Finding the right compressor for your needs is just as important as the air tools you plan on using with it.  Some things to think about are the tools you plan on using, there air consumption, the amount of space you have,

60 gallon Ingersoll Rand single stage compressor

does it need to be portable and the amount you plan on using it.  Some models will be also be much quieter allowing you to work and talk to customers if you plan on using it for a business. I will try to cover some popular models and give you some ideas of what to look for when shopping for your new air compressor. There are many options and designs to choose from. The most visible difference is the design of the air tank and size of the tank. Depending on how you plan to use it and the tools you plan on using such as a impact wrench, nail guns, grinders and air sanders will determine the capacity and size you need. The size of the tank will determine how much air can be stored and the types of tools you can use without waiting for it to refill.  Lets take a look at some popular models and sizes to choose form.

Porter Cable C2002 Oil free pancake compressor – This is a lightweight and very portable air compressor.  It has a six gallon tank with a max pressure of 150 psi.  It uses a induction motor for a oil free long life performance.  The c2002 comes in at around 34 pounds making it very easy to transport if you need to.  It  puts out 2.6 scfm at 90 psi and 3.7 scfm at 40 psi and comes with 2 couplers to allow for 2 tools to be used at the same time.  This compressor has an average of 4 1/2 stars out of 5 rating on amazon.

Porter Cable C2002 Oil free pancake compressor

Dewalt D55146

Dewalt D55146 -  This is a little bigger compressor at around 90 pounds but still portable enough to transport if needed.  The Dewalt D55146 has a 4.5 gallon tank with a max pressure of 200

psi and a 5.2 scfm at 90 psi.  It has a oil and maintenance free motor for long use.  It also has dual connectors for operating more than one tool at a time.  Also has pneumatic wheels to help move it around.  This compressor has an average or 4 stars out of 5 customer rating on amazon.

Ingersoll Rand SS5L5 compressor

Ingersoll Rand SS5L5- This is a much bigger compressor at 364 pounds made for permanent installation in your shop or garage.  The ss5l5 uses a 5 hp single stage

compressor.  The motor is a 30 amp, 230 volt outlet with a thermal overload protection.  The ss5l5 puts out 18.1 cfm at 90 psi with a max psi of 135 and has a 60 gallon tank.  This compressor has an average 5 out of 5 stars rating on amazon.