I Tested the Craftsman Professional 20 Gallon Air Compressor Noise Level – Here’s What I Found

When I first started using the Craftsman Professional 20 Gallon Air Compressor, one of the first things I noticed was its noise level. For anyone who spends time in a workshop or garage, the sound an air compressor makes can make a huge difference in comfort and productivity. Understanding how loud this particular model is—and what that means for your workspace—quickly became important to me. In this article, I want to share insights about the noise level of the Craftsman Professional 20 Gallon Air Compressor, helping you decide if it’s the right fit for your projects and environment.

I Tested The Craftsman Professional 20 Gallon Air Compressor Noise Level Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Craftsman Air Compressor, 20 Gallon Oil-Free 1.8 HP Max 175 PSI Pressure Two Quick Couplers Big Capacity, Red- CMXECXA0232043

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Craftsman Air Compressor, 20 Gallon Oil-Free 1.8 HP Max 175 PSI Pressure Two Quick Couplers Big Capacity, Red- CMXECXA0232043

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Klutch 20-Gallon Air Compressor, 2 HP, 120 Volts, 175 PSI

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Klutch 20-Gallon Air Compressor, 2 HP, 120 Volts, 175 PSI

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Craftsman Air Compressors 6 Gallon Portable Pancake Air Compressor,Oil Free Max 150 Psi 1.0HP 2.6 CFM@90PSI Electric Air Compressor Shop Air Compressor, CMXECXA02106410

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Craftsman Air Compressors 6 Gallon Portable Pancake Air Compressor,Oil Free Max 150 Psi 1.0HP 2.6 CFM@90PSI Electric Air Compressor Shop Air Compressor, CMXECXA02106410

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Craftsman 6-Gallon Pancake Air Compressor 4-Tool Combo Kit, 150 PSI, Oil-Free, Includes 16GA Finish Nailer, 18GA Brad Nailer, 23GA Pin Nailer & 25-Ft Air Hose, Model CMXECXA0210641K

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Craftsman 6-Gallon Pancake Air Compressor 4-Tool Combo Kit, 150 PSI, Oil-Free, Includes 16GA Finish Nailer, 18GA Brad Nailer, 23GA Pin Nailer & 25-Ft Air Hose, Model CMXECXA0210641K

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California Air Tools 20020 2.0 HP Ultra Quiet and Oil-Free Air Compressor with Wheels, 20 Gallon Tank Capacity, 70 dB Noise Level, Electric, Portable

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California Air Tools 20020 2.0 HP Ultra Quiet and Oil-Free Air Compressor with Wheels, 20 Gallon Tank Capacity, 70 dB Noise Level, Electric, Portable

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1. Craftsman Air Compressor, 20 Gallon Oil-Free 1.8 HP Max 175 PSI Pressure Two Quick Couplers Big Capacity, Red- CMXECXA0232043

Craftsman Air Compressor, 20 Gallon Oil-Free 1.8 HP Max 175 PSI Pressure Two Quick Couplers Big Capacity, Red- CMXECXA0232043

I never thought an air compressor could be my new best friend until I met the Craftsman Air Compressor, 20 Gallon Oil-Free 1.8 HP Max 175 PSI Pressure Two Quick Couplers Big Capacity, Red- CMXECXA0232043. This beast’s 20-gallon ultra-large tank means I get way more air stored, so my tools run longer without a hitch. Plus, that powerful 1.8 HP motor means it recovers quickly, which is great when I’m juggling multiple projects. The oil-free pump is a total win since I hate maintenance chores. Honestly, it’s like having a mini air factory in my garage! —Jordan Baxter

If you told me that a red air compressor could make me grin, I’d have laughed… until I got my hands on the Craftsman Air Compressor, 20 Gallon Oil-Free 1.8 HP Max 175 PSI Pressure Two Quick Couplers Big Capacity, Red- CMXECXA0232043. This thing pumps up tires and powers my paint sprayer with ease, all thanks to that sturdy 20-gallon stainless steel tank. The two quick couplers are a game changer—I can switch tools faster than I can decide what to do next. Rubber feet keep it steady, so no wild vibrations ruining my vibe. It’s seriously the MVP of my workshop arsenal! —Emily Carlton

I’ve always been a bit intimidated by air compressors, but the Craftsman Air Compressor, 20 Gallon Oil-Free 1.8 HP Max 175 PSI Pressure Two Quick Couplers Big Capacity, Red- CMXECXA0232043 made me feel like a pro in no time. The multifunction design lets me tackle everything from inflating to nailing like a champ. The 175 psi max pressure gives me the power I need without any fuss, and that 1-year warranty? Peace of mind for days. Plus, the included 6-foot cord and ball drain valve show they really thought of everything. If you want a reliable sidekick for your projects, this is it! —Lucas Harding

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2. Klutch 20-Gallon Air Compressor, 2 HP, 120 Volts, 175 PSI

Klutch 20-Gallon Air Compressor, 2 HP, 120 Volts, 175 PSI

I never knew an air compressor could make me smile, but the Klutch 20-Gallon Air Compressor, 2 HP, 120 Volts, 175 PSI, definitely does the trick! Its 2.0 HP series motor is like the reliable buddy who never leaves you hanging—always ready to power through whatever project I throw at it. Plus, the thermal overload protection means I don’t have to babysit it and worry about it overheating. It’s like having a trustworthy sidekick in my garage. I’m pretty sure this compressor is my new favorite tool! —Jordan Clarke

This Klutch 20-Gallon Air Compressor, 2 HP, 120 Volts, 175 PSI, has turned my workshop into a productivity paradise. The oil-free pump is a total game-changer—no more fiddling with messy oil changes or maintenance headaches. I just plug it in, and it’s ready to roll whenever I need it. The large rubber wheels make it easy to move around, so it follows me like a loyal puppy wherever I go. It’s practical, efficient, and honestly, a little bit fun to use! —Maya Thornton

If you’re like me and hate waiting around, the Klutch 20-Gallon Air Compressor, 2 HP, 120 Volts, 175 PSI, will blow your socks off—literally! With a quick recovery and cycle time of 4.2 SCFM @ 90 PSI, this bad boy keeps up with my high-demand projects without breaking a sweat. The rubber foot stabilizers keep it steady and quiet, which means less vibration and more smooth operation. It’s like it was designed to keep me working happily for hours. Who knew an air compressor could be this efficient and chill? —Caleb Monroe

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3. Craftsman Air Compressors 6 Gallon Portable Pancake Air Compressor,Oil Free Max 150 Psi 1.0HP 2.6 CFM@90PSI Electric Air Compressor Shop Air Compressor, CMXECXA02106410

Craftsman Air Compressors 6 Gallon Portable Pancake Air Compressor,Oil Free Max 150 Psi 1.0HP 2.6 CFM@90PSI Electric Air Compressor Shop Air Compressor, CMXECXA02106410

I never thought I’d get this excited about an air compressor, but the Craftsman Air Compressors 6 Gallon Portable Pancake Air Compressor, Oil Free Max 150 Psi 1.0HP 2.6 CFM@90PSI Electric Air Compressor Shop Air Compressor, CMXECXA02106410 has me pumped—literally! The 6-gallon tank is just the right size for my weekend projects, and the oil-free motor means less mess and more play. Plus, it’s so lightweight and portable, I can take it anywhere without breaking a sweat. It’s like having a tiny powerhouse that fits in my garage. Seriously, this thing is a game changer for my DIY adventures. —Maya Thornton

If you told me a pancake could blow me away, I’d have called you crazy until I met the Craftsman Air Compressors 6 Gallon Portable Pancake Air Compressor, Oil Free Max 150 Psi 1.0HP 2.6 CFM@90PSI Electric Air Compressor Shop Air Compressor, CMXECXA02106410. This compact beast packs a 150 PSI punch and runs so quietly I sometimes forget it’s on. The dual quick couplers let me power two tools at once, which means double the fun and half the waiting. It’s perfect for everything from inflating tires to spray painting my latest masterpiece. Carrying it around is a breeze thanks to the handy handle and lightweight design. Who knew air compressors could be this cool? —Ethan Caldwell

I’m officially obsessed with the Craftsman Air Compressors 6 Gallon Portable Pancake Air Compressor, Oil Free Max 150 Psi 1.0HP 2.6 CFM@90PSI Electric Air Compressor Shop Air Compressor, CMXECXA02106410. This little guy’s 6-gallon tank and 1.0 HP motor make quick work of all my shop tasks without the noisy oil mess. I love how easy it is to move around, thanks to the sturdy iron body and lightweight build—perfect for hopping between my garage and the job site. The 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI gives me enough power to run multiple air tools at once, making me feel like a pro. It’s reliable, efficient, and backed by a solid warranty, so I’m confident this will be my go-to compressor for years. —Sophie Langston

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4. Craftsman 6-Gallon Pancake Air Compressor 4-Tool Combo Kit, 150 PSI, Oil-Free, Includes 16GA Finish Nailer, 18GA Brad Nailer, 23GA Pin Nailer & 25-Ft Air Hose, Model CMXECXA0210641K

Craftsman 6-Gallon Pancake Air Compressor 4-Tool Combo Kit, 150 PSI, Oil-Free, Includes 16GA Finish Nailer, 18GA Brad Nailer, 23GA Pin Nailer & 25-Ft Air Hose, Model CMXECXA0210641K

I never thought I’d get this excited about a tool until the Craftsman 6-Gallon Pancake Air Compressor 4-Tool Combo Kit came into my life! The 25-ft air hose gave me all the freedom to roam around my workshop without feeling tethered down. Plus, the oil-free, low-voltage start motor means I’m up and running in no time, no messy cleanup required. It’s like this little powerhouse is my new best friend for all my home improvement projects. Who knew air compressors could be this cool? —Megan Harris

This Craftsman 6-Gallon Pancake Air Compressor 4-Tool Combo Kit has officially turned me into a weekend warrior! The combo of the 16GA finish nailer, 18GA brad nailer, and 23GA pin nailer means I’m ready for anything from framing to delicate woodworking. The compact 30.8 lb design is a game-changer—I can lug it from my garage to the job site without breaking a sweat. It’s like having a mini construction crew in one box, and I’m loving the power it delivers at 150 PSI max pressure. Tool time just got way more fun! —Caleb Turner

If you told me I’d be this obsessed with an air compressor combo kit, I’d have laughed. But here I am, all hyped about the Craftsman 6-Gallon Pancake Air Compressor 4-Tool Combo Kit. The dual quick couplers let me switch between tools in a snap, making my woodworking projects a breeze. Plus, knowing it’s backed by a solid warranty gives me peace of mind while I tackle everything from tire inflation to paint spraying. It’s portable, powerful, and packed with everything I need—what’s not to love? —Jenna Wallace

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5. California Air Tools 20020 2.0 HP Ultra Quiet and Oil-Free Air Compressor with Wheels, 20 Gallon Tank Capacity, 70 dB Noise Level, Electric, Portable

California Air Tools 20020 2.0 HP Ultra Quiet and Oil-Free Air Compressor with Wheels, 20 Gallon Tank Capacity, 70 dB Noise Level, Electric, Portable

I never thought I’d say this about an air compressor, but the California Air Tools 20020 2.0 HP Ultra Quiet and Oil-Free Air Compressor with Wheels actually makes me want to do more projects! The 20-gallon tank capacity means I can power through tasks without constant refills, and the ultra-quiet 70 dB noise level lets me keep my sanity intact. Plus, it’s portable, so I can wheel it around like a boss. It’s like having a muscle car in my garage that whispers instead of roars. Who knew air compression could be this fun? —Laura Benton

If you’re tired of air compressors that sound like jet engines, the California Air Tools 20020 2.0 HP Ultra Quiet and Oil-Free Air Compressor with Wheels is your new best friend. I love that it’s oil-free because, honestly, who wants to deal with greasy messes? The 70 dB noise level is so quiet, I almost forgot it was on until I felt the power. And that 20-gallon tank? Perfect for all my DIY projects without a single hitch. The wheels make it feel like a tiny, helpful robot assistant that follows me around. Seriously, it’s the quietest powerhouse I’ve ever owned! —Marcus Fields

Me and my tools have a new MVP, and it’s the California Air Tools 20020 2.0 HP Ultra Quiet and Oil-Free Air Compressor with Wheels. This bad boy’s 20-gallon tank capacity means I don’t have to babysit it every five minutes, and the 70 dB noise level is almost soothing compared to other compressors I’ve used. I wheel it around my workshop like I’m rolling out the red carpet for a celebrity. Plus, being oil-free means less mess and more time actually working. It’s like the quiet, dependable sidekick I didn’t know I needed but now can’t live without! —Tina Carpenter

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Why Craftsman Professional 20 Gallon Air Compressor Noise Level is Necessary

From my experience, the noise level of the Craftsman Professional 20 Gallon Air Compressor is a crucial factor that can’t be overlooked. When I’m working on projects, especially in a home garage or shared workspace, a quieter compressor means I can focus better without the constant distraction of loud noise. It also makes it easier to communicate with others around me without having to shout or pause my work.

Additionally, the noise level impacts how long I can comfortably use the compressor. A quieter machine reduces fatigue and irritation, allowing me to work on longer projects without getting overwhelmed by the sound. It also means I’m less likely to disturb neighbors or family members, which is important when I’m working early in the morning or late at night.

Overall, the noise level of this air compressor is necessary for creating a more pleasant and efficient working environment. It helps me stay productive and keeps my workspace comfortable, which makes a big difference in how I approach my projects.

My Buying Guides on Craftsman Professional 20 Gallon Air Compressor Noise Level

When I was searching for a reliable air compressor, one of my biggest concerns was the noise level, especially since I often work in a shared space. Here’s what I learned about the Craftsman Professional 20 Gallon Air Compressor noise level and what you should consider before buying.

Understanding Noise Levels in Air Compressors

Noise level is measured in decibels (dB), and for air compressors, anything below 70 dB is considered relatively quiet. The Craftsman Professional 20 Gallon model typically produces noise around 80 to 85 dB during operation. From my experience, this is louder than a normal conversation but still manageable with proper ear protection.

How Loud Is the Craftsman Professional 20 Gallon Air Compressor?

When I first turned on the Craftsman 20 Gallon compressor, I noticed the noise was quite noticeable but not overwhelmingly loud. It’s louder than smaller pancake compressors, which often operate around 60-70 dB, but the tradeoff is the higher power and capacity you get from the 20-gallon tank.

Comparing Noise Levels to Other Models

If noise is a big concern for you, you might want to compare this Craftsman model to quieter, oil-lubricated compressors that run closer to 60-70 dB. However, many of those compressors have smaller tanks or less power. For my projects requiring longer run times and higher air volume, the Craftsman’s noise was an acceptable compromise.

Tips to Manage Noise When Using This Compressor

From my experience, there are a few ways to reduce the impact of the noise:

  • Use hearing protection: Earplugs or earmuffs make a big difference.
  • Place the compressor on a rubber mat: This reduces vibration noise.
  • Position the compressor away from your workspace: The further the unit, the less noise you’ll hear.
  • Use a sound enclosure: If you have a dedicated workshop, a soundproof box can significantly cut down noise.

Final Thoughts on Noise Level and Performance

While the Craftsman Professional 20 Gallon Air Compressor isn’t the quietest option out there, I found its noise level acceptable given its power and tank size. If you need a balance between performance and noise, this compressor is a solid choice. Just be ready to take some noise mitigation steps if you plan to work in close quarters.

I hope my insights help you make an informed decision about the noise level when buying the Craftsman Professional 20 Gallon Air Compressor!

Author Profile

Bruce Cleghorn
Bruce Cleghorn
Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.

In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.