10 Best Pancake Air Compressors Reivewed For A Buyer in 2021

Before you get deceived by the name of the product, let us clarify by saying that they aren’t meant for your pancakes. These are the multipurpose air compressors that are shaped like a pancake and hence the name. The pancake air compressor features a lightweight and durable design that can hold in excess air to help blow up your footballs, tyres, etc. especially when you are on the go.

These are the ideal oil-free pump that requires little to no maintenance and lasts quite a while. We have researched through hundreds of available best pancake air compressors in the market to bring you a list of the top 10 products.

Best Pancake Air Compressors – Reviews

1.Porter Cable C2002 Pancake

• Power source: Electric
• Dimensions: 19 x 18 x 20.94 inches
• Capacity: 6 gallon

When talking about the best pancake compressor in the market, the Porter-Cable C2002 Pancake is the best option, hands down. It features a pancake style tank that provides optimal stability and heightened capacity.

It is an oil-free pump, which is considered a best-selling product, especially because of the high-performance design. It features a 0.8 HP motor, which works with a seamless function for a better user experience. The air can be pressurized up to 150 PSI, which again is a benefit.

It weighs under 34lbs, which is not the most lightweight option but a pretty decent pick concerning the portability of the product. It also comes with an integrated power cord wrap and dual-factory installed air couplings that further accentuates the functions.

Pros

• Portable and durable design
• Budget-friendly
• High air pressure

Cons

• Not a noiseless item

2. Bostitch Air Compressor Kit

Power source: AC

Dimensions: 21.13 x 19.5 x 18 inches

Capacity: 6 gallon

For the users looking for the best value pancake compressor in the market, the Bostitch Air Compressor Kit is a pretty great option. It features a cordless design that makes it ideal for using anywhere you need.

It is one of the few best pancake air compressors that come with the 18-gauge brad nails that can come in handy for a plethora of functions. Even this one has a maximum air pressure of 150 PSI, which provides scfm at 90 PSI easily.

The kit is integrated with a 0.9 HP motor, which works seamlessly throughout the year, even during the harsh winter months. The low noise operation of this air compressor is another benefit of the product you wouldn’t regret looking into.

Pros

• Oil-free machine
• Low-noise production
• Cordless design

Cons

• Overpriced

3. DeWalt 165-PSI Heavy-Duty Air Compressor

• Power source: Electric
• Dimensions: 17.2 x 16.6 x 20.1 inches
• Capacity: 6 gallon

If you don’t want to compromise on the performance of the pancake air compressor you are buying, we’d suggest you invest in the DeWalt 165-PSI Heavy-Duty Air Compressor. Unlike all the other pancake compressors, this one has a high-performing motor and seamless functions.

It is equipped with a 0.9HP motor with 6 gallons capacity, making it an ideal option for high flow and maximize air tool performance. It comes with an oil-free pump that makes it easier to pump more air into the tank without any compromise.

The compressor in this item also couples in as a flow regulator to enable uninterrupted flow of the air pressure without any interruptions. It also produces less noise during operation, only producing around 75dB, which is perfect for all-day performance.

Pros

• High air pressure
• Low noise operation
• Easy start with an efficient motor

Cons

• Doesn’t come with accessories

4. Metabo KNT50AB HPT Air Compressor

• Power source: Electric
• Dimensions: 16.5 x 16.5 x 18.5 inches
• Capacity: 6 gallon

The Metabo KNT50AB HPT Air Compressor premium quality air compressor that is suitable for normal household use and commercial usage as well. It is an extremely durable construction and is highly portable, making this an ideal option for everyday usage.

Despite the 6 gallons high capacity of this item, it is pretty lightweight and easy to carry around whenever needed. The host is backed with industrial fittings that further make it one of the best available options in the market.

It comes with a 13 piece accessory kit that includes the much-needed safety glasses and the tool lubricant for easier usage. They don’t necessarily come with all the accessories but it does fit in all the basic needs that you need to get started with.

Pros

• 6-gallon tank capacity
• Lightweight and portable
• Durable construction

Cons

• Overpriced

5. Campbell Hausfeld DC060500

• Power source: Corded electric
• Dimensions: 16 x 23 x 16 inches
• Capacity: 6 gallon

If there’s one brand that stands out when discussing pancake air compressor, it is Campbell Hausfeld. It has been a trusted brand since the 1800s, ensuring that every product that you buy is worth every penny you spare.

This specific model of pancake air compressor is made for their noise reduction series, providing the users with a silent and noise-free operation without any hassle. It features a 1HP induction motor, which is a lot more powerful compared to all the other options in the market.

The air delivery through this compressor is at 2.4 SCFM at 90 PSI, which is pretty great for a starting point item in such an affordable price range. It comes with an oil-free design with four times the efficiency that makes it a worthy investment.

Pros

• Extremely quiet operation
• Dual-piston pump and high-quality motor
• Low current draw

Cons

• Heavy design

6. Craftsman Air Compressor

• Power source: Electric
• Dimensions: 16.5 x 16.5 x 17.88 inches
• Capacity: 6 gallon

If you are specifically looking for the best pancake air compressor with a 13 piece accessory kit, the Craftsman Air Compressor is a good option. It matches up to the quality of Campbell Hausfeld but is available for a much more affordable price point.

It is a highly portable and functional air compressor that you can carry around with ease and without the need for constant maintenance, mainly because it comes with an oil-free design. It comes with a highly portable and lightweight design that further makes it a worthy investment.

The air compressor features a 0.8HP motor, which is not necessarily the most powerful of the lot but lives up to the expectations of the users. The oil-free pump machine is built to last, enabling the users to experience a frost-free function and design as well.

Pros

• Lightweight and portable design
• Durable build
• Oil-free design

Cons

• Motor quality is average

7. Campbell Hausfeld 1-Gallon Air Compressor

• Power source: Corded electric
• Dimensions: 11.18 x 11.01 x 10.63 inches
• Capacity: 6 gallon

Another popular Campbell Hausfeld product worth mentioning is the Campbell Hausfeld 1-Gallon Air Compressor. This one has a premium design and high-functionality that makes it an ideal option for your everyday usage.

It is ideal for smaller jobs and trivial needs, so if you are looking for a pancake air compressor for commercial needs, we wouldn’t recommend using this one. It features a 0.33HP motor, which is not the most powerful option around in the market.

This Campbell Hausfeld model features the accessory brad nailing that makes the usage of this compressor a lot easier, especially with inflating tyres and other items around. The best thing about this product is the lightweight and portable design.

Pros

• Extremely lightweight
• Available in multiple capacities
• Comes with additional accessories

Cons

• Low power and air compression

8. PowerMate Air Compressor

• Power source: Electric
• Dimensions: 12.8 x 11.81 x 14.33 inches
• Capacity: 1 gallon

Next on the list of the best pancake air compressors is the PowerMate Air Compressor. Unlike all the other options in the market, this one has a promising list of functions that everything lives up to. It comes with a very lightweight and compact design that is perfect for you to carry around with ease.

But, this is only suited for small jobs and household air compression needs because the capacity runs out pretty fast and without any warning at all. The integrated handle makes it easier to maneuver and prevents the risks of strain or issues with the workload. It has an ergonomic design.

It does come with a few accessories in the kit but you can’t necessarily expect every single one that you need for smoother operations. The rubber feet on the bottom of the compressor prevents further risks of damage and keeps everything stable.

Pros

• Highly portable
• Integrated handle
• Comes with accessories

Cons

• Lower capacity

9. Campbell Hausfeld Portable Quiet Air Compressor

• Power source: Electric
• Dimensions: 16 x 23 x 16 inches
• Capacity: 6 gallon

For the users who want a noiseless operation with high-quality performance, the Campbell Hausfeld Portable Quiet Air Compressor is no doubt the best option. It comes with a 6-gallon capacity but with a lightweight and portable design that is easy to carry around.

It has a maximum air pushing capacity of 2.4 CFM in total, which is not a bad option for a 6-gallon air tank. The compressor also comes equipped with a 1 HP engine, which is ideal for heavy-duty work without any hassle at all.

It features 50% reduced noise, which is pretty impressive compared to all the other available pancake air compressors in the market. The soft-grip steel handle is also ideal for easier operations and gives it an ergonomic design.

Pros

• High capacity option
• Heavy-duty motor
• Reduced noise production

Cons

• Overpriced

10. Ridgid 6-Gallon Portable Pancake Compressor

• Power source: Electric
• Dimensions: 17.13 x 19.75 x 17.13 inches
• Capacity: 6 gallon

Last on the list of the best pancake air compressor is this one from Ridgid. It is one of the most underrated options but features all the latest features and a maintenance-free design. It is built with high-quality elements that make this an ideal purchase.

It also comes with the ideal 6-gallon air capacity with 150 PSI maximum air pressure to get your work done with efficiency and no issues at all. It features an oil-free pump that is easy to clean and maintain. This pancake air compressor is also one of the few to be backed with 3 years warranty.

Compared to the Porter cable c2002, this one produces around 80dB noise, which is a lot less in comparison. The low voltage starting motor makes it one of the best pancake compressors in the market. Even with the overpriced cost, it is one of the most coveted options.

Pros

• High air pressure
• Backed with a 3-year warranty
• Low noise production

Cons

• Overpriced

Buying Guide To A Pancake Air Compressor

Before buying a pancake air compressor, we’d suggest you look through the following list of factors and tick them off your checklist before making the final purchase.

PSI reading

When dealing with air compressors, it goes without saying that you need to consider the maximum air pressure readings. Getting one with at least 90PSI is considered ideal but you can go above the range, depending on your requirements.

Capacity

The capacity of the air tank is also worth checking. The 6-gallon tank capacity is considered the standard option in the market. But, if required, you can get one that has a lower or higher capacity than 6 gallons, depending on what your needs are.

Type of machinery

Another important factor worth considering is the type of machinery it comes with. We’d suggest getting the oil-free pump since it is a lot easier to clean and maintain.

Noise

Since we are talking about air compressors, there are no two ways about the fact that you will come across models that create less and more noise, depending on their motors and functions. Try and invest in a pancake air compressor that comes creates less noise compared to the other relevant options in the market.

Best Pancake Air Compressor: FAQs

Are Pancake Compressors worth the price?

Yes, if you are particularly looking for durable, stable, and portable air compressors in the market for your day to day work, these are the best options. The pancake air compressor works for multiple uses, making it a very versatile option as well.

What are some limitations to the pancake compressors?

If this is your first time buying a pancake air compressor, you likely wouldn’t be aware of the shortcomings. But, they do come with a few downsides, especially with that of the reduced capacity and compression abilities.

Do the pancake compressors come with a warranty?

Yes, since these are electrical items for long-term usage, the majority of them do come with the needed warranty details. Just ensure that you follow through with the readings to get a better outlook of the warranty details of the product.

Conclusion

With so many different types of pancake compressors available in the market, choosing just one becomes extremely confusing. We have sorted out the top available products for you, ranging from the best budget option to the best design and performance. Always check through the individual features before deciding on one.