The 10 best air compressors to buy in the UK
Buying the best air compressor available is a great investment for DIY and car enthusiasts, providing a versatile tool with many applications around the home. Yet, it’s important to choose the right type of air compressor for your needs, otherwise, you may end up with an unsuitable product.
Check out this handy buying guide for all the info that you need to know to find the best air compressors:
What are air compressors?
An air compressor is a device used to create and store compressed air. It consists of a motor or engine that creates the compressed air and large storage tank where the air is held until needed. An air compressor can compress air to various pressures, which can then be used on air-powered tools and paint spray guns or to inflate tires.
Why should you buy a good air compressor?
A good air compressor is a handy device for anyone that loves tinkering with their car, doing DIY projects around the home, or a bit of both! The device will quickly create compressed air at the desired pressure levels, which can be then be used for all kinds of things.
The most notable use is with pneumatic tools. Known as air tools, these are devices that use high-pressure air to operate, providing them with even more power than your standard corded or cordless tools. Other uses for compressed air include vehicle maintenance, operating spray guns, and general cleaning in a workshop.
How to choose the right air compressor in 2024?
Here are some things to look out for in a great air compressor:
- CFM: Cubic feet per minute (CMF) is the measurement of air that the compressor can deliver. Every tool has a CMF requirement, so make sure that the air compressor you choose is compatible with the tools you intend to use. For instance, 6 CFM at 90 PSI is used for most pneumatic tools and spray guns, although certain tools will need more. A good rule of thumb to follow is the more CFM the air compressor offers the more powerful tools you can use.
- PSI: Pounds per square inch (PSI) is a measurement of the amount of compressed air the tank holds, so the higher this number is the more air can be stored in the compressor. You’ll want a large tank capacity if using tools for prolonged periods, otherwise, you’ll be constantly stopping and starting to refill the tank.
- Portability: Even the best air compressor might be quite heavy, so be mindful of how portable the device is, especially if you plan on using it around the home. For example, if you are using spray guns to redecorate, then you’ll want an air compressor with wheels for portability, as dragging a heavy compressor around is never fun.
What is the best kind of air compressor in the UK?
There are two main types of air compressors available to buy:
- Single-Stage Air Compressors: This is the best-selling type of air compressor, featuring a single piston that moves up and down to compress air. Great for most home applications, it can store a maximum of around 150psi.
- Two-Stage Air Compressors: This type of air compressor features two pistons rather than one, allowing it to store more compressed air than a single-stage type, usually around 200psi. This means you can use tools for longer, although it will cost more.
Top 10 list of air compressors in the UK (2024)
The bestseller list compares brands and their air compressors. Which air compressor is the best?
- Includes automatic cut out switch, safety valve and pressure regulator and it's…
- Pressure regulator with twin pressure gauges and twin quick release ‘Euro’…
- 24 litre tank capacity provides an air displacement of 5.2CFM/ 150 litres per minute…
- Versatile – Designed with a quick euro coupling outlet allowing for quick and…
- Precise - Equipped with a pressure switch and air outlet gauge for precise control…
- Powerful – With a 12KW motor operating at 4000rpm to produce a remarkable 185l/min…
- Covered by Hyundai 2 year warranty & Full spares available to maintain your air…
- 2x Hyundai 750w (1500w combined) / 230v direct drive electric motor with UK 3-pin…
- Low noise air compressor. Includes automatic cut out switch, safety valve and pressure…
- The solid tank comes with a 10-year guarantee against rusting through
- A vibration-absorbing foot prevents mechanical shocks and reduces noise generation.…
- For the best possible user safety there is a non-return valve and a safety valve.…
- Covered by Hyundai 2 Year Warranty Including Full UK Spares Available for years to…
- HY5508 is fitted with Euro (Q/R) quick release Air Connections, standard 13A 3 Pin…
- Powered by a 550W, 230V Direct Drive Electric Motor provides 4 CFM of Air Displacement…
- For safety for all applications there is a non-return and safety valve. The drain…
- The compressor has a pressure gauge and a quick-release coupling. A secure standing…
- The operating pressure of max. 8 bar can be regulated by a pressure reducer, so a…
- Large and robust 50 litre pressure tank for sufficient air.
- Vibration damping rubber wheels and 2 rubber feet for low noise and maximum mobi…
- Maximum safety through pressure switch, check and safety valve and convenient maintenance…
- Invest in the best: Hyundai is a brand you can trust, For your peace of mind, this…
- Multi-use: This electric air compressor is ideal for DIY and commercial use for spray-painting,…
- Superior design: The twin-cylinder, slow-running pump with cast iron cylinders promotes…
- Not compatible with G-Series batteries
- Maximum air pressure 830 kPa
- Suitable for inflating cycle and vehicle tyres, sports balls and inflatable leisure…
- PLEASE NOTE FOR SHIPPING PURPOSES MACHINE IS SHIPPED WITH MINIMUM OIL IN THE MACHINE…
- Two ¼” quick coupling air outlet allows two airlines/tools to be connected…
- The compressor turns out 8 bars of pressure 115 psi, Power - 2 HP, Air displacement…
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