Metabo HPT THE TANK 6-Gallon Pancake Air Compressor Review

🔧 Why I switched to a pancake compressor

My old compressor was a hand-me-down that lived in the garage for a decade. It finally died when the check valve seized and I had to destroy it to get it off. After that I started thinking about what I actually need today. Battery tools have come a long way—battery-powered trim and framing nailers are common—so I decided a smaller, pancake-style compressor made more sense than hauling around an eight-gallon tank.

What I wanted was something compact that I could mount on a wall, keep off the floor, and still have enough power for occasional framing, tire inflation, and the usual DIY jobs.

Both Products. Check below.

• Metabo HPT THE TANK 6-Gallon Pancake 200 PSI is available online: Check Amazon’s Latest Price
• A budget hose reel option is here: . Check Amazon’s Latest Price

🛠️ Quick walkaround and key features

The unit I picked is a 6-gallon pancake compressor with the motor on top, a long power cable, and a strong carrying handle. It includes dual quick-connect fittings so you can run two tools at once, an easy-to-read pair of gauges, and a pressure regulator knob.

There’s a purge/drain valve on the bottom. Always drain the tank after use. Moisture in compressed air will collect in the tank and cause rust over time if you don’t remove it.

📈 Why this model stands out

Most pancake compressors are similar, but this one pushes the envelope in a few areas:

• Tank: 6 gallons
• Max pressure: 200 PSI — about 50 PSI higher than many competitors
• Air flow: 4 CFM @ 90 PSI (many pancake models are around 2.5 CFM)
• Motor: 1.3 horsepower (many comparable units are ~0.8 HP)
• Weight: manufacturer spec lists about 41 lbs; some retailers or packaging notes may appear higher
• Noise: around 76 dB per product info — expect it to be louder than lower-powered pancake models

The combination of a small 6-gallon tank and a higher horsepower motor is the reason this model can deliver both higher pressure and significantly more airflow. The motor can refill the tank faster while tools are pulling air, so you get better continuous performance than a typical pancake compressor with a smaller motor.

🔩 Real-world tests I ran

I tested the compressor with a couple of pneumatic nailers and used two tools simultaneously.

First, I fired a full sleeve of framing nails. The compressor ran the nails and then took about 10 seconds to recharge before it resumed. That brief recharge didn’t affect driving power—after the motor kicked back on the nailer still drove flush nails.

Next I ran a trim nailer at 110 PSI with two-inch trim nails. Again, a full sleeve went through without issue. Even when the compressor was recharging it maintained enough pressure to keep the gun driving nails properly.

I also hooked up two nail guns at once and pulled both triggers together. It drove two nails at the same time without hiccups. For light-duty framing or for an avid DIYer, this level of performance is impressive.

It also inflated a truck tire with no problems. For most homeowner jobs—tire inflation, pool toys, finish work, and occasional framing—this compressor covers the bases.

💸 Noise, price, and portability

Because this model uses a higher horsepower motor, it is louder than lower-powered pancake units. If you need the quietest compressor possible, you’ll likely sacrifice power. The listed noise level is around 73 decibels, which is normal for a compact, high-output compressor.

I picked this up on sale for about $200; its usual price is closer to $250. Yes, you can find cheaper pancake compressors for around $100, but many of those have half the airflow and significantly less pressure. You get what you pay for: more continuous power, the ability to run larger nailers, and faster recovery.

If you want the exact model I tested, it’s available on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4rcLUfH

If you want a hose reel to go with it, here’s a budget option: https://amzn.to/48mf3wm

✅ Final verdict

This 6-gallon, 200 PSI pancake compressor is an excellent middle ground for homeowners and serious DIYers who want compact size without sacrificing performance. The higher horsepower motor and 4 CFM output make it capable of running large-body nailers, two tools at once, and topping off tires quickly. It’s louder than lighter-duty compressors, and it’s not the cheapest option, but it offers real capability in a small package.

If you want a compact compressor that behaves more like a jobsite machine but fits on a shelf, this one is worth the premium.

❓ FAQ

📎 Additional notes

Specs to remember: 6-gallon tank, 200 PSI max, 4 CFM @ 90 PSI, and a 1.3 HP motor. These numbers are what make this pancake compressor punch above its weight for light professional and serious DIY use.