A sander is a heavy-duty pneumatic tool, which requires an air compressor to work. Therefore, air compressor for sanding is a must-have in any garage or workshop. It can be used to power air tools and save your lungs from the dangerous dust that they create. However, there are many air compressors on the market that try and fail to meet this need. The air compressor for sanding should have high CFM ratings, low noise levels, and plenty of other features to make it worth buying.
**Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Top 3 Air Compressors for Sanding in 2021
There are air compressors for everything these days, including air tools. This article will review the best air compressor for sanding and provide helpful information to determine which air tool is right for you. So, if you find yourself in need of one, you can check out our reviews of the three best air compressors you can have for your drum sander.
Amazon.com 
1. Dewalt Industrial Air Compressor
DeWalt DXCMV7518075 Two-Stage Cast Iron Industrial Air Compressor, 80-Gallon
DeWALT has always been a reliable name. It has been serving the industry for years and has never failed in quality. It’s Industrial models are among the best air compressors for sanders. Due to its vertical position, it can be easily kept in a corner without blocking much space. With this compressor, the portability, too, remains in the corner. That’s because the unit does not have wheels and dons a weight of about 623 lbs.
The cast-iron build makes the compressor highly durable. The one-unit construction further ensures smooth and reliable operations. You may find trouble starting the 7.5 HP motor in cold weather despite an easy starter switch. However, this power is enough to support an air sander.
With a storage tank of 80 gallons, this sander will work for as long as you want it to. There is no full stop to it. So you do not have to worry about refilling it anytime soon. Along with that, the maximum PSI of 175 ensures more air storage for longer run time and enables powering multiple tools at a time. This PSI offers 21.2 SCFM, while at 100 PSI, you get 22.1 SCFM. The device has a built-in oil reservoir that keeps the oil temperature low and ensures the device’s long and efficient life.
This air compressor certainly offers the best value for your money. But you need to have the money for it first because this compressor will surely leave a big hole in your pocket. However, you can secure your purchase with over a year-long warranty. So if you have even the slightest of any issue, you can directly call the company for help.
2. Powermate Vx Electric Compressor
Powermate Vx PLA4708065 80-Gallon Electric Air Compressor
Powermate brings a high-quality and super durable air compressor with a meticulous structure for heat removal. The use of aluminum ensures quick heat dissipation, keeping the temperature low for extended life and smooth performance. Its vertical body remains in the corner without any trouble for as long as you want. Since it weighs about 354 lbs. without tries, you do not have any other option than leaving it in the corner.
The steel tank with 80-gallon storage capacity will not fall short of air supply during your job. This massive air capacity, along with 155 PSI, ensures a long run time. So you do not have to worry about refilling the tank in the middle of the task. With this maximum pressure, at 90 PSI, you get 14 CFM, which offers a long run time to different air tools.
This device features a 4.7 HP power motor. The oil-lubricated pump offers longer life and smooth performance. The unit also has an easy-to-reach and view oil container. Moreover, you get a complete two-year warranty.
3. Industrial Air Hi-Flo Air Compressor
Industrial Air ILA4708065 80-Gallon Hi-Flo Single Stage Cast Iron Air Compressor
The Hi-Flo Air Compressor is the most affordable product on our list. So if you limited resources, you should give it a try.
This black giant stands vertical at a corner with a sleek and durable body to fit your work environment. It weighs about 540 lbs. and does not have tires, so you better leave it aside and do not try moving it around. However, the weight is justified by the 80-gallons storage tank and heavy-duty build.
The integrated control board makes the overall work quite convenient and efficient. It has a maximum pressure of 155 PSI and offers 14 CFM at 90 PSI. Since the air pump is oil-lubricated, it doesn’t produce much noise. The oil container is at a convenient position, so you do not have much trouble in viewing and refilling the container.
Read Also:
- Best Air compressor for workshop
- Best Small Air Compressors For Inflating Tires
- Best Portable Air Compressor For Painting
- Best Air Compressors for Mechanic Shop
What to Look for before buying Air Compressor for Sanding?
Buying a sander had probably been difficult, but buying the right air compressor is very important. If that goes wrong, everything goes wrong; your sander will not perform well, your job will be destroyed, and you’ll waste your time and money. To avoid such situations, you need the right air compressor. When buying an air compressor for sanding, make sure to notice the following pointers.
Durability
It is important to invest in durable and high-quality products. It ensures long life and smooth performance.
Maximum PSI
The more the PSI, the more efficient the device is. So try to get the one with the highest PSI. It also improves storage capacity.
CFM
Sanding requires a high CFM. An ideal amount is between 6 and 20 CFM at 90 PSI. Try not to go lower than that.
Storage Capacity
Sanding is a heavy-duty process. It requires continuous airflow, which requires a large storage tank. So make sure to get the one that offers a longer run time.
Cost
Different brands offer different features and prices. You can check out various brands to find the most affordable price tag. It means you do not necessarily have to shell out over a thousand dollars for an air compressor.
Final Words on Best Air Compressor for Sanding
Air tools are quite efficient and powerful in their performance. As a final recommendation, we would vote for DeWALT Industrial Air Compressor. It offers the best value for your money with its durable built, high CFM, and PSI. However, if you are looking for something affordable, then you can check out Industrial Air Hi-Flo Air Compressor. Despite charging a low price, the company does not compromise on the quality and performance of the air compressor.
