Review and Buying guide of the Best 30-Gallon Air Compressors 2020
The 30-gallon air compressor is a pretty standard type of compressor that is perfect for most small shops. This size is less portable than the 20-gallon air compressors but easy to install than the bigger 60-gallon air compressors. Also, because of their intensity and strength, they are perfect for any construction work at hand.
A 30-gallon air compressor is a technical machine that is often used at home, but also it is used for industrial applications. It provides adequate airflow to power most air tools with the capability of running more than one mechanic at a time. Also, they hold more air, allowing you to run more tools before the pressure drops, prompting the motor to refill the tank.
Also, 30-gallon air compressors are designed to have a high CFM rating, durable construction, and a powerful motor. These features are essential for powering heavy-duty pneumatic tools such as impact wrenches, grinders, or air drills. In addition, they vary based on price, type, design, and available components. However, it is crucial to choose an air compressor that is reliable, durable, and one that can supply sufficient air pressure to your tools.
Bearing that in mind, we have recommended five of the best 30-gallon air compressors in the market and a buying guide to help you pick the right air compressor for your job.
Comparison Table for the Best 30-Gallon Air Compressors
Compressor Name | Maximum Pressure | CFM @90 PSI | Our Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
155 PSI | 5.7 | 4.8 | ||
155 PSI | 5.7 | 4.6 | ||
135 PSI | 10.2 | 4.7 | ||
135 PSI | 5.7 | 4.3 | ||
175 PSI | 24.4 | 4.5 |
Air compressors have become a must-have in every workshop or garage thanks to their workhorse capabilities. Most compressors come with a multitude of uses, which is why it is important to choose one that is perfect for you. When buying a 30-gallon compressor, you will need to consider the quality of the motor, technical specifications, and the design of the pump. You will also need to think about the grade of materials used to ensure that you will get the best out of your compressor.
To ensure that our selection will address all questions regarding your needs, we made sure that our products differ on build, power, and capabilities. Alongside these, we factored in some personal choices such as color and style, ease of use, oil or oil-free models, among others. So without further delay, these are our recommendations for the best 30-gallon air compressors for your needs and budget.
1. Industrial Air ILA188354 ILA1883054"
Featuring heavy-duty components, Industrial Air ILA188354 is built to look as strong as it is and to last under the most demanding conditions. Also, it is easy to store due to its compact and vertical orientation, meaning that it will fit in any workspace. All the important components are located at the top enabling it to offer a great deal for its capacity.
Features and Benefits of Industrial Air ILA188354 ILA1883054"
Pros
Cons
Verdict:
The Industrial Air ILA188354 is exceptionally easy to use, and it offers incredible value and versatility. It is an excellent, basic type of compressor that delivers maximum performance and efficiency for its cost and functionality.
2. DeWalt DXCMLA1983054
The DEWALT 30 Gallon air compressor offers a classic cast-iron design that is very portable and lightweight. This compact design helps with light construction needs at the job site while also allowing for longer air tool run time. It delivers up to 155 PSI maximum operating pressure, which is perfect for high consumption air tools from nail guns to paint sprayers.
Features and Benefits of DeWalt DXCMLA1983054
Pros
Cons
Verdict:
This DeWalt 30 gallon air compressor fits well into any workspace, and it is a crucial equipment to any serious DIYer or professional. It holds enough air to handle average workshop air needs in an ultra-durable construction.
3. Campbell Hausfeld VT6271
Campbell Hausfeld VT6271 offers a sturdy single-stage air compressor that takes advantage of a strong engine to provide highly pressurized air for your pneumatic tools. With its powerful 3.7 HP motor, it can fill up its 30-gallon tank within minutes, allowing you to finish work quickly and with no wasted time. Also, it boasts of a quiet operation for comfort and convenience.
Features and Benefits of Campbell Hausfeld VT6271
Pros
Cons
Verdict:
Finish your projects faster and easier with the Campbell Hausfeld VT6271. Built for functionality, it does a great job of providing more than enough air with its safe ASME certified tank.
4. Ingersoll-Rand SS3F2-GM
Combining power and ideal portability, Ingersoll-Rand SS3F2-GM provides ease of use while maintaining its great functionality. It is an excellent choice for people who like DIY construction, and the good thing is it operates quietly. Although it is bulky, it makes it up with the power and duty cycle it delivers. Also, the cast iron frame is highly durable, making it withstands the majority of work environments.
Features and Benefits of Ingersoll-Rand SS3F2-GM
Pros
Cons
Verdict:
Boasting of an ergonomic and quiet compressor, Ingersoll-Rand SS3F2-GM delivers maximum air to do the job right, in less time. Perfect for home or on-site use, it can power grinders, impact guns, paint sprayers, and more.
5. NorthStar GX390
Breaking down in the middle of a task is the last thing you want to worry when using your compressor. NorthStar GX390 has been engineered with a dynamically balanced pump that keeps you working without interruptions. Besides, the Honda GX OHV engine delivers better fuel efficiency for greater power output, which also contributes to increased engine service life.
Features and Benefits of NorthStar GX390
Pros
Cons
Verdict:
NorthStar GX390 is a combination of brute power and portability, and it is worth considering if you are a professional user. It will rise to any challenge, and the result is a reliable and dependable operation year after year.
What to look for when buying 30-gallon air compressor
i. Airflow
One of the most important considerations when purchasing a 30-gallon compressor is the amount of airflow required for most common pneumatic tools. This is expressed in terms of CFM (cubic feet per minute), and as of thumb, the CFM of your air compressor should be higher than that of the power tool that needs to be powered. This will ensure that your equipment will be able to provide optimal airflow without straining.
If your tools use pressurized air faster than your unit can supply, you will be required to stop now and then to refill. The CFM is often rated at 90 psi, which is the average setting of a nail gun.
ii. Horsepower
Although most air compressor will require about 5/7 horsepower to function correctly, a 30-gallon compressor will only require about 2 to 4 horsepower. Though this may seem at the low end of the scale, it is perfectly adequate to fill up the tank with compressed air. However, horsepower is not directly connected to the delivery of compressed air to air tools. As such, you may want to consider the CFM that you require before you pay attention to the horsepower rating.
iii. Voltage requirements
Most 30-gallon compressors are capable of operating at 120 V which can then be to a 240 V circuit to get the best performance out of the unit. The increased voltage leads to less stress-strain on the unit at startup and also increased air pressure. Units that can run on 120 V or 240 V are a good option, especially when you need a machine that can last longer and one that requires far less startup time.
iv. Portable vs. truck mount air compressor
Choosing a truck-mounted air compressor will make a world difference when offering roadside services and other outdoor activities. This will give you the ability to carry a variety of air tools that you require to work on-site. A 30-gallon air compressor is designed to be installed directly on a service truck, and they are mostly gas-powered. Also, they are mainly used for outdoor applications, and they provide compressed air at a very high CFM.
Portable air compressors, on the other hand, have a lower CFM than truck-mounted versions and they are mostly electric-powered, which means that they require less maintenance. Also, they can be used for both indoor and outdoor applications, and they run quieter than their truck-mounted counterparts.
v. Vertical or horizontal tank compressor
Ideally, the shape of the tank does not in any way affect how a compressor performs. However, vertical compressors will come in handy if you have limited working space, or if the workshop that can offer a dedicated wall space for the machine. Horizontal compressors, on the other hand, tend to occupy more space, but you can fit them underneath a workbench to allow you to maximize your workspace.
Why Industrial Air ILA188354 ILA1883054"is our top pick
Now that you are well educated on the best available options when it comes to 30-gallon air compressors, you should be able to make an informed decision on your purchase. Although it was a close contest, the Industrial Air ILA188354 30 Gallon air compressor was our top pick for, among other reasons, the level of convenience and ease of use that other products don't have.
Also, it boasts of having the best pump on the market and industrial grade materials. Other features that set it apart from the rest include its great quick-set regulator, its quiet operation, and compatibility with both 120V and 240 V wiring.
In conclusion, when thinking about the best 30-gallon air compressor, it is important to start by determining what your needs are. Consider your future projects and what you need to do them efficiently. Finally, figure out which features on a compressor will meet those needs and those that will provide a satisfying experience.
