Pancake compressors are designed to be portable, and they have many applications, that can be beneficial in both person and business endeavors.
They are referred to as "pancake" compressors because of the way they are shaped, and they can run off typical household electrical circuits, which means, you do not have to worry about extenders or other devices to make them work.
They are excellent for DIY projects and for small business owners that find themselves needing a compressed air machine. However, how do you choose the right pancake compressor for your needs? You should think about many things: price, standard cubic feet per minute, etc.
Renting air compressors can be costly. Therefore, purchasing a small option could be an excellent investment in the long run. We have been researching different pancake compressors to measure how they stand up to each other, and below are five that we feel have the most to offer overall.
Top 5: Pancake Compressors Review
Product Image & Rating (Out Of 10) | Product Name | Price |
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9.9 | ||
9.6 | ||
9.4 | ||
 9.2 | ||
9.1 |
This Bostitch Pancake Compressor has many practical uses that make it an excellent choice for a small business or a person DIY at home compressor. It has a 6.0-gallon tank or 22.7 L that provides the user with a longer period of compressing than other compressors.
The entire compressor only weighs 30.9 pounds, and it has a 25-foot recoil hose, which makes it more convenient for the user because they don't have to constantly move the actual compressor.
A few of the uses that this compressor is used for a re stapling, air brushing applications, inflation, and brad nailing, and it comes with a 1-year warranty, which provides peace of mind to make sure that it does everything the user needs it to do without messing up.
It is not as strong as some other pancake compressors, but it still provides an ample amount of power for most DIY house projects and small business projects. Another great aspect about this compressor is that it has a maintenance-free pump that doesn’t ever require oil.
This makes maintaining the compressor easier than the old types of compressors that required oil frequently to run properly and efficiently. It also comes with a high flow regulator and couplers, which is what helps to maximize the user’s tool performance.
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The Porter-Cable C2002 is a Oil-free pancake compressor, and it has a six-gallon tank, which packs a nice punch for such a small machine. It has a maximum of 150 psi, which helps with the run time of the machine. In the past, people would have to purchase huge compressors if they had a job that was going to take a large amount of time to complete, but not with the C2002.
It has a water drain valve and rubber feet to help make it stationary, and the rubber feet are designed so that it can be placed on any type of flooring and not cause rips, scrubs, or tears.
The C2002 has a low amp consumption of 120 volts, and due to this, it can be run easily in cold weather, but it can safely be used with an extension cord, as well. Unlike other pancake compressors, the C2002 has two regulated couplers, which makes it possible for two people to use the compressor at the same time to cut a project’s time in half.
Plus, it only weighs about 30 pounds. Therefore, it’s easily moved from place to place as needed, without a lot of effort. The pump on the C2002 is an oil-free pump, which means, there is less mess when using it. There is no reason to worry about oil spills in the working area, and it makes it a lot easier to maintain and even more efficient throughout the life of the compressor.
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The DWFP55126 holds to the DeWalt product name. It provides a compact and easily movable compressor that can be taken anywhere with ease. It has a maximum of 165 PSI, which allows it to hold pressure better and longer than many other competitors. It has a six-gallon tank available, and it comes with a high efficiency motor. This allows the user to use it even in cold weather, with ease, or even with an extension cord.
For the best airflow results with this compressor, it should be placed at least a foot away from any sort of wall or furniture. This will help to ensure that the hose has plenty of room to get the maximum amount of air flow possible. The DWFP55126 only uses 120V, 60Hz, or 10 amps, depending on the type of power supply available. This makes it extremely easy to use, regardless of where the project takes place.
This product weighs approximately 32 pounds, which makes it easy to move from place to place, and it even has a handle to make it easier and more accessible to carry. It has rubber on the feet of the compressor, which means it can be placed on most types of flooring without worrying about any scratches, scuffs, or tears in the flooring material. They also help to keep the compressor from vibrating out of position, while it is running.
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#4. Excell U256PPE 6 Gallon Pancake Air Compressor
The U256PPE is a small and compact pancake air compressor that has a lot of excellent features that makes it stand out against its competition. It can run in proprietary cold weather, like -24 degrees F or -31 degrees C. It can also run off 7.5 amps, which makes it easy to use just about anywhere. It has a UMC that is oil free, which provides it with a long life, without the messy oil maintenance, and it can operate on a 16 ga. extension cord.
Unlike many other products, the U256PPE’s control panel is conveniently located. It has a single hand operation quick connect, and this is excellent for allowing the user to quickly change between applications, when needed. Plus, the regulators and gauges are placed in a convenient fashion to make it easy to use. It has a heavy-duty hand and cord wrap that makes moving and storing this pancake compressor easier and more convenient.
The motor has 1.5 horsepower, which is high for a compact compressor, which means that it will provide plenty of output in order to continuously work through any of the user’s projects, big or small. It has a maximum of 150 PSI, which means that it can sustain compression for longer than many other competitor compressors of this size.
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This Campbell Hausfeld FP2028 pancake compressor is designed to be stationary, but it is still easily moved from job site to job site. It can be run on 120V of electricity, and the motor puts out about 1 horsepower, making it exceptionally good for small jobs. It comes with a 1-year warranty, which covers replacement parts if something goes wrong with the compressor. It delivers a maximum of 100 PSI, which is excellent for fastening and inflation projects.
It comes with a durable handle, which makes moving the compressor form one job site to another a lot easier, and it comes with rubber tips on the legs to make sure that it doesn’t cause any damage to the flooring that it is placed on. This compressor is a lot smaller than the other options that people look at, which make it perfect for moving and storing it in tight places.
It comes with a 25-foot recoil hose, which makes it easy to complete jobs that have a larger area, without the hassle of having to constantly pick up the compressor moving it from place to place. This is a 1 gallon oil-free compressor, which makes it the most ideal for its price range for someone that just needs to use it on occasion for smaller projects.
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best pancake compressor
Overall, the best out of the top five compressors reviewed above is the Bostitch BTFP02012. Out of all the compressors, it provides the most bang for one's buck. For instance, it's easy to move and handle, but it can handle some of the larger jobs that the other compressors cannot handle.
It has everything all in one, and it comes with a 1 year warranty, which provides peace of mind in case something goes wrong with it after using it for a bit. it is a little heavier than some of the other models that were reviewed, but it is also one of the quietest models available, and it doesn't have strong vibrations that could cause issues to the flooring that it sits on.
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Each of the reviewed compressors is a quality compressor, but it is important to make sure you read the review and do your own research before making your final selection. There are pros and cons to each of the compressors that set them apart from their competitors, and each one specializes in different aspects that one might need an air compressor for.
However, out of all of the compressors, the Bostitch BTFP02012 is definitely worth looking into, and it should be researched by anyone looking to purchase one. Here are a few different aspects that you should consider and research before making the final selection for yourself, though.
Benefits of Using Pancake Compressors
pancake compressor Buying Guide
When researching which compressor is best for you, it is important to know what you are planning to use the compressor for. Some compressors handle certain jobs better than others, and some are not capable of doing other jobs at all. For instance, some pancake compressors will not inflate a tire, and if that is what you plan on using it for, then it is important not to purchase that particular product.
Another aspect to watch out for is the noise that it causes. All compressors are different and each one causes different amounts of noise. If you are planning on a job where excessive noise my be an issue or you do not like using ear plugs, then you want to ensure that the compressor you choose does not make a lot of noise.
Commonly Asked Questions
What’s the best pancake compressor?
There are many different types of pancake air compressors. Depending on your needs, some pancake air compressors may be better than others. Some of the best pancake compressors include the Bostich Pancake Compressor and the DeWalt Heavy-Duty Pancake Air Compressor.
Are pancake compressors any good?
Pancake air compressors that are designed well and are constructed solidly can be great options for those who are looking for a quality air compressor. Air compressors that are highly regarded are typically those that refill quickly.
What is a pancake air compressor?
Pancake air compressors are compact and lightweight. How much they can carry can range from one to six gallons. Pancake air compressors are known for being low maintenance and very portable.
Which is better: pancake or hot dog air compressor?
If you are looking for the best air compressor for inflation, most individuals opt for the pancake air compressor. While the hotdog air compressor may be more efficient for certain jobs, the pancake air compressor is much more portable and quieter.
How long do pancake compressors last?
Pancake air compressors can last for a long time, depending on how well they are maintained and how they are stored. Most brands of pancake air compressors offer a one year warranty that covers the product.
Who makes craftsman pancake compressors?
Craftsman pancake air compressors are made by the brand Craftsman and can be found at most outdoor supply stores, such as Lowes. The pancake compressor created by Craftsman features an oil-free pump feature.
What is the best small air compressor?
There are many small and compact air compressors on the market. These air compressors are easy to use and easy to transport. Some of the most popular small air compressors are California Air Tools 10020C and DeWalt Trim Compressor.
What is the quietest air compressor?
There may be certain instances where a person may want to have a quiet air compressor. This could be due to not wanting to add to noise pollution or not wanting to disturb their neighbors. Some quieter options include the Makita MAC2400 Big Bore air compressor and the Campbell Hausfield model.
Can a pancake compressor inflate tires?
If you are wanting an option to inflate regular auto aires, a pancake air compressor can do the trick. There are many different options when it comes to pancake compressors, so consumers can decide between many different price points.
Is a 100 psi air compressor good?
When judging the quality of air compressors, it is not typically advised to do so based on the air compressors psi. A wide majority of all air compressors will provide enough pressure for tools and various tasks. When judging off of psi, you will also need to compare the tank size.
How much do tires inflate while driving?
When the temperature outside increases, the pressure in your tires will also increase. Tire pressure could increase up to 10 psi, depending on the temperature.
Should I keep air in my compressor?
It is important to drain your air compressor after each use. Allowing water to pool in your air compressor can weaken the system and even compromis it. You will need to release the air in your compressor and try to let out all the condensation that has built up.
How big of an air compressor do I need?
The size of the tank you need on your air compressor can depend on your needs. If you are looking for a garage air compressor for multiple tools, you will need one with a larger tank. If you are looking one for tire inflation, you will not need as large of a tank.
What is a twin stack air compressor?
If you need more tanks than a twin stack air compressor may be recommended. This is because twin stack air compressors consist of two tanks. This is generally recommended for those that need a garage air compressor to power air-tools.
How long do portable air compressors last?
Air compressors are considered to be very durable tools and as long as they are well maintained, can last for a long time. Air compressors generally last around ten years, but could last up to twenty.
How many watts is a pancake air compressor?
Watts of a pancake air compressor can vary. The wattage helps to power the air to move back and forth. In general, wattage while air is being compressed can vary from 180 to 200 watts.
Why are air compressors so loud
There are several reasons why an air compressor is considered to be loud. Inside an air compressor, metal is hitting against metal which can produce a loud noise. The pressure inside the machine can also cause a loud rumbling noise.
What should I look for when buying an air compressor?
Before purchasing an air compressor, you will want to assess your needs. Some factors that you can consider when purchasing an air compressor is the size of the tank, air pressure, and horsepower.
How many types of air compressors are there?
There are many different types of air compressors that are on the market. It is important to research these individual types to find the best one for you and your needs. Some types of different air compressors include axial compressors and reciprocating air compressors.
What compressor do I need for a nail gun?
Nail guns generally do not require that they have a continuous air supply. This means that in order to power a nail gun, you will only need a compressor that has 2 CFM, as well as a 2 gallon to 6 gallon capacity.
What is the 4 psi rule?
A good rule of thumb for measuring tire pressure is the 4 psi rule. This rule states that inflated tires after the vehicle has traveled should measure 4 psi greater than when they were previously measured before the vehicle traveled.
Final Verdict
Finally, Air compressors are meant to compress air. Therefore, weighing the horsepower and PSI that each compressor provides is important. Some need a higher amp or voltage to run, and if you purchase a higher voltage compressor, you might have to invest in other adapters to make sure that you can run it wherever you are using it at.
