Air tools

Air Tools and Compressors: How to Choose a Set at a Good Price

Updated 20 October 2026

Start with the compressor, not the tool

Air tools run on compressed air, so everything depends on the compressor. The most common mistake is to buy an impact wrench, a sander or a spray gun, and then find that the compressor can't keep the tank filled. Every air tool's manual states its air consumption in litres per minute. The compressor's output must cover that with some to spare.

Go by the delivered output (l/min), not the intake figure, which is often printed on the box as the bigger number. So ask specifically for the delivered output.

What to put in your request

• type of tool — compressor, impact wrench, spray gun, nailer, stapler, air sander, airbrush;
• specifications — tank volume in litres, output in l/min, pressure in bar, oil-lubricated or oil-free, torque;
• model or brand — if you have a preference;
• power supply — single-phase 230 V or three-phase;
• what work it is for — tyre fitting, painting, small repairs, a workshop;
• what is included — hose, gun, quick-release couplings, attachments;
• new or second-hand, delivery and budget.

Example: “I need a new oil-lubricated compressor for a tyre shop, 50 l tank, 400 l/min output, single-phase 230 V, with a hose and an inflation gun. A known brand would be good. Courier delivery to Johannesburg, budget up to R 3,500.”

Oil-lubricated or oil-free, tank and noise

Oil-lubricated compressors are usually longer-lived and cope better with long runs, but need the oil level checked. Oil-free ones are lighter and simpler to maintain, but noisier and wear faster under heavy loads. For painting you need clean, dry air, so ask about a filter-moisture separator and a regulator.

A big tank means the motor doesn't have to run all the time, while tools with a short cycle (a nailer, a stapler) are fine with a small one. For tools that use air continuously, such as a spray gun or a sander, output matters more. Don't forget the noise: in a garage it isn't critical, but near living rooms it becomes a problem.

How to compare offers

Compare compressors by delivered output, tank volume and type of drive, not only by price. Look at what is in the box: hose, gun, quick-release couplings, filter. Some offers are cheaper because none of this is included and you have to buy it separately. Ask about the warranty and who will do the servicing.

For second-hand, find out how many hours it has run, whether oil leaks, whether the tank holds pressure and how long it takes to build pressure.

How it works on BlaBlaPrice

You describe the job once, and air tool sellers reply in a chat with offers: what exactly, the price, the kit, delivery. It is free for the buyer. Sellers see where they rank and compete for your request. BlaBlaPrice shows the best-value offer first, with seller reviews alongside. Contacts stay hidden until you choose a seller. Create a request or find out how it works.

For comparison, see power tools and welding equipment.