The 9 Best Pancake Compressors of 2023

Photo: Ridgid

The pancake compressor is one of the most common types of portable air compressors on the market.

One of its biggest advantages is that due to its pancake-shaped tank, it has a wide volume to store a lot of compressed air.

This form factor allows the pancake compressor to have a superior tank capacity when compared to other types of portable air compressors. So, the motor runs less and consumes less power making the pancake compressor more energy efficient.

Moreover, for those who need a high-capacity air compressor that remains portable, the pancake compressor is a great choice.

If you are fresh on the market for such a model, then our pancake compressor review below will guide you in the right direction. Let’s get to it!

9 Best Pancake Compressors – Review

IMAGE	PRODUCT	FEATURES
	1. Bostitch BTFP02012 (Most Affordable)	Competitively priced Excellent air delivery of 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI The motor is not affected by the cold. Instant start You can purchase it in different styles
	2. Porter-Cable C2002 (Easy to Use by Absolute Beginners)	Very easy to operate by absolute beginners Small and compact form factor Rubber soles for stability during operation You can purchase a renewed version for cheaper
	3. Porter-Cable PCFP02003 (Ultra-Small)	Very small and compact Decent air delivery of 2.0 SCFM for its size High flow regulator makes it easy to adjust the air delivery
	4. DeWalt DCC2560T1 (Most Portable)	Superior in terms of portability Roll cage provides protection Excellent built construction. Made in the USA
	5. DeWalt DWFP55126 (Superior Maximum Pressure)	High maximum pressure of 165 PSI Excellent air delivery of 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI No less than 2 gauges for monitoring the air pressure
	6. Campbell Hausfeld DC060500 (Available in Different Styles)	Can be purchased in different styles to suit your need Up to 50% quieter than other models An oil-free motor that is efficient and requires less maintenance
	7. Metabo HPT KNT50AB (Superior Build Construction)	Excellent built construction. Durable and long-lasting Comes as a complete kit. You get 25 feet of hose and an 18-gauge Brad Nailer The motor is efficient and compresses air fast
	8. Campbell Hausfeld HM750000AV (Versatile & Competitively Priced)	Competitive pricing Versatile. It can be used to power a wide range of tools Excellent air delivery of 2.5 SCFM at 90 PSI
	9. Ridgid OF60150HA (Safe & Accurate Pressure Reading)	The pressure reading is accurate Locking regulator system for safety The pressure gauge is easy to read

1. Bostitch BTFP02012 – Most Affordable Solution

Photo: Bostitch

• Tank capacity: 6 gallons
• Max. pressure: 150 PSI
• Air delivery: 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI
• Weight: 31 lbs

Not everybody can afford an expensive pancake compressor that costs several hundred dollars. This is where the Bostitch BTFP02012 comes into play. Based on price alone, this model is the best pancake compressor for the money.

And despite being more affordable, it still has excellent features as well as the great build construction made from steel. It will not rust or corrode over time and is quite durable and long-lasting.

Moreover, you get 2 gauges at the front that will show you the air pressure of the tank as well as the air delivery. You can also quickly and easily adjust the air delivery depending on your need by using the high flow regulator.

When it comes to the motor, no problem because it has been designed in such a way that it will not stall or have difficulty starting in cold weather. Simply push the power button, and it will start every single time.

What we also like about this model is that it has a high maximum pressure of 150 PSI as well as a superior air delivery of 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI. Despite being so small, it can still be used for medium to heavy-duty workloads.

You have the possibility to get this model in different styles depending on your needs. The only problem we have with this model is that despite being fitted with 2 gauges, they are quite small and difficult to read. Also, this model is a bit loud at 78.5 dB.

Pros:

• Very competitive pricing
• High air delivery of 2.6 SCFM and a maximum pressure of 150 PSI
• An efficient motor that is not affected by the cold
• Can be purchased in different styles

Cons:

• The gauges are small and someone difficult to read
• Louder than average at 78.5 dB

2. Porter-Cable C2002 – Easy to Use by Absolute Beginners

Photo: Porter-Cable

• Tank capacity: 6 gallons
• Max. pressure: 150 PSI
• Air delivery: 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI
• Weight: 31.3 lbs

The Porter-Cable C2002 contains all the features that make it very easy to use by absolute beginners. If you have never operated a pancake compressor before, then you will have no problem using this model.

At the front of this compressor, you will find 2 pressure gauges. You also have a high flow regulator that will allow you to adjust the air delivery of 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI with ease.

In addition, due to its very small size, this unit is one of the best portable pancake air compressors you can get. If you need to carry your compressor from location to location, then you should consider this unit

It also has a large cut capacity of 6 gallons as well as comes in different styles to suit your needs. As for the motor, it is fully oil-free, so you do not need to perform regular maintenance on it. Best, the feet are fitted with thick rubber soles that add stability to this compressor.

The only problems we have with this unit is it’s higher than average price and loud operation.

However, you can get the Porter-Cable C2002R which is a renewed version of the same model that is cheaper. It is a used product which has been factory-reconditioned and is like new.

Pros:

• Easy to operate by absolute beginners
• Small and compact form factor. Portable
• Rubber feet for stability
• You can buy a renewed version for less money

Cons:

• The price is a little bit high for this specific model
• Loud for a pancake compressor of this size

3. Porter-Cable PCFP02003 – Ultra-Small Pancake Air Compressors

Photo: Porter-Cable

• Tank capacity: 3.5 gallons
• Max. pressure: 135 PSI
• Air delivery: 2.0 SCFM at 90 PSI
• Weight: 26 lbs

There is no denying that the Porter-Cable PCFP02003 is one of the smallest pancake air compressors on the market. This model is very compact and once installed, it will not occupy a lot of space.

Moreover, despite its small size, it still has interesting features. For one, it has a higher maximum pressure of 135 PSI. This is mostly explained by its high-grade steel tank which is very durable.

Also, its air delivery of 2.0 SCFM at 90 PSI is very respectable for an air compressor of this size. With its weight of 26 lbs, you will have no problem transporting this compressor because it is quite lightweight.

We note the presence of rubber soles at the feet to provide more stability and reduce vibrations during operation. At the front, there are 2 gauges for monitoring the air delivery as well as air pressure of the tank.

In addition, the high flow regulator will allow you to adjust the air delivery. Basically, this is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a very compact air compressor.

The only thing we don’t like about it is that it does not have a carry handle. Also, this model is not heavy-duty because of its small tank of 3.5 gallons. It is intended for light to medium-duty tasks only.

Pros:

• Very small and compact. Does not need a lot of space
• Decent air delivery of 2.0 SCFM at 90 PSI
• Easy to adjust the air delivery with the high flow regulator

Cons:

• A small tank of 3.5 gallons. Not heavy-duty
• Does not have a handle

4. DeWalt DCC2560T1 – Most Portable Pancake Compressor

Photo: DeWalt

• Tank capacity: 2.5 gallons
• Max. pressure: 135 PSI
• Air delivery: 1.2 SCFM at 90 PSI
• Weight: 21.5 lbs

The DeWalt DCC2560T1 is a true winner when it comes to portability. This compressor weighs only 21.5 lbs. It is the lightest model in this review. Furthermore, it also comes with a heavy-duty carry handle at the top, which makes it incredibly easy to transport.

All those factors make it the best portable air compressor that you can buy. This model has an air delivery of 1.2 SCFM at 90 PSI. Not the biggest air delivery we have seen, but still enough for light to medium-duty tasks.

On the outside of this pancake compressor, there is a plastic roll cage that provides full protection to the tank. Even if this model is not the most performing, it still has a heavy-duty build construction that makes it durable and long-lasting.

Furthermore, there is a pressure gauge at the front as well as a regulator adjustment knob to control the air delivery. This product has been manufactured in the United States and has excellent built construction.

Pros:

• Most lightweight model in this review at 21.5 lbs. Highly portable
• Double roll case for protection and durability
• Made in the USA. Excellent built construction

Cons:

• The price. It is very expensive
• Weak air delivery of 1.2 SCFM at 90 PSI

5. DeWalt DWFP55126 – Superior Maximum Pressure

Photo: DeWalt

• Tank capacity: 6 gallons
• Max. pressure: 165 PSI
• Air delivery: 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI
• Weight: 32.2 lbs

If there is one department where the DeWalt DWFP55126 is unbeatable, then it is in the pressure department. Indeed, this model has an impressive maximum pressure of 165 PSI.

What this means is that the motor can compress and store a lot of air without the need to work all the time. Thus, it runs more efficiently.

Furthermore, the air delivery of 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI is very good. It will be able to power even highly demanding applications. Best of all, there is a high flow regulator at the front that will allow you to conveniently adjust the air delivery depending on your need.

You can control all this adjustment from the 2 gauges located at the front of this compressor. One will show you the air pressure in the tank and the other the air delivery.

Basically, for light to medium-duty use, this top-rated pancake compressor by DeWalt is an excellent choice.

The only caveats we have with this model is that the regulator knob is not very durable, and you need to be careful when using it. Also, at its maximum air pressure of 165 PSI, this model can produce a hissing sound as it can leak air.

Notes: You need to install this pancake compressor at least 12 inches away from the wall for proper air circulation.

Pros:

• High maximum pressure of 165 PSI
• Excellent air delivery of 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI
• 2 gauges for monitoring and adjusting the air pressure

Cons:

• Can leak air at its maximum pressure of 165 PSI
• The regulator knob is fragile

6. Campbell Hausfeld DC060500 – Available in Different Styles

Photo: Campbell Hausfeld

• Tank capacity: 6 gallons
• Max. pressure: 125 PSI
• Air delivery: 2.4 SCFM at 90 PSI
• Weight: 62 lbs

The Campbell Hausfeld DC060500 is a popular pancake compressor that comes in a wide range of styles and sizes to suit your needs. You can purchase the base 6-gallon model or a bigger 8-gallon model if you have higher demands.

This unit has a maximum pressure of 125 PSI, and along with its air delivery of 2.4 SCFM, it can power almost any devices that require compressed air. It has a small and compact form factor as well as quiet in operation producing only 68 dB.

In fact, the manufacturer claims that this pancake compressor is up to 50% quieter when compared to the competition. Moreover, the motor inside this model is oil-free and designed in such a way that it is long-lasting.

All in all, this is an excellent pancake compressor. The only problem we have with it is its weight of 62 lbs, which is very heavy. However, the manufacturer has fitted the steel handle with a soft grip which makes it a little easier to lift and carry from job to job if you must.

Pros:

• Available in different sizes to suit your need
• Up to 50% quieter at 68 dB
• Durable and long-lasting oil-free motor

Cons:

• At 62 lbs, it is the heaviest pancake compressor in this review
• The price. It is more expensive

7. Metabo HPT KNT50AB – Superior Build Construction

Photo: Metabo

• Tank capacity: 6 gallons
• Weight: 35 lbs

If there is one department where the Metabo HPT KNT50AB absolutely shines, then it is in its build construction quality. Indeed, this model is built to last and can be used as a heavy-duty pancake compressor.

We also like the fact that this pancake compressor comes as a full kit. You get a NT50AE2 18-gauge Brad Nailer as well as 25 feet of hybrid air hose with this purchase. This is great value for money.

Another distinctive feature of this model is its ability to compress air quickly. And since this is a 6-gallon tank, that’s a lot of compressed air. This means that this compressor can power high demand compression tools without making the motor work too much.

At the front of this unit, we find a handy pressure gauge that is easy to read. It also has an air delivery adjustment that will allow you to quickly and easily adjust the air pressure.

In addition, the KNT50AB also uses an energy-efficient motor that is oil-free. You will not have to perform regular maintenance on this model which saves you time and money over the long term.

The only thing we didn’t like about this model is it is a bit noisier than average. However, it remains one of the best pancake air compressors on the market based on its build construction and functionality.

Pros:

• Excellent built construction. Durable and long-lasting
• Good value. Comes as a kit including a Brad Nailer and 25 feet of hose
• Easy to adjust the air delivery pressure
• Efficient and performing motor that compresses air quickly

Cons:

• Quite noisy

8. Campbell Hausfeld HM750000AV – Versatile and Competitively Priced

Photo: Campbell Hausfeld

• Tank capacity: 6 gallons
• Max. pressure: 125 PSI
• Air delivery: 2.5 SCFM at 90 PSI
• Weight: 51 lbs

The Campbell Hausfeld HM750000AV is a versatile pancake compressor that can be used for a wide range of applications that require compressed air. But what demarks this model from the competition is its very competitive pricing.

It will provide you with great value, and this model is one of the best cheap pancake air compressors that you can buy.

Moreover, it is equipped with an oil-free engine which means that you will not only run this air compressor for cheaper, but you do not need to perform regular maintenance.

Best, it has an impressive air delivery of 2.5 SCFM at 90 PSI which is quite remarkable considering its lower price. Moreover, the air pressure gauges are easy to read, and you can also easily adjust the air delivery depending on your needs.

When it comes to construction quality, no problem. This compressor is made from high-grade steel which means that it is durable and long-lasting. We even find rubber soles at the feet to prevent vibrations and provide better stability.

The only caveat we can note with this product is its weight of 51 lbs. This weight is on the heavy side and may not be the easiest to carry around. The shape of this compressor also makes it harder to carry.

However, it is still equipped with an ergonomic handle that makes it somewhat easier to lift.

Pros:

• Very competitively priced. Good value
• Versatile and can be used with a wide range of tools
• Equipped with an oil-free motor that does not require frequent maintenance
• Decent air delivery of 2.5 SCFM at 90 PSI

Cons:

• A bit heavy at 51 lbs
• The shape makes it difficult to carry

9. Ridgid OF60150HA – Safe and Accurate Pressure Reading

Photo: Ridgid

• Tank capacity: 6 gallons
• Max. pressure: 150 PSI
• Weight: 35 lbs

The Ridgid OF60150HA is focused around safety and accuracy. Indeed, this top-rated pancake compressor has a locking regulator system that not only prevents any type of air pressure leakages but also allows this compressor to provide accurate readings.

So, if you have sensitive tools that require precise air pressure to work correctly, then this is an excellent compressor to get. Of course, the gauge dials are quite big and easy to read.

Best, this model is equipped with a 1/4 turn valve that allows to quickly and easily drain the tank with only 1 turn. Very convenient! We also like the fact that this compressor has a maximum pressure of 150 PSI and a big tank of 6 gallons.

This shows that the motor will not have to work constantly to compress the air. Hence, this compressor works cooler and more efficiently.

As we have seen, this model is feature-rich and an excellent compressor, especially for those who need accuracy. However, it is not perfect and a bit louder when compared to the competition.

Pros:

• Equipped with a locking regulator system for safety
• Accurate air pressure readings
• The gauge is easy to read

Cons:

• Louder than the competition

How to Buy the Best Pancake Compressor

Photo: DeWalt

Before finding the best pancake compressor for your needs, there are some important aspects to consider. Here they are:

1. Tank capacity

The tank is one of the most important parts of the pancake compressor. It is basically where the compressor stores all its compressed air.

So, logically, this will usually translate into a more efficient model because the motor does not have to constantly suck in air to compress.

However, you will also need to consider your usability. If you plan to use the pancake compressor for an extended period, then it is best to go with a model that has a higher tank capacity than a smaller one.

In general, you can expect the largest pancake compressor’s tank to be 6 gallons and the smallest around 2.5 gallons.

2. Max pressure

In order to prevent leakages in your pancake compressor, you need to factor in its maximum pressure as well.

As its name suggests, this is simply the maximum amount of pressure that this compressor can withstand.

As far as possible, you should aim for a pancake compressor that has a maximum pressure of at least 100 PSI.

However, if you want the best of the best, then go with a model that has a maximum pressure of 150 PSI or more.

3. Air delivery

This is the air output of the pancake compressor. It is measured in SCFM or standard cubic feet per minute, and it basically shows you how fast air exits the compressor.

The higher the air delivery, the more powerful and performing the pancake compressor will be. For general-purpose usage that requires an air compressor, you can safely go with a model that has an air delivery of at least 1.2 SCFM at 90 PSI.

However, if you have demanding devices like power tools, then it is always best to go with a model that can deliver at least 2.5 SCFM of air delivery.

Of course, you will need to check your requirements first before purchasing. This is because a light-duty tool that requires a low air delivery will not necessarily work with a high air delivery pancake compressor.

4. Noise level

One big problem with most air compressors is noise. Indeed, they are usually noisy, which makes them almost impossible to use at night or in quiet work environments.

Thankfully, the pancake compressor is a bit quieter. And you can generally expect him a noise level of around 69 dB for a good quality pancake compressor.

This is still not dead silent but environmentally friendly and can be used at night without disturbing your neighbor if necessary.

Read More: The Best Quiet Air Compressor

5. Weight

The pancake compressor is not the lightest tool that you can get. However, manufacturers make provision for portability because most models are usually equipped with a carry handle.

This makes it significantly easier to carry the pancake compressor regardless of its weight.

Moreover, the weight of the pancake compressor generally varies anywhere from 25 lbs up to 62 lbs. depending on the model you want to get.

6. Extra features

Easy tank draining: It’s important that the pancake compressor is equipped with a way to drain the tank.

If you don’t plan to use your compressor for an extended period, you need an easy and safe way to drain all the air for storage.

User-friendly gauges: For most models, the air delivery is not a fixed value and can be adjusted using the air delivery adjustment system. Therefore, you need a convenient way to know the exact air pressure that your compressor is delivering by ensuring that it has an easy-to-read gauge.

Rubber feet: In order to prevent vibrations and excessive noise, you should ensure that your compressor has rubber feet. This will not only dampen the vibrations of the compressor but also provide it with more stability.

Conclusion

As we have seen, the pancake compressor is an excellent choice for those who need a high capacity air compressor that is highly portable.

Best, operating the pancake air compressor is very easy to do. All adjustments like air delivery can be made right at the front of the compressor. Also, they can power a wide range of tools, so it’s versatile.