PORTER-CABLE C2002 6 Gallon Pancake review
The classic orange pancake: 6 gallons, 150 PSI, 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI (ISO 1217) and two regulated couplers. It is reliable and easy to own, but loud. At 82 dB it is louder than a vacuum cleaner.
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How loud is it?
- PORTER-CABLE C2002 6 Gallon Pancake82 dB
Amazon listing spec, measuring distance not stated. Brands measure at different distances, so treat 1–2 dB differences as a tie. Why dB ratings vary.
Full specifications
| Noise rating | 82 dB |
|---|---|
| Noise source | Amazon listing spec, measuring distance not stated |
| CFM at 90 PSI | 2.6 |
| CFM at 40 PSI | — |
| Max PSI | 150 |
| Tank | 6 gal |
| Horsepower | — |
| Pump | Oil-free |
| Stages | — |
| Power | 120V outlet |
| Duty cycle | — |
| Weight | 30 lb |
| Price band | $150–$300 (checked October 18, 2026) |
A dash means the manufacturer doesn't publish that figure. We never estimate one.
Our take
The C2002 has been one of the most common homeowner compressors for years. It is a 6-gallon, 150 PSI pancake rated at 2.6 SCFM at 90 PSI under ISO 1217, with two regulated couplers so two people can work at once.
Buyers like that it works straight out of the box and handles basic homeowner jobs, and they consider it good value. Opinions on noise are split, and the 82 dB listing figure is near the top of our list, so it is the opposite of a quiet compressor.
We include it because many people search for it by name and it is a sensible budget pancake. If noise is a concern, the Bostitch BTFP02012 does the same job at 78.5 dBA.
Pros
- Two factory-installed couplers for two users
- Low-amp motor starts well in the cold or on a cord
- Long track record with buyers
Cons
- 82 dB is one of the loudest compressors we list
- Shroud is plastic
What it can run
With a 30% safety margin, 2.6 CFM at 90 PSI comfortably covers these tools from our list (nailers assumed at 30 shots a minute):
- Metabo HPT NT50AE2 18-Gauge Brad Nailer (0.025 cu ft per shot)
Who it's for, and who should skip it
Best for: Classic budget pancake for weekend projects.
Buy it if: your main jobs are nailing, inflation and blow-off; you want a pump with no oil to change; you move it around often (about 30 lb).
Skip it if: you plan to run impact wrenches, sanders or spray guns for long; you need to work indoors or near people without hearing protection.
How it compares in its class
- Ranked #3 of 4 in pancake.
- Quieter than 0 of the 3 other rated models in that list (it is one of the louder options).
- 2.6 CFM at 90 PSI against a class median of 2.6 CFM, so about average airflow for the class.
- Price band $150–$300; see every spec side by side in the comparison table.
Ownership tips
- Drain the tank after each use (daily on a shop compressor) to stop rust from the inside.
- The pump is oil-free, so there's no oil to change; keep the intake filter clean instead.
- Plug it straight into a wall outlet and use a longer air hose instead of a long, thin extension cord.
- Test the safety relief valve now and then by pulling its ring briefly, and never adjust or plug it.
General guidance; always follow the owner's manual. More in our maintenance checklist.
PORTER-CABLE C2002 6 Gallon Pancake: quick answers
How loud is the PORTER-CABLE C2002 6 Gallon Pancake?
It is rated at 82 dB (amazon listing spec, measuring distance not stated), which is louder than a vacuum cleaner.
What can the PORTER-CABLE C2002 6 Gallon Pancake run?
With a 30% safety margin it covers Metabo HPT NT50AE2 18-Gauge Brad Nailer from our tool list, based on 2.6 CFM at 90 PSI.
Is the PORTER-CABLE C2002 6 Gallon Pancake oil-free?
Yes. The pump is oil-free, so there's no oil to check or change.
What power does the PORTER-CABLE C2002 6 Gallon Pancake need?
It runs from a standard 120V household outlet. For larger units, a dedicated 20A circuit is best; avoid long, thin extension cords.
Spec sources
Where each figure on this page comes from (checked October 18, 2026). We don't present manufacturer figures as our own measurements.
- Amazon product listing: noise, CFM @ 90 PSI, max PSI, tank, pump type, weight
Alternatives to consider
BOSTITCH BTFP02012 6 Gallon Pancake
78.5 dB · 2.6 CFM @ 90 PSI · $150–$300
The quietest 6-gallon pancake
Metabo HPT EC914S 'The Tank'
79 dB · 4 CFM @ 90 PSI · $150–$300
Most air from a pancake compressor