How to Choose an Air Compressor: Complete Guide by Use Type

Q: Is pressure in bar more important than capacity in litres?

Both matter: the pressure determines whether the compressor reaches what your pneumatic tool requires, and the capacity determines how long you can work before the motor has to start again.

Quick answer: choosing a compressor depends on three questions: which pneumatic tool will you use and how much air does it consume?, do you have single-phase, three-phase or no electricity? and is the use occasional/domestic or intensive professional use? With those answers, this guide takes you straight to the right category.

Guides by compressor type

Type	When to choose it
Quiet oil-free compressors	DIY, small workshop, indoors
Belt-driven and three-phase compressors	Daily professional use, industrial units
Petrol and portable compressors	Outdoors or building sites without electricity

See all compressors by type

Frequently asked questions

How many litres of capacity do I really need?

For occasional use or low-consumption tools, 6-24 litres is enough; for frequent use with several tools, go up to 50-100 litres; and for installations with several simultaneous workstations, consider models of 150 litres or more.

Can I start with a small compressor and upgrade later?

Yes, it is a common strategy: start with an oil-free model for occasional needs and, if professional use grows, later add a belt-driven or three-phase compressor as your main equipment.

Is pressure in bar more important than capacity in litres?

Both matter: the pressure (bar) determines whether the compressor reaches what your pneumatic tool requires, and the capacity (litres) determines how long you can work before the motor has to start again.