Best 20 Gallon Air Compressors for a Home Garage: Top 9 Picks (November 2026)

The best 20 gallon air compressors for a home garage include the California Air Tools 20020 2.0 HP Ultra for quiet garage tool use, the Stealth 20 Gallon Ultra Quiet Air Compressor for lower noise, and the Klutch 20-Gallon Air Compressor for higher pressure.

On this page (6 sections)

1. The best 20 gallon air compressor for each garage
2. Do you need exactly 20 gallons for a home garage?
3. The best smaller alternatives to a 20 gallon tank
4. How do you choose a 20 gallon air compressor for a garage?
5. How should you set up and care for a garage compressor?
6. Final choice for the best 20 gallon air compressor for home garage use

The best 20 gallon air compressor for a home garage is the California Air Tools 20020. It stores 20 gallons, delivers 5.3 CFM at 90 PSI, uses a 2 HP motor and lists a 70 dB noise level.

That mix suits a garage where you want real reserve air without the loudest or heaviest option. CFM at 90 PSI matters more than maximum pressure, because most tools work around that pressure.

Choose the Stealth if lower noise matters most. Its 68 dB rating and 5 CFM at 90 PSI suit a garage close to living space.

Pick the Klutch if its 175 PSI maximum pressure and 2-year warranty fit your needs. That headroom can help some tools, even though airflow at 90 PSI is lower.

A 20 gallon tank is a middle ground. It gives more reserve than a compact pancake unit without needing the space of a larger stationary model.

That reserve helps during short bursts with an impact wrench, blow gun or nailer. The tank covers demand while the pump catches up, but airflow still needs checking.

Smaller 6 gallon and 10 gallon alternatives may be easier to move. They trade stored air for lighter handling, so base the choice on your main tools.

If you are unsure what tank size fits, start with What Size Compressor Tank Do I Need?. Our guide to What Can A 20 Gallon Air Compressor Do? explains the tasks this size can handle.

Compare shortlisted models by CFM at 90 PSI, weight and noise. Airflow mismatch will matter more in daily use than a small tank difference.

Our picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for quiet garage tool use

   California Air Tools 20020 2.0 HP Ultra

   9.1/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for lower noise

   Stealth 20 Gallon Ultra Quiet Air Compressor

   8.6/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for higher pressure

   Klutch 20-Gallon Air Compressor

   7.9/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

4. 4

   California Air Tools 10020C 2.0 HP Ultra

   Best for compact high airflow
   Check it
5. 5

   Metabo HPT Portable Pancake Air Compressor

   Best for nailers
   Check it
6. 6

   CRAFTSMAN 6 Gallon 150 PSI Oil-Free Pancake

   Best for general garage tasks
   Check it
7. 7

   ECOMAX Air Compressor 6 Gallon 150 PSI

   Best for included accessories
   Check it
8. 8

   California Air Tools 8010A 1.0 HP Ultra

   Best for quiet light work
   Check it
9. 9

   RYOBI ONEAND 1 GAL. 120 PSI Portable

   Best for tire inflation
   Check it

The best 20 gallon air compressor for each garage

The California Air Tools 20020 is the best overall 20 gallon choice here, while Stealth and Klutch serve different priorities. The smaller models make sense when portability, nailer use or light inflation matters more than stored air.

Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for. We checked tank capacity, airflow at working pressure, noise, portability, power source and the stated use for each model.

1

California Air Tools 20020 2.0 HP Ultra: Best for quiet garage tool use

9.1/10Our score

• 20 gallon steel tank
• 5.3 CFM at 90 PSI
• 125 PSI maximum pressure
• 70 dB noise level

The California Air Tools 20020 combines a 20 gallon steel tank with 5.3 CFM at 90 PSI and a 2 HP motor. Its 70 dB noise level suits a garage where sound matters.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 20 gallon tank
• 5.3 CFM at 90 PSI
• Oil-free pump
• Wheels

Cons

• 134 lb listed weight
• 125 PSI maximum pressure

The California Air Tools 20020 is the best fit for a garage that needs a 20 gallon tank and useful airflow at 90 PSI. It lists 5.3 CFM at 90 PSI, a 2 HP motor and 125 PSI maximum pressure.

Its oil-free dual piston pump is designed for lower maintenance, and the brand lists a life cycle of more than 3,000 hours before wear. Oil-free operation also avoids adding pump oil to your regular care routine.

For more choices, compare oil-free garage compressors.

The 70 dB noise level is lower than the Klutch model here, although it is not the quietest 20 gallon option. The 20 x 20 x 45 in body has wheels, but the listed weight is 134 lb, so plan its parking spot before moving it.

This compressor uses a corded electric power source and operates on 14 amps with a 110V / 60 Hz outlet. It includes a manual drain, so drain the tank after use according to the care instructions.

Choose it for intermittent impact-wrench, spray-gun or general pneumatic-tool work when the tool's CFM requirement fits. It is also the clearest choice when you want 20 gallons without moving to a louder, higher-pressure model.

2

Stealth 20 Gallon Ultra Quiet Air Compressor: Best for lower noise

8.6/10Our score

• 20 gallon tank
• 5 CFM at 90 PSI
• 150 PSI maximum pressure
• 68 dB noise level

The Stealth SAQ-12018 offers a 20 gallon tank, 5 CFM at 90 PSI and a 68 dB noise level. Its oil-free motor and wheels fit buyers who want garage capacity with less sound.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 68 dB noise level
• 150 PSI maximum pressure
• Oil-free motor
• Two quick couplers

Cons

• 121.4 lb listed weight
• 1.8 HP motor

The Stealth SAQ-12018 is the best 20 gallon compressor for buyers who want the lowest listed noise level among the 20 gallon picks. It lists 68 dB, 5 CFM at 90 PSI and a 1.8 HP oil-free motor.

Its peak pressure is 150 PSI, which gives it more stated pressure headroom than the California Air Tools 20020. The 20 gallon alloy steel tank stores the reserve air needed for intermittent pneumatic work.

Two quick couplers help you switch between tools, and the compressor has 8 in rubber wheels. The listed weight is 121.4 lb, so it can move around the garage, but it still needs a planned storage location.

Stealth includes an electric cord, the SAQ-12018 compressor and a user manual. The brand also lists cold-weather and low-voltage start capabilities.

Choose it when noise matters more than the last 0.3 CFM at 90 PSI. Its 5 CFM output suits many garage tools, but you should still compare that number with the tool's own requirement before connecting it.

3

Klutch 20-Gallon Air Compressor: Best for higher pressure

7.9/10Our score

• 20 gallon tank
• 175 PSI maximum pressure
• 4.2 SCFM at 90 PSI
• 2 HP motor

The Klutch 20-Gallon Air Compressor pairs a 2 HP motor with 175 PSI maximum pressure and 4.2 SCFM at 90 PSI. Its oil-free pump and wheels suit a general garage setup.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 175 PSI maximum pressure
• 20 gallon tank
• Oil-free pump
• Thermal overload protection

Cons

• 80 dB noise level
• 4.2 SCFM at 90 PSI

The Klutch 20-Gallon Air Compressor is the best fit when 175 PSI maximum pressure matters more than quiet operation. It pairs that pressure rating with a 2 HP motor and 4.2 SCFM at 90 PSI.

The oil-free pump reduces routine pump maintenance, while thermal overload protection is designed to help prevent overheating. Rubber foot stabilizers reduce vibration, and large rubber wheels with an ergonomic handle support movement around the garage.

At 80 dB, it is louder than the two other 20 gallon models here. Its listed dimensions are 19.1 x 17.5 x 41.5 in, and its listed weight is 90 lb.

Klutch lists a 2-year warranty. The compressor uses a corded electric power source and draws 14 amps.

Choose it for a general workshop where higher maximum pressure is useful and some extra noise is acceptable. Its 4.2 SCFM at 90 PSI should be matched against the working demand of your impact wrench, sander or spray gun.

Do you need exactly 20 gallons for a home garage?

You do not need exactly 20 gallons for tire inflation, brad nailing or short bursts with small tools. A 20 gallon unit makes more sense when you want extra stored air and have room for a wheeled model.

Many home garages use air in short, uneven bursts. The tank then acts as a buffer, storing air while the pump recovers.

That buffer gives a blow gun, staple gun or finish nailer steadier supply during a burst. The motor can refill the tank before the next job.

Tank size affects how long air is supplied before refill. It does not replace airflow, so a larger tank cannot make a low CFM compressor run a tool that needs more air than the pump delivers.

Think of the tank as stored time and the pump as ongoing supply. If demand stays above output, the tank will empty regardless of size.

CFM at working pressure should therefore come first when shopping. Maximum PSI only gives the ceiling, not how well the compressor keeps up while working.

A larger tank can smooth gaps, reduce motor starts and add air for quick tasks. Compare the best 6 gal air compressor if a smaller unit may fit your work better.

A 6 gallon model is often easier to carry and store than a 20 gallon wheeled unit. The larger model needs a clear parking spot and a clear path to reach it.

Floor space also affects routine care. If the drain, gauges and couplers are hard to reach, checks and adjustments become less likely.

Noise and weight can decide the choice too. A quieter, lighter small unit may suit work near a house, while a heavier 20 gallon unit needs planning to roll and store.

Your tool list should break any tie. Brad nailers, staplers and tire chucks often fit small units, while impact wrenches, sanders and spray guns often need more reserve and airflow.

List your three most common tasks and check their airflow needs. If those needs stay modest, a compact unit may serve you better than extra tank volume.

The best smaller alternatives to a 20 gallon tank

A smaller compressor can be the better garage choice when floor space, weight or the main tool determines the purchase. The California Air Tools 10020C has higher listed airflow than the 20 gallon picks, while the pancake models are easier to move.

4

California Air Tools 10020C 2.0 HP Ultra: Best for compact high airflow

8.8/10Our score

• 10 gallon steel tank
• 6.4 CFM at 90 PSI
• 125 PSI maximum pressure
• 70 dB noise level

The California Air Tools 10020C is not a 20 gallon model, but its 6.4 CFM at 90 PSI gives it a useful alternative for garages that need airflow more than storage.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 6.4 CFM at 90 PSI
• 70 dB noise level
• 2 HP motor
• Wheels

Cons

• 10 gallon tank
• 82.5 lb listed weight

The California Air Tools 10020C is a useful alternative when airflow matters more than a 20 gallon tank. Its 10 gallon steel tank and 2 HP motor support 6.4 CFM at 90 PSI, higher than the 20 gallon California Air Tools and Stealth models here.

That higher airflow can matter more than extra storage for some tools. A tool that needs steady air at 90 PSI will stay happier when the pump can supply closer to its demand.

It lists 125 PSI maximum pressure and a 70 dB noise level. The pressure ceiling is modest next to some 20 gallon picks, but most intermittent garage tools work well below that limit.

The oil-free dual piston pump is designed for lower maintenance, and the brand lists a life cycle of more than 3,000 hours before wear. You avoid routine pump oil checks, which suits a compressor that may sit between jobs.

Wheels help move the compressor around a shop or garage. Its listed dimensions are 16 x 15.1 x 35.9 in, and its listed weight is 82.5 lb.

That size is easier to park than the taller 20 gallon models, but it is still a two-handed move for many people. Plan the route from the door to the storage spot before it arrives.

Choose it when your tools need strong airflow but you have limited room for a deeper tank. Skip it if your main reason for buying is the longer reserve that comes from a 20 gallon tank.

5

Metabo HPT Portable Pancake Air Compressor: Best for nailers

9.5/10Our score

• 6 gallon tank
• 4 CFM at 90 PSI
• 200 PSI maximum pressure
• 73 dB noise level

The Metabo HPT Portable Pancake Air Compressor holds 6 gallons and produces 4 CFM at 90 PSI. It is a practical smaller choice for garages centered on framing, roofing, siding, finish and brad nailers.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 4 CFM at 90 PSI
• 200 PSI maximum pressure
• Portable 41 lb body
• Multiple nailer applications

Cons

• 6 gallon tank
• 73 dB noise level

The Metabo HPT Portable Pancake Air Compressor is the best smaller choice for nailing work. Its 6 gallon tank delivers 4 CFM at 90 PSI and reaches 200 PSI maximum pressure.

That pressure rating gives it clear headroom for nailers, which often care more about consistent shots than about long continuous airflow. The 4 CFM at 90 PSI figure is the number to check against your nailer manual.

Metabo HPT describes it for framing, roofing, siding, finish and brad nailers. The brand also states that it can run multiple nailers in the listed combinations, so compare your planned tool group with those stated uses.

Multiple tool use is the point where honesty matters. A compressor may support several nailers in bursts, but the tank still refills in cycles, so shared use should match the stated combinations.

At 41 lb, it is easier to transport than the 20 gallon units. Its listed dimensions are 16 x 16 x 18.5 in, and its noise level is 73 dB.

The pancake shape also helps it sit low in a garage or truck bed. That low profile can make storage simpler, though the tank still holds less air than a 20 gallon model.

The compressor uses corded electric power and includes the EC914S compressor. Metabo HPT lists a 1-year warranty.

Choose it when your home garage projects center on nailers and you want a portable unit. A 6 gallon tank is less suited to long, continuous airflow demands than a 20 gallon tank.

6

CRAFTSMAN 6 Gallon 150 PSI Oil-Free Pancake: Best for general garage tasks

9.5/10Our score

• 6 gallon tank
• 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI
• 150 PSI maximum pressure
• Oil-free pump

The CRAFTSMAN CMXECXA02106410 is a 6 gallon oil-free pancake compressor with 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI. Its 30.8 lb body fits garages where moving and storing the compressor matters.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 30.8 lb listed weight
• Oil-free pump
• Dual quick couplers
• 150 PSI maximum pressure

Cons

• 6 gallon tank
• 82 dB noise level

The CRAFTSMAN CMXECXA02106410 is the best general-purpose compact pick for a garage where low weight and oil-free operation matter. It has a 6 gallon tank, 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI and 150 PSI maximum pressure.

Its 30.8 lb iron body and carry handle make it easier to move between a garage, truck and job site. Dual quick couplers support two connected tools, although actual simultaneous use still depends on each tool's airflow demand.

The oil-free pump avoids routine oil changes. CRAFTSMAN lists uses including tire inflation, automotive maintenance, paint spraying, woodworking, roofing, framing and general home improvement.

The compressor uses a corded electric power source and includes a user manual. Its listed noise level is 82 dB, so it is louder than the quiet-focused models in this roundup.

Choose it for short garage tasks and easy storage. A 20 gallon model is a better match when you want more reserve air or plan longer tool cycles.

7

ECOMAX Air Compressor 6 Gallon 150 PSI: Best for included accessories

9.3/10Our score

• 6 gallon tank
• 150 PSI maximum pressure
• 25 ft PVC air hose
• 10-piece accessories kit

The ECOMAX 6 gallon pancake compressor includes a 25 ft PVC air hose, tire pressure gauge, nozzle, blow gun and other accessories. It suits buyers who want a starter garage setup in one package.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 25 ft hose
• 10-piece accessories kit
• Oil-free pump
• Dual quick couplers

Cons

• 6 gallon tank
• 75 dB noise level

The ECOMAX 6 gallon pancake compressor is the best compact pick for an included starter accessory set. It has a 150 PSI maximum pressure, an oil-free pump and a 25 ft PVC air hose.

The 10-piece accessory kit includes the hose, thread seal tape, ball foot air chuck, auto plugs, auto coupler, tire pressure gauge, nozzle, high-performance blow gun and sleeve. These items can help you begin with inflation and blow-cleaning tasks without gathering every connection separately.

The compressor has dual gauges, dual quick couplers, a flip-up handle and a corded electric power source. Its listed weight is 34.17 lb, and its noise level is 75 dB.

ECOMAX lists a 6 gallon tank and an airflow value of 3 at 90 PSI. Because the unit is smaller than the 20 gallon picks, match it carefully to any tool that runs for more than short bursts.

Choose it when the included hose and accessories reduce setup work. Choose a 20 gallon model instead when stored air and longer intermittent cycles are the priority.

8

California Air Tools 8010A 1.0 HP Ultra: Best for quiet light work

9.3/10Our score

• 8 gallon aluminum tank
• 2.2 CFM at 90 PSI
• 120 PSI maximum pressure
• 60 dB noise level

The California Air Tools 8010A uses an 8 gallon aluminum tank and produces 2.2 CFM at 90 PSI. Its 60 dB noise level makes it a strong alternative for light, noise-sensitive garage work.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 60 dB noise level
• 8 gallon tank
• Oil-free pump
• Wheels

Cons

• 2.2 CFM at 90 PSI
• 120 PSI maximum pressure

The California Air Tools 8010A is the best quiet alternative for light garage work. Its 8 gallon aluminum tank provides 2.2 CFM at 90 PSI, and the listed noise level is 60 dB.

That 60 dB figure is the main reason to consider it. It suits a garage where you want to work without sound carrying through the house as much as louder models.

Its 1 HP oil-free dual piston pump operates at 1,680 RPM. California Air Tools lists a 120 PSI maximum pressure, a 165-second tank fill time and a 60-second recovery from 90 PSI to 120 PSI.

Those recovery figures help set expectations for light use. Expect steadier support for inflation, brad nailing and blow cleaning than for tools that run hard for long stretches.

The oil-free design also keeps routine care simpler. There is no pump oil to add, though the tank drain and hose connections still need regular attention.

The compressor weighs 37.3 lb and includes wheels. Its listed dimensions are 24.01 x 12.99 x 21.85 in, so the narrow body may be easier to place than a 20 gallon vertical unit.

Choose it for inflation, light nailing and other jobs where quiet operation matters. Its 2.2 CFM at 90 PSI is not a substitute for the higher airflow of the California Air Tools 20020.

9

RYOBI ONEAND 1 GAL. 120 PSI Portable: Best for tire inflation

9.7/10Our score

• 1 gallon tank
• 0.5 CFM at 90 PSI
• 120 PSI maximum pressure
• Battery powered

The RYOBI ONEAND 1 GAL. 120 PSI Portable is a battery-powered 1 gallon compressor with 0.5 CFM at 90 PSI.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Battery powered
• 14.9 lb listed weight
• Portable
• 15 ft hose

Cons

• 1 gallon tank
• 0.5 CFM at 90 PSI

The RYOBI ONEAND 1 GAL. 120 PSI Portable is the best pick for tire inflation and small jobs.

Its 1 gallon tank produces 0.5 CFM at 90 PSI and reaches 120 PSI maximum pressure. Those numbers suit small, short tasks rather than sustained pneumatic work.

The battery powered design removes the need for a cord during use. It weighs 14.9 lb, measures 13.5 x 11.5 x 10 in and includes a 15 ft hose.

That cordless setup suits a shelf, car kit or small garage corner. You can move it to a tire without running an extension cord across the floor.

RYOBI lists tire inflation as the recommended use. It is portable and cordless, but its 1 gallon capacity and 0.5 CFM airflow make it a poor match for sustained tool use.

The small tank fills and empties quickly, so patience matters with larger tires. It works best for topping up pressure or handling a small job, then stopping.

Keep the battery charged and the hose connection clean. A weak battery or leaky fitting will make a small compressor feel even slower.

Choose it to top up tires or keep a small compressor available without giving up shelf space. For an impact wrench, sander or spray gun, compare the tool requirement with a larger model.

How do you choose a 20 gallon air compressor for a garage?

Choose a 20 gallon air compressor by comparing CFM at the tool's working PSI, tank capacity, noise and available floor space. Maximum PSI is useful, but it is not the best measure of how long a compressor can run a tool.

For intermittent impact-wrench work, compare the tool's CFM demand with the compressor's CFM at 90 PSI. The California Air Tools 20020 lists 5.3 CFM at 90 PSI, while Stealth lists 5 CFM at 90 PSI.

For nailers, a smaller portable compressor may be enough. The Metabo HPT lists 4 CFM at 90 PSI and is described for multiple nailer types, so it may be more practical than storing a 20 gallon unit for occasional framing work.

Noise also changes the garage experience. Stealth lists 68 dB, California Air Tools lists 70 dB for the 20020, and Klutch lists 80 dB.

If the garage shares a wall with living space, compare those figures before choosing.

Measure the parking area, doorway and path to the workbench. The 20 gallon California Air Tools model is listed at 20 x 20 x 45 in, while the Stealth is listed at 20 x 18 x 42 in.

How should you set up and care for a garage compressor?

Set the compressor on a stable surface with room around it, connect the correct hose and fittings, and confirm the tool working pressure is within range. Keep wheels, controls and drain accessible.

Give the motor room for airflow, away from walls, boxes and clutter. A boxed in compressor can run hotter and is harder to check during use.

Set the regulator before connecting a tool, then adjust again with the trigger held if the tool allows it. That helps match working pressure instead of relying on tank pressure alone.

Drain moisture regularly, following the model instructions. Moisture can collect as compressed air cools, and a drain that is hard to reach is easy to ignore.

Place the compressor so the drain opens without moving shelves or lifting the unit. If draining feels like a project, it will happen less often.

Inspect the hose, couplers and power cord before use. Stop if you see damage, a loose connection or unusual operation.

A quick check for cuts, cracks and worn couplers takes less than a minute. Replace damaged parts before applying pressure, because a leak wastes air and a failed connection can be unsafe.

Oil free models reduce pump oil maintenance, but they still need basic care. Keep the intake clear and follow the manual cleaning guidance.

Clear dust and debris from vents with power disconnected. Clean operation helps the motor run as designed and makes leaks easier to spot.

Check gauges and regulator movement from time to time too. A sticky regulator or odd gauge reading can lead to the wrong pressure for a tool.

Use hearing protection when sound or duration calls for it. Keep the compressor away from flammable vapors and never exceed pressure limits for tank, hose or tool.

Store the hose coiled with a gentle bend rather than kinked over a sharp edge. That protects the hose wall and helps couplers seat cleanly next time.

Final choice for the best 20 gallon air compressor for home garage use

The California Air Tools 20020 is the best overall choice if you want a 20 gallon tank, 5.3 CFM at 90 PSI and a 70 dB noise level. It balances stored air, airflow and sound for a home garage better than the other 20 gallon picks here.

Choose Stealth when 68 dB matters most, or Klutch when 175 PSI is the deciding feature. Those two choices trade a little airflow for either quieter use or higher maximum pressure.

Think about where the compressor will live before you decide. A wheeled 20 gallon unit needs a clear parking spot, a clear path from the door and room to reach the drain and controls.

Pick the California Air Tools 10020C if you want higher listed airflow in a smaller 10 gallon package. Its 6.4 CFM at 90 PSI can suit tools that need steady air more than long reserve storage.

For tire inflation, the RYOBI 1 gallon model is easier to store, while the Metabo HPT makes more sense for portable nailer work. Those smaller picks win when the job is light, specific and easy to carry.

Match the final choice to your most common tool rather than your largest dream job. Check CFM at the working pressure, confirm the noise level fits the space, and choose the tank size that matches how you actually work.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for quiet garage tool use

   California Air Tools 20020 2.0 HP Ultra

   9.1/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for lower noise

   Stealth 20 Gallon Ultra Quiet Air Compressor

   8.6/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for higher pressure

   Klutch 20-Gallon Air Compressor

   7.9/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

Is a 20 gallon air compressor good for a home garage?

Yes. A 20 gallon air compressor gives you more stored air than a small pancake unit and can suit intermittent use with impact tools, blow guns, nailers and some spray equipment.

Check the tool's required CFM at its working PSI, because tank size alone does not guarantee continuous airflow.

What is the best 20 gallon air compressor for home garage use?

The California Air Tools 20020 is the strongest overall match here because it combines a 20 gallon tank, 5.3 CFM at 90 PSI, a 2 HP motor and a 70 dB noise level. The Stealth is quieter at 68 dB, while Klutch reaches 175 PSI.

Is a 20 gallon compressor enough for an impact wrench?

It can be enough for intermittent impact-wrench use when the compressor's delivered CFM meets the tool's requirement. The California Air Tools 20020 delivers 5.3 CFM at 90 PSI, and the Stealth delivers 5 CFM at 90 PSI.

Check your wrench manual before connecting it.

Can a 20 gallon air compressor run a spray gun?

It may run some spray guns, but the match depends on the gun's CFM demand and the compressor's delivered airflow. The California Air Tools 20020 lists 5.3 CFM at 90 PSI and the Stealth lists 5 CFM at 90 PSI.

Use the gun's published requirement as the deciding number.

How loud is a 20 gallon air compressor?

The 20 gallon models here range from 68 dB to 80 dB. Stealth lists 68 dB, California Air Tools lists 70 dB for the 20020, and Klutch lists 80 dB.

A lower number can matter when your garage shares a wall with living space.