DeWalt vs Makita Air Compressors: Which One Do I Get?

Alright folks, I'm in the market for a new pancake air compressor. I mostly do weekend projects around the house - some framing, trim, and a bunch of stapling. I've narrowed it down to the DeWalt DWFP55126 and the Makita MAC2400. Both are about the same price, but I can't decide. Anyone have experience with either? I want something reliable and quiet enough not to wake the neighbors.

You can't go wrong with Makita, Bob. I've been using Makita tools for 15 years and they've never let me down. Their compressors are built like tanks. The MAC2400 has a cast iron pump and it's gonna last you forever. DeWalt is fine, but they're more about the batteries. Go Makita, you won't regret it.

I've actually owned both, Bob. I had the DeWalt DWFP55126 for a couple years and it was solid, but it was a bit loud. I sold it when I got a great deal on the Makita MAC2400. The Makita is noticeably quieter, and for a pancake, it's got a bigger tank (2.5 gal vs 1.6? actually the DeWalt is 1.6, Makita 2.5). That means less cycling if you're running a brad nailer. But the DeWalt is lighter and more portable if you're hauling it around. What's your priority - noise or weight?

Thanks guys! I think noise is a big one for me, my shop is right next to my neighbor's fence. And I usually work in my garage so portability isn't huge. Sounds like the Makita is the better bet. But I've also seen the DeWalt has a 'high flow' coupler or something? Is that just marketing?

High flow couplers are actually useful if you're using larger tools like an impact wrench or a paint sprayer. But for nailing and stapling, a standard coupler is fine. The Makita comes with standard couplers, but you can swap them out easily if you ever need high flow. Honestly, for your weekend stuff, the Makita will serve you well. Just remember to drain the tank after each use and you'll have it for years.