Weight

Completing a physical job around the house or in a commercial setting is already taxing enough on the human body. Therefore we want to use as little energy as possible just lifting and maneuvering our tools. Air tools which run on compressed air weigh considerably less than their corresponding electric tools which run on motors in them.

Power

Air tools can generally generate more power than electric tools. They have more torque and RPM (revolutions per minute). What does this mean for the user? The job can be completed much quicker and with less human energy exerted than with electric tools.

Safety

Air tools can’t electrocute you unlike electric tools. Therefore you can use your pneumatic tool such as an air drill in a rainy or wet environment. You can stand in a water barefoot without worrying about getting fried. You’re safe from a nasty electric shock.

Variety

Air tools come in a wide variety of sizes for different uses. They can be used at home for small jobs or in larger industrial projects. In fact, almost every electric tool has its equivalent air tool counterpart today.

Portability

As we mentioned above, air tools are generally lighter in weight than electric tools. Therefore, firstly, they’re easy to carry around with you. Secondly, the air compressor power sources, which run air tools, are portable. So if you find yourself in an area with little to no electricity, you can still operate your air tool.

Price

When air tools first came along, like any new product on the market, they were rather expensive. But as demand for these air tools (also called pneumatic tools) grows, their prices are falling. As simple economics teaches us, as this price falls, it attracts even more converts (demand) which further decreases the price and brings in even more demand. And the cycle continues.

Durability

Air tools require little maintenance and therefore often last longer than electric tools. Unlike most electric tools which are made of plastic, most air tools are built out of metal and can withstand high-stress work. And with fewer moving parts, air tools usually need simple occasional oiling. They do not usually overheat.

Don’t get me wrong, sometimes electric tools are a better choice than air tools. But these are just a few of the reasons why air tools such as air drills and air hammers are making some electric tools seem less desirable.