Top 10 Best Air Compressor Under 500 – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

Air compressor is the most important tool you can have for your air tools such as nailers, wrenches, and others, and using it as an inflator. With this tool, you can quickly do your work with extreme efficiency. However, you need high-quality air compressors to get the most benefit out of it.

Sometimes, we have a little budget and need to find the best tool under this budget. It is not an easy task because you will not find that many air compressors under your budget. That is why we have come up with this best air compressor under 500 review so that you can easily find the best compressor within that small budget.

What Kind Of Air Compressor Do I Need?

Knowing what kind of air compressor you need for your projects is important. Because without choosing the right tool, it is impossible to get the efficiency and effectiveness you are looking for.

You need to know your needs first because different types of air compressors have different uses. If you need a compressor to inflate the tire, then you may need a relatively small compressor, where for larger projects, you need a large and high power compressor.

If you do not know what size is perfect for you, then you should our guide on what size air compressor do I need for impact wrench and others. Also, you might need high or low power with high or low airflow rate. Consider the portability if you need to carry it and consider the power source as well.

How Did We Make This Article?

Air Compressor is a primary power tool that supports many subsidiary tools that needs airflow to perform its operation. However, all the works related to air compressors are mainstream, so it needs to be the best one. And, that’s what we have tried to do with years of practical experience on power tools. Likewise, to enhance the knowledge, we have also taken other experts’ advice directly and through 100s of articles written online. Then, evaluating the most vital factors from the pile of data, 50 products were selected randomly. Working at least 2 to 3 hours in a day and observing about 400 real user feedback, we came up with these 10 best air compressors under 500.

30 Sec Quick Summary – Best Air Compressor Under 500

• Editor’s Choice: Stealth Ultra Quiet Air Compressor

“With Sturdy looks, portable design, and best performance, this Stealth air compressor becomes the editor’s choice.”

• Best for Roofing Nailer: Makita MAC2400 Big Bore Air Compressor

“If you are a professional roofer and in need of an air compressor for everyday work, then this will be a good one.”

• Best Portable: CALIFORNIA AIR TOOLS CAT-4620AC Twn Compressor

“With the lightweight and slick design, this one is the best portable on the list.”

• Best for Cleaning: PORTER CABLE PXCMF220VW Portable Air Compressor

“Cleaning jobs are long in the process also require a great amount of air to be done, so this 20-gallon air compressor is a good fit.”

• Best For Regular Use: Twin-Stack P1IU-A9 Portable Air Compressor

“Need to carry the air compressor to your workplace every single day? Then this lightweight but powerful one can be the choice.”

• Best Noise-Free: Eagle EA-5000 Silent Series 5000 Air Compressor

“Of all on the list, this Eagle EA-5000 has been designed to be the quietest one.”

• Best Overall: NorthStar Electric Air Compressor

“With its compact tank capacity, subtle horsepower, and easy portability, it makes justice to the place of best overall.”

• Best Budget: Stark Portable Quiet Air Compressor

“Affordable price and best performance! If it is the concern, then have a look at this powerful air compressor fit for every job.”

• Best for Industrial Use: CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor

“When the word industrial has been used, then it needs to be something big and efficient, and this Craftsman air compressor is what it is.”

• Best Value for Money: Campbell Hausfeld DC200000 Air Compressor

“Concerns about quality gets lessened when the brand is on focus. And if you are an admirer of quality over price, then this one could be your choice.”

Table of content:

If you want to perceive everything described below at a glance, then you should check out out the table of content from here.

Comparison Chart:

Want to make a better decision? Then you should check out our comparison table and compare the tools we have reviewed below.

10 Best Air Compressor Under 500 – In-depth Reviews

Getting the best compressor under 500 is important. But as you know, the market does not have enough good air compressors in this budget range; we have come up with some excellent air compressors from the market. Also, we will tell you the features and benefits of the tools so that you can make even better decisions.

1. Editor’s Choice: Stealth Ultra Quiet Air Compressor

If you want a large air compressor with high power for your hardest grease gun and other drill-hammer projects, then this Stealth air compressor is the one you need. It comes with a powerful 1.8 HP motor that can generate up to 150 PSI airflow, meaning that you can easily use this tool for your largest project. You will get a 20-gallon huge air tank that can hold enough power and capacity for your project.

It has a high-quality induction motor that provides you longer life with higher efficiency. Also, its less-noise mechanism makes sure that there is no noise during the operation. That means you have high power and extreme efficiency without any loud noise. You will get two quick couplers as well so that you can connect tools easily and make the use convenient.

The air tool is portable; you will get rubber wheels, sturdy construction, rubber grip, and a cord so that portability does not make any issue. Its oil-free design allows you to run the tool for a long time without much maintenance.

Stealth Air Compressor Technical Details:

• Product Dimensions:67 x 17.52 x 41.81 inches
• Product Weight:65 Pounds
• Power:8 HP
• Capacity: 20 Gallon
• Maximum Pressure: 150 PSI
• Noise Level: 68dB

STEALTH Air Compressor Features:

• It features a 1. 8 HP motor that can generate up to 150 PSI, which is more than enough for your large and tough projects.
• You will get a 20-gallon tank that ensures higher output and makes it a perfect air compressor for you.
• It has an induction motor that offers extreme efficiency and high power at the same time.
• Its less-noise mechanism allows you to operate smoothly.
• This air tool is portable because it comes with rubber wheels and rubber handles

2. Best For Roofing Nailer: Makita MAC2400 Big Bore Air Compressor

The Makita Big Bore air compressor is one of the best air compressors for heavy-duty work. It comes with a 2.5 HP 4-Pole motor that generates 4.2 CFM at 90 PSI so that you can easily complete your projects without any noise. Also, you will 4.2-gallon air compressor tank that ensures higher output for you.

A pump cylinder and a piston is available that increase the power and efficiency at the same time. Even you can operate in less noise with this compressor. That is why it is considered as the best air compressor for impact wrench and other air tools. Its low AMP draw prevents premature motor failure by decreasing instances of voltage drop and tripped breakers. Thermal protection is also available for your tool safety.

It comes with roll cage construction, and a roll bar handle ensures protection and portability so that you can work with it in extreme construction. You will have less noise because of its modern engineering. For further efficiency, it features an industrial air filter that increases air intake. Besides, you will get easy maintenance for oil sight glass, removable cylinder, and lever handle. With all of these features, it can be considered as the best air compressor under 500.

Makita MAC2400 Technical Details:

• Product Dimensions: 20 x 18 x 18.75 inches
• Product Weight:8 pounds
• Power:5 HP
• Capacity:2 Gallon
• Maximum Pressure: 130 PSI
• Noise Level: 79 dBA

Makita MAC2400 Features:

• It’s 2.5 HP 4-Pole motor generates 4.2 CFM at 90 PSI that ensures high productivity and efficiency.
• You will get a 4.2-gallon twin-stacked tank air compressor that ensures higher output and makes it perfect for you.
• A pump cylinder and a piston are there for higher output and extreme efficiency for best performance with less noise.
• Its low AMP draw decreases instances of voltage drop and tripped breakers that prevent premature motor failure.
• This air tool comes with roller cage construction and roll bar handle that ensure protection and portability

3. Best Portable: CALIFORNIA AIR TOOLS CAT-4620AC 4GAL 2HP Twn Compressor

Another good air compressor is the California air tools ultra quiet air compressor, which you can purchase in your limited 500 budget. It comes with a 2.0 HP motor that offers a longer duty cycle with quick recovery time and generates huge power for your projects. You can work a long time continuously with this motor. Its large 4.6 aluminum air tank offers a higher air output and provides good efficiency in work.

You will have high durability and performance with extreme efficiency because it has an oil-free dual-piston pump system. At the same time, it ensures less maintenance and cleaning and enables them to work in different conditions and temperatures. It can work in a 70db noise level, meaning that you will get a noise-free operation that reduces sound pollution.

Another useful feature of an easy start valve can find in this compressor, which enables you to start the tool with the lower amp. Besides, this massive powerful compressor comes with a lightweight design that allows you to move it anywhere you go.

California Air Tools Technical Details:

• Product Dimensions:1 x 16.7 x 19.7 inches
• Product Weight:2 pounds
• Power: 2 HP
• Capacity:6 Gallons
• Maximum Pressure: 125 PSI
• Noise Level: 70 dB

California Air Tools Features:

• It features a 2.0 HP motor that can generate enough power for your large and tough projects.
• You will get a large 4.6 aluminum air tank that ensures higher air output and makes it perfect for tough work.
• It has an oil-free dual-piston pump that offers less maintenance and high performance in different conditions and temperatures.
• Its 70 dB noise level allows you to operate smoothly in public areas and give you a noise-free operation.
• This large and powerful air tool comes with a very lightweight design that makes it easier to move and carry

4. Best for Cleaning: PORTER CABLE PXCMF220VW 20-Gallon Portable Air Compressor

Porter-Cable is a renowned brand in the power tool industry, having a lot of products that make your life easier than ever. The Porter cable 20 gallon air compressor is one of their extensive tool collection that offers a lot of features and benefits to get your job done smoothly. It comes with a 1.5 HP motor that can generate up to 150 PSI, meaning that no matter what your job is, it can get your job done.

A 20-gallon air tank, which is CSA certified, along with a twin V cast iron pump, make sure you get enough output to work various work such as nailing, wrenching, inflating, and others. Its low voltage start-up allows you to start the tool in difficult conditions. This air tool generates 84 dB noise, which is a little bit higher than other tools on this list; however, it is good enough to work smoothly.

It is portable as well because it comes with semi-pneumatic wheels and rubber feet to run on uneven terrain. lso, you will get and quick connector to change tool quickly and an output gauge and regulator to control the power.

Porter Cable PXCMF220VW Technical Details:

• Product Dimensions: 17 x 18 x 43 inches
• Product Weight: 97 pounds
• Power:5 HP
• Capacity: 20 Gallons
• Maximum Pressure: 150 PSI
• Noise Level: 84dB

Porter Cable PXCMF220VW Features:

• It features a 1. 5 HP motor that can generate up to 150 PSI that allows working on various projects.
• You will get a 20 gallon air compressor along with a twin V cast iron pump that ensures higher and efficient output.
• It has a low voltage start-up so that you can easily start the tool in any condition.
• This tool generates 84 dB noise level that allows you to operate in low noise.
• This compressor is portable because it comes with semi-pneumatic wheels and rubber feet

5. Best for Regular Use: Twin-Stack P1IU-A9 2 HP 4 Gallon Portable Air Compressor

Up next is the Twin-Stack Portable Air Compressor, one of the top-rated air compressors you can purchase within the limited budget of $500. It features 2 hp motor having the capability to produce 135 PSI airflow to get your job done smoothly. A twin stack 4-gallon air tank is available that makes sure you get the maximum output with excellent efficiency, great for versatile work.

It features two disconnect couplers that allow you to run multiple air tools simultaneously. To control the pressure, it has an easy to read pressure gauge as well, allows to work with different tools in different projects. You can experience a smooth and superior experience because of its 79 dB noise level.

With its easy to use mechanism, it offers a longer duty cycle to work a long time continuously. You can take it anywhere because it features an ergonomic and lightweight design. For more efficiency, it comes with all-season synthetic lubricants. So overall, it a reliable option for your next projects.

Twin-Stack P1IU Technical Details:

• Product Dimensions: 19 x 19 x 17 inches
• Product Weight: 77 pounds
• Power: 2 HP
• Capacity: 4 Gallons
• Maximum Pressure: 135 PSI
• Noise Level: 79dB

Twin-Stack P1IU Features:

• It features 2 HP motor that can generate up to 135 PSI, which makes it perfect for DIYers and contractors.
• You will get a 4-gallon air compressor for getting maximum output and excellent efficiency.
• It comes with two disconnect couplers that allow you to run multiple air tools simultaneously.
• Its 79 db noise level allows you to get a superior user experience
• This air tool is designed to be lightweight and ergonomic so that you can carry it easily

6. Best Noise-Free: Eagle EA-5000 Silent Series 5000 Air Compressor

Silent but durable, compactly designed, and easily portable! If this is your requirement, then this Eagle EA-5000 is the one you should go for. However, this air compressor has been designed to cope with professional tools like roofing nailers, cleaning tools, etc. Although it features a powerful motor, it is silent enough to communicate without yelling at the workplace in case of producing noise.

Moreover, it is an upgraded version of EA-3000 and EA-4000 with better motor capability and high air pressure delivery. It also runs at a low rpm which keeps the machine cool and makes it able to run for long. Indeed, the control panel attached in it is most accessible to operate than others on this list.

Additionally, the compressor head is an oil-less one which reduces the hassle of maintenance and keeps free the working surface from unwanted oil stains. Furthermore, the foldable handle and the free tires attached to this compressor ensure ultimate mobility when working outdoors. In fact, multiple workers can work at a time with this machine as it includes two outlets. All in all, that’s a best-fitted compressor for heavy indoor and outdoor use offering great portability.

Eagle EA-5000 Technical Details:

• Product Dimensions:1 x 32 x 20.1 inches
• Product Weight:3 pounds
• Power: 2 HP
• Capacity: 5 Gallon
• Maximum Pressure: 125 PSI
• Noise Level: Regular

Eagle EA-5000 Features:

• The oil-free double piston pump enables this pump to deliver clean air with high pressure.
• It is a low amp drawing air compressor means the assurance of increased life expectancy.
• This machine has been designed to perform ultra-quiet operation means no bothering with noise.
• A push-to-lock pressure coupler is included in this air compressor which ensures the connection becomes fast and easy.
• The attached steel faces in the pressure gauges offer some extra security and a sturdy look.

7. Best Overall: NorthStar Electric Air Compressor

Looking for an air compressor with gentle capacity and perfectly fits in any corner of your garage. Then, with 8-gallon of capacity and compact size, it is the best fit. Also, the wheels attached to it make it moveable for anyone in any place. However, the electric-powered motor makes this one is the quietest air compressors to work in peace.

Moreover, the motor in this air compressor is a dual-piston. Technology has been introduced to produce cleaner air means the tools that will get operated with this compressor also remain cleaner. Likewise, the control panel attaches two pressure gauges to keep you updated about the air inside, and in the run, some of the air compressors have only one.

Likely, we have already said it’s a medium-capacity professional level air compressor, so as usual, it has been made to cope with multiple workers with two connectors. Furthermore, this tank fills fully within a couple of minutes and runs at a low RPM, so long-time usability is assured. Overall, with all the aspects discussed, it can be placed as one for multipurpose use.

NorthStar Electric Technical Details:

• Product Dimensions: 15 x 15 x 34 inches
• Product Weight: 88 Pounds
• Power:5 HP
• Capacity: 8 Gallons
• Maximum Pressure: 125 PSI
• Noise Level: 70dB

NorthStar Electric Features:

• The vertical style of this air compressor makes it fit for any corner of the house or workplace.
• The oil-free dual-piston pump assures the air produced is clean and maintenance easier.
• Because of being electric powered and oil-less, this machine produces significantly less amount of noise.
• Two added connectors with the 8-gallon tank make it easier to work for multiple persons.
• Its smooth tires and added handle make it moveable to any corner or surface with ease.

8. Best Budget: Stark Portable Quiet Air Compressor

A power tool that fits for all the air tools, no matter heavy or light. However, from heavy roofing jobs to regular DIY jobs, this one can be your mate in every task. Moreover, this one has one of the most powerful motors on the list, making it able to provide enormous pressure consuming less energy.  Also, the high-capacity air tank helps it back up for a long time without any issue.

Although it’s a powerful motor compared to the others of the same quality, it seems to produce less noise. As well, the safety measures of this air compressor are impressive, like it can shut off automatically if you the thing you are pumping gets bloated enough. Likely, the cast iron has been used as material in the cylinder makes it durable enough for long-time use.

Furthermore, the large automotive, industrial air filter ensures clean and fresh air delivery to the tools. And, the thermal protection reduces any kind of overload when on the run or startup. In brief, this horizontal air compressor is a powerful and efficient one that also comes within an affordable price range, making it the best air compressor under $500.

Stark Portable Technical Details:

• Product Dimensions: 30 x 27 x 13 inches
• Product Weight: 55 pounds
• Power:5 HP
• Capacity: 10 Gallons
• Maximum Pressure: 125 PSI
• Noise Level: Regular

Stark Portable Features:

• The powerful 3.5 horsepower motor of this air compressor makes it perfect for any kind of heavy work.
• Included automatic shut-off feature of this air compressor ensures it gets turned off after the object gets fully inflated.
• It is not so big, but the 10-gallon tank of this machine makes it run for a long to get done with all the works.
• Its large automotive air filter helps it to deliver clean sir so the added tools can work without interruption.
• All the parts of this air compressor are removable, which makes them easily cleanable.

9. Best For Industrial Use: CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor

With a vast 20-gallon capacity and maximum pressure delivery, this Craftsman Air Compressor becomes the highest CFM air compressor under 500. Also, the enormous power delivery makes it eligible for any kind of heavy work like cleaning, roofing, inflating, drilling, painting, and many more. The heavyweight because of a large tank and motor capacity doesn’t seem to be a matter because of attached wheels.

Moreover, this machine is suitable for heavy industrial jobs with its 1.8HP motor that deliver air pressure of a Maximum of 175PSI. However, if durability and strength are the matter, it is made of all stainless steel, which is cast iron in most air compressors available in the market.

Further, all the attachments that you will need to operate the machine efficiently are included. Also, the control panel of this air compressor is strongly built and easy to work on. Likewise, the handle attached to it, along with the tires, confirms you can move it anywhere you want. All in all, it’s entirely a fit for industrial use and will be a great startup investment tool.

Craftsman Technical Details:

• Product Dimensions:6 x 23.6 x 41.5 inches
• Product Weight:8 Pounds
• Power:8 HP
• Capacity: 20 Gallon
• Maximum Pressure: 175 PSI
• Noise Level: 80 dB

Craftsman Features:

• The ultra-large tank ensures the worktime for long without any interruption.
• Its highest air pressure releasing ability makes it able to do any heavy job with air tools.
• Its whole stainless steel built ensures ultimate durability and sturdiness.
• Included rubber feet and tires ensure you can move it quickly from one place to another and again can place it perfectly.
• This one includes a safety bulb that works automatically if it feels any unwanted pressure.

10. Best Value for Money: Campbell Hausfeld DC200000 Air Compressor

In the world of Air Compressors, the name Campbell Hausfeld has always been a shining one. Maintaining the brand value, they make some of the most efficient power tools that are no different in this Campbell Hausfeld DC200000. However, it was a product with good looks and proved itself an efficient one in worksites.

It compares with the earlier discussed one by Craftsman in tank capacity but differs in the design. Also, this one comes with a bit less powerful motor than which is 1.3 HP that generates air pressure of 150PSI, which is suitable enough to run any heavy tool that requires airflow.

Besides, the horizontal appearance makes it a bit space-consuming. On the other hand, the added handle and large wheels make it portable enough for only one person. On the whole, if you are thinking about starting a new business or already have one that needs replacement of your earlier air compressor, then this will be the best fit with its multifunctional properties.

Campbell Hausfeld Technical Details:

• Product Dimensions:5 x 14.9 x 30.3 inches
• Product Weight: 92 pounds
• Power:3 HP
• Capacity: 20 Gallons
• Maximum Pressure: 150 PSI
• Noise Level: Regular

Campbell Hausfeld Features:

• The fully enclosed induction motor in this air compressor ensures complete safety from overloading.
• It has a big enough tank to support for a whole day of work running multiple air tools.
• This one includes an oil-free pump means the hassle of maintenance is less than ever.
• Included handle with the tires makes it portable enough after having heavyweight.
• The control panel ensures you have full control over the airflow, which allows completing the work with ease.

What To Consider Before Buying An Air Compressor Under 500?

Now you have the list of some good air compressors under the budget. But how can you find the best air compressor under 500 when you do not know what you should consider before buying an air compressor? Well, follow this guide to select the best one.

Your needs:

The first thing you need to know is your needs. Without knowing that, you cannot determine what types of air compressor you need and what the capacity and power output should be. You may need your compressor for nailing, painting, DIY projects, indoor projects, or outdoor projects. Different projects require different types of compressors. So make sure you know your needs first.

PSI:

After knowing your needs, it is time to consider the PSI, which means pounds per square inch. It tells you the applied amount of pressure resulting from one pound pressure on a square inch surface. So the more the PSI, the more pressure you can have. So if you have a small project, lower PSI will be good enough, but for commercial or large projects, consider choosing the high PSI. Otherwise, your $500 compressor cannot provide enough power to complete the projects.

CFM:

CFM, cubic feet per minute, tells you the flow rate of a compressor. It means how much air the tool release or press per minute. If you are working on larger projects such as framing, roofing, wrenching, or other constructional work, make sure you go for higher CFM. On the other hand, for DIY and small projects, low CFM will be good enough.

Noise:

Since you need to deal with the tool for a long time, it should produce less noise. If the air compressor generates loud noise, you cannot concentrate on your work, and people around you will feel uncomfortable and disturbed. So make sure the tool you have chosen makes very low noise.

Portability:

Also, check the portability. Since you need to move the tool from one place to another several time, it has to be portable. For portability, make sure it is lightweight and comes with portability features. Look for the wheels, feet, and handles so that you can quickly move it anywhere you want.

These are the features you should look for when choosing for the compressor under 500. However, to get the best idea, you should visit the air compressor guide, where we have discussed it in detail.

Why Should You Buy An Air Compressor Under 500?

There are many reasons why you should buy an air compressor under 500. Among all of these vital reasons, here are a few.

• The main reason is that it is inexpensive. When you can get all those necessary features that you expect from an expensive compressor in a cheap compressor, why would you buy an expensive one, right?
• Also, it is versatile; you can work in painting, nailing, wrenching, inflating, and other tasks with the compressor under 500.
• You can complete your job faster; without a compressor, you might complete your painting bear hand or nail with the hammer, but that will take a lot of time.
• The air compressor is efficient, meaning that you can save a lot of money.
• An air compressor under 500 will last as long as an expensive air compressor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have any other questions? If yes, then you can check our frequently asked questions by users below.

Final Thought

Finding the best air compressor under 500 is really tough since the market does not have a lot of good tools. However, you need to get the best one to get maximum power, storage, control, and efficiency. Without a good one, you cannot complete your tasks. That is why we have reviewed some of the top-rated air compressors under the budget with their features and benefits so that you can pick the right one.

All of them are good; however, if you want to know my suggestion, I will tell you to go for the Makita Big Bore air compressor because it offers enough power, good efficiency, low noise, and other important features. You might not get any better item than this one under $500 dollars.

Jim Smith

Hello, this is Jim Smith. I am the owner of this website “power tool wiki” that will inform you about all the latest power tool machines like an air compressor, it’s related accessories and use and maintenance information. As a technical expert on this air compressor machine, I have a complete idea about its function and features. Not just because of a technician I know about this machine, I have been researching this machine for the last few years.

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