 140 PSI.
- Tank Size:- 5.2 Gallon.
- Pump Type:- Oil-Lubricated Pump.
- Noise Level:- Higher.
- Warranty:- 1 Year of Complete Warranty on Product and 30 Days Replacement policy is also available.
This air compressor comes with a super powerful Big Bore engineered 3.0 HP of an oil-lubricated pump. And because this oil-lubricated design makes it more efficient and capable enough to do intense tasks.
It is also equipped with a cast-iron cylinder with a capacity of 5.2 gallons and it can withstand the operating pressure of 140 PSI. So the capacity is quite large and the cast iron build increases its durability and provides longer life.
Because of the powerful pump, it can deliver 6.9 CFM at 40 PSI & 6.5 CFM at 90 PSI which is literally more than enough to do all types of medium to heavy-duty operations.
This compressor is also equipped with dual pressure gauges and a regulator to maintain the right amount of pressure. And dual air output valve is also present here so that you can use two air tools at a time.
Copper finned discharge tubings are present here to increase the flow of heat from inside to outside to avoid overheating and also reduce the water accumulation on the tank.
This also comes with rugged wheels and a foldable handle, which makes this compressor portable enough so that you can carry this from one place to another without any harassment.
This air compressor also comes with 30 days of refund policy with one year of the complete warranty. Which makes it more trustworthy.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- 30 days Replacement policy is available.
- Super powerful motor.
- High CFM rating.
- Portable.
- Durable and long-lasting.
- Overheating protection.
Cons
- Little noisy.
Why should you buy this?
So if you want a highly durable compressor with a high CFM rating for your construction tasks then this Makita air compressor is the perfect option available in the market. And you should choose this one.
4. NorthStar Single-Stage Portable Electric Air Compressor
Northstar is also a good brand for highly powerful compressors. And this compressor also comes with all the powerful functions which make it perfect for construction works. So let’s see all of its features in detail.
Key Specifications
- Horsepower(HP):- 2.0 HP.
- CFM Rating:- 6.0 CFM at 40 PSI & 5.0 CFM at 90 PSI.
- Maximum PSI:- 135 PSI.
- Pump RPM:- 3440.
- Tank Size:- 20 Gallon.
- Pump Type:- Oil-Lubricated Pump.
- Noise Level:- 80 dB.
This heavy-duty air compressor comes with a cast iron V-twin 2HP of a powerful pump. And this cast iron V shape design helps to dissipate the maximum amount of heat to avoid overheating.
And because this pump is an oil-lubricated belt drive pump so it runs quickly and makes it more efficient than an oil-free pump but it requires more maintenance.
This air compressor has a huge air tank with a capacity of 20 gallons which is certified by ASME. That is why the build is tough enough to use this for construction purposes.
This air compressor can deliver 6.0 CFM at 40 PSI & 5.0 CFM at 90 PSI which is a really good CFM rating to complete all the medium to heavy-duty operations like operating an air ratchet, impact wrench, siphon feed sandblaster, nibbler, nailer, airbrush, etc.
This Northstar compressor is equipped with smooth-rolling steel ball-bearing wheels which makes it portable. So you can easily move this compressor from one place to another.
The pump of this compressor is so powerful but it produces only 80 dB of noise because of its V shape design.
Copper-finned inner tubings are also present to keep the compressor cool and maintain its temperature and moisture level to prevent water accumulation on the tank.
It is also equipped with a pressure gauge and a regulator to maintain its pressure levels for easy to use operation.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Super powerful and durable.
- Large tank.
- A V-shaped pump is used.
- Low noise level.
- Portable compressor.
- High CFM ratings.
Cons
- Expensive.
Why should you buy this?
So if you want a powerful compressor with a large air tank that creates low noise levels then this Northstar compressor is the perfect option available for medium to heavy-duty constructions works.
5. DEWALT DXCMLA1983054 30-Gallon Portable Air Compressor
Dewalt is also one of the top brands available in the market and this air compressor is equipped with all the powerful functions with a huge tank which makes it perfect for construction works. So let’s discuss in detail its functions.
Key Specifications
- Horsepower(HP):- 1.9 HP.
- CFM Rating:- 7.0 CFM at 40 PSI & 5.7 CFM at 90 PSI.
- Maximum PSI:- 155 PSI.
- Tank Size:- 30 Gallon.
- Pump Type:- Oil-Lubricated Pump.
- Noise Level:- Higher.
- Warranty:- 1 Year on the product & 2 Years on the pump.
This air compressor also comes with a powerful cast iron, twin-cylinder oil-lubricated 1.9 HP pump. Which enhances its efficiency and the aluminum head and the valve plates help to dissipate the heats much faster.
The best thing is that the pump supports dual voltage so you can use this compressor on both 120V as well as 240 V for a trouble-free experience.
The compressor is also equipped with a huge tank with a capacity of 30 gallons. Due to the large tank, it is very easily capable of continuous operation for a long time.
Because of this twin-cylinder pump, this air compressor can deliver 7.0 CFM at 40 PSI & 5.7 CFM at 90 PSI can be a good operation for all types of continuous duty operations.
This compressor is equipped with dual pressure gauges with a regulator which helps to maintain the right pressure. So that you can do all types of precise operations.
This compressor is also equipped with pneumatic wheels for maximum portability. So you can easily move this huge compressor from one place to another.
This also comes with 2 years of warranty on the pump and also comes with 1 year of warranty is the product. So you get free service within this warranty range.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Separate warranty available on the pump.
- High CFM rating.
- Huge tank size.
- Dual voltage pump.
- Portable.
- Durable and long-lasting.
Cons
- Noisy.
Why should you buy this?
So if you want a powerful compressor portable air compressor for construction with a huge tank capacity then this is the best option available in the market.
6. Ingersoll-Rand SS3J5.5GH-WB Oiled Gas Twin Pontoon Compressor
This is the super powerful gas portable compressor which is equipped with all the features. So let’s see all the features in detail with their pros and cons.
Key Specifications
- Horsepower(HP):- 5.5 HP.
- CFM Rating:- 11.5 CFM at 90 PSI.
- Maximum Pressure:- 175 PSI.
- Tank Size:- 8 Gallon.
- Pump Type:- Honda Gas-Powered Engine.
- Noise Level:- Higher.
- Warranty:- 1 Year on the product.
This air compressor is equipped with a super powerful Honda gas-powered engine with an HP rating of 5.5. Which makes it vigorous and it can capable to perform all types of tasks in one go.
This gas compressor can be operated with the maximum pressure of 135 PSI and it has two cylinders of each 4 gallons. And these two air tanks are placed in such a way that they can provide maximum versatility.
The cast-iron frame enhances its durability and makes it perfect to survive in such toughest conditions. And a great choice for contractors on construction sites as well as for industrious.
Because of the powerful engine, this gas compressor can deliver 11.5 CFM at 90 PSI. Which makes it powerful enough to provide 100% continuous duty operations.
It consists of a pneumatic wheel mounted between the tanks and the handle for easy movement of the compressor. So that you can take it with you anywhere.
This compressor also comes with 1 year of complete warranty on the product. So if you face any problem within one year of purchase then you get free service from Ingersoll-Rand.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High CFM and PSI ratings.
- Good for continuous duty operations.
- Highly durable and long-lasting.
- Portable.
- Highly durable and long-lasting.
- Easy to use operation.
- Powerful motor.
Cons
- Noisy and Expensive.
Why should you buy this?
So if you want a super-powerful gas compressor for construction with high CFM and PSI ratings then this is the perfect option available in the market.
FAQs for Top Compressor for Construction
1. Which is the best small air compressor for construction?
If you want a small air compressor for any construction tasks then this Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP Big Bore Air Compressor is the perfect option available on the market which comes with a powerful motor.
2. Which is the best gas air compressor for construction?
Generally, gas compressors are very powerful and expensive too and they are a very good option available for heavy-duty tasks. So if you have a high budget and have a good gas air compressor then Ingersoll-Rand SS3J5.5GH-WB Compressor is the perfect option available.
3. How many CFM do I need for air tools?
Most of the light to medium-duty air tools are made for general purposes then they required 1 to 5 CFM at 40 to 90 PSI of air pressure. But even 6 to 20 CFM may be required to run heavy-duty wind instruments.
Conclusion: Best Compressor for Construction
In This article, we have included everything so that you will select the best portable air compressor for construction so that you can choose according to your requirements.
So Which portable air compressor can fulfill your requirements? Let me know in the comment box.
Still, if you are facing a problem with finding the best compressor for construction then you can also choose our top picks:-
For Light Duty Compressor:- Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP Big Bore Air Compressor
For Medium to Heavy Duty:- DEWALT DXCMLA1983054 30-Gallon Portable Air Compressor
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