What Can Small Compressors Really Do?

To answer viewer questions, I did some quick experiments with two small air compressors which I have previously reviewed (links below). Can you use a framing nailer with a smaller compressor? What about filling tires? Can you use a paint sprayer? Automotive tools? Small compressors with low SCFM ratings are what I use on jobsites to run finish nailers, but many homeowners purchase them as their only compressor. You might be surprised at what you can and cannot do with these smaller machines. Hope this video answers some questions!

►Previous reviews:

[theupsideofdownsizing]

This is the video everyone needs to see. You actually show useful information and answer the questions that everyone has on their mind when shopping for a new compressor. We all want the smallest lightest least expensive compressor that will handle the bigger tools especially framing nailers. Thanks very much for this video it was a big help!

[derekbionelli]

Thank you for the detail. As a diy farmer, this was exactly the information I was looking for. The framing nailer being the key.

[pault]

Excellent video explaining the different pressures and use cases of these small compressors!

[RobertReilly-hb]

Wonderful, clear and concise demonstration of the 2 gallon unit- exactly the information I needed. I wanted to know if I could use the 2 gallon compressor for intermittent framing nailer/nail remover usage and I got my answer: yes, indeed. Thank you, thank you! for demonstrating usage and NOT ‘unboxing’.

[flat]

I have had that fortress 2 gallon for around five years. I also have a 175 gallon compressor that I no longer use. In real world scenarios I've found it keeps up even for mounting tires and painting cars.

[mc]

Really useful video - you answered all the questions I had.

[joemiller]

really appreciate your video. I bought the exact small compressor for a specific project (pressurize a sewer line). It wouldn't work, I couldn't figure out any other use for it and I was gonna toss it. Now I see several uses that I can employ! Thanks!

[bixby]

Great video. I bought the quiet Fortress 4gal high pressure to replace an 8 gal Kobalt. It works the same, is lighter so easy to carry one handed and is much quieter. Built a deck, rotated tires which took a little time but not a big deal. Framing nailer kept up fine for one person

[CMDR-Cody]

Awesome video showing off the value of these small units for homeowners. You've probably helped save people a lot of time and money.

[cbialorucki]

I think this will be fine for undercoating a truck with lanolin. Inconsistency doesn't matter too much. Great video!

[wingerrrrrrrrr]

The impact gun should be tested, it would have worked fine, especially if set up with high flow connectors. That will make a big difference in its capability compared to the restrictive standard air couplers. It won't run out of air if when only takes a second to break loose the lug nut.

[TBD.]

Excellent review answers a lot of general questions for the main stream DIY consumer.👍🏻
I'm getting the 2 gallon I'll be using it to check for valve Leakes on my valve cover and input drum and oil pump once I assemble them to make sure I did the job 100% correct on my 4L60E.

[rstelzer]

I got the same 2 gallon machine for airbrushing murals, and it's perfect, especially quiet inside a hallway as well as oil less so it doesn't contaminate the paints.

This video was so helpful. I was wanting to see if the Ultra Quiet compressor could keep up with a framing nailer for a shed. Looks like it should be just fine.

[hutchrt]

I stumbled upon this video, I really do appreciate it! It really did give me a big picture of what I may be able to do with this. I feel like I'm not the only one who's going to be trying to determine what they're looking for in an air compressor. And trying to have reality for expectations. I did a lot of research when I got my pressure washer and I learned a lot. But this is even a little more difficult, because with a pressure washer it's similar but you're still ultimately pressure washing with one tool. With an air compressor, there are so many different tasks and so many different tools that it's much more difficult to decide. I'm looking for portability, even more so than it being quiet. But most of the videos of definitely educated me that I'm going to want to consider that as well. Learning about how long it will last with the air that's in it has now just become so much more important than I realized. I'm a homeowner, but I do a lot of projects and a lot of jobs on the side for other people. It's obvious that I won't be able to run a spray gun for painting, but I am going to have to balance what other jobs I'm going to be willing to accept using it. Again, I thank you for all the information and I would highly recommend the video to people who aren't even considering these two compressors to really understand more.

[steverainey]

Very informative video thank you for taking the time to share this with occasional do it yourselfers.

[TimeForLifeTravel]

Super helpful video. I was trying to decide between the 2-gallon and the brand new quiet 6-gallon Fortress compressors, based on the exact same needs you demonstrated, including wondering how fast would it inflate my Harbor Freight trailer tires. The 2-gallon is better for my usual needs but I didn't want to have to buy another compressor to power a nail gun for a project I "might" do next year. Thanks to you, I now know the 2-gallon model would handle my nailing needs in a pinch and neither was good enough for painting anyway. Thanks again.

[rednef]

Thanks for this video, I have been thinking about buying the smaller Fortress..mostly for light duty trim and stuff but I have to say I was impressed you get that many 3 inch nails in a row that quickly..I think it would be good for some remodeling stuff around my house as you said.

[Charliemmafan]

Thanks for making these videos because I'm curious of the differences between these types of air compressors also so you've helped a lot!

[spemper]

What a well done and user friendly, thought out presentation. Thank you. Bravo my good man bravo.