An air compressor is essential equipment to have at hand. It is an indispensable tool that will help you accomplish various tasks in your garage, workshop, and construction, and so on. While there are very many air compressors, sometimes you don’t need to purchase a 10-gallon unit when a 4-gallon unit is more suitable.Remember, if an air compressor is too big for your needs, it will not be counterproductive.
The main problem is usually purchasing a high-quality air compressor. There are very many suitable compressors in the market, but some of them are not the best. For instance, you will find a cheap unit, but its quality is questionable. In this review article, I have summarized all the details about the best 4 gallon air compressor. This should help you make a wise decision;
Best 4 Gallon Air Compressor Reviews
1. Makita MAC2400 Big Bore Air Compressor
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Makita is a reputable brand in the industry, and they never disappoint. The Makita MAC2400 puts together both efficiency and portability. Many of the customers who have used this unit are quite impressed by its excellent performance. The model comes with some unique features that facilitate optimum functionality.
This particular air compressor has so many benefits, and one of them is that it operates silently. At a noise level of 79 db, this may not be the quietest machine, but it’s tolerable in many environments. It even lacks those annoying sounds that are usually produced by some compressors.
The Makita MAC2400 comes with a big bore pump, cylinder, and piston all in cast iron casing. Big bore pump works in such a way that the compressor runs at only 1730 RPM. This is nearly half the speed of other similar air compressors on this list. The lower speed guarantees less noise coming from the unit, which makes the working environment conducive. On the other hand, the bigger bore cylinder and piston mean that this unit is able to compress more air. The ultimate result is increased efficiency and faster recovery time.
The truth is most of us tend to favor the oil-free air compressors. This is for a good reason because they actually require less maintenance than standard compressors that use oil. However, this does not mean oil-lubricated compressors are the worst. In fact, some of them will offer better performance, durability, and longer run time.
This particular air compressor uses an oil-lubricated pump, but there are many reasons why it may be better than the typical oil-free compressors. It is not only efficient but also runs at a cooler temperature than the standard units. Furthermore, there is limited wear or tear and longer pump life. This kind of compressor can run continuously for longer without any worries of it breaking down.
Some people may be skeptical about this air compressor because of its oil lubricated. However, it is engineered for less and easy maintenance. For starters, there is the oil drain and tank drain valve that allows you to change the oil quickly. The oil sight glass is used to check on the oil levels rapidly. It is also fitted with copper finned discharge tubing for efficient heat dissipation and reduces the amount of water that forms in the tank.
What We Liked
- 2.5 HP 4 pole motor.
- Airflow of 4.2 CFM at 90 psi or 4.8 CFM at 40 psi.
- Oil-lubricated for longer run time and durability.
- Roll cage construction for extra protection in adverse job environments.
What We Did’t Like
- A bit heavy.
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2. Industrial Air contractor 4 Gal Portable Pontoon Air Compressor
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The Honda engine continues to amaze, and this time it’s up to the industrial air contractor to thank him. Their high-cost, four-gallon air compressor uses patented technology to extend the life of the pump.
Longer pump life also means that the overall lifespan of the product is longer than that of competing products. Portability is enhanced by the pontoon style, the two tanks also distributing weight for easy access.
You will have no problem feeding since 155 PSI is more than enough for heavy tasks. Paired with the 5.0 horsepower engine, it’s a great duo. With all this power, this air compressor requires little maintenance thanks to its oil-free design.
The result is a smoother operation, less noise, and a better experience when using multiple tools. Quick-connect bits eliminate the hassle of tool changes, while the two-year limited warranty covers major components. If you are looking for a product that will not let you down, then this Industrial Air Contractor Air Compressor is a great buy.
What We Liked
- 2 two gallon tanks for a total of four gallons.
- Patented cooling system in two parts.
- The pontoon style makes it ideal for industrial installations.
- 5 HP Honda engine for tough jobs.
- Enough power to handle two high performance tools at once.
- Light enough for a person to carry .
- Manages pressure changes without causing too much delay in power supply.
What We Did’t Like
- Delay customer services.
- Little bit heat is produced during using it.
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3. Ingersoll Rand Twin-Stack P1IU-A9 4 Gallon Air Compressor
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The Ingersoll Rand P1IU-A9 is the kind of an air compressor that gives the other brands a run for their money. It is not only well-built but also quite practical.
You can use it for a variety of applications including woodwork, construction and even home DIY project. Its design is sleek, compact, and ergonomic, making it essential equipment at any job site. It weighs about 77 pounds and hence can be carried by most people around the work-site.
In fact, you can easily take it up the roof and go on with your project. In addition, it has a durable handle for more comfortable transportation.
With a maximum operating pressure of 125 psi, this is the kind of a machine that will get all your tasks perfectly and quickly done. The 4-gallon twin-stack tank holds enough compressed air and allows the unit to run longer. This way, you can finish your projects with limited interruptions.
This air compressor features a powerful 2 HP motor and an oil-lubricated pump that offers maximum performance. If you are looking for an air compressor that will run for a more extended period of time, this is definitely the best fit. The pump uses all-season synthetic lubricants for increased efficiency. As a matter of fact, it runs for about 2,000 hours between change outs.
The unit consists of two universal couplers so that you power two air tools simultaneously. Even in the most demanding situations, this machine will deliver at its best. It takes only 60 seconds for the air tank to fill from empty to full capacity. Afterward, you can get started on your work without wasting any more time. Additionally, the fact that it is belt-driven ensures quiet operation.
It has a user-friendly front panel which is simple and easy to use. There is also the tank and discharge pressure gauges with an external regulator dial. All these are meant to make operating the machine easier.
Well, if you are looking for portability and better performance, then this machine is best suited for you. It is also quite durable and will last longer than the standard units. A one year warranty backs this air compressor.
What We Liked
- 2 quick disconnect couplers.
- Long-life cast iron cylinder.
- Average noise levels of 79 decibels.
- Practically, good for home workshop.
What We Did’t Like
- It is quite heavy.
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4. Generic 4 Gallon Pancake Air Compressor
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The Generic pancake 4 gallon air compressor is perfect for a variety of task including filling tires, nailing, decking and so on. It offers airflow of 4.0 CFM at 90 psi for faster recovery time and better power.
For a pancake air compressor, this particular unit exceeds its expectations. Maximum operating pressure of 115 psi means a longer run time, and hence you can accomplish more tasks within a short time.
Its 4 gallon air tank is lightweight and highly portable. As a matter of fact, it weighs just about 60 pounds. For this reason, it is ideal for use both indoors and outdoors. You can carry it over to the roof and even around the site with ease. It is even lighter than many of the units on this list. The pancake designed tank is super stable and includes a water drain valve.
Since vibrations tend to damage floors, the unit has rubber covered feet to counter this problem. Therefore, you can use it for home renovations and other DIY with no worries of the floor and work surfaces getting damaged.
Another plus is the fact that this unit starts at a low amp draw. In this case, you will not have to deal with premature motor failure or a tripped breaker circuit. Furthermore, the motor can quickly start even in the cold temperatures.
It comes with a 2 HP powerful motor and an oil-lubricated pump. Oil-lubricated air compressors are not a favorite for all, but they can be super-efficient. Also, they run for a longer time compared to the typical oil-free pancake compressors. This kind of pump is durable and susceptible to less wear and tear.
On top of it all, this unit consists of a shroud, sturdy handle, and a console cover that protects all the vital components. The handle makes transportation more comfortable and convenient. It even comes with a cord wrap.
The control panel is conveniently located to make operations simpler. Also, it is powered by electricity. In this case, you won’t have to stop your work just because you ran out of gas. The unit runs at a household current of 120 volts. Hence, it’s perfect for many home renovations and DIY.
Unlike many of the pricy air compressors, this one has some unique features, but you can get it at a price that won’t break the bank. Besides, it will work just fine as equipment in your garage, workshop, and construction.
What We Liked
- Oil-lubricated durable pump.
- Highly portable as it provided a handle.
- Maximum air pressure of 115 psi.
- Equipped with Powerful 2 HP motor.
What We Did’t Like
- It is loud.
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5. Campbell Hausfeld FP2080 4 Gallon Air Compressor
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When you hear the word Campbell Hausfeld, you definitely think of quality. There is really no doubt this air compressor was designed to offer the best. It is suitable for all job environments and with a maximum operating pressure of 135 psi, it delivers compressed air for a longer time and has a faster recovery.
The best feature is the oil-free pump for less maintenance.
As a matter of fact, your work is made easier because you will not be required to keep changing the oil or checking on it. This unit features a user-friendly control panel that has large and easy to read gauges.
This is one of the lightest pancake air compressors on the list with a weight of only 33 pounds. It will be easy to work in a demanding environment because you can carry the machine around without straining.
Additionally, it has a strong and durable handle for convenient transportation. The machine is able to function at 120 volts, and hence it’s suitable for many residential applications.
1.03 CFM at 90 psi is quite an impressive airflow for such a small package. While there are lots of unique features, the highlight of them all is the in-built accessory storage. Since there are so many accessories in this package, it can be easy to lose them.
However, with this accessory storage, you can keep all the parts together so that they don’t get lost.
The package includes various accessories so that you get to work as soon as possible. The accessories include an inflation needle, inflation needle adaptor, 25-foot recoil hose, and two tire chuck inflation needles.
I would say that this is a remarkable air compressor. At its price, it offers excellent value for money, considering all the good features that come with this machine. It’s a great compressor to use for tasks such as inflation, stapling, and nailing.
What We Liked
- On-board storage for accessories.
- Compact and lightweight.
- Oil-free for less maintenance.
- Affordable price.
- 2 HP motor.
What We Did’t Like
- May not be suitable for some heavy-duty tasks.
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How To Buy The Best 4 Gallon Air Compressor
Power And Pressure
The power and pressure of a compressor is measured by CFM and psi as the common metrics. CFM is the amount of airflow while PSI is the amount of pressure inside the tank. A 90 psi and upwards is enough for most compressors. The CFM is the most important factor to look for because it shows how much air is being delivered.
Portability
If you will be carrying a compressor from place to place, then portability should be considered. It should be lightweight and comfortable enough to carry around.
Easy Tank Drain
This is a vital factor that you ought to look for in every compressor. An easy tank drain ensures you get rid of all water logged in the machine that might otherwise undermine its effectiveness.
Accessories
Accessories are crucial but you have to look for what you need. An air compressor should come with all the accessories that you require for your tasks and applications.
Noise level
A good air compressor should not be too loud for the comfort of the people around. Some machines are louder than others. The noise levels should at least range between 60 decibels and 90 decibels. The lower the better.
Final Verdict
I hope the list above will be helpful to you when searching for a good quality and reliable 4 gallon air compressor. The final choice entirely depends on you.