DEWALT Portable Air Compressor D55168 Review High-Performance and Durable 200 PSI Power Tool

Description

A Reliable Workhorse with Some Surprises: DEWALT Vertical Portable Compressor, D55168

Repairing equipment, tackling woodworking projects, and even managing automotive maintenance feels less daunting when you have a solid piece of equipment like the DEWALT D55168 Vertical Portable Compressor. I’ve had my share of experiences with air compressors, and this one stands out for both good reasons and minor quirks.

Design and Build Quality

This compressor doesn’t just look durable—it is durable. The vertical and portable design is a lifesaver when you’re moving it around a garage or workshop. Standing at 44.75 inches tall, it’s slim enough to squeeze into tight spaces, and the dual-purpose handle doubles as a hose storage solution. For someone like me, who’s perpetually misplacing tools, this small detail is a major win.

The steel cylinder construction gives it a rugged feel, and the roll cage and metal panel protect its critical components. I’ve bumped it into a few workbenches, and it shrugged off the abuse without a dent. At 120 pounds, it’s not featherlight, but the wheels make it manageable. I wouldn’t want to lug it up stairs, though; that’s where the weight becomes apparent.

Key Benefits

• Oil-free pump means zero messy maintenance tasks. This is a big deal when you’re used to compressors that require constant oil checks.
• 200 PSI maximum operating pressure is impressive, making it capable of handling high-demand air tools like paint sprayers and impact wrenches.
• 5.4 SCFM at 90 PSI ensures quick recovery times, so I never had to wait long between tasks.
• Despite its power, the 78 dBA noise level doesn’t leave your ears ringing. It’s quieter than many other compressors I’ve used in the past.

Performance and Usability

I tested this compressor across a variety of tasks—airbrushing, nailing, and even cleaning dust off my workbench. Every time, it delivered steady performance. The EHP (Efficient High Pressure) technology truly shines here, providing exceptional air-tool runtimes. I used it with a ratchet wrench for an extended period without it breaking a sweat.

One feature I found unexpectedly handy is its compatibility with extension cords. The consistent amp draw ensures it can operate efficiently even when plugged into a 50-foot, 12-gauge cord. This makes it super convenient for outdoor projects or when you’re far from a power outlet.

However, if you’re looking for compact portability, this might not be your best bet. It’s a 15-gallon tank, so while it’s portable in the sense that it has wheels, it’s not the kind of tool you’d throw in the back of your car for quick jobs.

Areas for Improvement

• Weight: At 120 pounds, moving it up and down steps is challenging, even with wheels.
• Noise level: While quieter than most, 78 dBA still isn’t whisper-quiet. A bit more soundproofing would’ve been nice.
• Size: The tall and vertical build, while space-saving, could be tricky in workshops with low ceilings or tight storage areas.

Ease of Maintenance and Longevity

One thing I truly appreciate is the oil-free pump. It saves so much time and effort compared to traditional compressors. The ball drain valve also simplifies tank maintenance by making it easy to release moisture build-up. Even after heavy use, the compressor shows no signs of wear and tear, which speaks volumes about its build quality.

Competing Products

Comparing it to similar air compressors, the California Air Tools 10020C comes to mind. It’s known for being ultra-quiet (only 70 dBA) and lighter, but it doesn’t match the 200 PSI capacity of this DEWALT unit. The Porter-Cable C2002 is another popular option, offering a smaller tank size and lighter weight, but it falls short on power and recovery speed.

Where the DEWALT D55168 excels is in the balance of power, durability, and capacity. Competitors often compromise on one or more of these factors, making this compressor a solid middle ground for demanding users.

True Value

In terms of price to quality ratio, this compressor offers excellent bang for your buck. The high-pressure motor, long-lasting components, and versatility make it worth the investment. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the features and performance justify the cost for anyone who needs a reliable tool for heavy-duty tasks.

Who Is This For?

This compressor is ideal for hobbyists and professionals alike. If you’re into woodworking, auto restoration, or just need a dependable tool for maintenance tasks, it’s a great choice. However, if you’re looking for something incredibly lightweight or ultra-quiet, you might want to explore other options.

Using this compressor has been a mostly positive experience, and while it has a few areas that could be improved, the DEWALT D55168 manages to check most of the boxes for me. Whether you’re working in a home garage or a small shop, this tool is a dependable workhorse.