An air compressor is essential for contractors and homeowners who need to spray texture on ceilings or walls. Air compressors come in different sizes and power.
You should consider an air compressor that delivers high CFM at low PSI for spraying texture. Because texturing requires a large amount of air, a small compressor simply won’t be able to keep up. You’ll end up with an uneven texture and a lot of frustration.
To help you find the best air compressor for spraying texture, we’ve done the research and compiled a list of top-rated models.
Are you in a hurry? Here are Our Top 3 Picks:
California Air Tools 10020C: This air compressor is an extremely quiet and oil-free air compressor that delivers 5.30 CFM at 90 PSI and 6.40 CFM at 40 PSI.
It has enough power to run the texture gun, and it is durable enough to withstand the rigors of everyday use.
MAC5200 Big Bore 3.0 HP Air Compressor: If you need an air compressor that’s even more powerful, take a look at the Makita MAC5200.
This compressor delivers 6.5 CFM at 90 PSI and has a large bore cylinder for increased power. It’s also oil-lubricated for durability and has a low-amp draw to protect your electrical system.
DEWALT (DWFP55126): For a more budget-friendly option, the DEWALT Pancake Air Compressor with 165 PSI is a great choice.
It delivers 2.6 CFM at 90 PSI and is very portable, making it easy to move around the Jobsite. It also has a long-life pump for extended use.
However, If you do not hurry, we recommend reading our full product reviews to find the perfect air compressor. This list includes various models from different manufacturers, so you’re sure to find one that meets your needs.
Best air compressors for Spraying Texture Review
California Air Tools 10020C – Our Top Pick
Specifications:
- Dimension: 16″ L x 15.1″ W x 35.9″ H
- Maximum PSI: 125 PSI.
- Air Flow: 6.4 CFM
- Capacity: 10 gallons
- Sound Level: 70 dB
- Weight: 82.5 pounds
- Horsepower: 2 HP
- Warranty: One year
Why do we love it?
Pros
Cons
How is California 10020C better than other portable air compressors?
California is a renowned name for manufacturing air compressors, and the 10020C is one of their most popular models. This unit has many features that quickly make it the best air compressor for spraying texture.
The 10020C has a much higher CFM rating than most portable air compressors. This is because it has a 2.0 horsepower motor instead of the standard 1.0 – 1.5 horsepower motors found on most other models.
Its motor operates at only 1680 RPM, which is quieter than most other air compressors.
It has a built-in handle and wheels that make it easy to move around. You can take it from one job site to another without any problem.
The only negative point of this compressor is that it’s a bit on the heavy side at 82 pounds. However, this is to be expected with a compressor that has such a powerful motor.
Overall, If you want to invest in a good quality air compressor that will last for years, the California 10020C is perfect.
For more Detailed Product Description of this product , click on this link
DEWALT (DWFP55126) Pancake Air Compressor – Best Budget Pick
Specifications:
- Max PSI: 165 PSI.
- Running HP: 1.8 HP
- Sound Level: 75.5 dB
- Weight: 30 lbs
- Air Flow: 2.6 CFM
- Capacity: 6 gallons
- Warranty: One year
Why do we love it?
Pros
Cons
How is DEWALT (DWFP55126) better than other portable air compressors?
Weighing only 30 pounds, this unit is much lighter than the other compressor on our list, making it much easier to move around.
The one thing that makes this one of the best pancake air compressor for spraying texture is its pressure rating of 165 PSI.
With this psi, you’ll be able to do more with this unit, like running air tools, filling tires, and using it for nailing applications. This compressor is designed in a way that it can offer you long-term usage and can serve you for a more extended period.
Our Experience with DEWALT (DWFP55126) Pancake Air Compressor
We’ve been using this air compressor for 2 years. The thing that impressed us most is that it is designed to perform at maximum efficiency, delivering high-quality results and lasting durability with a compact size.
The DEWALT PDK600P features a large 7.5-liter tank that gives it up to 40% more run time than its previous model. This pancake compressor is easy to use and store.
Overall, this pancake air compressor is ideal for those who want to get their tasks done in a budget-friendly way while avoiding purchasing expensive air compressors.
For Detailed Product Description of Dewalt 6 Gallon , click on this link
Makita MAC5200 3.0 HP* Big Bore™ Air Compressor
Specifications:
- Dimension: 29 x 19.5 x 19 inches
- Horsepower: 3 HP
- Maximum PSI: 140 PSI.
- Weight: 75 pounds
- Warranty: 1 year
- Air Flow: 5 CFM
- Capacity: 5.2 gallons
Why do we love it?
Pros
Cons
How is Makita MAC5200 better than other portable air compressors?
The MAC5200 has a higher CFM 6.5 rating at 90 PSI versus the 4.8 CFM rating of its previous model, the MAC2400. The higher CFM and PSI mean this unit can run air tools that require more CFM, such as air sanders, framing crew nailers and power impact wrenches.
As we mentioned above, higher CFM is also essential for spraying texture, so the MAC5200 is a better choice for that job.
The Mac5200 is designed with a large air filter that increases air intake and greater efficiency. This helps to extend the life of your compressor and keep it running at peak performance.
The air filter is also easy to clean, maintaining your compressor with minimal effort.
Makita’s Big Bore pump is another reason this unit outperforms other portable air compressors.
The pumping mechanism is efficient and will require fewer starts and stops, conserving energy. This unit can withstand the rigors of industrial use and will provide years of service.
For Detailed Product Description of MAC5200 , click on this link
PORTER-CABLE (C2002) Oil free Air Compressor
Specifications:
- Product Dimension: 19 x 19 x 18 inches
- Tank Size: 6 Gallons
- Pressure Rating: 150 PSI.
- Maximum Air Flow: 2.6 CFM
- Product Weight: 31.5 pounds
- Warranty: 1 year on air compressor components
Why do we love it:
Pros
Cons
How is Porter-Cable C2002 better than other portable air compressors?
The main difference between the Porter-Cable C2002 and other portable air compressors is the 6-gallon pancake-style tank.
This feature allows for a more stable unit and a smaller footprint. Also, the weight of this product is only 30lbs, making it one of the lightest spraying texture air compressor.
What is also impressive about the C2002 is that it has a max PSI of 150, which is much higher than other small portable compressors in its class.
For Detailed Description of Porter-Cable , click on this link
Metabo HPT EC914S Powerful Air Compressor
Specifications:
- Product Dimension: 18.5 x 16 x 16 inches
- Tank Size: 6 Gallons
- Pressure Rating: 200 PSI.
- Noise: 73 dB
- HP Power: 1.3
- Maximum Air Flow: 4 CFM
- Product Weight: 41 pounds
Why do we love it:
Pros
Cons
How is Metabo HPT EC914S better than other portable air compressors?
Compared to other air compressors, this pancake air compressor has a maximum pressure of 200 psi, which is 25% greater than most pancake air compressors.
Also, the max airflow is 4 CFM which is again 35% more than what other air compressors provide. It makes it one of the most potent air compressors in its class.
In addition, it has a very compact design and only weighs 41 pounds, which is 10% less than similar portable air compressors.
What could be improved:
The only drawbacks of this compressor are the noise level, which at 73 dB can be a bit too loud for some people. However, it is an average noise rating, but it is high compared to small pancake air compressors.
For Detailed Review of Metabo 200 psi air compressor , click on this link
Rolair JC10 Plus 2.5 Gallon – Best Electric Air Compressor
Specifications:
- Product Dimension: 17 x 16 x 15 inches
- Tank Size: 2.5 Gallons
- Noise: 60 dB
- Maximum Air Flow: 2.35 CFM
Why do we love it:
Pros
Cons
How is Rolair JC10 Plus better than other air compressors?
Its cast aluminum cylinder makes it more durable than most air compressors. Also, the sound level is deficient at only 60db. Plus, it’s one of the lightest air compressors in its class.
It can fill a tank in only 55 seconds with 125 PSI. These factors make the Rolair JC10 Plus the best choice for consumers.
However, when we look at the tank size of this air compressor, it is only 2.5 gallons. It may not be enough for large projects. If you need a bigger tank, then you might want to consider another option.
For Detailed Product Review of Rolair JC10 , click on this link
Buying Guide for Best air compressor for spraying texture
A texture sprayer is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of applications, from painting walls to applying stucco. But before you can start using your texture sprayer, you need to choose a suitable air compressor.
If you think about the variables mentioned below while buying an air compressor, you will be able to pick the best one for your needs. Here are some of the critical factors that you need to keep in mind:
Portability
The first factor that you need to think about is portability. If you use your texture sprayer for commercial purposes, you need to buy a portable air compressor.
Portable air compressors are lightweight and easy to carry from one place to another and can be easily stored in your garage or workshop. But if you are only going to use it for home projects, you can opt for a stationary air compressor.
Power
The air compressor’s power is measured in horsepower (HP), and for portable air compressors, it ranges from 1 to 5 HP. The large industrial air compressor can have up to 15 HP.
Your air compressor’s power will determine how much air it can deliver and how quickly. If you want to use your texture sprayer for large projects, such as painting a wall or applying stucco, you need more power to buy an air compressor.
But if you are only going to use it for small projects, you can opt for an air compressor with less power. Usually, the air compressor between 1.5 0 5 hp is considered best for a texture sprayer.
Air Flow Rate
The flow rate of an air compressor ranges from below 1 CFM to more than 100 CFM.
The higher the CFM, the faster the air compressor can fill up the tank. For using spraying texture, you need an air compressor with a high flow rate to quickly fill up the tank and provide a constant flow of air. The recommended cfm for spray texture is between 1.5 to 3.5.
Tank Size
There are a variety of sizes of air tanks, including those ranging from 1 to 120 gallons. With a larger tank, you can store more air, and use your texture sprayer for longer periods of time without stopping. For a texture sprayer, you need an air compressor with a tank size of at least 5 gallons.
Sound Level
The sound level of an air compressor is measured in dB (decibels), and generally, in portable air compressors, it ranges from 40 to 90 dB. The lower the dB, the quieter the air compressor will be.
Sound level is essential if you are going to use your air compressor in a residential area Because if the sound level is high, it can create a disturbance. With a high-volume sound, you will also feel uncomfortable and tired. The recommended dB(A) level for a texture sprayer is 70-85.
Size and Weight
The size and weight of the air compressor are also essential factors that you need to think about. If you buy an industrial air compressor, it will be vast and complicated to set up for texture spray due to its high power.
This is not always a bad thing, but you need to ensure that you have enough space to store it and enough people to help you move it around.
On the other hand, if you’re spraying texture with a too-small compressor, you’ll be disappointed with the performance and take much longer to do the job.
The best air compressor for texture spraying is lightweight, portable, and has enough power to do the job.
Duty Cycle
A compressor’s duty cycle is the amount of time that it can run without stopping in a period of 10 minutes. For example, if an air compressor has a duty cycle of 50%, it can run for 5 minutes without stopping.
The duty cycle of an air compressor ranges from 25% to 100%. You need an air compressor with at least a 50% duty cycle for spraying texture.
PSI
The PSI (pound per square inch) is the amount of pressure that the air compressor can generate. The higher the PSI, the greater the pressure and the more influential the air compressor.
FAQs related to Air Compressor for Spraying Texture
How many cfm do I need for texture gun?
2.4 CFM at 90 PSI is the recommended setting for using a texture gun. This provides enough power to spray most textures while reducing the risk of over-spraying and making a mess.
Overall, this is the best setting to use for most applications. If you need more power for a particular project, you can always increase the CFM, but it is best to start at 2.4 and work your way up as needed.
What size compressor is used with a texture sprayer?
A 5 – 10 gallon air compressor is typically used with a texture sprayer. The 5 – 10 gallon size is suitable for most applications, providing enough power to operate the sprayer without being too bulky or difficult to move around.
A low psi and high cfm (cubic feet per minute) air compressor are ideal for a texture sprayer. The low psi allows for a more even texture application, while the high cfm provides enough power to ensure a smooth, consistent finish.
What is the best air compressor for spraying texture?
California Air Tools 10020C is the best choice for spraying texture. It is a low psi and high cfm air compressor. The low psi allows for a more even texture application, while the high cfm provides enough power to ensure a smooth, consistent finish.
Can you spray texture with a small compressor?
Yes, you can spray texture with a small portable air compressor. However, the performance of the compressor will be affected. Because small air compressors have small size tank capacity, They can not store enough air to provide a continuous flow of air.
What size compressor is used with stucco sprayer?
A typical stucco sprayer will require a compressor that can deliver at least 7 CFM at 90 PSI.
However, if you’re using a high-pressure stucco sprayer or if you plan on doing a lot of spraying then you will need an larger air compressor. ( Any air compressor that provide 12 cfm at 90 psi is enough for this job).
How many psi do you need to spray texture?
You’ll need an air compressor that can generate at least 90 PSI to spray texture successfully. Lower PSI air compressors can also work, but you’ll have to thin the texture more and may not get as smooth of a finish.
Can you use a paint sprayer for texture?
Yes, you can use a paint sprayer for texture. It is the quickest way to apply texture to a wall or ceiling.
All you need is an air compressor and a paint sprayer. Just put the air compressor on one setting and hold the trigger down while moving the nozzle in a circular motion.
The paint will atomize and create a textured finish. You can also add other materials to the paint to create different textures. Just experiment until you find the suitable combination for your project