Most people use a nail gun to drill nails into walls and other aspects. These nails are driven by compressed air with a powerful compressor. That’s why an adequate compressor for your nail gun is essential.
A powerful air compressor doesn’t only boost the efficiency of work but also improves the effectiveness of nail guns. While there are a variety of air compressors on the market, not all of them are suitable for use with nail guns.
You’ll need an air compressor with a high maximum PSI and a large tank capacity if you want excellent results. A higher PSI will allow you to drive nails into tougher materials, while a larger tank will give you more time to work before the compressor needs to be refilled.
All these concerns seem technical and complicated. However, you don’t need to bother.
This article will provide the top 8 best air compressors for nail guns currently available on the market. After hours of research, we’ve come up with these products. We’ll also provide a buyer’s guide at the end of this article to help you make an informed decision.
BOSTITCH – 6 Gallon Oil Free Air Compressor – Top Pick

Why do we love it?
Product Description:
How is the Bostitch air compressor better than others?
This compressor has more unique specifications than other compressors. It can be used basically for commercial purposes because it can produce a pressure of about 150 PSI with no maintenance required.
Another thing that makes it better is that it weighs a lighter but still has a high storage capacity to build more pressure for driving nails.
One of the best thing that makes this air compressor unique is that it includes a 10 piece accessory kit with an air hose.
With all of the remarkable qualities, this best air compressor for a nail gun comes under 200$, which is quite reasonable. However, it’s not going to have adequate proceed with sandblasting, for that you should use other air tools.
Pros
Cons
See the following link if you need more information on this product: [bg_collapse view=”link” color=”#00897b” icon=”arrow” expand_text=”Functionality of Bostitch Air Compressor” collapse_text=”Show Less” ]
In-depth Details of Bostitch Air Compressor
The functionality of this portable air compressor motor depends on electric power, which is employed for inflating and building a force for framing the nail gun. It carries out continuously for a long stop without any disturbance.
Aside from the efficiency of its motor, this compressor is excellent for upgrading all kinds of components needed. This tool has significant parts like rubber tips and nozzles, enhancing your nailing work.
Even though the 6-gallon air compressor seems heavy, it works perfectly for multiple jobs, so you can make it portable by connecting a long hose.
Bostitch has the most environmentally friendly air compressors as they never leak any dangerous chemicals while working.
Also, this compressor makes the environment comfortable as it is not that noisy. After all these benefits, we can surely call it the best overall air compressor for nail gun. [/bg_collapse]
CRAFTSMAN – 6 Gallon Pancake Air Compressor – Best Budget

Why do we love it?
Product Description:
How is the Craftsman air compressor better than others?
It is the best pancake air compressor for nailing work because it has a massive capacity for storing pressure, unlike others.
It also has an accessory kit, which most compressors do not have, that makes it easier to organize and connect the compressor with a nail gun. It can also be employed for other objectives satisfactorily.
Regardless of that, it takes longer than usual to fill up again. You have to wait while it builds up pressure.
Pros
Cons
If you’re interested in learning more about this product, see the following link for additional information: [bg_collapse view=”link” color=”#00897b” icon=”arrow” expand_text=”More Detail of Craftsman 6 Gallon Compressor” collapse_text=”Show Less” ]
In-depth Product Details of Craftsman Compressor
The most excellent characteristic of this air compressor is that it has an oil-free pump which strengthens its life.
It has a long life which means once you install it, you might not need to change it soon. It saves your buck as it doesn’t require maintenance and related expenses.
It has a large capacity and can store air of about six gallons which makes it the best pancake air compressor.
It can produce a pressure of about 150 bars which is adequate pressure for different utilization, such as for plasma cutting. The compressor’s motor is attached with two couplers to support its functioning.
This feature makes the working of the motor robust and durable. In winters, engines don’t turn on handily because of the dryness of the climate, but this motor is specifically designed to ignite quickly, even in winters without any trouble. [/bg_collapse]
Makita MAC2400 2.5 HP Big Bore Air Compressor – Premium Choice

Why do we love it?
Product Description:
How is Big Bore Air Compressor better than others?
It has a capacity of about 4.2 gallons which is large while being compact and easier to carry because of its rubber feet wheels. It produces a pressure of about 130 psi and can be employed in industries.
It can be lubricated with oil to have more power and force for nail guns which makes it the best value air compressor for your nail guns.
As it is not oil-free, so you might need to change the oil after some time; this thing could be laborious and could cause issues while changing it.
Pros
Cons
In-depth specialization:
The Makita Mac2400 is prepared with a Big Bore contrived pump cylinder and piston for the increased outcome for two nailers, with minor disturbance and enhanced job site execution.
It delivers industrial strength and effects with exceptional stability for difficult job site circumstances. Effective 2.5 HP 4-Pole motor generates 4.2 CFM at 90 PSI for stimulating the compressor’s capability and exhibiting more pressure. Productivity and lower noise.
Related Article:
DEWALT – Best 165 PSI Powerful Air Compressor

Why do we Love it?
Product Description:
How is Dewalt Pancake air compressor better than others?
This compressor is made of impressive quality materials, and it can be used for different purposes instead of just a nail gun.
It can build pressure of about six gallons; it still weighs 50 lbs. The problem some people face with this equipment is that it often leaks; if you don’t assemble and fix it accordingly.
Pros
Cons
If you’re looking for more information on this product, go to the following link for further details: [bg_collapse view=”link” color=”#00897b” icon=”arrow” expand_text=”Functionality of DEWALT” collapse_text=”Show Less”]
In-depth specialization :
165 maximum pressure with 6.0-gallon tank and 2.6 SCFM* delivered @ 90 PSI pump, this feature makes it strong and runs for longer times with quick recovery for the lightweight air compressor.
The High-power motor of the electric air compressor is prepared for effortless start-up in harsh weather with an extension cord.
78.5 decibels is the noise level of the compressor with high tide regulators and couplers, which makes it the best home use air compressor.
It also has rubber feet to move it from one place to another. Besides that, it is lightweight of just 30 lb that makes the unit manageable to transmit and reserve. [/bg_collapse]
PORTER-CABLE – Oil Free 1.5 Gallon Compressor Kit

Why do we love it?
Product Description:
How is the PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor better than others?
This compressor can be held up by free hand, which stands against another compressor. It is small in size but can produce a pressure of about 150 psi which again makes it better than other air compressors.
It is the best cheap air compressor for nail guns because you can buy this compressor with its kit for just under dollar 100$. Though it’s a sealed and enclosed unit, that means you will be unable to see inside of it to assess which component had failed whenever any fault or damage occurs.
Pros
Cons
The following link may be helpful if you’d like to learn more about this product:[bg_collapse view=”link” color=”#00897b” icon=”arrow” expand_text=”Functionality of Porter-Cable” collapse_text=”Show Less”]
In-depth Product Details of Porter-Cable Compressor
This best cheap compressor for nail guns has 1.5 gallons of capacity to store or recycle air.
It produces a pressure of about 150 psi which is quite enough for driving or digging the nail into walls or other things.
It has a selector fixed on its upper side to adjust the pressure according to your needs and requirements.
The Sound level is 79 decibels, which means it does not produce disturbing noise while working and keeps the environment pleasant. [/bg_collapse]
California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S – Best Quiet Compressor

Why do we love it?
Product Description:
How is California air tools better than others?
As is already mentioned that it is the quietest compressor, which means it doesn’t cause more disturbance s compared to other oil-free compressors. This matters if you usually work inside the home or at a place where noise can be a bigger problem.
It also weighed just 29 pounds, making it effortless to transfer it from here to there. The air compressor has an Oil-Free single-piston pump constructed with a long life, which is approximately 3000 Plus hours.
While if we compare it with others, then those compressors have a life cycle of 250 hours or less. But, the air pressure does not adjust quickly, so if you need an exact pressure, it may be a challenge. The on/off switch is not user-friendly and not a positive click signal when you turn it off.
Pros
Cons
You can get more information about this product by clicking the link below: [bg_collapse view=”link” color=”#00897b” icon=”arrow” expand_text=”Read more about this product” collapse_text=”Show Less”]
In-depth specialization :
A mobile air compressor is formulated to be the quietest air compressor for nailers. It only has 56 decibels of sound level. The 0.6 HP motor regulates at only 1680 RPM establishing slight disturbance and notator constructed single-piston pump, this design.
It has been formulated for high execution and strength. The capacity of this tank is 1.0-gallon steel for storing and producing pressure for nail guns.
This best portable air compressor for nail gun can be used in different weather conditions and temperatures and can be handily attached to any nail gun such as staple guns, Brad nail guns, finish nail guns, nail guns, airbrushes, and blowguns with 1. 2 CFM at 90 PSI.
This air compressor is considered for use in the garage and is better for bathing and expanding tires, beds, gadgets, and sports balls. Therefore, this air compressor is favorable for anyone operating inside where sound is a significant problem. [/bg_collapse]
DEWALT – 135 PSI Air Compressor (D55140)

Why do we love it?
Product Description:
How is this DEWALT Air Compressor, 135-PSI Max, 1 Gallon (D55140 better than others?
This compressor is lightweight, as compared to other compressors. It is engineered inside a roll cage premium cast iron to make it safe and strong.
This frame protects the machine from any destruction and fault. There is also a wrap-around control panel for guarding the board against external damage.
The issue you will face with this compressor is no air hose. If you’re a beginner and looking for a complete package, this is not it.
Pros
Cons
For more information on this item, please follow this link: [bg_collapse view=”link” color=”#00897b” icon=”arrow” expand_text=”More detail of Dewalt 1 Gallon” collapse_text=”Show Less”]
In-depth Specialization of DEWALT:
The Air Compressor’s high enactment operation is compelled to facilitate chores by supplying power to your air equipment, for building jobs, as well as for home utilization.
The compressor spotlights a one-gallon tank and a motor of 2.6 amp, which provide 0.75 SCFM at 135 PSI maximum pressure.
These characteristics make it the best lightweight air compressor for a nail gun. The compressor’s high flow regulator delivers maximum air pressure that reinforces the execution of the device.
Noise level is just 69 dBA that puts together to make it so peaceful that you wouldn’t be disturbed by the compressor while working. [/bg_collapse]
3PLUS HCB050401 – 18-Gauge Brad Nailer

Why do we love it?
Product Description:
How 18-Gauge Brad Nailer and Quiet Air Compressor Combo kit better than others?
This nailing work air compressor is better than others because it has an 18 gauge brad nailer and a compressor to make it more suitable and reliable. It makes it the best air compressor nail gun combo because you will get two things in a packet of one.
This gauge helps to drive brad nails from ¾ inch to 2 inches. It also fills up quickly by just taking 130 seconds as compared to others, it is pretty fast, and it will save you a lot of time.
However, it does not shut off automatically. It only has an auto restart. So if you don’t want it to keep pressurizing to danger levels, you have to go over and shut it off every time.
Pros
Cons
Click here for further information about this product: [bg_collapse view=”link” color=”#00897b” icon=”arrow” expand_text=”Functionality of 3PLUS HCB050401″ collapse_text=”Show Less”]
In-depth specialization:
It has been framed in a roll bar for making it portable and easier to carry. Its motor works quietly and peacefully with 65 decibels sound rating and provides strong power to run accurately.
It has attached quick couplers and regulators for starting the engine quickly without any jamming.
These regulators will also help you track pressure in the compressor’s side, and you can adjust it according to your need. With all of the great qualities, it is also lightweight with just 29 lbs, making it easier to transmit.
It comes with a kit that includes an air hose with fittings, goggles, wrenches, and manuals, making it the best air compressor for medium usage. [/bg_collapse]
Buying Guide for Best Air Compressor for Nail Gun
As the choosing process depends on multiple factors, buying the best air compressor for nail gun will be a challenging task.
Keeping the factors aside, the availability of various options makes the picking process uninteresting and time-consuming.
Even though we have made a small list of the eight air compressors for nail guns for your ease, newcomers may find it hard to choose the best one for themselves.
Due to this, we’re going to explain a few integral validities to assess before bringing in your purchase.
Air Pressure – PSI
The complete form of PSI is pounds per square inch. It is a cadent used to evaluate the air pressure delivery of your air compressor.
Pressure is significant for drilling a nail into anything such as a wall or wood. You must ensure that the compressor you buy will put enough pressure to boost your nail gun.
Pressure can be varied from equipment to equipment, such as if you want to drill a nail into metal or something like that, you will need a more excellent PSI model compressor. Therefore, pay close attention to this factor and choose according to your desire and necessities.
Most standard units give out enough air pressure to support the nail guns. With that being said, it is preferred to buy a compressor that has a maximum air pressure of 90-125 PSI.
Apart from that, if you want to use the compressor for different purposes, you can go for a model with a greater PSI.
Air Flow Rate
The unit’s airflow rate can be measured in CFM, short for cubic feet per minute. Always make sure the compressor you’re buying has a CFM level that can sync with the CFM level of your nail gun.
For a standard portable compressor, the airflow rate should at least be 3 CFM at 90 PSI. It will be perfect for a large nail gun to give 15 drivers every minute.
Keeping that apart, a medium nail gun will have the capability to deliver 30 drives in a minute, while a small nail gun will make sure to give out 70 dreams in a minute.
With that being said, if you want to have a heavy-duty nail gun, then you need to have a compressor with a greater airflow rate of at least 4 – 8 CFM at 90 PSI or even more.
Size of Tank
A small-sized air compressor will give your better performance, more productivity, and ease of use as well.
A large air compressor that can give various tools makes sense only for factories and shop floors.
However, for builders, workers, and home repairing projects, portability is essential. When your air compressor is too heavy or oversized, the use of tools like nail gains can be overbearing.
Quiet Operation
The loud operation can be an interference with your work productivity. So, it is essential to have a compressor that makes sure the process is quiet at a sound level of around 70 decibels.
Some specific units have powerful motors, working at the speed of 1680 RPD, reducing wear-off and noise.
These compressors make your work environment quieter and increase productivity. Furthermore, they are perfect for indoor use where quiet operation is the most important thing to consider.
Portability
A nail gun has a lot of different uses in multiple homes, job sites, workshops, and garages. Also, you will need to have a compressor that can be moved around easily.
Due to this, it is better to have a lightweight unit with wheels and soft handles to make the transport of your compressor easier.
How to use an air compressor with a nail gun?
Using an air compressor is not all fun and game, especially when it is to be used with a nail gun. There will be a few issues that might happen if you’re not cautious enough.
However, if you are aware of some hacks, it will surely be easier for you. So, let’s talk about the hacks now.
Step 1: The first and foremost thing that is essential when choosing your nail gun is whether it fits the best at your workplace or not.
Since there is a variety, you should choose the best nail gun. Once you have chosen the right nail gun, then you might know where to drive it, too, right?
Step 2: Now, it is the right time to pick out the bait of your power tool. By the way, picking the best nail gun for yourself is not the only choice you have; you will also have to choose the right bait for your air compressor. So, choose it according to your requirements.
Step 3: Next, you have to connect both of your tools. You don’t need to be professional at doing that. These machines come with manuals for you to follow the guide accordingly while its installation.
Step 4: Now, you have to make sure the amount of pressure you should apply to complete your work. Before doing that, put your safety gear on i-e: goggles and a hard hat to protect yourself from any hazard.
Step 5: Now slowly lower the regulator, open the valve of safety, let off any extra air present in the compressor and turn off its switch.
Conclusion
A nail gun is a critical tool for power that can serve many different purposes. That being said, it is totally of no use without an air compressor as it helps drive the nails inside your required surfaces.
Hence, it is vital to buy the best air compressor with a durable pump, a potent motor, and a high-pressure storage tank.
So, we are now at the end of our informative guide to buying an air compressor for a nail gun. We expect our direction and analyses have assisted you with these confusing choices.
But now that you’re done reading our reviews and buying guide, it has come down to this.
Which is the adequate air compressor for nail guns that you can acquire today? Have you decided, or are you still confused? Contact us if you still have any questions regarding air compressors for nail guns.
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