What to look for in a portable air compressor

Portable black compressor

While portable air compressors offer convenience and flexibility, there are a number of factors to consider before making a purchasing decision to ensure you receive the best product for your budget.

While weight and portability are obvious considerations, free air delivery, noise level, air pressure and volume and tank size will all affect the quality of your compressed air and the system’s efficiency.

“Built for Australian conditions, our portable compressors deliver reliable performance wherever you need compressed air.”

Reciprocating compressors product

Free air delivery

In order for an air compressor to meet the air consumption requirements of the application, it must produce an adequate flow rate, or volume of air – known as free air delivery.

Measured by the volume of air it moves, in cubic feet per minute (CFM) or litres per minute, free air relates to the capacity of the air compressor, which varies from system to system.

Pilot Air’s portable air compressors have free air delivery capabilities that range from 161L/min (5.7CFM) to 300L/min (10.6CFM).

“Trusted by Sydney industries for over 40 years, Pilot Air’s portable compressors combine mobility with durability.”

Air pressure

Air pressure

While CFM measures the volume of air produced, pounds per square inch (PSI) measures the pressure of the compressed air system.

The force, or pressure, of the air is what gives the portable air compressor its power.

Ensuring your portable air compressor is enabled with adequate PSI is crucial in order to experience optimal functionality and reduce energy inefficiencies.

Pilot Air’s portable air compressors have maximum pressure outputs that range from 140 – 160 PSI.

Key Takeaways

Flexible Output

Portable units deliver 161–300 L/min free air, covering light to medium-duty needs.

Reliable Pressure

Operating at up to 160 PSI, they power demanding pneumatic tools with ease.

Low-Noise Options

Select models run as quietly as 59 dB(A), ideal for noise-sensitive environments

Durability in Harsh Conditions

Built with Italian-made components and supported by Pilot Air’s nationwide spare parts service.

Noise level

If you require a portable air compressor for a noise-sensitive environment, then the loudness of your potential compressor is an important consideration.

The Pilot Air range of portable air compressors has models ideal for noise sensitive environments, starting with a noise level of just 59 d(B)A – less than our larger silent air compressor range.

Extensive product range

Extensive product range

Our portable air compressors are designed with high-quality Italian components and are built tough to last. Suitable for a range of applications, including noise-sensitive environments where air demands are constant, our portable compressors are lightweight, easily portable and easily relocatable.

Our product range and large stock levels, combined with our comprehensive spare parts inventory, ensure we maintain your compressed air system’s reliability and efficiency while reducing whole-of-life operating costs.

Learn more about our compressed air products.

 

Air Compressor Products

From air compressors through to compressed air storage, treatment and distribution, our extensive range of compressed air products ensures we have the right solution for your business needs, no matter the industry or application. We also offer custom-built packages and compressed air systems that are fit for purpose and tailored to your budget.

Pilot MK 265-3 Ute 240V Reciprocating
Pilot MK 265-3 Ute 240V Reciprocating

Part of the Direct Drive MK series, the Pilot MK 265-2 Ute 240V Reciprocating air compressor is lightweight, compact and easy to move - ideal for job sites and applications that require versatile systems.

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The Pilot Air Team

Our compressed air experts are the best in the business. Committed to outstanding service delivery, our team and network of over 50 specialist technicians are with you every step of the way.

Compressed Air Products

We have Australia’s most extensive range of air compressor solutions, from high-performance models to portable and compact units. We also manufacture the latest air storage, air treatment and air distribution solutions. We offer a complete inventory of spare parts and on or off-site servicing and maintenance and can customise a complete compressed air solution for any business. 

Best suited for industrial applications to meet the ever-changing demands of the industry.

Rotary Screw
Compressors

All the reliability of a Pilot Air product, in a quiet package.

Silent Air
Compressors

Tailored for trade, professional or industrial applications.

Reciprocating Air
Compressors

Horizontal and vertical air receivers to complete a compressed air system installation.

Compressed Air
Storage

100% pure oil-free air, designed for applications where air quality is critical.

Oil-Free Air
Compressors

A range of products that offer safe, clean air, free from impurities.

Compressed Air
Treatment

Ideal for clients with small, specialist compressed air requirements.

Compact Air
Compressors

Efficient and easy to install, with high-quality components.

Compressed Air
Distribution

Perfect for noise sensitive environments where air demands are constant.

Portable Air
Compressors

Perfect for noise sensitive environments where air demands are constant.

Portable Air
Compressors

Complete solutions, including horizontal and vertical air receivers.

Compressed Air
Storage

Ideal for clients with small, specialist compressed air requirements.

Compact Air
Compressors

Frequently Asked Questions

What free air delivery (FAD) can I expect from Pilot Air’s portable compressors?

The portable air compressor range delivers between 161 L/min (≈ 5.7 CFM) and 300 L/min (≈ 10.6 CFM), giving you the flexibility to choose a model that matches your airflow needs for workshops, job sites, or mobile use.

What pressure and PSI ratings do your portable compressors have?

Our portable models operate at maximum pressures of 140–160 PSI, ensuring they can handle demanding pneumatic tools and site applications with ease.

How noisy are these portable compressors — can they be used in noise-sensitive environments?

Yes — selected portable compressor models are designed with low-noise operation starting from 59 dB(A), making them suitable for clinics, light workshops, and other environments where quieter performance is important.

How is durability and support handled, especially under tough Australian conditions?

Each portable compressor is built with high-quality Italian components, heavy-duty construction, and is supported by Pilot Air’s spare parts service to ensure reliability in Australia’s heat, dust, and humidity.

Which applications are the portable compressors best suited for?

Portable compressors are ideal for mobility-driven applications like job sites, ute mounting, service trucks, small workshops, or temporary installations — with models like the MK 265-Ute series offering the perfect balance of performance and portability.

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