Makita mac5200 Review VS Dewalt d55146 Review

If you’re a handyman that loves to get your hands dirty around the house, you should consider investing in an air compressor. This power tool is so much more useful than you might initially believe, and you’ll soon find yourself wondering how you ever lived without it. You need one to operate a nail gun, for spray painting, even some automotive repairs require the use of an air compressor. Once you have one, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Difference between Makita MAC5200 vs DEWALT D55146.

Having the right tools really makes all the difference when it comes down to the final result. You want to make sure that you invest in an air compressor that you know is going to do the job right.

There are so many different models available on the market, it can be difficult to know what your best options are. So here is a comparison between the Makita MAC5200 vs the DEWALT D55146, so that you can learn more about these two great air compressors.

These are two of the most popular air compressors on the market and both of the brands are highly reputable, but hopefully, these in-depth examinations of the tools will help you decide which one is the best for you.

Which One better Makita MAC5200 vs DEWALT D55146

Makita MAC5200 Air Compressor

[amazon box=”B0001Q2VPU”]

Why like Makita MAC5200 :

Fuel Type: Electric
Pump Type: Oil-lubricated
HP: Max 3.0 HP
Tank Size: 5.2 gallons, cylinder shape
Max PSI: 140
CFM @ 40 PSI: 6.9
CFM @ 90 PSI: 6.5
Dimensions: 29.00 x 19.50 x 19.00 inches
Weight: 88 pounds
Noise Level: 90 dBA

At a glance, it is easy to tell that the Makita MAC5200 is a good air compressor. The 5.2-gallon tank is large enough that you can get a lot out of it before you need to refill it. This gives you enough CFM to easily finish a wide range of tasks. Thanks to the 3.0 HP engine, it is capable of providing 6.5CFM @ 90 PSI, giving you the power that you need for more intense DIY projects.

Although this is certainly a heavy air compressor (88 pounds), it is still convenient to move around in other aspects. The model offers wheels that are suited to uneven terrain, perfect for job sites. When in storage, the handle folds down to reduce the risk of damage, allowing the air compressor to fit into smaller spaces.

The air hose wrap is capable of storing up to 50 feet of ⅜” hosing so that the hose is also as protected as possible when not in use. The 5200 model also provides a tool hanger and a storage compartment so that you don’t lose anything, and that all the additional parts are protected, ready for when you need them.

This air compressor is made from cast iron. While this may contribute its heavy weight, it does ensure that the tank and other parts of the machine stay fully functioning for longer. This is a solid investment that you know will last for years to come, making the inconvenient weight a small price to pay.

One of the main issues that many people face with their air compressors is an overheating engine, but you don’t need to worry about this one. This Makita model attempts to combat this problem with copper-finned tubing that enables swifter heat dissipation.

The engine also has a built-in overload that kicks in when it heats up too much, protecting the engine from damage. You can use this air compressor for extended periods of time with no concerns, and no detraction in its ability.

Many people consider the oil-based pump on this model a potential drawback. This will require greater maintenance and upkeep in the long run. It should not have any effect on the quality of the air compressor’s performance, but some people just prefer the convenience of a non-oil-based pump that required zero maintenance.

If you are using the air compressor a lot this may be a factor worth considering, but if you only use it sporadically, it is less important.

Overall, the Makita MAC5200 is a great option for those who want some extra power with their air compressors. This power does come with some potential downsides, notably the cost and the size/weight. If you don’t mind spending a little extra to invest in an air compressor that can handle bigger jobs thanks in part to its bigger size, then this is right for you.

Pros

• Very convenient storage options
• is capable of handling larger DIY tasks without running out of air
• Lots of power
• One-year warranty

Cons

• the oil-based pump can potentially cause a mess
• More expensive than the DEWALT model

DEWALT Air Compressor D55146

[amazon box=” B000HZJLV2″]

Why like DEWALT Air Compressor D55146 :

Fuel Type: Electric
Pump Type: Oil-Free
HP: Max 1.6 HP
Tank Size: 4.5 gallons, cylinder shape
Max PSI: 200
CFM @ 40 PSI: 6.5
CFM @ 90 PSI: 5.0
Dimensions: 33.50 x 23.00 x 15.00 inches
Weight: 80 pounds
Noise Level: 78 dBA

At a first glance, the DEWALT is clearly less powerful than the Makita air compressor. While this is true, it should also be noted that it is still fully capable of meeting expectations. The DEWALT D55146 is still a great air compressor for odd jobs around the home and in many cases, any extra power would just be unnecessary.

No air compressor is ever going to be quiet, but the DEWALT D55146 is certainly a lot quieter than the MAC5200. At only 78 dBA, you may feel more comfortable using this in close proximity to neighbors, children, or pets.

If you are looking for an air compressor that requires minimal upkeep, the DEWALT choice might be best for you. The pump is oil-free, so you don’t have to check or replace the oil.

In fact, DEWALT does brand this model’s pump as “maintenance free”, so you can easily get on with your tasks without having to worry. This is another great air compressor that should last for years. DEWALT offers a one-year warranty if something does go wrong when you first receive it.

The 10” Non-flat foam tires on this model are great for an uneven landscape out on site. You can use these to transport this air compressor with ease, wherever you need it. It’s slightly lighter than the Makita model (80 pounds vs. 88 pounds), which may make it easier for an individual to lift, but it is still hefty. This air compressor is also slightly smaller, although this is relatively minimal.

When you are trying to store your air compressor, it has a lot of features that make this a more convenient task. The handle is collapsible so that you can store it safely without causing potential unnecessary damage.

The protective cage around the engine also helps to minimize the risk of damage to the machine. This model has a vertical stand so that it takes up the least amount of space when in use and when it is stored. This is important as this model is definitely slightly bigger than the Makita alternative.

There is no denying that this is a less powerful tool than the Makita air compressor. You may find it running out of air more frequently, which can greatly affect larger jobs, but its tank is only slightly smaller than the Makita’s, and it delivers only marginally less CFM.

However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that it is incapable of being useful. The DEWALT D55146 is still an excellent air compressor that is great for personal use. We recommend this for people who consider the following pros and cons-

Pros

• Very convenient storage
• Cheap
• Oil-free pump is easy to maintain
• One-year warranty

Cons

• Slightly less power than the Makita
• Smaller tank (requires filling up faster)

Final Thoughts

Both of these options are solid, robust air compressors. If you are looking for a general air compressor to help you with odd jobs, you cannot go wrong with either of these two options. Both of these models are made from strong materials and high-quality craftsmanship.

You can expect either of these air compressors to last for years if you look after them properly. Although the Makita will probably require slightly more upkeep due to its oil pump. Both of these options are durable and long-lasting. Both of them also offer a one-year warranty in the event. Something does go wrong as a result of a manufacturing error, you are covered.

However, there are some differences between Makita MAC5200 vs the DEWALT D55146 that you should consider when making your final choice.

The Makita MAC5200 is certainly more powerful than the DEWALT D55146, which is shown in the price difference. The DEWALT is great for smaller odd jobs, while the Makita is certainly capable of these too, but it is better suited to larger tasks where the extra power is useful.

If you are just looking for something small for a nail gun or something similar, the DEWALT will be perfectly fine. If you perhaps need something that is capable of completing commercial-sized tasks or simply needs that extra power, then the Makita might actually be a better choice.

To sum up: neither of the air compressors is bad, but they clearly do have different strengths. Understanding what you need an air compressor will help you buy one that allows you to achieve these tasks.

If you need something that is capable of handling larger tasks, we recommend the Makita MAC5200. If your main focus is the price, you should perhaps lean towards the DEWALT D55146 – it is less powerful. But still fully capable of jobs around the house, and equally as long-lasting.