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We’ve written a lot about air compressors — including revealing the quietest 20 gallon air compressor out there and best air compressors for automotive painting– and we’re back to these wonderful multipurpose machines.
Specifically, we’ve rounded up the best 3 options as praised by the most wonderstruck reviewers on Amazon to help point those shopping for the quietest 30 gallon air compressor in the right direction.
Of course, we will tell you everything you need to know about each model –the actual air compressor decibel ratings, specs such as CFM and PSI, unique features, and more to help you make the right decision.
First off, here is our top pick:
Quietest 30 gallon air compressor – Best-rated model
DeWALT DXCMLA1983054 30-Gallon Electric Air Compressor (vertical portable tank)
This comes from Dewalt and is the quietest 30 gallon air compressor from where we stand -it doesn’t exceed 78 decibels at about 12 feet.
It’s an oil-free, direct drive unit so:
- You don’t need to worry about continually refilling the compressor (or adding/changing/disposing oil).
- There are no clumsy belts to re-tension/replace!
These benefits translate into easier maintenance and reduced cost of ownership.
In addition, this features a unique pump design with a 2-piece cooling system that helps the unit cool more efficiently while extending the lifespan of the pump.
It’s also credited with the highest C.F.M output among direct-drive type compressors and has a running HP (horsepower) of 1.9.
The long-lasting induction motor means unbeatable performances all the time and reliability.
Specifications
- Amps-15
- Decibel– 78 Db
- Max Pressure-155 Psi
- Peak Horsepower-9 Hp
- Power Supply– Electric
- SCFM @ 40 PSI– 7
- SCFM @ 90 PSI– 5.7
- Tool Weight– 190 Lbs
- Voltage– 120 V
Others
- Pre-attached pneumatic tires – wheels smoothly on the floor.
- Dual voltage motor- it comes wired for standard 120V outlets but you can easily modify it for 240V applications.
- Universal automatic fitting- Auto, Industrial, ARO
- Oil-level sight glass
Pros
- Easy to access oil fill.
- Easy to move about.
- Generally quite.
Cons
- Wish the drain was located in a more accessible location.
Verdict
This works flawlessly, it’s quiet, and fills pretty quickly.
And oh, it comes at a nice price.
Overall, we won’t change anything in this versatile vertical air compressor!
1st Runners up:
NorthStar Portable Gas-Powered Air Compressor 30-Gallon Horizontal Tank- Best air compressor 30 gallon for the money.
This extremely heavy-duty air compressor also performs great and is also a lot quieter than other 30-gallon air compressors in the market.
It’s a true workhorse- it builds air pressure real quick (the approximated fill time is about 1 minute) and more importantly, keeps up with tons of air tools without issues.
In fact, it won’t run out of reserve air even when running heavy-duty accessories such as air impact wrench guns and like tools on general repair/maintenance jobs.
The 2 stage tool is quite easy to set up and the engine starts with just one pull every time.
And because of the fast recovery time, this works nearly continuously.
Plus, it features the Honda GX390 OHV engine, renowned for its amazing fuel economies.
Specifications
- PSI-175
- Horsepower-12
- CFM @ 175 PSI-18.7
- CFM @ 135 PSI-21.4
- CFM @ 90 PSI-24.4
- CFM @ 40 PSI-26.8
- Engine-Honda GX390 OHV
- Start Type-Electric w/recoil backup
- Engine Displacement (cc)-390
- Duty Cycle-100%
- Air Outlet Size (inch)-3/4 ball valve
- Fuel Capacity (gal.)-6
- Tool Weight– not provided
- Decibel– no accurate tests but sound way quieter.
Others
- Engine Idle Control-Yes
- Drive-Belt
- Tank Type-Horizontal
- Portable or Stationary-Stationary
- Pump-Cast iron
- After-Cooler Included-Yes
- Drain System-Manual
- Low Oil Protection-Yes
Pros
- Fast recovery time.
- Very solid- built to the highest quality.
- Smooth and quiet operation.
Cons
No rubber feet to reduce vibration- you can, however, purchase them separately.
Verdict
The monsterlike power in this beast maintains exceptional air flow at every stage of discharge, it’s very solid, and packed full of nice features.
We were absolutely blown away by the product and we are sure you’ll too.
2nd Runners up:
Ingersoll-Rand SS3F2-GM 30-Gallon Oiled Garage Mate -excellent for both professionals and enthusiastic do-it-yourselfers
Engineered for situations where noise emissions should be kept low such as garages (hence the nickname Garage Mate), this is quiet enough for homes, shops, and various other job sites.
Belt-driven air compressors are quieter and this doesn’t disappoint (the dB is 75-80 when measured from a reasonable distance).
To be honest, this single stage unit is as quiet as they come for its size- it’s so quiet you easily forget its running.
It fills fairly fast as well, runs uninterrupted (it’s another outstanding 100% duty cycle air compressor), and operates more efficiently while remaining cooler than similar models.
The pre-installed semi-pneumatic tires make it easy to transport around job sites.
The portable air compressor is equipped with handy extras such as a safety valve and an auto start/stop pressure switch control.
In general, this is a great corded electric compressor to consider if you’re running pneumatic tools- nailing guns, ratchets, grinders, drills, sanders, jack hammers, riveting guns, wrenches, etc.
Specifications
- Running Horsepower-2
- Max PSI-135
- NPT Outlet– 3/8 inch
- SCFM @ 90 PSI– 5.7
- Voltage- 115 V
- Tool Weight– 185 Lbs
- Decibel– 75 to 80 Db
Others
- Durable cast-iron construction
- Protective enclosed belt guard
- Manual over-load motor protection
- 100% continuous duty
- Also notable: A pressure switch, Regulator, 6-foot power cord, Pressure gauge , Manual drain
Pros
- Good air capacity.
- No annoying leaks.
- Keeps pressure steady.
Cons
- The ergonomic handle is a little difficult to install.
- Doesn’t come with oil – you have to buy it separately.
Verdict
This air compressor unit is, in our opinion, equal to similar brands (for the same specs) that cost way more.
It’s a first-class product that is reliable and friendly to use for professional or hobby applications.
Final word
If you’re looking for the best quietest 30 gallon air compressor, the above models are, in general, quieter and better for environments where excessive noise emissions are unwanted such as residential neighborhoods or indoor environments.
Remember that our top pick is the DeWALT DXCMLA1983054 followed by the NorthStar Portable 30 gal Gas-Powered Air Compressor, and finally the Ingersoll-Rand SS3F2-GM 30-Gallon air compressor.
If you’re still sitting on the fence, head to Amazon and check out the raving reviews they have attracted from other buyers.
Over to you mate.
