Viair 400P vs Smittybilt 2781: Which One is the Best for You?

Are you in the market for a reliable and durable portable air compressor for your tires or other equipment? Look no further than the Viair 400P and the Smittybilt 2781. In this comparison article, we will explore the similarities and differences between these two compressors to help you make an informed decision.

Comparison Summary

Last update on 2024-10-31 at 12:40 / Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

FeaturesVIAIR 400P – 40043 Portable CompressorSmittybilt 5.65 CFM Air Compressor
BrandVIAIRSmittybilt
Voltage12 Volts12 Volts
Recommended UsesTire InflationDrilling, Air Brushing, Spraying, Nailing
Power SourceElectric-poweredCorded Electric
Noise Level74 dB70 dB
Auto-thermal Cutoff SwitchN/AYes
Maximum Continuous Cycle Time33% duty cycle40 minutes at 40 psi at 75 degrees Fahrenheit
Maximum Airflow2.3 CFM at 0 PSI72 liters per minute
Maximum Working Pressure150 PSI150 PSI
Pressure GaugeYesYes
HoseAir hose supplied with kit may become brittleQuick release 24 foot coil hose
Included AccessoriesDeluxe carry bag, anti-vibration tray, and moreStorage bag included

Brand and Voltage

The first similarity between the Viair 400P and the Smittybilt 2781 is their voltage – both run on 12 volts. The second similarity is that they are both produced by reputable brands: Viair and Smittybilt.

Recommended Uses

While the Viair 400P is recommended for tire inflation, the Smittybilt 2781 has multiple recommended uses including drilling, air brushing, spraying, and nailing. Keep in mind that both of these compressors can still be used for a variety of purposes.

Power Source

The next difference between these two compressors is their power source. The Viair 400P is electric-powered while the Smittybilt 2781 is corded electric. This means that the Smittybilt 2781 needs to be plugged into an electrical outlet, while the Viair 400P can be powered through your vehicle’s battery.

Noise Level

Another factor to consider is the noise level of each compressor. The Viair 400P produces a noise level of 74 dB, while the Smittybilt 2781 produces a slightly lower noise level of 70 dB. This means that the Smittybilt 2781 is slightly quieter, but both compressors are still relatively loud.

Airflow

One of the most important factors to consider when comparing air compressors is their airflow. The Viair 400P has a free flow rate of 2.3 CFM at 0 PSI, while the Smittybilt 2781 has a maximum airflow of 72 liters per minute. This means that the Smittybilt 2781 has a higher airflow rate and can fill tires and equipment more quickly.

Pressure and Duty Cycle

When it comes to maximum pressure, the Viair 400P has a working pressure of 150 PSI, while the Smittybilt 2781 has a slightly lower maximum pressure of 140 PSI. However, the Smittybilt 2781 has a longer duty cycle of 40 minutes at 40 PSI and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, compared to the Viair 400P’s duty cycle of 33%.

Additional Features

Both compressors come with their own set of additional features. The Viair 400P comes with heavy-duty dual battery clamps with a 40-amp inline fuse, a deluxe carry bag, and an anti-vibration tray. However, the air hose that comes with the Viair 400P may become brittle from prolonged exposure to UV/sunlight. On the other hand, the Smittybilt 2781 comes with an integrated easy to read 150 PSI pressure gauge and a storage bag.

Conclusion

Finally, both the Viair 400P and the Smittybilt 2781 are high-quality portable air compressors that are capable of handling a variety of tasks. However, there are some key differences between the two that could make one a better choice for you over the other.

If you need a compressor that can fill tires and equipment quickly, the Smittybilt 2781 may be the better option with its higher airflow rate.

However, if you need a compressor that can be powered through your vehicle’s battery, the Viair 400P is the better choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific needs and preferences.

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