Kobalt Air Compressors: Compact and Reliable Machines for Home Garages
When it comes to finding a reliable and compact air compressor for your home garage or small workshop, Kobalt air compressors are a top choice.
Designed by Lowe’s, these compressors are known for their durability, portability, and ability to handle heavy-duty jobs.
With a range of sizes and capacities, Kobalt air compressors offer versatility and convenience.
In this article, we will explore the different models, features, and specifications of Kobalt air compressors to help you determine if they are worth your investment.
Compact and Portable Machines for Every Need
Kobalt air compressors are compact machines that pack a punch. Despite their small size, they are capable of handling heavy-duty and large-scale jobs.
This makes them perfect for home garages, wood workshops, and other places that require the services of an air compressor.
Additionally, Kobalt air compressors are portable, allowing you to easily move them around as needed.
Whether you need a compressor for occasional use or for more regular projects, Kobalt has a wide range of sizes and capacities to choose from.
Top 10 Home Garage Air Compressors
Kobalt air compressors have gained a reputation as one of the top 10 home garage air compressors on the market.
Their combination of durability, performance, and compactness make them a popular choice among DIYers and weekend mechanics.
With a lifetime warranty offered on most models, Kobalt is confident in the longevity of their compressors when used as recommended.
To find out which models carry a lifetime warranty, you can visit Lowe’s website for more information.
Strong and Reliable Build Quality
Manufactured in the United States, Kobalt air compressors are built to last.
Lowe’s, the company behind Kobalt, ensures that these compressors are strongly built to withstand the demands of various applications.
The use of high-quality materials and craftsmanship ensures their longevity and reliability.
However, it’s important to note that while Kobalt air compressors are durable, they are not designed for heavy industrial use.
They are best suited for home garages, workshops, and other similar environments.
A Wide Range of Motor Sizes and Tank Capacities
Kobalt air compressors offer a variety of motor sizes and tank capacities to suit different needs.
The motors range from 1.5 horsepower to 5 horsepower, providing sufficient power for various tools and applications.
Additionally, the air tanks come in capacities ranging from 3 gallons to 80 gallons.
This wide selection allows you to choose the best compressor for your specific requirements, ensuring that you have the right amount of power and storage capacity.
Designed for Occasional Use
While Kobalt air compressors are capable of handling heavy-duty jobs, they are primarily designed for occasional use.
They are ideal for home garages and small to medium-sized workshops where they can provide reliable service for a wide range of tasks.
It’s important to note that continuous and heavy use of these compressors may lead to faster wear and tear.
To ensure their longevity, it is recommended to use them intermittently and according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Popular Kobalt Air Compressor Models
Among the models of Kobalt air compressors available at Lowe’s, there are several that have gained popularity among consumers.
Let’s take a closer look at some of these models and their key features:
1. Kobalt Air Compressor 0300842
- Horizontal Tank: The 0300842 model features a horizontal tank with a capacity of eight gallons. This design, combined with a fully-encased motor and pump, provides quiet operation and protects the vital components from accidental damage.
- Portable: Despite its small size, this compressor is portable and comes with a removable handle and rubber wheels for easy transportation.
- 1.8 Horsepower Motor: Powered by a 1.8 horsepower copper-wound motor, this compressor can generate up to 150 pounds per square inch (psi) of air pressure, making it suitable for drilling, nailing, cutting, and light-duty sanding.
2. Kobalt Air Compressor LK20175
- Most Portable: The LK20175 is touted as the most portable of all Kobalt air compressors. It is easy to maintain, as it does not require an oil pump, and features an easy start-up even in sub-zero temperatures.
- Tank Capacity: With a tank capacity of 20 gallons, this compressor is capable of generating power up to 175 psi. It can be used for inflating tires of heavy trucks and powering roofing and framing nail guns.
3. Kobalt Air Compressor 3332644
- Quietest Operation: The Kobalt 3332644 air compressor is the quietest among all Kobalt models. With a 26-gallon tank, it is perfect for small car paint shops or workshops for wood or metal products.
- 1.8 Horsepower Motor: Powered by a 1.8 horsepower, 4-pole induction motor, this compressor delivers sufficient power for cutting tools, nail guns, power drills, and grinders in a workshop or home garage.
4. Kobalt Air Compressor 3320447
- Popular Among DIYers: The 3320447 air compressor is a smaller Kobalt unit that has gained popularity among DIYers. With a tank capacity of 4.3 gallons, it can still deliver a powerful 150 psi of air pressure.
- 120-volt Motor: This compressor features a 120-volt, one horsepower 4-pole induction electric motor that powers two oil-less pumps, requiring minimal maintenance. It is ideal for framing, finishing, and other similar applications.
5. Kobalt Air Compressor XC60200
- 60-Gallon Tank: The XC60200 air compressor comes with a 60-gallon tank, making it one of the largest Kobalt compressors available. Despite its size, it can be installed vertically to save space in your workshop or garage.
- 240-volt Motor: Powered by a 240-volt, 3.7 horsepower heavy-duty induction motor, this compressor can supply a maximum air pressure of 175 psi. It requires a dedicated power source of at least 230 volts for optimal performance.
6. Kobalt Air Compressor 0120242A
- Smallest Kobalt Compressor: The 0120242A is the smallest of all Kobalt air compressors, with a tank capacity of only 2 gallons. It is perfect for basic air compression needs around the house, such as inflating sports balls or balloons.
- 1/2 Horsepower DC Motor: This compressor features a two-stage, 1/2 horsepower DC electric motor that delivers 1/2 cubic feet per minute at 90 psi. It can reach a maximum air pressure of 125 psi and is designed to be connected to a 12-volt power source.
Pros and Cons of Kobalt Air Compressors

Like any product, Kobalt air compressors have their pros and cons. Understanding these can help you make an informed decision before purchasing one:
Pros
- Cost-Effective: Kobalt air compressors are more affordable compared to other brands with similar sizes and capacities.
- Less Noise: Due to their smaller size, Kobalt compressors are generally quieter during operation.
- Less Maintenance: The oil-less models of Kobalt compressors require minimal maintenance, making them convenient for users.
- Wide Selection: Kobalt offers a wide range of sizes and tank capacities, ensuring that you can find the right compressor for your needs.
- Widely Available: Kobalt air compressors are widely available at Lowe’s stores, making them easily accessible.
Cons
- Not for Heavy-Duty Use: While Kobalt compressors can handle occasional heavy-duty work, they are not designed for continuous industrial use.
- Not for Continuous Use: These compressors are designed for intermittent use and may wear down faster if used multiple times a week.
- Limited Maintenance Support: Lowe’s does not provide direct maintenance support for Kobalt air compressors, requiring users to seek third-party service companies for repairs.
Conclusion
Kobalt air compressors are compact, reliable, and versatile machines that are perfect for home garages and small workshops. With their range of sizes and capacities, they can handle heavy-duty jobs while remaining portable and easy to store.
Whether you need a compressor for occasional use or more regular projects, Kobalt offers a variety of models to suit your needs. With their lifetime warranty and strong build quality, Kobalt air compressors have earned their place among the top 10 home garage air compressors.
Visit your local Lowe’s store or their website to explore the different models and find the perfect Kobalt air compressor for your needs.




