HowMuchIt / Air compressor
What size air compressor do I need?
Every air tool states the air it needs, in CFM at a set pressure, usually 90 PSI. Find the hungriest tool you will use and pick a compressor rated above it.
Work out your air compressor
Size for the hungriest tool, and buy a compressor rated above it at 90 PSI, not just equal. CFM matters more than tank size or horsepower.
CFM first
Most air tools run at about 80 to 90 PSI, so the number to compare is CFM at 90 PSI, printed on the tool or in its manual. Size the compressor for the tool that uses the most air, not the average one, and choose a compressor whose CFM at 90 PSI is above that number, not just equal. CFM matters more than tank size or horsepower.
Bursts or nonstop
Nail guns and staplers fire in short bursts and use little air: a small 1 to 6 gallon compressor is enough. Sanders, paint sprayers and grinders run nonstop and need more CFM and a bigger tank. Check the duty cycle too: many home units are made to run on and off, not without a rest.
Questions people ask
What size compressor for a nail gun?
A small 1 to 6 gallon unit is enough for nailers and staplers.
Is horsepower important?
Less than CFM at 90 PSI, which is what the tools need.
Good to know
- Every air tool has an air need stated as CFM at a set pressure, usually 90 PSI; read it on the tool or its manual.1,2,3
- Most air tools run at about 80 to 90 PSI.2,4
- Size the compressor for the tool that uses the most air (highest CFM at its working PSI), not for the average tool.1,3
- Pick a compressor whose CFM at 90 PSI is above the tool's rating, not just equal to it; makers and retailers add a safety margin.1,3,5
- CFM matters more than tank size or horsepower when choosing a compressor.5,6
- Nail guns and staplers fire in short bursts and use little air; a small 1 to 6 gallon compressor is enough for them.2,5,6
- Tools that run nonstop, such as sanders, paint sprayers and grinders, need more CFM and a larger tank.3,5,6
- Duty cycle tells how long a compressor may run before it must rest; many home units are made for on-and-off use, not nonstop running.1,2
How we checked this page
Checked on October 27, 2026. We kept a fact only when two independent publishers agree, and each one is numbered to its sources below. Where sources give different numbers, we keep only what they share. We never write a price. This page was written with an AI assistant and checked against the sources below.
Sources
- Choosing the Right Air Compressor for You!, California Air Tools
- Air Compressors Accessories FAQ, Campbell Hausfeld
- Air Compressor Buying Guide, Lowe's
- Frequently Asked Questions, California Air Tools
- DIY Hub, Campbell Hausfeld
- We Tested the Top Home Air Compressors for Over 20 Hours to Find the Best Choices for Your Home Projects, Bob Vila