People often use the method of spray painting in order to paint vehicles.
Spray painting is a manual task that requires a lot of time and patience.
Painting vehicles with the help of an air compressor attached to a spray gun will not only get the job done in less than half time, it will also ensure that the paint is evenly applied.
Pressure from the air compressor combined with paint in the spray gun will guarantee a quick and easy job with outstanding results.
As the process of painting cars requires time, patience, and attention to detail, it is imperative that you pick the best model of air compressor for your needs.
Otherwise, you will be stuck with a machine that will cause more problems than solutions.
Contents
Best Air Compressor for Painting Cars 2023 Reviews
This article contains a list of the best air compressors that can help you paint your car successfully and easily. Also, to help you select one most suited for you there is also a buyer’s guide in the end.
Top Air Compressor for Painting Cars Comparison Table
No. | Preview | Product | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 |  | VIVOHOME Airbrushing Paint System Air Compressor | ||
2 |  | CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor 6 gallon Pancake | ||
3 |  | California Air Tools 8 gallon Air Compressor | ||
4 |  | LATITOP Upgraded Auto Airbrush Air Compressor | ||
5 |  | Master Airbrush Cool Runner Air Compressor | ||
6 |  | Paasche H-100D Single Action Airbrush | ||
7 | | Iwata-Medea Eclipse HP Airbrush Set Compressor | ||
8 |  | California Air Tools 10020C Air Compressor | ||
9 |  | Powermate 80-Gallon Electric Air Compressor | ||
10 |  | Porter Cable 20-Gallon Portable Air Compressor |
1) VIVOHOME 110-120V Airbrushing Paint System Air Compressor with 3 Airbrush Kits:
VIVOHOME is not an unfamiliar name when it comes to air compressors.
This VIVOHOME’s airbrushing system is an oil free, piston type air compressor equipped with a complete airbrushing kit.
The high performance airbrushing machine has 3 different kinds of fluid tips for multiple purposes. These three detachable spray guns deliver different degrees of spray and control for various applications.
An intelligent solution to spraying, inflating, painting your car next time. It can be used at both domestic and professional levels.
The well crafted equipment that comes with the air compressor delivers up to the mark painting performance. This can be used by a beginner looking for a new unit to paint their cars at home or a professional painting the cars.
One of the unique features of this unit is that it has been designed to automatically turn off, if not in use, to prevent the motor from overheating.
It comes with a compressor mounted airbrush holder that is capable of holding two airbrushes.
Secured by a classic piston framework, pressures are steady and designed to keep stable levels of air output.
Another good quality is that it is created very low noise, almost like a hum. You do not need to wear earplugs when you are working with this unit.
Specifications:
- Weight: 85 lbs
- Power: 1/5HP
- Suitable Airbrush Nozzle: 2-1.0mm
- Pressure: 57Psi
- Air Flow: 23-25L/min
- Horsepower: 1/5
>> Read Actual Product’s Buyer Reviews on Amazon
Pros
- Includes full kit
- Portable
- Ready to be used out of the box
Cons
- Short term durability
Bottom line:
Whether you are a beginner or a professional at painting cars, get your hands on this unit if you want to finish your next painting task in no time with top notch results.
2) CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor for Painting Cars – Best Top Pick Overall:
The first thought that comes to mind on hearing the company’s name is a unique and crafty piece of equipment.
Let me tell you your first impression is not wrong. It is simply a well built and powerful compressor. The carrying handle design and rubberized feet make it quite stable.
Moving on to the features, first of all, this air compressor comes with 6 gallon capacity which means you can paint your car in a single setting without running out of pressure.
The high performance tires make it a portable unit that comes with a durable, oil free pump for long life without any major maintenance.
The 150 psi ensures that you get a steady flow of pressure for painting a car.
Another perk is the machine can easily be used in any weather condition, even if it is cold you can count on it to not leave you hanging.
It also comes with accessories including air hose, rubber tip, blow gun and three inflator adaptors for different purposes to make your next painting expedition easy.
Specifications:
- Capacity: 6 gallon
- Weight: 30 lbs
- Pressure: 150 psi
- Voltage: 120 V
>> Read Actual Product’s Buyer Reviews on Amazon
Pros
- Portable
- 1 year warranty
- Easy to use
Cons
- Loud
Bottom line:
If a unit that creates noise is not an issue for you, then get this air compressor for painting your car because it offers amazing results in comparatively low price.
3) California Air Tools 8010 Ultra Quiet & Oil-Free – Best Top Rated Air Compressor for Painting Cars:
As the name indicates, this California Air Tools 8010 air compressor is designed to be one of the quietest air compressors in the industry, having only 60 decibels of sound.
You will no longer need to cover up your ears while working with this unit as it will not create noise. The high quality wheels make it a portable device.
Its oil free dual piston pump system is designed to deliver durability and high performance for your next painting task.
The pump comes with a life cycle of 3000 plus hours, it will surely last you many years without any issue in the results.
It can be used in a variety of temperatures and uneven terrains. You no longer need to worry about the heat or the cold weather making your job tough.
Its high capacity will make sure you get to paint the car in one setting and even get a second coat of paint without the unit running out of pressure.
The output pressure regulator is simple to use.
Just pull the knob out and rotate clockwise to increase output pressure to your accessory or turn counter clockwise to reduce the output pressure to your accessory. Push the knob back in when done.
Specifications:
- Horsepower: 1
- Capacity: 8 gallon
- Maximum Pressure 120 psi
- Voltage: 110 V
- Weight: 54 lbs
- Maximum CFM: 3
>> Read Actual Product’s Buyer Reviews on Amazon
Pros
- Oil free pump
- Portable
- 1 year warranty
Cons
- Expensive
- Slow recovery time
- Small tank
Bottom line:
If you want a compressor that won’t wake the neighbors or anyone else in your home, this is the best choice.
4) LATITOP Rechargeable Handheld Dual-Action Mini Air Compressor for Painting Cars:
This air compressor comes with its own airbrush kit to make your painting job easy.
One of the best perks of this unit is that this airbrush set supports other brand airbrushes, if the original airbrush is broken, you can remove it easily and change to a new one.
Another nifty feature is that the airbrush kit is rechargeable. After a single charge you can take it anywhere to paint the cars without needing the power cord.
A single charge can last you 30 to 50 minutes. Also, if you run out of charge no need to panic, with its USB charging cable, you can use computer charging, charger charging, or power bank charging to recharge it.
The accessories that come along with the air compressor include 0.4 mm spray nozzle, one key switch and two gear adjustments.
The oxygen injection adjustment button on the right side of the gun can adjust the intensity according to your needs; specially designed position wheel ensures straight spraying of airflow without a leak.
It utilizes the gas and liquid dual-channel molecule combination technique to prevent the sprayer clogging problem.
As this does not feature an automatic turnoff quality, it is best if you turn it off manually when not using to prevent the motor from heating up.
Specifications:
- Voltage: 110 – 220 V
- Pressure: 4 psi
- Weight: 93 lb
>> Read Actual Product’s Buyer Reviews on Amazon
Pros
- Versatile
- Easy to handle
- Small size
- Portable
- Rechargeable
Cons
- Not any
Bottom line:
Whether you paint cars at home or for a living, the LATITOP spray kit will serve you well. It is portable, easy to use, and has a clog proof nozzle with an adjustable spray pattern that should fix you up for years.
5) Master Airbrush Cool Runner II Dual Fan Air Compressor for Painting Cars – Best in Budget:
Let me start by saying this master air compressor with an airbrush set is ideal for all the beginner car painters out there.
The airbrushing system comes with 3 multi purpose brushes which are very user-friendly. The brushes are of 0.3 mm tip, 0.2 mm tip and 0.8 mm tip.
The 1/5 horsepower single piston compressor along with two colling fans allows it to run cooler for a longer period of time without the issue of heating up.
This feature will ensure you can use this air compressor to paint your without the trouble of turning it off after every while. It also includes dual airbrush holder.
It features an air on demand system which allows it to automatically shut off air stream when not in use. It is specifically designed to work only when you press the trigger, producing full capacity air.
This unit is not just oil free, it is also maintenance free. The long duty cycle increase the life span of the compressor.
One major problem with these devices is the noise. No matter how good the performance is, if it produces a lot of noise then it is a headache, quite literally.
But not this one, it offers a very smooth and quiet operation, making sure your ears stay safe.
Specifications:
- Weight: 11 lbs
- Airflow: 25 liters/minute
- Pressure: 57 psi
- Air hose: 6 feet
>> Read Actual Product’s Buyer Reviews on Amazon
Pros
- Automatic shut off/on
- Comes with a cleaning brush set
- Quiet operation
- Ideal for beginners
Cons
- Directions not clear on manual
Bottom line:
If you are looking for an air compressor that goes easy on both your wallet and your ears then you need to get your hands on this air compresor.
6) Paasche H-100D Single Action Airbrush & Compressor Package for Painting Cars:
Products of Paasche Airbrush Company are favored by lots of people because of the reliability and design of airbrushes, compressors and other equipment the company offers.
To start with the review, this kit is the best for those who have never painted their cars but wants to learn how to do it. This set has everything you may need to start painitng your cars yourself.
This air compressor ensures that you get a steady stream of airflow for even painting. The 35 psi pressure is also adds to the stable and even painting operation.
The compressor has an auto turn off feature which activates when you are not using the airbrush, saving the energy and increasing compressor life.
The quietness of this compressor allows you to concentrate on painting your car in peace.
The single action airbrush is extremely easy to use, and it is suitable for left and right handed people. The three spray heads spray any paint on not just your car surface, but many other surfaces.
Portability adds more to the list of good qualities of this unit. With its lightweight and compact size, you will not get tired even after hours of using it.
To end the review, this unit is made rust proof which is like a cherry on top. It will look good even after years of use.
Specifications:
- Voltage: 110 V
- Weight: 3 lbs
- Horsepower: 1/5
- CFM: 7
- Pressure: 35 psi
>> Read Actual Product’s Buyer Reviews on Amazon
Pros
- 1 year warranty
- Beginner friendly
- Automatic shut off
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Tip often leaks
Bottom line:
Get your hands on this air compressor if you are on the search for a device that does the job well but is also easy on the wallet.
7) Iwata-Medea Eclipse HP CS Airbrush Set with Cool Runner II Dual Fan Air Compressor for Painting Cars:
Iwata is one of the most popular and trusted Airbrush Compressor manufacturers. This air compressor along with the airbrushing kit does justice to the company’s name.
It is very lightweight, which will ensure you can use it for hours without any fatigue.
The powerful 1/5 horsepower single piston compressor along with two cooling fans ensures that your unit does not heat up and stays cool even after being in continuous use for a longer period of time.
The large 3 liter air storage tank allows constant air pressure and zero pulsation.
The device features a 0.35 mm tip needle that along with the self centering nozzle ensures you get to paint your car smoothly.
It comes with a clamp on a holder that is able to hold up to 4 airbrushes at a time. You do not need to make continuous trips to switch the brushes; you can just put them all in the holder.
Along with the holder, the package also includes a mixing cup for paints, a paint mixing stick, a 3 in 1 cleaning pot and a 6 feet braided air hose.
Specifications:
- Weight: 5 lbs
- Air hose: 6 feet
- Voltage: 110 – 120 V
>> Read Actual Product’s Buyer Reviews on Amazon
Pros
- 2 years warranty
- 4 airbrushes holder
- Inbuilt cooling fans
Cons
- Expensive
- Hose does not fit well
Bottom line:
This unit has all the qualities that you need in your air compressor to paint your car successfully, get your hands on it if you do not mind a product that is a bit pricey.
8) California Air Tools 10020C Ultra Quiet Oil-Free and Powerful Air Compressor for Painting Cars:
This California Air Tools air compressor features oil free design which offers durable and reliable service. The sturdy design features a strong steel body.
It is designed mainly to be very quiet, as noise is a factor which makes a rather good air compressor impossible to operate.
With this air compressor you will not need to worry about keeping your ears covered.
It has a vertical tank design which makes it ideal for storing in small spaces. The compressor has long duty cycle which allows it to run continuous times for longer periods.
The oil free dual piston pump system is engineered for high performance and durability. The pump requires no oil and is quite low maintenance.
The easy start valve feature allows the compressor to start up easily and quickly using less starting amps.
The compressor features a pair of gauges which lets you keep an eye on the pressure. If the pressure gets low, you can know immediately.
Even though the pump is of large capacity, you will not run out of pressure that quickly. You can easily finish painting your car without eh pressure turning low.
The wheel kit makes this unit conveniently portable. The life cycle of this air compressor is up to 3,000 hours, making it suitable for both commercial and domestic use.
This 10 gallon air compressor runs in a wide range of temperatures and includes a universal quick connector for attaching tools such as paint sprayers and nailers.
Specifications:
- Horsepower: 2
- Capacity: 10 gallon
- CFM at 40 psi: 4
- Voltage: 110 V
- Weight: 5
- Pressure: 125 psi
>> Read Actual Product’s Buyer Reviews on Amazon
Pros
- 1 year warranty
- Really quiet
- Overheating protection
- Wheel kit for easy transport
Cons
- 2 built in connections cause a bit of trouble
Bottom line:
Get this air compressor if you are in pursuit of a unit that works well on both domestic and professional scale, offering even flow of paint for painting cars. The price is a bit high than other units.
9) Powermate Vx PLA4708065 80-Gallon Electric Air Compressor for Painting Cars:
This air compressor is not a regular air compressor. The Powermate Vx air compressor is a beast that is ideal for you if you need a unit for commercial-scale use.
Its durable body is composed of steel and cast iron making it extremely sturdy and strong.
The wired formed belt guard provides efficient cooling. The cooling feature along with its beast sized pump capacity ensures you can operate it for hours straight without the unit heating up or running out of pressure.
Finish painting your vehicles without any interruptions now.
This Powermate Vx electric air compressor provides 14 CFM at 90 PSI easily supplying even flow of paint for longer run times. The 155 PSI max pressure provides optimum tool performance.
The heavy duty dual voltage induction motor is able to drive high pump performance which helps to ensure trouble free operation.
The built in tank pressure gauge and on/off switch add control and convenience to the operation of the air compressor.
Other features of this air compressor include a 3 cylinder design, durable Swedish stainless steel flex valves, oil level sight glass and easily accessible oil fill, 12 Inch cast iron balanced flywheel, large intake filter with silencers and synthetic oil.
Every quality adds more to the performance of the unit.
Specifications:
- CFM at 90 psi: 14
- Pressure: 150 psi
- Capacity: 80 gallon
- Weight: 354 lbs
- Voltage: 240 V
- Horsepower: 7
>> Read Actual Product’s Buyer Reviews on Amazon
Pros
- 2 years warranty
- Reasonable noise level
- Cooling system
- High capacity
Cons
- Heavy weighted
- Cord not included
Bottom line:
If you are in need of a unit that will not run out of pressure in the middle of the painting job, then get your hands on this beast.
10) Porter Cable PXCMF220VW 20-Gallon Portable Air Compressor for Painting Cars:
The Porter Cable PXCMF220VW is a 20 gallon air compressor that is very low maintenance, eliminates the need for oil check and change and features a longer running time for painting larger vehicles.
It has an oil free induction motor and pumps for dependable performance during continuous tool operation.
The low voltage start up reduces the current draw and has less starting torque on the motor of the air compressor.
One of the best features of this air compressor is that it is designed in such a way that it has a fully enclosed shroud that covers working components. This ensures that water or duct does not enter the unit and messes with its operation.
Another perk of this air compressor is its 7-inch wheels, which make it easily movable. Painting the car is a task that requires a lot of movement; you cannot stand in one place.
With this unit, you can do the job very easily. It also has conveniently located gauges and regulators for easy monitoring.
Specifications:
- Horsepower: 5
- CFM at 40 psi: 5
- Capacity: 20 gallon
- Maximum pressure: 150 psi
- Voltage: 120 V
- Weight: 97 lbs
>> Read Actual Product’s Buyer Reviews on Amazon
Pros
- Easy mobility
- Easily movable
- Automatic shut off
Cons
- Loud
Bottom line:
Get your hands on this unit if you are looking for one which has all the features that makes it ideal for painting cars, the only drawback is that the noise level is a bit high.
Buyer’s Guide: Selecting Best Air Compressor for Painting Cars in 2023
The main two objects that you need while painting your car are paints and air compressor. There are many airbrush kits on the market, so it can be overwhelming when you are looking for one.
They come in a variety of sizes and with various tools and pieces. With all the technological advancements, it has become a headache to buy a product because you never know which one to go for and which ones to stay away from.
We have made a buyer’s guide which includes a few important points, a few do’s and don’ts, that can help you pick a product most suitable for you.
-
Pressure:
Pressure is the first quality that you need to check while looking for an air compressor for painting cars. You need a decent amount of air pressure for easily using an airbrush for painting purposes.
Anything more than 40 PSI should be more than enough for most applications.
-
Power:
The power of an airbrush compressor is given by HP or horsepower. It essentially tells you about the amount of air it delivers in a given time. Powerful airbrush compressors offer a horsepower rating of 0.5 HP or more.
-
Capacity:
The capacity of the unit is very important. Painting cars is a long job, a large capacity compressor is ideal for it. It allows you to paint for a longer period of time.
You do not want to buy a unit that will keep running out of pressure. Always check the capacity of the pump if you do not want continuous interruptions in your painting operation.
-
Noise level:
Painting a car is a job that needs you to stand right next to the machine and use it for hours straight.
With that in mind, the noise factor is one of the most important points. No matter how good the unit is, you cannot use it if it makes dire noise.
Conclusion:
Whether you are a professional or a hobbyist, you need an air compressor in order to paint cars. Buying an air compressor for painting cars is not an easy job.
There are many special features that painting task requires. This means that you have to check various things related to compressors before buying one for yourself.
Therefore, we have mentioned some of the best airbrush compressors in this article along with a buyer’s guide that will help you decide which unit is best for you.
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