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For either complex, industrial jobs, or the most challenging household activities, an 80-gallon air compressor should do the work. Still, this is no toy, and the thought of making such an investment can be quite challenging.
Below, you’ll find all the information that should make a difference for the better, regardless of what you’ll choose in the end.
Hoping to cut right to the chase? Below are the best 80 gallon air compressors:
Comparison of the Best 80 Gallon Air Compressors
Product | Our Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|
Industrial Air IV7538075  | ||
Industrial Air IV5018055  | ||
Powermate Vx PLA4708065  | ||
Husky C801H  | ||
DeWalt DXCMV5018055  | ||
Kobalt XC802000  | ||
Ingersoll Rand 2475N7.5-V  | ||
Campbell Hausfeld XC802100  | ||
EMAX HI05V080Y1S  | ||
Campbell Hausfeld CE4104  |
Are All 80 Gallon Air Compressors The Same?
Clearly, many details can vary between the numerous models of 80-gallon air compressors available on the market. Depending on their capabilities, you’ll find them:
- Rated as consumer, commercial, or contractor grade;
- With 1-stage or 2-stage pumps;
- Stationary or more portable;
- Capable of offering continuous operation or not;
- Designed explicitly for functioning at high temperatures or not.
And the list can go on and on. Still, two of the most important factors that can make a difference and that you want to know in detail are, as follows:
Should I Get an 80 Gallon 2 Stage Air Compressor?
A 2-stage unit will compress the air twice, delivering an increased airflow and double pressure of up to 175 maximum PSI. You’ll want to get yourself an 80-gallon 2 stage air compressor if you’re planning on using it in a large-scale workshop or even a factory, with machines that require longer continuous air supply and a higher level of air power.
Is There Such Thing as a Quiet 80 Gallon Air Compressor?
The larger and more powerful the air compressor, the higher the noise level. This specifically applies to 80-gallon air compressors, which can have a noise level around 80 dB.
Still, some manufacturers have managed to implement technology that allows operation at lower noise levels. Such silencers can make a difference of up to 25% less noise, though you clearly cannot expect a massive air compressor to be too silent.
Despite how quiet any air compressor is, we recommend hearing protection when working with heavy machinery!
When Would I Use an 80 Gallon Air Compressor?
So, you know, by now, that an 80-gallon air compressor is for the heaviest tasks. But you’ve also seen some models are designed as consumer grade. This means you don’t necessarily need to work in a factory to consider using such a large air compressor. Here are some specific situations when you can make the best of an 80-gallon unit:
When Working With Heavy-Duty Tools
The larger the size of the tank, the greater the air volume a compressor can store. And the better its ability to deliver and maintain the CFM at the desired PSI that your heavy-duty tools would require.
What’s more, an 80-gallon tank will need to refill less often than smaller models. So, if you work with powerful air tools and can’t afford to be interrupted too often, this is an ideal choice.
When You Prefer Power Over Speed
The power or the effectiveness of an air compressor isn’t just in how much air it can store, it’s also how high of a pressure it can reach. And in whether it is a 2-stage rather than a 1-stage unit. If you want more power and understand you’ll have to wait a little bit more for it to build up, you can’t go wrong with an 80-gallon air compressor.
When Planning To Keep It In One Place
At this size, most air compressors are built as stationary, designed to sit in one place. Are you planning on using a powerful air compressor in a setting that doesn’t leave much room for change? Then a stationary 80-gallon air compressor will serve you well once you install it in a dedicated corner.
Review of the Best 80 Gallon Air Compressors
Despite being large, heavy, and with somewhat specific uses, there is no shortage of 80-gallon models on the market. You’ll find quite a few different manufacturers showing off with various units in this size category. But only a few are well worth your time and consideration. And we’ve outlined the best 80-gallon air compressors in the following reviews:
Best Overall:
Industrial Air IV7538075
PROS
CONS
Our Review:
The best 80-gallon air compressor, as an overall choice, is the IV7538075 from Industrial Air. This two-stage air compressor is efficient and reliable. Powered by a 7.5 HP 3-phase electric motor, it relies on a 2-stage belt drive cast iron pump patented like nothing you’ve seen before!
The pre-wired magnetic starter will save you time and money. While the industrial class motor wires easily into a 230 V system. With enough power to handle more than one tool at once, it features 21.2 CFM at its 175 max PSI and 22.1 CFM @ 100 PSI.
What Makes This Product Stand Out?
This massive air compressor screams “patented” in every single way. It has a patented design for the pump, piston, asymmetrical cooling fins, and cast-iron flywheel. Adding its unique metal belt guard design, it allows the pump to stay with up to 60% cooler than other designs. In other words, it runs cooler and lasts longer, with improved efficiency.
Runner-up:
Industrial Air IV5018055
PROS
CONS
Our Review:
The second best 80-gallon air compressor comes from the same reputable manufacturer. If the best overall with its 7.5 HP motor is a bit too much, their 5 HP IV5018055 should be perfect for your needs. It’s a consumer grade unit rather than a commercial one. And it packs in all the patented features you’ve seen in the best overall: 2-stage pump, pistons, flywheel, and so on.
Getting down to numbers, the 1-phase motor with 22 Amp draw – a Baldor from the Industrial class model, by the way – works with a two-stage pump to deliver 175 max PSI with 16.2 CFM. The air flow is 17 CFM @ 100 PSI, and you can count on the same reliable pump model with belt drive, splash lubricated.
What Makes This Product Stand Out?
With just a small HP difference and all the other benefits you get from the best overall, the Industrial Air IV5018055 is available for a significantly more affordable price. If you’re not into heavy-duty, industrial operation, but want the convenience of a reliable and powerful 5 HP motor, you can’t make a better choice. Power- and price-wise, it’s an option you can’t overlook!
Best for the Money:
Powermate Vx PLA4708065
PROS
CONS
Our Review:
Finding a reliable 80-gallon air compressor on a tight budget seems like an impossible mission. Yet this Powermate Hi-Flo unit is here to prove the opposite. With a heavy-duty induction motor designed for 240 V wiring and 155 max PSI, it has a three-cylinder, cast-iron pump that supports an airflow of 14 CFM @ 90 PSI.
As an oil-lubricated model, its performances will keep up with your expectations while ensuring a prolonged lifespan. Adding the steel and the cast iron parts, you have even more reasons to anticipate that this air compressor will last. Powerful and sturdy, it’s the best deal you can get for this money.
What Makes This Product Stand Out?
Reliable power, durable construction, and easy operation are making this 80-gallon air compressor from Powermate an excellent budget-friendly choice. It works really well with demanding, professional jobs, you’ll get it shipped with synthetic oil and a 2-year warranty. All for a price that is really hard to beat.
Best Husky 80 Gallon Air Compressor:
Husky C801H
PROS
CONS
Our Review:
One of Husky’s best air compressors works with a 5 HP motor and quality parts, not to mention it takes the operator’s protection into account. The one-piece cast-iron pump built-in supports a maximum PSI of 155, with 14 CFM @ 90 PSI. And as a splash lubricated belt drive pump, it also features oil sight glass.
The wire-formed belt guard protects both the belt and the operator, all while facilitating the cooling process. Speaking of protection, expect it to go gentle on your ears, too, despite its large intake filter. After all, it comes with built-in silencers that enable it to run quietly.
What Makes This Product Stand Out?
This air compressor was specifically designed as a consumer grade product. Anyone working on ambitious projects on their own will be happy to hook it up with high-demand tools. Being able to work with spray guns, impacts, or grinders, for longer periods of time is easy when you rely on it. And the price point makes it even more enticing!
Best Dewalt 80 Gallon Air Compressor:
DeWalt DXCMV5018055
PROS
CONS
Our Review:
If you’re a fan of Dewalt, this 80-gallon air compressor will make it to your shortlist. With a two-stage patented pump and a 1-phase 5 HP Baldor electric motor, it is an outstanding commercial grade tool. The maximum PSI that reaches 175, with 17.9 CFM @ 100 PSI, shows it’s tailored for the big jobs, but that’s not all.
A convenient design doubles the power you’re getting from it. You have large – and, therefore, easy to read and use – pressure gauges. The pressure regulator is easy to access. And it allows running two tools with its 2 quick-connect air outlets.
What Makes This Product Stand Out?
This product packs Dewalt’s most advanced technology, with lots of patented parts that improve its functionality. The flywheel comes with larger fins that keep the RPM low. What’s more, the same fins have this patented, asymmetrical deep groove design that makes cooling super-effective and, therefore, contributes to the longevity of the pump.
Best Kobalt 80 Gallon Air Compressor:
Kobalt XC802000
PROS
CONS
Our Review:
With this 2-stage electric air compressor, Kobalt gets under the spotlights for delivering advanced performances that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. The heavy-duty induction motor runs at 230 Volts and 5 HP, which means it can keep various powerful tools operating for longer.
The oil-lubed pump is there to over-deliver, with its 2-stage design and the ability to reach 175 maximum PSI, a point where it also hits 15.6 CFM. And if you look at its vertical design and stationary base, you’ll see how stable it is and how well it will fit your workshop.
What Makes This Product Stand Out?
Given its technical features, this is, by far, Kobalt’s most effective 80-gallon air compressor. Adding the fact that Kobalt is known as a budget-friendly brand, and that this product is intended for garage and workshop applications, it’s definitely a powerful tool that many will want to try!
Best Ingersoll Rand 80 Gallon Air Compressor:
Ingersoll Rand 2475N7.5-V
PROS
CONS
Our Review:
The best 80-gallon air compressor from Ingersoll is meant for commercial use and equipped with a two-stage pump and 1-phase motor. Ready to work with 230 V AC and 40 Amp draw, it features a handy magnetic starter and can reach 24 CFM at the 175 maximum PSI.
Its pump facilitates continuous-duty operation with cast-iron cylinders, oversized balanced belt wheel, and oversized industrial-grade bearings. Thanks to this belt drive splash lubricated pump, longevity is part of the deal. What’s more, it comes with 2-piece connection rods, meaning fewer moving parts, therefore, increased reliability.
What Makes This Product Stand Out?
Looking at its parts, “high-efficiency” might as well be the middle name of this Ingersoll 80-gallon air compressor. From the stainless-steel valves to its intercooler and inlet air filters equipped with sound attenuation baffles, you can tell it’s built with attention to details and ready to provide superior operation.
Best Campbell Hausfeld 80 Gallon Air Compressor:
Campbell Hausfeld XC802100
PROS
CONS
Our Review:
Campbell Hausfeld’s 80-gallon air compressor is nicely sized and just as nicely priced. Any DIY-er, professional, or contractor will appreciate its 5 HP, 230 V 2-phase motor with 22 Amp draw. And the two-stage solid cast iron pump that keeps up with it. Performance-wise, this compressor can reach 175 PSI with an air flow of 11.3 CFM, and 11.9 CFM @ 90 PSI.
Large but stable, with convenient oil level sight glass and pressure switch for automatic start/stop, this tool is a pleasure to work with. Thanks to the wide base mount, it also benefits from enhanced stability. The fact that a 3-year warranty backs it can only make the deal even better.
What Makes This Product Stand Out?
This unit features a design versatile enough to tackle any kind of application. It is powerful but easy to use, with a commercial V-belt drive that smoothly transfers all that power. Apart from the comfortable operation and long service life, it also adds safety thanks to the totally enclosed metal belt guard.
Best Quiet 80 Gallon Air Compressor:
EMAX HI05V080Y1S
PROS
CONS
Our Review:
When specifically looking for a quiet, 80-gallon air compressor, you really need to check the EMAX models. Take the HI05V080Y1S, one of their top-quality units, and you’ll see what we mean. With a 5 HP motor, a pump that runs with as little as 680 RPM, and the Super Quiet Air System, this compressor is a top choice.
As a stationary electric unit with magnetic starter, it is easy to handle once you install its vibration pads and anchor its feet. Basically, our selection for the best quiet 80-gallon air compressor also happens to be a top-quality, high-power air compressor perfect for industrial use. To top it off, it comes with a 4-year limited warranty!
What Makes This Product Stand Out?
Without a doubt, the quiet operation is the thing that makes it stand out the most. The manufacturer has introduced a noise suppression device that makes this compressor's noise rating go down with up to 25%. And with this particular model, you can expect a noise level of under 70 dB, which makes it perfect even for working in enclosed spaces.
Best 5HP 80 Gallon Air Compressor:
Campbell Hausfeld CE4104
PROS
CONS
Our Review:
While there are quite a few 5 HP 80-gallon air compressors on the market, you’ll hardly find a better one than this Campbell Hausfeld CE4104. Its motor is backed up by a single-stage belt-drive, splash-lubricated pump made of solid cast iron. And while it reaches 140 max PSI, its air flow is rated at 16 CFM at 90 PSI, respectively 17.3 CFM @ 40 PSI.
The vertical tank is ASME-certified, with a perfectly positioned pressure gauge. For your convenience, there’s a pressure switch with the cut-in preset at 110 PSI and the cut-out at 140 PSI. For safer, prolonged product life, it also includes a commercial-style belt guard made of metal.
What Makes This Product Stand Out?
This single-stage, 1-phase, 5 HP air compressor, contractor grade, can work with more than 20 different air tools and covers the needs of any operator. It is solidly built, ideal for anything from automotive painting or sanding work to cutting sheet metal or grin. And it has a reliable pump designed to offer up to 10,000 hours of trouble-free use.
Hold up, are you interested in other topics related to air compressors? If so, these might be something to check out:
Pros and Cons of 80 Gallon Air Compressors
Not only massive, but also expensive, the 80-gallon air compressors don’t really make for an easy choice. Consider the following benefits without ignoring the potential challenges they bring along:
Pros
Extremely Versatile
With an 80-gallon air compressor by your side, you never have to worry whether you’ll have enough power for a particular tool. Even the power tools that require a high flow rate to run properly will work smoothly when connected to it, making it highly versatile.
Can Function At High Temperatures
Because they are intended for heavy-duty tasks, they come with effective cooling systems. And despite the high pressure they work at, they will handle high temperatures very well.
Can Operate With Multiple Tools Or Continuously
There are many different ways you can make the most of their power. You can choose to run multiple tools at the same time. Or you can pick just one air tool but take advantage of the compressor’s continuous operation.
Cons
Require A Significant Investment
This one you must have noticed already – the price point is quite high. Because of the significant investment it requires, you’ll have to think twice about how much you need it before deciding it is worth the expense to you.
Can’t Be Placed Just Anywhere
Heavy and not meant to be constantly moved around, it also needs to have the right power source at hand. The regular 100 V electrical outlets are limited to appliances with maximum 3 HP. Because the 80-gallon air compressors have 5 to 7.5 HP, you must check the voltage source at the site where it will operate, and make sure you can wire it to 240 V.
Comparison Overview
In the world of air compressors, the 60-gallon air compressor is the little brother of the 80-gallon. Aside from making this difficult choice, there’s also the question of single-stage or two-stage. Here’s a short comparison overview for these two pressing choices you’ll have to make.
60 vs 80 Gallon Air Compressor
In a nutshell, the larger the tank of your air compressor, the more powerful air tools you can use with it and the fewer cycles it will take. If you work with tools that gulp a lot of air, you’ll want an 80-gallon tank rather than a 60-gallon one.
Moreover, larger units may come with oversized pumps. This can make the compressor run slower and, surprisingly or not, also reduce its noise level.
Single Stage vs Two Stage Air Compressor
The number of stages indicates the number of times that the unit will compress air. A single-stage air compressor does it only once, whereas the two-stage unit does it twice. When the air is compressed twice, you get more pressure and longer continuous air supply.
While the two-stage air compressor is more capable and versatile, it has a small disadvantage that it takes longer to fill the tank. As opposed to a single stage that will compress the air and directly store it into the tank for later use, the two-stage will repeat the cycle, hence the extra time.
Conclusion
Knowing everything there is to know about the performances of 80-gallon air compressors, you can now pick your favorite. Whether it’s the best-for-the-money, the quietest, the best two-stage, the best 5 HP 80 gallon or just the best from a particular manufacturer like Husky, Dewalt, Ingersoll, or Industrial Air, you can make an informed choice!
People Also Ask
With so many technicalities you need to look into, there will always be details on which you’ll appreciate extra guidance. Here are some of the questions that people also ask about these massive 80-gallon air compressors:
How Much Does A 80 Gallon Air Compressor Weigh?
An 80-gallon air compressor can weigh between 400 and 600 lbs. The size and thickness of the tank (that must be capable of supporting the high pressure) and the decision to build parts of cast iron for extra durability will all add to the final weight.
How Much Does A 80 Gallon Air Compressor Cost?
A friendly price point would be around $1000, with the mention that it is fairly difficult to find something truly reliable for this price. Top-of-the-range models can go as high as $2500. But one can also consider the average-priced models at $1700-$2000.
How Long Does It Take For An 80 Gallon Air Compressor To Fill?
The time to fill an 80-gallon air compressor is typically around 10 minutes. However, it would depend on the power of the motor and the efficiency of the pump. Sometimes, when the compressor takes too long to fill its tank, it may also be because the pump won’t necessarily recharge at a rate that can keep up with the demand.
How Many Amps For a 80 Gallon Air Compressor?
Typically, a 240 V 5 HP (and above) motor will have a 22 Amp draw. Some models with less than 5 HP can also work with a 15 Amp motor.