Have you noticed less and less air compressors are being used at a jobsite? Battery powered tools have really pushed out the need for pneumatic equipment during construction or a renovation. Although, I know there are a few tradesman (and women) that still prefer the operations of pneumatic tools. So why not have the best of both worlds? Well tool manufactures have been listening and fulfilled this void. Today, let’s take a look at two of the best cordless air compressors in the market right now and put them side-by-side. Which one is better?

First, let us talk about why you would need a cordless air compressor. These extremely portable compressors provide a cordless solution for pneumatic fastening nailers and staplers you already own and enjoy operating. They are able to keep up during a variety of finished applications like base molding, crown molding, paneling and other decorative trims. However, this is not intended for other air tools like impact wrenches. Those pneumatic tools breathe in too much air FAST and these modest compressors will have a tough time catching up. With that in mind, let’s move on.

One of the first cordless air compressor in the market was the DeWALT DCC2560T1 60V MAX FLEXVOLT 2.5 Gallon Cordless Air Compressor. This unit features a brushless motor paired with a heavy-duty oil-free pump that provides cordless convenience with the power of a corded tool. Each battery charge allows for up to 1,220 nails, providing the runtime to complete a variety of applications. Its OneTurn Regulator means you no longer have to fight with the dial. Plus, it's made right here in the USA with global materials. Overall an outstanding air compressor and it is easy to recommend!

Milwaukee recently introduced the 2840-20 M18 FUEL 2 Gallon Compact Compressor and its worth talking about it. This quiet air compressor is only 68 decibels, making it the quietest cordless compressor on the market and quieter than most corded options. Its low profile and stackable design allows the portable air compressor to be easily stored and transported on, around, and back off the jobsite. It has a run-time professionals need to stay productive, giving you up to 1,600 18ga brad nails per charge. When I first heard this compressor run, I was truly surprise on the noise level!

	ITEM	DESCRIPTION	VOLTS	TANK SIZE	SCFM	MAX PSI	NAILS PER CHARGE	PUMP TYPE	DECIBELS	WEIGHT	DIMENSIONS (LXWXH)
Add To cart	DCC2560T1	60V MAX FLEXVOLT 2.5 GALLON CORDLESS AIR COMPRESSOR KIT	60V	2.5 GAL	1.2 @ 90 PSI	135	1,220 (18 GA BRAD NAILS)	OIL FREE	79 dB	21.5 LBS	14 X 12.5 X 15.5
Add To cart	2840-20	M18 FUEL 2 GALLON COMPACT QUIET COMPRESSOR	18V	2.0 GAL	1.2 @ 90 PSI	135	1,600 (18 GA BRAD NAILS)	OIL FREE	68 dB	31.2 LBS	16.25 X 31.2 X 10.62

Now that we can quickly see them side-by-side, it’s easier to gauge the specifications and begin to understand its capabilities. DeWALT and Milwaukee have a few similarities. For starters, both units have an oil free pump. Which is great because it reduces upkeep and maintenance. Lastly, they both produce a SCFM (Standard Cubic Feet per Minute) of 1.2 @ 90 PSI and a max PSI of 135. That’s where the similarities end.

Right from the jump, its clear that DeWALT has a bigger battery and a slightly larger tank, but the Milwaukee compressor is still able to outperform it. 1,600 nails per charge versus 1,220. That is 380 more nails per charge, a 30% difference. The DeWALT is lighter in weight despite the larger battery, I’ll give it some points for that. What lacks in weight, Milwaukee makes up in noise level. The 2840-20 is so quiet when it runs, it’s crazy impressive!

Both of these portable, battery powered, air compressors are great! No matter what purchase you make, you won't be disappointed. However, this is a faceoff and you want to know who makes the better cordless compressor. Drum roll please…MILWAUKEE hands down! It outperforms in almost every way, but what really drove me to this conclusion is how quiet this runs. Eleven decibels quieter to be exact and that makes an enormous difference when you’re running the machine in a room.