Feature: The Powermate is relatively easy to carry with a well-balanced handle location and weighing in at only 25 lbs. The gauges are in an easily readable location, although the handle can obscure them depending on where the user is standing. For those wanting an inexpensive deal, the Powermate also comes with a dual purpose nailer/stapler, air hose, and accessory kit.

Flaw: The Powermate took a whopping 5 minutes and 14 seconds to fill up from empty. Even refilling the tank when the motor kicks on takes a minute and 24 seconds to go from 70 psi back to 100 psi. It tied as the loudest of the bunch, and with an unpleasant high pitched motor sound I cringed each time it kicked on. It also had a significant vibration making items nearby dance around a bit. The gauges arenʼt regulated in a normal gradient (e.g. there were 4 hash marks between 70 psi and 90 psi, leaving me to guess when the dial was reaching 75, 80, etc.) The factory setting of 70 – 100 psi is too low for sinking 2-in. + 15 gauge nails consistently; even 1-1/2-in. long 18g brads at 70 psi is pushing it.

Bottom Line: There were really no redeeming features to this compressor other than the fact that it was able to fire off a good amount of nails before kicking on again. The noise, low pressure, and recovery time relegates this compressor to “only in an emergency” status.