The days are gone when you had to deal with heavy air compressor whether it for a professional DIY project or for your simple home activities. Because you can’t deny the need of an air compressor for work like inflating tries or air mattresses or for operated with a wrench, grinder, paint spray, drill and so on.
Consequently, all those work can be done easily with the help of the best pancake air compressor which is the perfect example of modern creation.
A pancake air compressor is different than traditional heavyweight air compressor that offers enough flexibility and portability in your work.
Since the tank/body of this air compressor look like a pancake so it names like that. These are the most creative and current models of air compressors that are perfect for both home and professional use.
So without further talk let’s see the different model pancake compressors that are offered by the top-rated brands.
Our Top Pick 10 Best Pancake Air Compressor List
In order to get you the best pancake air compressor among 100 options, we have made this list with the latest air compressor. Besides making your decision easy and help you to find out which air compressor you actually need.
We have added a buying guide, frequently asked questioned and additional information regarding the mentioned topic.
Now without wasting any more second let’s start with our first pick!
1. PORTER-CABLE C2002-WK Oil-Free UMC Pancake Compressor
Features
- Tank capacity: 6 Gallons
- Weight: 34 Pounds
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Pressure: 150 PSI Max
Porter-cable pancake compressor is the most demanded air compressor at present times that gain super popularity due to its fantastic feature. It comes with all those qualities and even a few extra virtues that every air compressor should have.
With said, the design of the model is purely elegant that structure in the pancake tank along with a hot red color finish. The overall dimension of the model is 18.3 x 18 x 19 inches.
For the outstanding operator system, the model is build up with 6 gallon capacity along with a 150PSI pressure allowance. Besides it works in low-amp 150 volt which can be easily started with an extension cord.
Likewise, the manufacturer adds two couplers so two users can use it at the same time. Therefore, the 120-volt motor keeps it stable even in cold weather so no need to worry about its functionality.
However, to stand on the place the manufacturers add rubber feet and for enough stability have a water drain valve.
For easy it has shroud, handle and console cover that not only keeps it easy to move rather also protects it from damage. Once more it has an oil-free pump so it needs low maintenance.
Moreover, our selected air compressor comes with 13 pieces of extra accessories including blowgun, 25-foot nylon hose, tire chuck, quick coupler, plugs and few more. So you don’t need to buy any extra pieces.
Lastly, we have presented here the compressor and accessories set but they have also only compressor available. So you can take according to your budget and need.
Pros
- Ideal for all type of weather
- Require low maintains
- Oil-free pump
- Stranded 6 gallon capacity
- Included two couplers
Cons
- Bit louder
2. BOSTITCH Pancake Air Compressor, Oil-Free
Features
- Tank capacity: 6 Gallons
- Weight: 31 Pounds
- Voltage: Not mention
- Pressure: 150 PSI
In the second number position, we have another famous model namely Bostitch pancake air compressor. It is one of the best air compressors that have fantastic features and functionality similar to our previous model.
The compressor is beautifully designed in pancake shape along with the impressive yellow color coating. The full product dimension is 17 x 17 x 19.2 inches and the weight is much light 31 pounds. Means lightweight then Porter-cable that you have in 1st position.
Similar to the Porter-cable C2002 it has the same operating system. Yes, it has the 6.0-gallon capacity and allows 150PSI pressure. Besides having two couplers so you can use two tools at a time or can allow using two people.
Likewise, oil-free mechanisms that can be operated in extreme cold weather and of course require very low maintenance.
Unlike Porter-cable C2002 it is less in noise which is just 78dBA loud so very convenient for both indoor and outdoor use.
In the case of portability, the device not only lightweight rather comes with a carrying handle that makes it easy to transfer from one place to another.
Only one issue, the manufacturer does not include a hose or gun kit with the device which a user has to buy separately.
This model is a bit pricy then our 1st included air compressor. It is available in many sets including 2 tools, 3 tools, only compressor and a few more so you can choose which one you need.
Pros
- Quick set up motor
- Low noise level
- Oil-free engine
- Having two couplers
- Included duel air gauges
Cons
- The accessories have to buy separately
3. DEWALT Pancake Air Compressor
Features
- Tank capacity: 6 Gallons
- Weight: 32.1 Pounds
- Voltage: 120 Volt
- Pressure: 165 PSI
Dewalt pancake compressor is again the finest piece of air compressor that has a similar configuration with our above mention, two models. At first glance, you might get confused among Dewalt DWFP55126 and Bostitch BTFP02012 Compressor for their outlook.
Since both, the model has appeared in the yellow color finish. Besides the handle, couplers and motor are almost the same in design. But of course, they are different in a few features, function, and weight.
Well, the mentioned model full product dimension is 17.2 x 16.6 x 20.1 inches and weight is 32.2 IB.
However, the main difference lies between the above two models and this one is its operating system. The particular model allows 165PSI pressure and the staring time is very quick and smooth. Likewise, it is having soft 75.5dBA noise level that is quite low compared to other air compressors.
Therefore it also works great in acute cold weather and the noise level is much low so you can use it both indoor and outdoor work.
On the other hand, for easy maintenance, the manufacture adds console cover that can be easily removed for repair. Plus it is again an oil-free engine so you can avoid routine maintenance.
Moreover, for supporting two person it has also two couplers and for stability features with non-marring rubber leg.
If you need noise-free and more pressure in your work then this one is an ideal choice for you. And the price tag is not so high compared to other air compressors.
Pros
- Quick starting motor
- Comes with double couplers
- Make low noise
- Allow high pressure
- Non-marring stable feet
Cons
- Many complain against air leaking issue
4. CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor, 6 gallon
Features
- Tank capacity: 6 Gallons
- Weight: 32.5 Pounds
- Voltage: 120 Volt
- Pressure: 150 Bar
The next best pancake air compressor we have taken from CRAFSMAN brand which is again a 6-gallon pancake shape compressor. It is much less in price when compared with our above mention 3 models.
In spite of low price tag, this air compressor is delightfully design in a red and black color coating along with stander weight measure. Manufacturer offer it in few ways like compressor and 13 piece tool set, only compressor and compressor and hand tool set.
No matter which one you buy in every set the compressor dimension is 16.5 x 16.5 x 17.9 inches and weight is finely portable 32.5 pounds.
In the case of an operating system, the device allows you to maximum 150PSI pressure whereas the noise level remains 78.5 DBA. These settings help you to start the motor quickly even in cold weather.
The air compressor has double couplers like our previous 3 model so 2 users can use it at a time or one user can use two tools at a time.
Moreover, enough traction comes with rubber feet and for effortless maintenance having an oil-free engine. So you don’t need to worry about safety and repairs.
Our selected model comes with 13 piece accessory kits including tire chuck and a blowgun with plug, OSHA safety nozzle, rubber tips, 25”x1/4 inches PVC air hose, plug assemble and few more. Consequently, if you take this model you don’t need to buy any single thing separately.
Pros
- Budget-friendly price tag
- High efficient motor
- Offer multiple options to choose from
- Included 13 piece accessories
Cons
- Loud so not ideal for indoor use
5. Hitachi KNT50AB Brad Nailer and Compressor Combo Kit
Features
- Tank capacity: 6 Gallons
- Weight: 47 Pounds
- Voltage: Not mention
- Pressure: 150 PSI
The next we have caught a Hitachi air compressor which is quite unique in design, feature, and functionality from our above mention model. It is especially suited for those who want to do any cabinetry project whether for an indoor or outdoor place.
With said it is exclusively designed in grey and black color combo which is really a rear color combination in an air compressor. The tank is shaped in a pancake pattern and the capacity of the tank is 6 gallons.
The full product dimension is 17 x 18 x 22 inches and weight is 47 pounds which is weighty if you compare with other air compressors.
The most noticeable feature of the model is its included 18 gauge bran nail that has the capacity of 100 nails. Likewise, it allows users to maximize the pressure in 150PSI that again made it perfect for all sorts of jobs.
Simile to our included other air compressor it also offers an oil-free engine. And you can work in extremely cold weather so you don’t need to worry about weather change.
Lastly, for security the manufacturer offers safety glasses and pneumatic lubricant that adds extra facility in working hour.
It comes with 25”x 1/4 inches hybrid air hose and nail set so will be a perfect fit if you work with the nail. Besides its spiral reinforced setting makes it durability and safe in use.
Pros
- Comes with brad nail
- Ideal for a cabinet project
- Included 25 feet air hose
- Allow 150PSI pressure
- Long-lasting durability
Cons
- Weighty
6. PORTER-CABLE PCFP12234 3-Tool Combo Kit
Features
- Tank capacity: 6 Gallons
- Weight: 30.4 Pounds
- Voltage: 120V
- Pressure: 150 PSI
We again back with porter cable brands another air compressor namely PCFP12234. Whereas out 1st model comes with 13 piece accessories set and our 6th number model comes with a 3- tool combo kit. Both have a few similarities and differences let’s explore them.
Well, the first similarities between our included two porters cable air compressor are both are design in a pancake shape. In fact, a color coating is also the same means both are appeared in red color finish and having 6-gallon capacity tank.
The full product dimension is 22.5 x 20.4 x 20.6 inches and weight is 30.4 that are lighter than the PORTER-CABLE C2002-WK model.
However, this particular model allows a user to maximum 150PSI pressure and can be operated in cold and hot weather. Likewise, it has two-coupler so you use it alone or with your partner it has this capability.
The user mainly loved this compressor because of its included a 3-tool combo kit that has 16 GA 2-1/2 inch finish nailer, 18 GA 2-inch brad nailer and heavy-duty 3/8 inch crown staplers.
All these tools make this model a super bargain and flexible for all sorts of DIY projects. Moreover like our other model it is also an oil-free mechanism and requires low maintenance.
Overall it is an excellent bargain air compressor for nailer base indoor and outdoor projects. The manufacturer included 25 ft of ¼ inch air hose with a coupler and plug, belt hook and fasteners that add extra convenience.
Pros
- Comes with a 3-tool combo kit
- For heavy-duty work
- Having Additional 25 ft air hose
- Two coupler
- Bargain price tag
Cons
- The manual is difficult to understand
7. Air Compressor, 1 Gallon, Pancake, Oilless Pump
Features
- Tank capacity: 1 Gallons
- Weight: 14.73 Pounds
- Voltage: 120V
- Pressure: 100 PSI
After introducing the 7 best 6 gallons air compressors we have now comes with most portable and 1 gallons compressor. It is one of a fantastic example of a space-saving, portable air compressor that is super in feature and functionality.
Starting with the design, it is beautifully designed in the blue and black color finish along with an additional 25 feet recoil hose. The tank capacity is 1 gallon and shape in the pancake pattern.
The full product dimension is 12 x 12 x 16 inches and the weight is very light 14.73 which makes the device extremely portable to carry.
Apart from design, it comes with all those need extra tools including recoil hose, needle, needle adapter, 2 inflator nozzles, air chuck. Besides the storage, this entire thing in a place comes with on board’s storage to keep them organized.
The maximum pressure capacity of the device is 100PSI that makes it ideal for any small sort of work. For example, you can inflate your car tire, bike tires, sport ball, airbrushing and so on. Even more, you can clean your home garage or any type of cleaning job with the help of this little air compressor.
Lastly, it is an oil-free device and very lightweight so you can easily carry the air compressor whenever you want.
Honestly speaking, this air compressor will be a perfect fit for you looking for a small and portable device. But be remembering it is not the ideal model to heavy work for a long time because it has only 1-gallon tank capacity.
Pros
- Truly portable device
- Included all need accessories
- Perfect for home base small work
- Maintenance-free air compressor
- Easy to operate with
Cons
- Not for heavy-duty work
- Small but loud
8. Campbell Hausfeld 6 Gallon Portable
Features
- Tank capacity: 6 Gallons
- Weight: 62 Pounds
- Voltage: 120V
- Pressure: 125 PSI
If you are looking for the best pancake air compressor for any painting project whether indoor or outdoor then this particular model is for you. We have taken this from Campbell Hausfeld brand who are in this manufacturing industry since 1836.
Eventually, the selected model is available in two different shapes and tank capacity whereas we have picked the pancake shape 6 gallons one. It is appeared in blue and black color finish and made in a pure metal component.
The full product dimension is 16 x 23 x 16 inches and the weight is heavy 62 pounds if you compared with our included other model.
The most attractive quality of the model is it offers an absolute less noise engine. The noise level is only 68dBA which is the most deficient in our top list.
Therefore comes with 6-gallon tank capacity and having an oil-free engine so you are free of any routine maintenance.
In addition, you can use a maximum of 125PSI pressure which we guess ideal for any type of small to minimum duty jobs. Plus for easy carry, the manufacturer adds soft-grip steel handle that adds comfort and convenience.
This is a perfect air compressor if you want the noiseless engine for you any type of project. Although but weighty but the other feature is great so you can avoid this one thing.
Pros
- Genuine noiseless air compressor
- Available in two different tank capacity
- Very quickly start
- Perfect for indoor and outdoor both
- Comes with a soft grip handle
Cons
- Heavyweight
9. Briggs & Stratton 6-Gallon Air Compressor
Features
- Tank capacity: 6 Gallons
- Weight: 40.8 Pounds
- Voltage: 120V
- Pressure: 130 Bar
For the 9th number place, we have selected an uncommon piece of air compressor. It is from brand’s Briggs and Stratton which is apparently not so popular brands like Porter-cable, Bostitch or Dewalt. But of course, it has a quality for which we put this into our top categories.
With said, the design is the first thing that made us choose it since it can be regarded as the best versatile compressor. It is designed in a few shapes including pancake, twin, hot dog, and air tank.
Although we have presented here a pancake shape tank and our selected model full dimension is 17 x 16 x 20 inches and furnished in matte black color.
Similar to the tank structure the air compressor offer 1 gallon, 2 gallons, 5 gallons, 6 gallons, 7 gallons, and 8-gallon size. While we have taken standard 6-gallon size to represent but of course you are free to take according to your need.
By the way, the pressure character will change according to the tank capacity and for the 6-gallon tank, you are allowed using a maximum of 135 bar pressure.
Like our all model it is an oil-free mechanism so doesn’t require high maintenance. For easy carry comes with a handle and to keep the accessories it is build up in accessories storage.
This is one of the most versatile air compressors that allow a user to choose as per their need. On the other part, it is the average type of air compressor and can be used for both indoor and outdoor use.
Pros
- Offer different shape and size
- Uncommon design
- Build-in accessories storage
Cons
- Not durable enough
- Not for heavy job
10. WEN 2286 6-Gallon Oil-Free Pancake Air Compressor
Features
- Tank capacity: 6 Gallons
- Weight: 39.4 Pounds
- Voltage: Not mention
- Pressure: 150 Bar
For the next number model, we again choose a non-familiar brand air compressor namely WEN 2286. It is another finest compressor on our list that is inexpensive in price but offers few outstanding features.
Accordingly, it is designed in pancake shape along with a full black color finish. Our mention model tank capacity is 6 gallon but the manufacturer adds 6 gallons horizontal, 10 gallons and 20-gallon vertical compressor for every sort of minimum to heavy-duty jobs.
The full product dimension is 15.5 x 15 x 19 inches but if you take other models then the dimension will vary as per the tank capacity.
This air compressor will be a perfect fit in your garage, workshop or job site. Since it allows to plug-in staplers, nailer, pneumatic tool, sprays gun and other tools for painting or other types of indoor and outdoor places.
Besides, allow 150PSI pressure and comes with an auto shut down function so you can work reliably without worry about safety.
Moreover, the rubber foot leg maintains stability and the oil fee engine helps you to avoid maintenance cost and time.
The WEN 2286 comes with quick-coupler air that allows user effortless and quick change of one hose to another. It is budget-friendly and having an outstaying feature so you can, of course, try it.
Pros
- Offer few tank size to choose from
- Ideal for indoor user
- Super quick engine
- Having two pressure gauges
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Can hold the air for long hour
11. California Air Tools CAT-1P1060S Light & Quiet Portable Air Compressor
Features
- Tank capacity: 1 Gallons
- Weight: 29 Pounds
- Voltage: 110 Volt
- Pressure: 8.2 Bar
We have entitled our list as pancake air compressor catalog and also introduced with various sorts of pancake shape air compressors. In spite of our title and main focus category, we have forced to include one different type of air compressor in our top category.
Force or can’t resist our self because California air compressor bears fantastic feature. Well, it is one of the best hot dog air compressors that design in hot dog shape and offers super portability.
The full product dimension is 12.5 x 14.7 x 14.8 inches and very light in weight which is measure as 29 pounds.
Now at the point of functionality, this model can run though 110 volts and allow a user to maximize the pressure up t0 8.2 bar. Likewise comes with 1-gallon tank capacity that can hold air for long hours and make the device lightweight.
Another noticeable feature of the device is its nose level. It is very little noise that make only 56 decibels sound.
Therefore oil-free engines and quick start and shut down mechanism makes this model truly appealing.
We have included this small, 1-gallon air compressor into our list for those who are eagerly looking for a portable device. Besides, the price tag is very low compared to our other model so anyone can afford it.
Pros
- Genuine portable air compressor
- Inexpensive price tag
- Lightweight
- Only 56dBA noise level
- Oil-free pump
Cons
- No other size available
12. Campbell Hausfeld 8 Gallon Portable Quiet Air Compressor
Features
- Tank capacity: 8 Gallons
- Weight: 67 Pounds
- Voltage: 120 Volt
- Pressure: 8.6 Bar
The next number and last model is again not a pancake shape air compressor. It is from Campbell Hausfeld brands which another model already exists on our list. However, this one is the best vertical air compressor that has exclusive in design and color.
Eventually, it is presented in blue and black color glaze and large in size than our included the entire air compressor.
The full product dimension is 11 x 23 x 26 inches and similar to the size it is high in weight that is measured as 67 pounds.
Apart from design, the tank capacity is the main thing that insists us to put this into the list. It has a large 8-gallon tank capacity and allows a maximum of 8.6 bar pressure. In fact, it comes with a dual-piston pump system to provide high performance and long-lasting durability.
While it is large in size, weight is also high but the noise level of the device is only 68 DB. This excellent quality made the model perfect for the industrial job along with any home base project.
The size, oil-free engine, weight, noise level, pressure quality make this model ideal for the place where you need a long time support air compressor. And also require less noise device.
This model is fully dedicated to a professional used person but this does not mean a homeowner can’t use it.
Pros
- Perfect for heavy-duty work
- High tank capacity
- Duel piston pump system
- Low noise level
- Comes with a long handle
Cons
- Weight is much high
- Not ideal for the home base project
The thing you need to consider before buying The best pancake air compressor (Buying guide)
Undoubtedly we have made the best pancake air compressor list above but now the question must be coming then why this buying guide is needed right? Well, there are many things remain before your final decision which you should have to know about the air compressor.
In order to know which product is actually for you, there are several things to consider before your final approach? Consequently, we will discuss those entire things in this section. So let’s get a start.
Why you need the air compressor?
The first and foremost thing you have to think about air compressor that why actually you want to buy the device. Is it for your professional use? Or for your home base small project like painting, DIY project and so on. Lastly, you need the compressor for occasional use or for both professional and unprofessional use.
Ask all those questions to yourself then go-ahead for the next step.
Tank size or capacity
When you got the answer why you need an air compressor then other considerable things will easy for you. Consequently, if you need the device for home use then 1-gallon, 2-gallon, 3-gallon or maximum 6 tank size or capacity will be ok for you.
In case you need the air compressor for professional use then the tank capacity should be 6-gallon minimum to 30-gallon maximum depending on your work type. Since for professional use, you must need a high capacity tank.
Besides if you need occasional use air compressor then 1 gallon to 3-gallon tank capacity is ok. Air compressor is available in 1-gallon to 30-gallons tank capacity. So you can take according to your needs no problem.
But before the layout for shopping, you must have to decide what tank size you want to buy.
Operating system and pressure
The next most important consideration factor is the device operating system. Generally, air compressor manufacturers list three configuration systems and they are CFM, PSI, and dBA. Whereas PSA and CFM certify how powerful the operating system is.
CFM stands for Cubic feet per meet and PSI stands for pounds per square inch. So at the time of your purchase, you must have to check the CFM and PSI of the air compressor.
If you find 2.6 CFM and 90PSI for 6-gallon tank capacity in your compressor then you are going for the right one. However, CFM and PSI also vary according to tank capacity so check out this operating system is one of considerable factor before your purchase.
Oil or oil free pump
The engine is mainly two types one is oil-free which other name is an air compressor and another is oil running engine. Although maximum air compressors are building up in oil-free mechanisms in spite of that you have to check this function carefully.
Since if you choose an oil operating engine then you have to maintain your device on a routine basis. But if you go for an oil-free engine then you will be free from regular maintenance trouble. Because oil-free engine requires very low maintenance and go for a long time means having long-lasting durability.
Noise level or loudness
In the operating system, we already mention the term “DBA”. Yes DB, dba or decibel measure the air compressor noise level. Every 10db increases the noise level in two-layer for example if one air compressor having 50dba and the other has 60dba then 60dba is double noise then the 50dba air compressor.
So if you need an air compressor for an indoor project then you should safely check the device noise level rather you surely fall in trouble.
Size and weight
The next thing you have to consider an air compressor is the device size and weight. These two features are important if you want to carry the device from one place to another frequently.
However, lightweight and stander size help you carry it easily without other person help. We suggest you choose average weight air compressor but you should keep in mind the high capacity professional compressor never available at low weight.
So you need to check this carefully.
Having extra accessories or not
This is an optional but tricky fact which you can think about. Well, many manufacturers add extra accessories with the air compressor and many don’t add. Now it depends on you that you go for only the air compressor feature and functionality or check is there additional accessories added or not.
Having warranty?
Air compressors are not getting in cheap or low price right? So it is obvious you can’t go to buy the device every day. In this situation at the time of your purchase, you have to check is your selected compressor has a warranty or not.
Some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about pan cake air compressor
What is the difference between a pancake air compressor and hot dog air compressor?
Answer: Pancake air compressors are the most compact design compressors in the market today that available in 1-gallon to 6-gallon tank capacity. They are easy to storage and ideal for both professional and home use but bit weighty compare to the hot dog shape.
Hot dog air compressor, on the other hand, it’s lightweight, portable and available in a maximum 3-gallon tank capacity. Besides, it can’t be stored in small space and the maximum hot dog compressor is having oil base engine.
And a pancake air compressor an oil-free low maintenance device.
What are the features to look for a great air compressor?
Answer: There are few certain factors which you must have to look for in order to get super quality air compressor. And the features are- operating system, oil-free engine, size, weight, tank capacity and so on.
What are the brands make the best pancake air compressor?
Answer: We have already included those entire brands’ products on our top list that are making world-class pancake air compressor. In spite of that some noteworthy names are- Porter-cable, Bostitch, Dewalt, Hitachi and California Air Tools.
What tank capacity will be good for both professional and home project?
Answer: Well, this question is really very tricky and risky to answer because the tank capacity mainly depends on your work pressure and type. Although we come to know from customer review and many other sources that 6-gallon tank capacity might be fit well for both indoor and outdoor jobs.
But it really can’t be said in full confidently because how much work you want to do through the compressor determined its long hour capacity.
Final words
Every air compressor has entered our list for their outstanding feature, quality, functionality and good value. Hopefully, our best pancake air compress review will be helpful for you for your next or very first buy. To wrap up, we could say there is a variety of air compressor are now in the market.
But we selected the most appealing and quality product among 100 options. Lastly, we hope you find our information helpful and it will help you to choose and pick the great one for you. Best of luck!
