I'm looking to replace my (very, very loud) 5-gallon air compressor. It's over 10 years old and probably runs at over 100db. I put together a baffle box to dampen the noise, but it just takes up too much space at this point. Can anyone recommend a 5-gallon air compressor that runs quietly? Thanks 
Are you set on 5 gal?
I have (and have seen other) California Air Tools compressors and they are very quiet. I'd have no trouble recommending one.
Here is a 5.5 gal at lowes:
https://www.lowes.com/pd/California-Air-Tools-5-5-Gallon-Single-Stage-Portable-Electric-Hot-Dog-Air-Compressor/1000753292
I have this 10 gal one. For the footprint, I think it's relatively compact unit with decent capacity:
https://www.amazon.com/California-Air-Tools-10020C-Compressor/dp/B0188XBTLY
I have the 5510 5.5 gallon aluminum model (not sure if they still sell the exact model), I got from Amazon. I really like it. It is super quiet, will output about 120 psi, fills from empty very fast and is light and easy to move around. The steel models are cheaper. I like the model I have because it will fit under most pinball machines.
Quoted from Lamprey:Are you set on 5 gal?
Give or take a half gallon. 8+ gallons takes up too much physical space. Under 3 gallons wouldn't be enough to keep the tank full when I'm using it.
I needed an air compressor to operate in a bar atmosphere in the same room as patrons. I ordered about 5 different ones from HD. This one out performed by far. As others have said, California Air is the way to go.
If it’s not belt driven it’s most likely going to be loud unless you want to pay high dollar. Dewalt has a smaller 30 gallon that several guys at work use and I use at home and it’s VERY quiet compared to most I’ve been around. Our local store has it for $300 something.
A5664C0C-EA1A-41DF-A736-C3FC96387DC1 (resized).pngQuoted from inhomearcades:I needed an air compressor to operate in a bar atmosphere in the same room as patrons. I ordered about 5 different ones from HD. This one out performed bar far. As others have said, California Air is the way to go.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/California-Air-Tools-15-Gal-2-0-HP-Ultra-Quiet-and-Oil-Free-Air-Compressor-15020C/205773204
I agree we just bought of one these for our lab tech who has to work in the same room.
A bit of a non sequitur and I realize these are probably more than most people need. But, I really like the Prevost couplers as they prevent "hose whip" and are really nice to use. If you haven't seen/tried them I highly recommend them.
Here is a 1/4" high flow version on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Prevost-PRVESI071201S-Smart-Safety-Coupling/dp/B003969BJS/
Quick Demo Video, there are plenty of others.
It looks like the California Air 5.5 gallon models have been discontinued. Judging from the list of poor reviews on amazon, it looks like that model had some problems.
So, it looks like it's down to the 4.7 gallon or 8 gallon. I might lean toward the 8 gallon since there's not a huge size difference.
4.7 gallon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07CKRLKM9/
8 gallon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WM1VPKE/
The other question is: aluminum tank or steel tank?
Aluminum is lighter and doesn't rust, but isn't as durable. Steel rusts, but is durable.
My current air compressor is steel, and it's been fine, but part of that probably has to do with the quality of the metal.
The price difference (between steel & aluminium) is basically nothing.
Any thoughts?
Quoted from Hayfarmer:Have you looked at rapid air? Great way to remote locate your compressor and super easy install. All kinds of fittings, been in my shop for 7 yrs now.[quoted image]
I don't have a shop, unfortunately. Someday...
Quoted from ForceFlow:I don't have a shop, unfortunately. Someday...
Garage? Or depending on your climate, wherever you live, a small shed would work. it's so handy ,you can put outlets wherever. from ceiling etc
Quoted from Vandy89:I have the 8 gallon California Air. Super quiet. I got the aluminum because it doesn’t rust and weighs 1/2 of what the steel does.
You've got me interested in one of these too! Does yours have one rubber front foot (positioned in the center of the tank at the front end) or two? If one, how "tippy" do you find it to work with?
One rubber foot in the front. I haven’t had any issues with “tippiness”.
For the price I don’t think you can find anything better.
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Renton, WA
Winnipeg, MB