Compare
Portable compressor CFM classes compared
2.2, 3.35, and 5.3 CFM @ 90 PSI portable classes with example VEVOR listings and NO_MATCH ceiling.
| Class | Best for | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| 2.2 CFM @ 90 PSI | Light intermittent tools (brad nailers, tire fill) under ~2.2 required CFM | Will stall frequent impacts and continuous sanders |
| 3.35 CFM @ 90 PSI | Framing nailers and light garage bursts in the ~2.2–3.35 required band | Still short of a 5 SCFM intermittent impact at duty 1 |
| 5.3 CFM @ 90 PSI | 1/2 in intermittent impacts and similar tools up to ~5.3 required CFM | Ceiling of this portable ladder — continuous HVLP/sanders usually NO_MATCH |
| Above 5.3 CFM | Continuous sanders, blast cabinets, multi-tool shops | NO_MATCH on this site — need higher-delivery or stationary equipment |