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Best Air Compressor with Nail Gun Combo kit Review

Regardless of you being a professional or just a DIY hobbyist, there’s a very high chance that a nail gun is your most used air tool. Well, if you want to kill two birds with one stone, an air compressor with nail gun combo is just the right thing for you.

That being said finding the best air compressor for nail guns isn’t as easy as it might sound. There are so many options out there that it’s very easy to get lost in the echo.

With that thought in mind, I’ve compiled a list of best air compressor and nail gun combo that is available right now. At the end of this post, I’ll reveal my top 3 air compressors for nail guns.


My Top Pick:

If you are looking for something that provides the best value for your money, I’d recommend you get the BOSTITCH Air Compressor Combo Kit, 3-Tool (BTFP3KIT). With high efficiency motor and 2.6 SCFM, this one is my top pick.


It goes without saying if you plan on using a nail gun with an air compressor, the air compressor must have a portability factor to it. Luckily for you, all the products mentioned in this list are portable and easy to use. These are some of the most versatile and easy to use air compressors right now.

Pro Tips: Always make sure you have the right cut-in and cut-off pressure settings. If you don’t know how to change air compressor pressure switch check this post.

Top 9 Air Compressor with Nail Gun Combo Reviews


After much hands-on trial and research, I’ve been able to compile a list of 10 air compressors that stood out most to me. In this list, I’ve considered both air compressor nail gun combo and standalone air compressors. All these products were chosen based on certain factors that we’ll see in a later section below.

IMAGEPRODUCTDETAILS
  • Max PSI: 150
  • SCFM@90PSI: 2.6
  • Low noise.
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  • Max PSI: 165
  • SCFM@90 PSI: 2.6
  • Low noise.
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  • Max PSI: 165
  • SCFM@90 PSI: 2.6
  • Budget friendly
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  • Max PSI: 150
  • SCFM@90 PSI: 2.6
  • Hose included
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  • Max PSI: 135
  • SCFM@90 PSI: 2.6
  • 1-gallon trim compressor.
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  • Max PSI: 150
  • SCFM@90 PSI: 2.6
  • ISO1217 certification.
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  • Max PSI: 150
  • SCFM@90PSI: 2.6
  • Designed and made in USA.
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  • Max PSI: 130
  • SCFM@90 PSI: 3.3
  • 2.5 HP.
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  • Max PSI: 150
  • SCFM@90 PSI: 2.6
  • 120v power source.
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1. Bostitch 3-tool Compressor Combo Kit Reviews: Editor’s choice

Best nail gun compressor combo

BOSTITCH Air Compressor Combo Kit, 3-Tool (BTFP3KIT)

BOSTITCH

We all know how renowned BOSTITCH is for making tools. With all the bells and whistles, the BOSTITCH BTFP3KIT makes it to the list with ease. This one comes with portability and power combined. This is definitely the best value for your money product.

  • This one is a cordless air compressor. So, yeah! You don’t have to worry about accidentally tripping over things.
  • Comes with a whopping 6-gallon tank. You can have longer sessions at one go.
  • Runs at 150PSI Max pressure. That’s more than enough all sorts of workflows.
  • High performance motor with 2.65CFM.
  • Comes with a pair of BRAD nailer. You can easily use it anywhere you want.
  • It can easily drive heavy duty crown staples.
  • Comes with a limited year warranty for your peace of mind.

Pros

  1. Portable and light-weight.
  2. Best bang for your buck.
  3. Cordless design.
  4. Low noise level.
  5. 150 PSI max pressure.
  6. Limited time warranty.

Cons

  1. For some, it might be a bit pricy.

2. DEWALT Air Compressor Combo Kit: A worthy second

DEWALT Air Compressor Combo Kit with Brad Nailer (DWC1KIT-B)

DEWALT

Next up in our list of nail gun compressor combo is DWC1KIT from DEWALT. This one is also a beast of an air compressor. Honestly, the battle for my top pick was pretty neck and neck. But I had to give a slight edge to BOSTITCH. However, if you choose to get this one, by no means is it a waste of your money. Let’s take a look at all the features it has to offer.

  • 2.6 SCFM delivered at 90 PSI pressure. So, yeah! This one can definitely hold its own.
  • It comes with a 165 max PSI tank. Power isn’t an issue at all.
  • Just like the previous one, this one also comes with a 6 gallon tank.
  • Included BRAD nailer is a gem. It can drive 18ga nails from 5/8 inches to 2 inches in length.
  • Tool free settings adjustment and tool-free jam release. Maintenance is a breeze.
  • Runs at only 75dBA. So, it’s very quiet.

Pros

  1. Powerful and efficient.
  2. Large tank for multi-purpose usage.
  3. Runs very quietly.
  4. Maintenance is quick and easy.
  5. Comes with a Brad nailer.
  6. Pancake style bottom.

Cons

  1. Portability could be improved.

3. BOSTITCH Pancake Air Compressor: Best pancake compressor combo kit

BOSTITCH Pancake Air Compressor, Oil-Free, 6 Gallon, 150 PSI (BTFP02012)

BOSTITCH

This pancake style air compressor from BOSTITCH is portable, powerful and environment friendly. That too with a pretty low price tag. If you are on a tight budget but still looking for the best air compressor for framing nail gun, this one is the one you should go for. Let’s check out all the features this one has to offer.

  • Running at 150 PSI max pressure this one can easily run for a full session at full thrust.
  • The large 6 gallon tank adds more value to the product as a whole.
  • Runs at 2.6 SCFM that is delivered at 90 PSI pressure. You can use this one with pretty much anything that falls in the realm of 2.6 SCFM.
  • The high efficiency motor is very quick to start even in freezing cold weather.
  • Engineered to work silently under full load. The operating noise level is only 78.5 dBA.
  • The high flow regulator ensures maximum performance for the air tool.
  • Comes with an oil-free pump. No more mess for you.

Pros

  1. Very portable and easy to carry.
  2. Rubber feet provide extra stability.
  3. Powerful and efficient.
  4. Quiet operation.
  5. Budget friendly.

Cons

  1. Does not include a hose or a gun kit. Well, at this price you can’t expect them to.

4. Porter-Cable PCFP12234 3-tool Combo Kit: Beginner friendly

PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor Kit, 6-Gallon, 3-Tool (PCFP12234)

PORTER-CABLE

Porter is another well-known name in the air compressor market. They are known for making premium quality air compressor. This one is also not different from the rest of its product lineup. So, without any further ado, let’s see what the PCFP12234 has to offer us.

  • 6-gallon tank for stress free workloads. You can run all sorts of tools with that amount.
  • The 150 PSI max pressure ensures you can drive a bunch of nails on one single tank charge.
  • This one also comes with Brad nailers. These are capable of driving 2 inches nails with ease.
  • The Protective shroud that ensures an extra layer of safety.
  • Very portable and lightweight design.
  • Capable of running 3/8-inch crown staples.
  • Comes with a 25ft air hose. Coupler and plug included.

Pros

  1. Lightweight and compact design.
  2. Powerful and efficient.
  3. Necessary accessories included.
  4. Durable and comes with protective shroud.
  5. Best bang for your buck.
  6. Provides multi-purpose functionality.

Cons

  1. It’s a bit too noisy.
  2. Although the rubber feet help it vibrates a bit too strongly.

5. DEWALT Air Compressor, 135-PSI Max, 1 Gallon (D55140): Heavy duty

DEWALT Air Compressor, 135-PSI Max, 1 Gallon (D55140)

DEWALT

For those of you who are professional out there, this one is for you. This big boy packs a punch with power, durability and sustainability. This one will run you for years under heavy load. Followings are some of the best features this air compressor has to offer.

  • This beast of an air compressor comes with a 1-gallon trim compressor. That sounds nice, doesn’t it?
  • The protective roll cage makes sure this one can tolerate rough and tough usage.
  • 135 PSI max tank pressure along with 2.6 SCFM delivered at 90 PSI allows multi-purpose use.
  • This one is perhaps the quietest air compressor I’ve ever used. It’s super quiet running at only 71 dBA.
  • Low amp motor ensures easy start up. The motor is only 2.6 amp.
  • Comes with a limited time warranty for the peace of mind.
  • Although it’s big in size, the sturdy handle ensures enough mobility for it to be used with a nail gun.
  • It’s pretty lightweight considering the dimension of the air compressor.

Pros

  1. Very quiet operation.
  2. Strong and sturdy handle to provide mobility.
  3. Protective cage ensures durability.
  4. 1-gallon trim compressor.
  5. Limited time warranty.

Cons

  1. Portability could definitely be improved.

6. PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor, 6-Gallon, Pancake, Oil-Free (C2002): Another Budget king

PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor, 6-Gallon, Pancake, Oil-Free (C2002)

PORTER-CABLE

This one follows the same formula as BOSTITCH BTFP02012. No gimmick at all. Just the features one might need and a competitive price. Fun fact, this one is the smallest air compressor for nail gun on this list. Key features of this air compressor are listed below:

  • Very portable and lightweight. You can easily take this anywhere you want.
  • 150 PSI max tank pressure competes with some of the premium air compressors.
  • 2.6 SCFM delivered at 90 PSI allows fast compressor recovery. They also provide ISO1217 certification.
  • 6-gallon tank ensures all day usage without any stall.
  • Provided rubber feet ensure an extra layer of stability.
  • Low amp motor ensures fast startup. It can also be used with a standard household power source.
  • Compact design with a dimension of 19x19x18 inches.

Pros

  1. Very portable.
  2. Compact design.
  3. 150 PSI max tank pressure with 2.6 SCFM delivered at 90 PSI.
  4. Large tank.
  5. Durable and stable.

Cons

  1. Regulator needs improvements.

7. Craftsman 6 Gallon Air Compressor with Nail gun Combo Kit CMEC1KIT18: Crafty

CRAFTSMAN Air Compressor Combo Kit, 1 Tool (CMEC1KIT18)

CRAFTSMAN

Coming in at number 7 is the CMEC1KIT18 from CRAFTSMAN. This one is definitely the best air compressor and nail gun combo that was made in the USA. With top-notch material and design, this one makes it to our list. Let’s take a look at some of its most impressive features:

  • 150 PSI max tank pressure that can run nail guns fast and with ease.
  • Oil-free design. So, if you care about the environment you should definitely have a look at this. Not only that but also it ensures little to no post-use mess.
  • Very portable and lightweight design. Remember for an air compressor to be used with nail guns, portability is a must-have feature.
  • Provided Brad nailer is very useful. The 18ga Brad nailer can easily drive 2-inch nails.
  • Made out of durable and lightweight carbon steel. It’s also rust-resistant.
  • Comes with a hose that helps you with urgent usage.
  • Provided limiter time warranty is the icing on the cake.

Pros

  1. Very portable and lightweight.
  2. Made out of premium material.
  3. Low operation noise.
  4. Limited time warranty.
  5. Powerful air compressor.
  6. Designed to be used frequently.
  7. Oil-free.

Cons

  1. Bit pricy considering other products.

8. Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP Air Compressor: Engineered to perfection

Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP

Makita MAC2400 Big Bore 2.5 HP Air Compressor

Makita

Makita has always been praised for the amount of attention to details they put in their air compressors. With a tradition to follow and reputation to keep, Makita tried their best to produce the best portable air compressor for framing nailer. And they have done a very good job at doing that.

  • The pump is made out of cast iron. For those of you who don’t know, cast iron is a much durable metal than steel or aluminum.
  • The priston and big bore cylinder ensure a very fast recovery time. This one has the fastest recovery time of all the products on this list.
  • The low amp draw motor reduces accidents during startup by a lot.
  • They use oil as a cooler for the motor. As I said, attention to detail.
  • This one is very powerful. With 3.3 CFM delivered at 90 PSI, it can handle heavy duty nail guns too.
  • Roll cage gives an added layer of protection to the air compressor.
  • The industrial graded air filter allows increased air intake. This in return provides more performance.

Pros

  1. Very durable and strong.
  2. Powerful.
  3. The pump is surprisingly quieter despite having a big bore cylinder.
  4. Fast and accurate startups.
  5. Easy to maintain.

Cons

  1. Unprotected gauges.
  2. A bit on the heavier side.

9. PORTER-CABLE PCFP72671 Finish Nailer/Compressor Combo Kit: The Sweet spot

PORTER CABLE PCFP72671 Finish Nailer/Compressor Combo Kit

PORTER CABLE

Last but not the least we have PCFP72671 from porter cable. This one is packed with features that are just right. Unlike most products, this one doesn’t try to do everything and all. Rather it focuses on one thing only. That is being the best air compressor for nail guns. By taking this route porter cable has been able to keep the price low too. Let’s see what this one has to offer.

  • Comes with a large 6-gallon tank. More than enough for using it as a nail gun combo.
  • Just like most products on this list, this one also comes with 150 PSI max pressure. By now you should already know it’s a beat of an air compressor.
  • It comes with a Finish nailer. It uses a standard 16 ga finish nail. It’s capable of driving 1-inch to 2-inch long nails.
  • The maintenance-free pump is what everyone asks for. It’s a good thing they decided to do take that path.
  • It uses a standard 120v power source. This ensures users to use this compressor on standard household current.
  • The included 25 feet and ¼ inch wide hose ensures fast usage

Pros

  1. Lightweight and portable.
  2. Comes with finish nailer.
  3. Convenient hose included.
  4. Maintenance free pump.
  5. 150 PSI max pressure.

Cons

  1. The quality of the hose definitely needs improvements.

Best Air Compressors for Nail Guns | Buying Guide


Well, now that you’ve seen the reviews of some of the best products you can get, you can easily get one of them to fulfill your need. In all honestly, if you buy any of the top five mentioned above, you are more likely to be safe than not. However, if you want to choose one for yourself but don’t know what exactly to look for in an air compressor, this will serve you as a guide. The followings are some of the main factors you should consider before buying. If you follow them, you are in good hands. Let’s not waste any more time and see what those 5 important factors are.

Portability

It goes without saying, if you are looking for a nail gun compressor combo, it must look for something that is portable and lightweight. There are two possible ways in which an air compressor can be portable. One being compact in size and design and the other is having a wheel or handle that makes moving the compressor easy. You are good to go either way. However, I’d say choose something that is compact by design. That way you can carry it to the roof of your house without having to worry about a thing.

PSI

PSI or Pounds Per Square Inches is a metric that is used to estimate the amount of pressure the compressor can push to the tool. As every air compressor in the world comes with this feature, you don’t need to bother too much about it. In case you have something specific in mind, you can go for that as well. You can’t actually go wrong here. However, I must say don’t cheap out with PSI. It’s always better to have a little more than what you actually need.

CFM

CFM or SCFM is another important factor you should consider before making the buying decision. Just like PSI, it is another metric that determines the performance of an air compressor. Think of the tools you want to run and decide a maximum CFM. The mismatch of CFM in the air compressor and tool that will be powered by the compressor will result in delay or stalling. So, make sure you are careful enough with this. You can read more about SCFM here.

Tank size

The tank size of an air compressor will also make or break the deal for you. In general, choose one with a large enough tank to run your tools. The bigger the tank the longer your nail gun will run at full thrust. But don’t choose something that might hamper the portability aspect of your air compressor.

Price

This perhaps is the most important factor of all. Many people have a misconception that the higher the price the better the product. Sure, in most cases that can be true. But in real life scenario, it all depends. You can easily end up with an air compressor that is just too powerful and pricy for your needs. That’s why be wise before creating a budget. Study the market and the abovementioned factors a little bit and then decide your budget. Don’t cheap out too. Because you might regret that decision later.

Which Air Compressor is right for you?

This one doesn’t have a straightforward answer. If you are someone who is looking for an air compressor that’ll run a finish nailer, I’d suggest you pick something that comes with at least 120 PSI max pressure and 2 CFM rating, and a 6-gallon tank.

On the other hand, if you want something for a brad nailer, I’d suggest you get a compressor that comes pre-packed with a brad nailer.  BOSTITCH BTFP3KIT and DEWALT DWC1KIT are two excellent choices. If you don’t like any of these two, you can easily follow the buying guide above to make the right purchase decision.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


What is the best air compressor for nail guns?

Considering all the features BOSTITCH BTFP3KIT is the preferred one for me.

What size air compressor do I need for a framing nail gun?

For framing nail guns I’d suggest you get something that is compact and portable. A dimension of around 18 x 18 x 19 inches is something you should keep in mind.

How much psi do you need for a nail gun?

Typically, 90 PSI is good enough. But the more the better.

What type of air compressor do I need for a nail gun?

Ideally you should look for nail gun compressor combo to get two things done at once.

Do I need a compressor for a nail gun?

There are some variants that don’t require you to have an air compressor. But in general the answer is yes.

Final Thoughts

There you go. This brings us to an end of air compressor with nail gun combo reviews. By now you should already have a pretty decent knowledge about air compressors and how to choose the right one for you. In case you were waiting for my suggestions, I’ll now reveal my top 3 favorites of this list:

Top Pick: BOSTITCH Air Compressor Combo Kit

Close Runners UP: DEWALT Air Compressor Combo Kit with Brad Nailer DWC1KIT-B

Best bang for your buck: PORTER-CABLE Air Compressor Kit PCFP12234 or BOSTITCH Pancake Air Compressor, Oil-Free, 6 Gallon, 150 PSI (BTFP02012)

I hope this post was of some help to you. Don’t forget to let your thoughts be known in the comment section below.

As Always, work hard and stay safe.

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