Tool Box Buzz

Hitachi EC28M Ultra Quiet Compressor Review

Back in February of 2018, we attended a media event for Hitachi Power Tools. It was during this event that we first got a chance to try out the MultiVolt tools as well as learn about the name change to Metabo HPT. At this event we also got to try the new Hitachi EC28M ultra-quiet air compressor.

Features and Specifications

•  Ultra-quiet operation at only 59 dB’s
•  Motor overload protection
•  1/4″ quick coupler
•  Rubber suction feet absorb shock, reduce vibration and minimize crawling
•  Steel roll cage with rubber grip protects all critical components and provides comfort during transport
•  Small footprint and light at 25 lbs
•  Integrated regulator and gauges on front of unit
• Oil-less motor for maintenance free operation
• 1/4 turn ball valve for easy emptying of tank
• Capacity: 1 gal.
• Air Delivery: 1.3 scfm @ 40 psi and .8 scfm @ 90 psi

Hitachi EC28M Is Quiet

I’m pretty sure the M in the model number stands for mouse as in this thing is quiet as a church mouse. When I first got this tool and set it up in my shop to build some cabinets, I plugged it in and flipped on the switch. I didn’t hear anything out of it, I thought it was broken. The music was on in the shop, not overly loud, but loud enough that the compressor couldn’t be heard. Squelched the tunes to see what was going on but this little guy was just purring along. I couldn’t believe it. I kept the tunes off the rest of the day and couldn’t get over the quietness of this unit.

Perfect For Occupied Spaces

At 59 dB, the quietness of the compressor is the showstopper but it isn’t a one trick pony. The other feature that makes it fantastic for occupied spaces is its suction cup-like rubber feet. When you set the compressor down on a hard floor, the suction cups settle in and keep it planted. It doesn’t walk around leaving black streaks or bump into and mar up walls and trim like some other compressors.

Suction cups keep it planted

Small And Compact

Out of the box I was really surprised at how small this unit is. With the small size comes low weight too. Just over 25 pounds to be exact. This makes it easy to lift and carry with one hand. I’m a one man crew (most days) and it’s really easy to lift in and out of the truck and into the job site.

At only 1 gallon, it’s really meant for one guy trimming. It will run bigger nailers like a framing gun but will only get about 8-10 shots before it needs to cycle.

Where To Buy

The Hitachi EC28M can be found at ACME Tool for Just $159. That’s pretty reasonable considering this compressor.

2 Comments

1. Andy Hong

   September 5, 2018 at 12:32 pm

   Have you tried the California Air Tools “Light & Quiet” 1P1060S? According to the manufacturer, it’s quieter than the Hitachi EC28M (by 3 dB SPL), with higher CFM and faster recovery — at $92. Checking Amazon reviews, the CAT has a high overall rating, but there are a couple dozen folks who are complaining about bad QC.

   Reply
2. Jonathan

   February 7, 2019 at 12:49 am

   hi jeff,
   I must say a great article.I was searching a perfect impact driver article for me and this is the article what i am looking for.Now I know which impact driver suits with me.Thank you so much.

   Reply

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