Its 3-gallon air tank is matched with a 1.5-hp induction motor that has a maximum psi rating of 135 and produces 2.6 cfm at 90 psi. Plus, it pressurizes the tank from empty to full in just 65 seconds.

If you're thinking about purchasing Makita's Quiet Series 1 HP, 2 Gallon, Oil‑Free, Electric Air Compressor, it retails for $229 from Home Depot and $314 at Acme Tools.

I found what, for me, is the perfect air compressor from Campbell Hausfeld. It's the company's Model VT6271, a single-stage, two cylinder, 3-hp cast iron portable unit with a 26-gallon tank ...