A good value pancake for trim and light framing that runs a bit quieter and stores more air than most at the same price.
Amazon $189The Metabo HPT EC711S is the better air compressor overall, rated 3.5 to 3.2. The Metabo HPT EC711S leads on value and airflow. The California Air Tools 8010A wins on noise. The Metabo HPT EC711S costs $60.99 less ($189 vs $249.99).
A quiet, rust proof garage compressor for nailing, inflating and occasional painting where a big tank matters more than airflow.
Amazon $249.99Prices were last checked October 31, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Metabo HPT EC711S for value ($67.50 per CFM at 90 PSI ($189, 2.8 CFM) vs $113.63 per CFM at 90 PSI ($249.99, 2.2 CFM)) and airflow (2.8 CFM at 90 PSI vs 2.2 CFM at 90 PSI).
- Choose the California Air Tools 8010A for noise (60 dB(A) vs 73 dB(A)).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every portable air compressor; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Metabo HPT EC711S | California Air Tools 8010A |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.5/5 | 3.2/5 |
| Value 30% | 81 $67.50 per CFM at 90 PSI ($189, 2.8 CFM) | 48 $113.63 per CFM at 90 PSI ($249.99, 2.2 CFM) |
| Airflow 25% | 60 2.8 CFM at 90 PSI | 40 2.2 CFM at 90 PSI |
| Tank 10% | 100 6 gal tank | 100 8 gal tank |
| Noise 15% | 48 73 dB(A) | 100 60 dB(A) |
| Warranty 20% | 0 1-year warranty | 0 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| Metabo HPT EC711S | California Air Tools 8010A | |
|---|---|---|
| Air | ||
| Airflow at 90 PSI | 2.8 CFM | 2.2 CFM |
| Airflow at 40 PSI | 3.7 CFM | 3.1 CFM |
| Max pressure | 165 PSI | 120 PSI |
| Tank | 6 gal | 8 gal |
| Duty cycle | - | 70% |
| Pump and motor | ||
| Power | Corded electric | Corded electric |
| Motor | 1 hp, 120 V | 1 hp, 120 V |
| Running amps | 12 A | 8.5 A |
| Oil-free pump | Yes | Yes |
| Build | ||
| Style | Pancake | Hotdog |
| Noise | 73 dB(A) | 60 dB(A) |
| Weight | 38.5 lb | 37.2 lb |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |
