Best 8 Gallon Air Compressor -2021 Review And Buying Guide

8 gallon air compressor is named due to its 8 gallon capacity to store air. 8 gallons can carry over 6 cubic foot of air, 8 gallon is usually the least size requirement if you are looking for a heavy duty air compressor.

If you’re looking for the best 8 gallon air compressor, you’re in the right place. Here we have enlisted the top rated 8 gallon compressors in this article to help you find the right compressor for your job to be done. The choice of an air compressor depends on the project you are going to do.

As can be seen from our test in terms of noise rating, California air tools 8 gallon compressor won the race as it produced only 60 dBA noise from 3 feet; however Brigg station and Kobalt 8 gal air compressor remained in the bottom of our all tested models for its screaming.

Regarding pressure rating, CFM rate at 40 psi, and ampere rating Kobalt 8 gallon air compressor reached on top of our list as it provided 150 psi pressure, 4.97 CFM air flow rate, and 12.4 amps current ratings. Similarly, Briggs & Stratton 8 gallon hotdog oil free air compressor followed Kobalt models in terms of pressure rating. In contrast, Campbell Hausfeld 8 gallon air compressor produced least air flow rate ( approximately 2.38 CFM in our test) and 7.3 ampere current rating respectively and become least model in our list.

Apropos of motor power rating, California air tools and Campbell Hausfeld 8 gallon compressor showed it strength as it has 1 HP motor (rated power) and 2 HP ( peak power). On the other hand, Briggs & Stratton, NorthStar and Husky 8 gallon air compressor motor horsepower was 1.5 hp.

Hence, California air tools 8 gal compressor is recommended for those who want to use it at home garage as it is the least noise produced air compressor And Kobalt 8 gallon air compressor is for one who want a beast 8 gallon compressor in their workshop and noise rating is no matter to them.

A noisy air compressor will not suit well in a home environment, especially compared to the ultra-quiet compressors available today. However, a small air compressor will not be suitable for heavy contract work.

The strengths and weaknesses are numerous for all the models on the list. At the same time, there are so many suitable 8 gallon air compressors on the market that it becomes even more difficult to choose a bad one. If they are well maintained, any of the 8 gallon air compressors reviewed will last a very long time. Take your time to go on this list, and you will not be disappointed.

Best 8 Gallon Air Compressor Reviews

Image	Product	Features	Details
Overall Best 8 Gal Compressor	California Air Tools 8 Gallon Air Compressor	Max Pressure: 120 Psi Dimensions: 26 x 14 x 23 inches Warranty: 1 year. Weight: 37.2 pounds.	Buy On Amazon
Our Runners Up DC080500 up Pick	Campbell Hausfeld DC080500 8 Gallon Oil-Free Air Compressor	Max Pressure: 125 Psi Dimensions: 11 x 23 x 26 inches Warranty: 1 year. Weight: 67 pounds.	Buy On Amazon
Our Mid Price Pick	NorthStar 8 Gallon Air Compressor	Max Pressure: 125 Psi Dimensions: 15.75 x 15.4x 34.1 inches Warranty: 1 year . Weight: 88 pounds	Buy On Amazon
Hotdog 8 gallon Option	Briggs & Stratton 8-Gallon Air Compressor	Max Pressure: 150 Psi Dimensions: 30 x 13 x 30 inches Warranty: 1 year. Weight: 50.72 Pounds	Buy On Amazon
For Professional Application	Husky 8 gal. Oil Lubricated Air Compressor	Max Pressure: 125 Psi Dimensions: 26.5 x 24.7 x 11.7 inches Warranty: 1 year . Weight: 62 Pounds	Buy On Amazon
Last But Not Least	Kobalt 0300841 8-Gallon Horizontal Air Compressor	Max Pressure: 150 Psi Dimensions: 26 x 11 x 25 inches Power: 1.8 Horsepower Weight: 49 pounds	Buy On Amazon

1. California Air Tools 8 Gallon Air Compressor

This 8 gallon air compressor from the famous and reliable California Air Tools brand is in the middle of the price range. This is the best 8 gallon oil-free ultra-quiet air compressor that consumes 8.5 amperes and has a smooth start to avoid tripping the circuit breaker. It is quiet enough at only 60 decibels and is optimized for maintenance-free operation.

This California air tools 8 gallon compressor provides 3.0 CFM airflow @40 psi pressure and 2.20 CFM airflow @90 psi pressure with an 8 gallon tank and a maximum pressure of 120 psi.

All of these features come together in a portable 54 pound that can be moved by wheels. There are two designs of this air compressor. One is steel made, and the other is aluminum made. For fans of the brand, it would go perfectly with their other California Air Tools and accessories.

As can be expected with a unit of this size, it is a little weak in power, and we cannot even rely on it to operate at the recommended specifications steadily.

With power reduction, users can expect some applications to be more problematic, if not wholly disastrous if they are used for more work. It is a compact air compressor, effective when not overused, designed for small and medium jobs.

There have also been complaints of overheating of the unit, although a slight cooling period solves the problem. One of the company’s few missteps is not to include a garden hose with the unit, which can be frustrating for new buyers.

What We Liked

• Quietest 8 gallon air compressor on the market.
• Oil free air compressor.
• Less wear occur thus less maintenance require.
• Provide air filter and wheels for transportation.
• The pressure regulator is very good and easy to use.
• Portable and durable air compressor unit.

What We Did’t Like

• Little weak in power.
• Complaints of overheating of the unit.
• Not provide any hose.

2. Campbell Hausfeld 8 Gallon Air Compressor Oil-Free

Campbell Hausfeld also stands out with the Campbell Hausfeld 8-gallon air compressor, a 67-pound, quiet unit at a mid-range price, with some exciting features.

As the second electric compressor on the list, it is listed as another recommended compact eight gal unit but packs quite the punch despite its size.

It has the ability to start quickly and can reach any anywhere with 25 feet extension cord if needed. The noise level reached 68 dBA when I tested it in my home garage. But given its size, there are many performance gains in this model.

It has versatile of usages. If you want to do painting, bolting, nailing, fastening, stapling, you don’t need to buy multiple air compressor.

Campbell Hausfeld 8 gallon air compressor is a maintenance-free, oil-free device, and offers a dual-piston pump that produces 25% more air compared to other same type 8-gallon air compressors.

Drain valve is located at the bottom of the compressor. This air compressor fills up very quickly and is easy to drain. Drainage is not a pain like in other models and is one of the best aspects of the device. Given the device’s PSI about 125 maximum, it will adapt well to a variety of applications without being a significant burden to the user.

What We Liked

• Quiet air compressor unit.
• Oil free and maintenance free.
• Provide 17 accessories kit.
• Provide 25 feet hose.
• Provide handle rubber grip and large wheels for mobility.
• Very versatile 8 gallon air compressor.

What We Did’t Like

• Not provide any universal coupler to use multiple air tools at the same time.

3. NorthStar 8 Gallon Air Compressor

As one of the mid range 8-gallon air compressors on the list, the Central Pneumatic 8 Gallon Air Compressor is weighing only 95.0 pounds.

Its size and shape go together very well and facilitate transport and storage. Even if it is only 125 PSI, the electric pump largely compensates for this phenomenon.

With a thermal overload protected direct drive induction motor, it’s an impressive machine that requires little maintenance and provides excellent power. Like all other eight-gallon air compressors listed, this guarantees longer life and less hassle.

It is also one of the noisiest on the list, with a level of 70 dBA that is far from silent.

This air compressor unit provides 4 CFM airflow at 90 psi and 5.4 CFM airflow at 40 psi.

What We Liked

• ASME certified air tank.
• Portable and easy to carry.
• oil free and maintenance free.
• 70 percent duty cycle.
• Quiet.

What We Did’t Like

• Not provide any accessory kit.

Things To Consider Before Buying The Top Rated 8 Gallon Air Compressor

We researched several eight gallon compressor. Based on the below discussed criteria, we have made some choice. Thus you will confidently buy our reviewed compressor. And you can use it to your various mid-range task in your home garage or workshop. As it is not so big and will not provide so much power. So Industrial use of this types of compressor is extremely prohibited unless any emergency situation occur.

Airflow Rate In CFM

CFM refers to Cubic Feet per Minute that is the unit of airflow rate. Different air tools require different airflow rate. Thus check this carefully before buying one. Our suggestion is for you that you should decide first which air tools you are going to use. Then check their required airflow rate in CFM. Thus you can easily decide which one to get.

Inflation Time

Sometimes you need to inflate some inflatables with your 8-gallon air compressor. Though different inflatable require different inflation times. Air compressor that has high airflow rate will inflate the tire or other inflatable fast. But you want to use an inflator compressor that is cordless and useful but not cost you too much bugs, you can get those type air compressor.

Noise Level

Noise level is an important parameter to select an air compressor. Different brands reduced its by incorporating different technology. High level noisy air compressor is always irritable not only for you but also for the surrounding people at working garage or workshop. Here California Air Tools introduced 60 dBA noise level air compressor that is that quietest 8 gallon air compressor among the list reviewed.

Horsepower Rating And Motor quality

Horse power is basically used for providing motor power rating of the air compressor. High horse power motor provide more power but consume much energy. HP rating is an important parameter before getting an compressor. As air compressor power depends on it too.

Oil Free Or Oil Compressor

There are some area where air compressor is needed. Also oil is restricted in those field like painting, pharmaceutical etc. So before getting an compressor also check this to avoid oil contamination.

Compactness And Portability

If you want to use the air compressor in small space then you have to buy a compact 8 gallon air compressor.

On the other hand, if you want to use it in remote places then of course get a portable compressor. For this reason, you must check whether the manufacturer provide wheels with the compressor.

Protection System

Now protection system is also an important criteria to choose the top quality eight gal air compressor.

Some of the compressor introduced thermal overload protection. Basically it is an rely circuit that will cut off the power when it heated too much.

Pressure Level

To do your different garage or workshop job, you need different pressure level. Also you have to know that with the increase of pressure the velocity of air is decreased.

Different air tools need different pressure level. Also, you want to inflate a car tire then you need certain pressure level to do that.

Power Sources

Air compressors can be both gas powered and electric powered. Gas powered one is required remote place where electric power is not available.

But you have remember that gas powered air compressor produce more noise level than electric powered  air compressor.

FAQ About 8 Gallon Air Compressor

What are the Pros and Cons of Campbell Hausfeld DC080500 8 Gallon Air compressor?

Check price on Amazon Pros Surprisingly quiet for its size Powerful enough for various tasks Lightweight and compact for greater portability Easy to set up Cons Wheels are wobble Let us introduce you to the best 8-gallon air compressor for light-duty home projects, Campbell Hausfeld DC080500.

What is the best way to finish your projects faster?

It refills quickly, helping you to finish your projects quicker.

What are the Pros and Cons of a Pressure Regulator?

Check price on Amazon Pros Quietest air compressor on the market Most affordable on this list Lightweight Fast recovery Pressure regulator is simple to use Assembly is a breeze Cons The wheels aren’t very durable Taller people may find the short handle inconvenient Say goodbye to ear protection because this California Air Tools 8010 air compressor is so quiet that you won’t notice it is there.

What are the Pros and Cons of this Portable Air compressor?

Powerful and versatile for small shops Vertical design leaves small footprint Large pressure gauges for easy control Flat-free wheels and handle make it super portable Quick recovery Cons A bit pricier than other models If you think that an 8-gallon air compressor can’t run impact wrenches, this NorthStar 53009 will make you reconsider.

What is SCFM?

SCFM is the amount of air an air compressor can generate at a certain PSI.

How much SCFM rating should I have?

If you want to determine the minimum SCFM rating of your compressor, check the SCFM requirements of the tools you want to operate, then take the highest number and multiply it by 1.5.

What is the PSI of a Briggs & Stratton 074025-00?

And Briggs & Stratton 074025-00 has what you need here, up to 150 PSI.

What is the most lightweight air compressor on this list?

Powerful as it is, this Briggs & Stratton 074025-00 is surprisingly the most lightweight on the list.

Final Verdict

To make your choice easy, here we reviewed the best quality 8 gallon air compressor. So you can buy an air compressor confidently that will sustain for longer time and serve you a longer period.

California Air Tools 8 gal air compressor is our best choice not only for it low noise level but also for it robust made as it has two version steel one and aluminum one.