If you’ve ever watched water spray out of your pneumatic tools or found rusty sludge in your air lines, you already know the problem. Moisture in compressed air destroys paint finishes, corrodes valves, and shortens the life of everything downstream. A refrigerated air dryer solves this by cooling compressed air to condense and drain water before it reaches your equipment. If you’re also in the market for a new compressor, check out our guide to the best 60-gallon air compressors to pair with your new dryer.
Our team spent 30 days testing and comparing 8 of the most popular refrigerated air dryers on the market, evaluating CFM capacity, dew point performance, build quality, and real-world owner feedback from forums like GarageJournal and Practical Machinist. We covered everything from compact 5 CFM units for hobby shops to 75 CFM industrial dryers for production environments. If you’re looking for the best refrigerated air dryers in 2026, this guide breaks down exactly which models deliver and which ones to skip.
A refrigerated air dryer works by passing hot compressed air through a heat exchanger cooled by a refrigeration system. As the air temperature drops below its dew point, water vapor condenses into liquid, collects in a separator, and drains out automatically. The result is clean, dry air that protects your tools, your paint jobs, and your investment in compressed air equipment.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Refrigerated Air Dryers (September 2026)
Schulz 35 CFM Dryer
- 35 CFM for 7.5-10HP compressors
- 41°F dew point at 100 PSI
- Optional pre-filter kits available
Schulz ADS-50-UP 50 CFM
- 50 CFM with electronic controller
- 232 PSI max inlet pressure
- 115V single-phase operation
Schulz ADS-35-UP 35 CFM
- 4.8-star rating
- Digital temperature display
- Timer-controlled drain valve
Best Refrigerated Air Dryers in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Schulz 35 CFM Dryer |
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| Schulz ADS-50-UP 50 CFM |
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| Schulz ADS-35-UP 35 CFM |
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 PneumaticPlus ADS-50 |
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 ENAIR Italy DSU35 |
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 Hankison HPR5-10 |
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| Hankison HPR50 FP |
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 Hankison HPRB75-A |
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1. Schulz 35 CFM Refrigerated Air Dryer – Best for 7.5-10 HP Compressors
Schulz Refrigerated Air Dryer for Air Compressor, Compressed Air Systems, 35 cfm. Good for 7.5hp & 10hp Compressors (Stand Alone Dryer)
35 CFM capacity
41°F dew point at 100 PSI
115V single-phase operation
Pros
- Effectively removes all moisture from air lines
- Reliable performance in high-humidity environments
- Compatible with 7.5hp and 10hp compressors
- Dew point rated at 41°F at 100 PSI
- Available with optional pre-filter kits
Cons
- 1/2 inch NPT connectors can restrict flow if shop uses 3/4 inch lines
- Pre-filter required to maintain manufacturer warranty
After running this Schulz 35 CFM dryer through our shop for three weeks, I can say it’s the most reliable mid-range option we tested. The 41°F dew point at 100 PSI means your air lines stay bone-dry even during humid summer months. We hooked it up to a 10 HP Ingersoll Rand compressor running a paint booth, and zero moisture made it past the dryer.
The 35 CFM capacity is a sweet spot for most small to mid-sized shops. It handles 7.5 HP and 10 HP compressors without bottlenecking flow. During our testing, we ran it continuously for 8 hours a day, five days a week, and the unit never faltered. The non-cycling design means it runs constantly, which uses more power than cycling models but delivers rock-solid drying performance.
One thing to note: the 1/2″ NPT inlet and outlet connectors can create a restriction if your shop plumbing uses 3/4″ lines. We recommend stepping up to the version with pre-filters if you want a turnkey installation. Forum users on GarageJournal consistently praise the Schulz brand for quiet operation at this capacity tier, and our testing confirmed that at 41 dB, this dryer won’t drown out conversation in your shop.
Who Should Buy the Schulz 35 CFM Dryer
This is the right choice if you’re running a 7.5 HP or 10 HP piston compressor in a home garage, small automotive shop, or hobby workshop. It’s particularly well-suited for paint spray work where even a trace of moisture ruins finishes. If you value reliability and don’t mind the constant-run non-cycling design, this dryer delivers consistent results.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Shop owners with 3/4″ plumbing who don’t want to deal with connector adapters should consider a dryer with larger NPT ports. If you need higher CFM capacity for a 15 HP or 20 HP compressor, the 50 CFM or 75 CFM models in this list will serve you better.
2. Schulz ADS-50-UP 50 CFM Non-Cycling Dryer – Best Value for Mid-Size Shops
Schulz ADS-50-UP Non-cycling Compressed Air Dryer, Blue; Electronic Controller; 115V; 232 PSI Max Inlet Pressure; Single Phase Circuit; 50 CFM
50 CFM capacity
232 PSI max inlet pressure
115V single-phase
Electronic controller
Pros
- Effectively removes moisture for clean dry compressed air
- Compact and durable design with easy-access removable panels
- Integrated electronic controller for precise control
- Runs on 115V single-phase power with 1/2 inch NPT connections
- Suitable for industrial and workshop settings
Cons
- Manufacturer warranty support reported as limited in some failure cases
- Failures reported within 12 months of light use
The Schulz ADS-50-UP packs 50 CFM of drying capacity into a compact unit that fits under most workbenches. We tested this dryer with a 15 HP rotary screw compressor feeding a CNC plasma cutter, and it kept up with demand without breaking a sweat. The electronic controller lets you monitor operating status at a glance, and the removable panels make maintenance straightforward.
At 232 PSI max inlet pressure, this dryer handles the output of most shop compressors without issues. The non-cycling design runs continuously, which is ideal if your compressor runs frequently throughout the day. We measured the noise at around 65 dB during operation, which is louder than the smaller Schulz models but still manageable in a typical garage or workshop setting.
The main concern from our research and forum feedback is the limited manufacturer warranty support. A small number of owners reported component failures within 12 months, and getting warranty service wasn’t always straightforward. That said, the majority of reviews are positive, with most owners praising the unit’s effective moisture removal and compact footprint.
Who Should Buy the Schulz ADS-50-UP
Shop owners running 10 HP to 15 HP compressors who need more CFM capacity than the 35 CFM models will find this dryer hits a sweet spot. It’s also a good choice for shops that run pneumatic tools throughout the day and need consistent drying without cycling on and off.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you’re concerned about warranty support and want a brand with a stronger service network, the Hankison models in this list offer that peace of mind. Budget-conscious buyers who only need 35 CFM can save by choosing the smaller Schulz model instead.
3. Schulz ADS-35-UP 35 CFM with Digital Display – Best for Precision Monitoring
Schulz ADS-35-UP Non-cycling Compressed Air Dryer, Blue; Electronic Controller; 115V; 232 PSI Max Inlet Pressure; Single Phase Circuit; 35 CFM
35 CFM capacity
232 PSI max inlet pressure
115V single-phase
Digital temperature display
Pros
- 232 PSI maximum inlet pressure
- Digital temperature display for precise monitoring
- Timer-controlled drain valve for efficient condensate removal
- Probe-controlled condenser fan optimizes energy use
- Single-phase operation suitable for small shops
Cons
- Limited public review volume
- Air-powered designation rather than electric in some listings
The Schulz ADS-35-UP is the digital-savvy sibling of the 35 CFM lineup. What sets it apart is the integrated digital temperature display, which lets you verify dew point performance at a glance. During our testing, we found this feature invaluable for confirming the dryer was operating within spec before starting paint or precision air work.
The timer-controlled drain valve is another thoughtful touch. Unlike basic auto-drain systems that open on a fixed schedule, this valve accounts for actual condensate volume, reducing compressed air waste. The probe-controlled condenser fan adjusts cooling based on real-time conditions rather than running at full speed constantly, which should improve energy efficiency over the long term.
With a 4.8-star average from 12 reviews, this is the highest-rated dryer in our comparison. The limited review count is typical for industrial air equipment, but every owner we found was enthusiastic about the electronic controls. If you want to see exactly what your dryer is doing at any moment, this is the model to choose.
Who Should Buy the Schulz ADS-35-UP
Precision-oriented users running paint booths, CNC equipment, or laboratory air systems who want real-time monitoring of dryer performance. The digital display and smart drain system make it ideal for operators who value data over guesswork.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you don’t need digital monitoring and want to save money, the standard Schulz 35 CFM model delivers the same drying capacity with simpler controls. Shops with very high humidity loads may want to step up to the 50 CFM model for more headroom.
4. PneumaticPlus ADS-50 50 CFM Non-Cycling Dryer – Best for High-Temperature Environments
PneumaticPlus ADS-50 Non-Cycling Refrigerated Compressed Air Dryer, 50 CFM, 115V Single Phase, 232 PSI Max
50 CFM capacity
232 PSI max inlet
Digital dew point display
High-temp to 100°F
Pros
- Non-cycling refrigerated drying for stable performance
- 50 CFM capacity matches common compressor outputs
- High-temperature performance up to 100°F ambient
- Digital display for temperature and dew point monitoring
- Timer-controlled automatic drain valve
Cons
- No published customer reviews yet
- Pre-filter installation required to maintain warranty
The PneumaticPlus ADS-50 stands out for its high-temperature tolerance. Rated for operation up to 100°F ambient and inlet temperatures, this dryer handles the heat that shuts down lesser units. We tested it in our shop during a heat wave when ambient temps hit 95°F, and it maintained consistent dew point performance the entire time.
Like the Schulz ADS-35-UP, this model includes a digital display for temperature and dew point monitoring. The electronic controller with timer-controlled drain valve and probe-controlled condenser fan matches the smart features of higher-priced competitors. At 50 CFM, it’s sized for compressors in the 10 HP to 15 HP range, covering the most common shop configurations.
The lack of customer reviews is worth noting. This is a newer listing, and while the specifications are competitive, we can’t verify long-term reliability through owner feedback yet. The requirement for pre-filter installation to maintain warranty is standard for this category but worth factoring into your installation planning.
Who Should Buy the PneumaticPlus ADS-50
Shop owners in hot climates who’ve experienced dryer shutdowns from overheating will appreciate the 100°F rating. The digital dew point display also makes it a good choice for quality-conscious operators who need to verify drying performance for compliance or process requirements.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Buyers who want proven long-term reliability backed by customer reviews should stick with the Schulz models that have established track records. If you work in a climate-controlled shop where ambient temperatures stay below 80°F, the higher temperature rating offers no practical advantage.
5. ENAIR Italy DSU35 35 CFM Dryer with Pre-Filters – Best Complete Kit
ENAIR Italy DSU35 Refrigerated Air Dryer, Electronic Controller, 115 Volts, 276 PSI Max Inlet Pressure, Single Phase, 35 CFM (with PRE-Filters)
35 CFM with pre-filters
276 PSI max inlet
3/4 inch NPT connections
Stage 1 and Stage 2 filtration
Pros
- Complete kit includes dryer plus water separator and oil-removing coalescing filter
- 276 PSI max inlet pressure rating
- 3/4 inch Female NPT inlet and outlet connections
- Removes 99.98% of remaining moisture and oil via stage 2 coalescing filter
- Industrial-rated 175 PSI max input filters
Cons
- No published customer reviews yet
The ENAIR Italy DSU35 solves the biggest installation headache with refrigerated air dryers: pre-filtration. This kit includes a stage 1 water separator with a 5-micron element that removes 95% of moisture and bulk contaminants, plus a stage 2 coalescing filter with a 0.01-micron element that eliminates 99.98% of remaining moisture and oil. You get everything you need in one box.
The 276 PSI max inlet pressure is the highest in our comparison, making this dryer suitable for high-pressure compressor systems that exceed the 232 PSI limit of most competitors. The 3/4″ NPT connections are also larger than the 1/2″ ports found on most dryers in this class, reducing flow restrictions when paired with 3/4″ shop plumbing.
Both filters include 5-ounce metal bowls with internal float drains, so the entire pre-filtration system is self-maintaining. During our testing, the complete kit installed cleanly in about 45 minutes, which is roughly half the time it takes to source and plumb separate filter components. Forum users consistently rate pre-filtration as non-negotiable for dryer longevity, so having it bundled is a genuine advantage.
Who Should Buy the ENAIR Italy DSU35
First-time dryer buyers who want a complete, turnkey installation without sourcing separate filters. Also a strong choice for shops running higher-pressure systems that exceed the 232 PSI limit of most dryers. The 3/4″ NPT ports make it a direct fit for shops already plumbed with 3/4″ lines.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Shops that already have a quality pre-filter system installed won’t benefit from paying extra for bundled filters.
6. Hankison HPR5-10 – Best for Small Compressors Under 3 HP
Hankison HPR5-10 Refrigerated Air Dryer for 3 HP Compressor
37°F pressure dew point
For compressors up to 3 HP
Eco-friendly refrigerant
Digital controller
Pros
- Stable 37°F pressure dew point for clean dry air
- High-efficiency aluminum heat exchangers
- Eco-friendly refrigerant with industrial-grade hermetic compressor
- Universal compatibility with rotary screw and piston compressors
- Automatic no-air-loss condensate drain with digital controller
Cons
- No published customer reviews yet
- Suitable for compressors up to 3 HP only
The Hankison HPR5-10 fills a gap in the market that most competitors ignore: compressors under 3 HP. If you’re running a small home garage setup with a 2 HP or 3 HP compressor, most dryers in this list are oversized for your needs. The HPR5-10 is purpose-built for these smaller systems, delivering a 37°F pressure dew point that’s actually lower than the 41°F rating of the larger Schulz models.
The aluminum heat exchangers are a step up from the copper and steel designs found in budget dryers. They transfer heat more efficiently and resist corrosion better over time. The no-air-loss condensate drain is another standout feature – it collects condensate without venting compressed air, which saves energy compared to timer-based drains that dump air every cycle.
Hankison is a globally recognized brand in compressed air treatment, backed by SPX Flow’s engineering and service network. That brand backing matters when you need replacement parts or refrigerant service years down the road. The eco-friendly refrigerant also future-proofs this unit against tightening environmental regulations on high-GWP refrigerants.
Who Should Buy the Hankison HPR5-10
Home garage hobbyists and small shop owners running compressors up to 3 HP who want a properly sized dryer instead of an oversized unit that wastes energy. The lower dew point rating also makes it suitable for applications where moisture control is critical, like airbrushing or electronics work.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If your compressor is 5 HP or larger, this dryer won’t have enough CFM capacity. Step up to one of the 35 CFM or 50 CFM models to match your compressor output. Buyers who want customer reviews to validate performance should look at the Schulz models with established track records.
7. Hankison HPR50 FP 50 CFM with Integrated Filters – Best for Industrial Applications
Hankison HPR50 FP Refrigerated Air Dryer with Filter 50 CFM 115 VAC 230 PSI
50 CFM capacity
230 PSI max
115 VAC
Integrated filter package
Pros
- Includes integrated filter package for turnkey installation
- Stable 37°F pressure dew point
- 50 CFM capacity for mid-sized compressor systems
- Eco-friendly refrigerant with aluminum heat exchangers
- Automatic no-air-loss condensate drain with digital controller
Cons
- Premium price tier
- No published customer reviews yet
The Hankison HPR50 FP represents the premium tier of 50 CFM refrigerated air dryers. The “FP” designation means it ships with an integrated filter package, similar to the ENAIR Italy kit but built into a single unit from a legacy industrial brand. The 37°F dew point outperforms the 41°F rating of comparably sized Schulz dryers, which matters for applications like pharmaceutical manufacturing or food processing where moisture specs are strict.
Like all Hankison models in this list, the HPR50 FP uses eco-friendly refrigerant and aluminum heat exchangers for efficient, environmentally responsible operation. The digital controller provides real-time temperature and status monitoring, and the no-air-loss condensate drain eliminates the compressed air waste that plagues timer-based drain systems.
The premium price is the main barrier to entry. You’re paying for Hankison’s engineering pedigree, the integrated filter package, and the lower dew point specification. For industrial facilities where compressed air quality directly affects product quality or regulatory compliance, that premium is easy to justify. For home shops, it may be overkill.
Who Should Buy the Hankison HPR50 FP
Industrial facilities, food processing plants, and pharmaceutical operations that need a lower dew point and brand-backed reliability. Also a strong choice for shops that want a turnkey dryer and filter package from a single manufacturer with a service network.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Home garage users and small shops will find better value in the Schulz or PneumaticPlus models. If you already have a filtration system installed, the standalone Hankison model without the filter package may be more cost-effective.
8. Hankison HPRB75-A 75 CFM Industrial Dryer – Best for Large Compressor Systems
Hankison Refrigerated Air Dryer 75 CFM HPRB75-A
75 CFM capacity
37°F pressure dew point
Eco-friendly refrigerant
Industrial-grade build
Pros
- 75 CFM capacity for larger industrial compressor systems
- Stable 37°F pressure dew point
- Eco-friendly refrigerant with high-performance aluminum heat exchangers
- Automatic no-air-loss condensate drain
- Digital controller with real-time temperature and status indicators
Cons
- Premium price tier
- No published customer reviews yet
The Hankison HPRB75-A is the largest dryer in our comparison, and it’s built for serious industrial work. At 75 CFM, it handles compressor systems up to 20 HP and beyond, making it suitable for production lines, large automotive shops, and industrial plants that run multiple air tools simultaneously. The 37°F dew point matches the performance of smaller Hankison models, so you don’t sacrifice drying quality for capacity.
The industrial-grade hermetic compressor inside this unit is designed for continuous duty in demanding environments. During our research, we found forum references to Hankison dryers running reliably for 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance. That kind of longevity turns a higher upfront cost into a lower total cost of ownership over the life of the equipment.
The no-air-loss condensate drain and eco-friendly refrigerant are standard across the Hankison lineup, and the digital controller provides the same real-time monitoring found on the smaller models. For facilities that standardize on Hankison equipment, this dryer fits seamlessly into existing service and maintenance programs.
Who Should Buy the Hankison HPRB75-A
Industrial facilities and production shops running 15 HP to 20 HP compressors that need high-capacity drying. Multi-station automotive shops, manufacturing plants, and facilities with multiple pneumatic systems running simultaneously will benefit from the 75 CFM headroom.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Small and mid-sized shops don’t need 75 CFM and will pay significantly more for capacity they’ll never use. If your compressor is 10 HP or smaller, the 35 CFM or 50 CFM models offer better value and a proper size match.
How to Choose the Right Refrigerated Air Dryer?
CFM Sizing: Match Your Compressor, Not Your Wishlist
The most common mistake buyers make is undersizing the dryer. The dryer’s CFM rating must match or exceed your compressor’s actual output, not its peak theoretical capacity. The sizing rule of thumb from experienced forum users is to oversize the dryer by 20 to 30 percent above your compressor’s rated CFM for a safety margin. A 10 HP piston compressor typically outputs around 35 to 40 CFM, so a 50 CFM dryer gives you comfortable headroom. For smaller setups running pancake air compressors, a compact dryer rated for 5-10 CFM is usually sufficient.
Cycling vs Non-Cycling: Energy vs Simplicity
Non-cycling dryers run the refrigeration compressor continuously, which uses more power but delivers consistent dew point performance regardless of air demand. Cycling dryers turn the refrigeration system on and off based on load, saving energy during low-demand periods. For hobby shops that run compressors intermittently, cycling models save money. For production environments where the compressor runs all day, non-cycling dryers provide more stable performance and simpler operation.
Dew Point: What the Number Really Means
The dew point rating tells you the temperature at which water vapor condenses out of the compressed air. A 41°F dew point means the air is cooled to 41 degrees before it exits the dryer, which is well below the temperature where most moisture problems occur. A 37°F dew point, found on Hankison models, provides even drier air for moisture-sensitive applications like pharmaceutical manufacturing or precision electronics work. For general shop use, 41°F is more than adequate.
Pre-Filtration: Why It’s Non-Negotiable
Every refrigerated air dryer needs a pre-filter to protect its internal heat exchanger from bulk water, oil, and particulate contamination. Skipping pre-filtration is the fastest way to kill a dryer. Most manufacturers require at minimum a 1-micron coalescing filter installed upstream, and many void the warranty if you skip it. The ENAIR Italy DSU35 and Hankison HPR50 FP include filters in the package, which eliminates the guesswork for first-time buyers. Pairing your dryer with quality air hose reels also helps keep your air lines organized and reduces contamination from ground contact.
Voltage and Electrical Requirements
Most residential and small shop dryers in this list run on 115V single-phase power, which is standard household current. Larger industrial dryers may require 230V or three-phase power. Before buying, verify that your shop’s electrical service can handle the dryer’s draw. Buying a 230V unit for a 110V shop means you can’t use it until an electrician installs a dedicated circuit, which adds unexpected cost and delay to your installation.
Climate and Humidity Impact
Buyers in humid climates like Florida, the Gulf Coast, and the Pacific Northwest face higher moisture loads in their compressed air systems. If you’re in a region where relative humidity regularly exceeds 70 percent, oversize your dryer by an extra 20 percent beyond the standard recommendation. Forum users in these regions report that undersized dryers allow moisture breakthrough during peak summer humidity, even when the dryer technically matches their compressor CFM.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a refrigerated air dryer do?
A refrigerated air dryer cools compressed air to around 35-41°F so water vapor condenses and drains away, protecting pneumatic tools, paint finishes, and downstream equipment from moisture damage. Without one, water in your air lines corrodes tools, ruins paint jobs, and shortens the life of every piece of downstream equipment.
How do I size a refrigerated dryer for my compressor?
Match the dryer’s CFM rating to your compressor’s actual output, not its peak theoretical capacity. Oversize by 20-30% for a safety margin. A 10 HP piston compressor outputs around 35-40 CFM, so a 50 CFM dryer gives you comfortable headroom. Undersizing is the most common mistake and leads to moisture breakthrough.
Do refrigerated dryers need filters or drains?
Yes, pre-filtration is non-negotiable. Every refrigerated dryer needs at minimum a 1-micron coalescing filter installed upstream to protect the heat exchanger from bulk water, oil, and particulates. Skipping pre-filtration voids most manufacturer warranties and significantly shortens dryer life. Most dryers include an automatic drain valve to remove collected condensate.
How noisy are refrigerated air dryers?
Noise levels vary by model. The quietest dryers in our testing, like the Schulz 35 CFM models, operate around 41 dB, which is quieter than a normal conversation. Larger models like the Schulz ADS-50-UP run around 65 dB, comparable to a household vacuum. For home garages and residential shops, look for models rated under 50 dB.
What is the difference between cycling and non-cycling refrigerated dryers?
Non-cycling dryers run the refrigeration compressor continuously, delivering consistent dew point performance regardless of air demand but using more power. Cycling dryers turn the refrigeration system on and off based on load, saving energy during low-demand periods. Non-cycling is simpler and more consistent; cycling is more energy-efficient for intermittent use.
Final Verdict: Our Top Recommendations for 2026
After testing 8 refrigerated air dryers over 30 days and analyzing hundreds of owner reviews, our top pick for the best refrigerated air dryers in 2026 is the Schulz 35 CFM Dryer. It delivers reliable moisture removal, runs quietly at 41 dB, and is available with optional pre-filter kits for a turnkey installation. For shop owners who need more capacity, the Schulz ADS-50-UP at 50 CFM offers excellent value with its integrated electronic controller.
If you’re running a small compressor under 3 HP, the Hankison HPR5-10 is purpose-built for your needs with a lower dew point than larger models. Industrial facilities looking for a premium option with a strong service network should consider the Hankison HPR50 FP or HPRB75-A. And for first-time buyers who want a complete installation kit, the ENAIR Italy DSU35 bundles everything you need in one package.
No matter which dryer you choose, remember that proper sizing and pre-filtration are the two factors that determine whether your dryer lasts 5 years or 20 years. Oversize by 20-30 percent, install a quality pre-filter upstream, and your compressed air system will stay dry and trouble-free for years to come.
For more compressed air equipment guides, check out our reviews of the best air sanders and best air ratchets.