We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best 2 Stage Air Compressors 2026 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

EMAX E350 Stationary Air Compressor - 5hp 80 Gal. 2 Stage Single Phase Industrial Compressor with Pressure Lubricated Pump & Silent Air System - ESP05V080I1

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,143
CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute)
Duty Cycle
Noise Level

Most important from
19 reviews

CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute)
The rated SCFM numbers are outstanding and the larger compressor that runs at a lower RPM is perfect for long-term use and reliability.
Duty Cycle
The pump is a heavy-duty Eaton unit and the motor is a commercial continuous duty version, ensuring durability and longevity.
Noise Level
Wiring the unit up was straightforward and plumbing it was seamless. When turned on, it's impressively quiet, allowing for normal conversation while running.

The EMAX E350 Stationary Air Compressor stands out as a solid choice for both small shops and industrial settings. It offers a robust 5HP motor, which ensures powerful performance suitable for demanding tasks. The 80-gallon vertical tank provides substantial capacity, allowing it to handle heavy-duty workloads without frequent interruptions.

Additionally, the compressor operates at a relatively quieter noise level of 65 dB, which is beneficial for maintaining a more comfortable working environment. One of its standout features is the Cool-Tek Air Stream Technology, which helps in reducing moisture and operating temperature, thereby extending the pump's lifespan. The pressure-lubricated pump and components, like the 16 gauge steel OSHA approved belt guard, contribute to its durability and ease of maintenance.

The user-friendly interface makes it simple to operate, even for those who might not be highly experienced with air compressors. On the downside, the unit is quite hefty at 715 pounds, which may make it challenging to move if needed. Additionally, while it comes with a 1-year standard warranty, those looking for longer coverage might find it slightly lacking. The compressor's high performance and capacity make it ideal for users who need to power pneumatic tools or run air systems continuously. Its weight and potentially limited warranty might be points to consider based on individual needs.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,143
CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute)
Duty Cycle
Noise Level

Most important from
19 reviews

CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute)
The rated SCFM numbers are outstanding and the larger compressor that runs at a lower RPM is perfect for long-term use and reliability.
Duty Cycle
The pump is a heavy-duty Eaton unit and the motor is a commercial continuous duty version, ensuring durability and longevity.
Noise Level
Wiring the unit up was straightforward and plumbing it was seamless. When turned on, it's impressively quiet, allowing for normal conversation while running.
#2

EMAX E350 Stationary Air Compressor - 5HP 80 Gal 2 Stage Silent Air System with Pressure Lubricated Pump, Includes Oil for First Change - ES05V080I1

Rating
10.0
CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute)
PSI (Pounds per Square Inch)
Tank Size

Most important from
19 reviews

CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute)
The compressor delivers powerful and reliable air flow, easily handling demanding tasks like bead blasting and pneumatic jackhammer operation without any issues.
PSI (Pounds per Square Inch)
The unit’s large 80-gallon tank and efficient two-stage design provide excellent air delivery and pressure consistency for professional or serious hobbyist use.
Tank Size
The unit’s large 80-gallon tank and efficient two-stage design provide excellent air delivery and pressure consistency for professional or serious hobbyist use.
Duty Cycle
Running at a lower RPM contributes to reduced stress on the pump, enhancing durability and long-term reliability.
Noise Level
Its quiet operation is remarkable for a machine of this size, allowing comfortable use without headaches even during lengthy jobs.

The EMAX E350 Stationary Air Compressor is a solid choice for those needing a powerful, reliable air system for demanding workshop or industrial tasks. With a strong 5HP motor and an 80-gallon tank, it can handle continuous use without frequent stops, making it well-suited for jobs like air brushing, drilling, nailing, and spraying. Its two-stage design means it delivers air efficiently at higher pressure (up to 12 bars or about 174 PSI), which is ideal for heavy-duty tools.

One standout feature is its quiet operation, thanks to a special silent air system that reduces noise by about 25%, which is quite low at 25 decibels for compressors this size, helping keep your workspace comfortable. The unit is built to last with a pressure-lubricated pump and technology that keeps it running cooler, which helps avoid overheating and extends its life. It also comes with oil for the first change, easing initial maintenance. The large 80-gallon vertical tank means you get a good air reserve, so tools can run longer between compressor cycles.

The machine is heavy at over 700 pounds and fairly large in size, so it’s best suited for a permanent spot in a workshop rather than moving around. While it is designed for quieter operation, it’s still louder than smaller compressors, so this is not a quiet tool for home use if noise is a concern. For professional or serious hobbyist use, the EMAX E350 offers strong performance and value as a robust, quiet, and durable 2-stage compressor.

Rating
10.0
CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute)
PSI (Pounds per Square Inch)
Tank Size

Most important from
19 reviews

CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute)
The compressor delivers powerful and reliable air flow, easily handling demanding tasks like bead blasting and pneumatic jackhammer operation without any issues.
PSI (Pounds per Square Inch)
The unit’s large 80-gallon tank and efficient two-stage design provide excellent air delivery and pressure consistency for professional or serious hobbyist use.
Tank Size
The unit’s large 80-gallon tank and efficient two-stage design provide excellent air delivery and pressure consistency for professional or serious hobbyist use.
Duty Cycle
Running at a lower RPM contributes to reduced stress on the pump, enhancing durability and long-term reliability.
Noise Level
Its quiet operation is remarkable for a machine of this size, allowing comfortable use without headaches even during lengthy jobs.
#3

EMAX E350 Stationary Air Compressor - 7.5hp 80 Gal. 2 Stage Single Phase Industrial Compressor with Pressure Lubricated Pump & Whisper Quiet System - ES07V080V1.

Rating
9.4
PSI (Pounds per Square Inch)
Noise Level

Most important from
7 reviews

PSI (Pounds per Square Inch)
Delivers rapid air build-up, reaching 150 PSI quickly, ideal for demanding industrial tasks.
Noise Level
Operates quietly, significantly reducing workplace noise for a more comfortable environment.

The EMAX E350 Stationary Air Compressor is a powerful machine designed for heavy-duty industrial use. With a 7.5 horsepower motor, it delivers an impressive 31 CFM, making it suitable for demanding tasks in automotive shops or construction sites. The 80-gallon tank ensures a stable and continuous supply of air, while the 2-stage design provides high efficiency and performance, reaching adequate PSI levels for most industrial applications.

One of its standout features is the Silent Air Technology, which significantly reduces noise levels, making it much quieter compared to other compressors in its class, operating at 80 dB. This can greatly improve workplace comfort and reduce the risk of hearing damage for users. The advanced pressure lubrication system helps maintain the pump, extending its lifespan and reducing maintenance needs. Additionally, the air filtration system, with four levels of filtration, ensures cleaner air output, which is crucial for maintaining the quality of work in sensitive applications.

However, the compressor is quite heavy, weighing in at 956 pounds, which might limit its portability despite being labeled as such. It also requires a single-phase power source, which may not be compatible with all setups. While it is ranked #49 in stationary air compressors, it is not a top seller in the broader Tools & Home Improvement category. This might suggest limited popularity or specific niche usage. The EMAX E350 is a strong contender for those needing a robust, quiet, and efficient air compressor for industrial or professional environments.

Rating
9.4
PSI (Pounds per Square Inch)
Noise Level

Most important from
7 reviews

PSI (Pounds per Square Inch)
Delivers rapid air build-up, reaching 150 PSI quickly, ideal for demanding industrial tasks.
Noise Level
Operates quietly, significantly reducing workplace noise for a more comfortable environment.

Buying Guide for the Best 2 Stage Air Compressors

Choosing the right 2-stage air compressor can significantly impact the efficiency and effectiveness of your work. These compressors are known for their ability to handle heavy-duty tasks and provide a consistent flow of compressed air. When selecting a 2-stage air compressor, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and choose a compressor that meets your requirements.
CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute)CFM measures the volume of air the compressor can deliver at a specific pressure. This spec is crucial because it determines the compressor's ability to power air tools. Higher CFM ratings are necessary for tools that require more air, such as sanders and grinders. For light to moderate use, a CFM rating of 4-6 may suffice, while heavy-duty applications might need 10-15 CFM or more. Assess the air requirements of your tools and choose a compressor with a CFM rating that meets or exceeds those needs.
PSI (Pounds per Square Inch)PSI indicates the pressure at which the air is delivered. This is important because different tools and applications require different pressure levels. Most 2-stage air compressors offer a PSI range of 90-175. For general use, a PSI of around 90-100 is often adequate. However, for more demanding tasks, you might need a compressor that can deliver up to 175 PSI. Consider the pressure requirements of your tools and ensure the compressor can meet those needs.
Tank SizeThe tank size determines how much compressed air is stored and available for use. Larger tanks allow for longer periods of continuous use without the compressor needing to cycle on and off frequently. Tank sizes for 2-stage compressors typically range from 20 to 80 gallons. For intermittent use or smaller projects, a 20-30 gallon tank may be sufficient. For continuous or heavy-duty use, consider a tank size of 60 gallons or more. Match the tank size to the duration and intensity of your work.
Horsepower (HP)Horsepower measures the power of the compressor's motor. Higher horsepower generally means the compressor can generate more air pressure and volume. For light to moderate tasks, a compressor with 3-5 HP may be adequate. For more demanding applications, look for a compressor with 5-7.5 HP or higher. Consider the power requirements of your tools and the intensity of your work when choosing the horsepower.
Duty CycleThe duty cycle indicates how long the compressor can run before needing to rest. It is usually expressed as a percentage. A 100% duty cycle means the compressor can run continuously without needing a break, which is ideal for heavy-duty or industrial applications. For less intensive use, a 50-75% duty cycle may be sufficient. Evaluate the frequency and duration of your compressor use to determine the appropriate duty cycle for your needs.
Noise LevelNoise level is measured in decibels (dB) and indicates how loud the compressor will be during operation. This is important if you will be using the compressor in a noise-sensitive environment. Quieter compressors typically operate at around 60-70 dB, while louder models can exceed 80 dB. If noise is a concern, look for compressors with lower dB ratings or consider additional noise-reducing measures. Choose a noise level that is comfortable for your working environment.

FAQ