Do Systainer Air Compressors Stack Up To Competition?

Bringing a touch of Europe to North America, systainer air compressors put a new spin on an age-old product. Made popular by Festool, these air compressors come fully housed in a rugged systainer box. Stack-able and built for abuse, here's a look at Cadex and RolAir's take on the popular systainer.

Featuring a light gray body with lime green trim, Cadex offers two versions of systainer compressor, giving users the choice between a 1 HP and 1.5 HP motor. The Cadex SYS/3-COMP is a compact 1 HP compressor, with a tank size of 1-1/4 gallons, and weight of 25.30 lbs. With a maximum pressure of 120 PSI, it delivers up to 1.8 CFM at 90 PSI. The Cadex SYS/4-COMP 1.5 HP compressor is slightly taller than its sibling, allowing for greater capacity. Weighing 34.30 lbs, this Cadex systainer compressor can hold 2-1/2 gallons of air, has a maximum pressure of 120 PSI, air delivery output of 3.6 CFM at 90 PSI, and a 60% duty cycle rating. Both compressors are ultra-quiet, running at an ear-pleasing 68 decibels (dB) - which makes either model ideal for use in low noise settings, such as schools and hospitals. Keeping with European tradition, both Cadex systainer compressors are manufactured in Italy.

And, with a rich history producing air compressors and pneumatics, RolAir is ready to compete with their 1 HP RolAir "AIRSTAK" systainer. A total weight of 28 lbs., this AIRSTAK compressor holds 1.6 gallons of air, and delivers 2.0 CFM at 90 PSI - all while operating on a mere 8 amps of power. While the AIRSTAK is slightly noisier than Cadex, it still offers 70 decibel (dB) ultra-low noise output. Housed in a rugged Tanos T-Loc case, the RolAir AIRSTAK easily integrates with other Festool systainer boxes.

Before purchasing a systainer compressor, consider price versus benefit. In comparison to traditional compressors of similar size and horsepower, plan to spend $300-$500 more for a T-Loc systainer compressor.

Why the additional cost?

Owners pay for the versatility and reputation tied to the systainer box concept. The real benefit in owning a systainer air compressor comes from its ergonomic design. In other words, if your workshop, truck or trailer space is extremely limited - and you need to take advantage of every last square inch - you can easily justify the space saving benefits of a systainer. If you already own several systainer boxes, a systainer compressor can easily stack with your other boxes.

Systainer boxes have earned a reputation for their rugged design. These boxes are known for their convenience and durability. Stack and interlock each systainer to create a stationary, organized workspace. Securely transport systainer stacks where you need them – providing instant mobility to any workshop.

Do these systainer compressors stack up to expectation? You decide.

~ The Nail Gun Depot Team