Metabo HPT EC914SM Review
Great Product
Metabo HPT EC914SM Review
Reviewed by: Timothy Henderson
Last modified:
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
Metabo HPT EC914SM Review Summary:
The Metabo HPT EC914SM is ideal for home improvement enthusiasts or contractors who need a portable compressor with more muscle.
Its 200 max PSI and high airflow of 4 CFM @ 90 PSI, is ahead of many pancake compressors. This impressive rating also makes it possible to work with multiple pneumatic tools at the same time without struggling for air.
And the control panel — regulator, dials, and couplers — is positioned in a sweet spot. You’ll enjoy how you can read the numbers while standing and control air or mount attachments without reaching into a cramped space.
Plus, unpacking The TANK is as easy as taking pizza out of its box — it comes fully assembled and complete with a three-way splitter. Alternatively, Metabo offers separate packages that include an air hose, or a framing or finish nailer, if you don’t have any attachments to work with.
Metabo HPT, formerly owned by Hitachi Power Tools, is a trustworthy brand known to produce professional-grade tools since the 1920s. Its catalog incorporates drills, nailers, staplers, multi-tools, saws, sanders, air compressors, and more.
Lastly, The TANK is backed by a one-year warranty.
Specifications:
- Tank capacity – 6 gallons
- Max pressure – 200 PSI
- Air flow – 4.0 CFM @ 90 PSI
- Weight – 41 pounds
Pros:
Cons:
Features and Benefits of the Metabo HPT EC914SM
Fast and Reliable Motor
The Metabo EC914SM supplies a maximum pressure of 200 PSI in its 6-gallon tank, which is one of the highest in any pancake compressor. And at 90PSI, it delivers a respectable 4 CFM, which is also unmatched in its class.
With this performance, it’s perfect for home use or light professional jobs — even for a small crew — if you’re all using nailers.
Its impressive pressure rating, coupled with a fast recovery time, will work magic on framing, side, roofing, and brad nailers. It would also make quick work of inflating a car or small truck’s tire. You could even broaden your power tool usage by powering an impact wrench — on the condition that you don’t use it continuously.
If you fear that you’ll wait too long between air cycling periods, here’s a relief: The tank fills up from 0 to 200 PSI in around 3 minutes. And if it drops below 60 PSI during operation, it takes about 60 seconds to recover.
Multiple User Capability
One notable feature of the Metabo HPT EC914SM is its ability to support multiple users — from two to five.
Admittedly, this machine only has dual 0.25-inch couplers like other pancake compressors, but should you wish, you can connect the three-way splitter to make room for the extra hands.
This compressor is sufficient for a small crew of five operating brad nailers. Also, it can run two framing nailers or three finish nailers efficiently, and that’s impressive. With this type of capability, productivity is maximized — allowing you to complete jobs faster.
Adequate Tank Capacity
This compressor has a 6-gallon tank that’s more than enough for home use and less demanding jobs on site.
It’s made of quality steel that should last long enough to be passed down to another generation, with proper maintenance — no exaggeration. And, the robust nature of its outer shell can withstand accidental bumps and knocks during transportation or on-site.
Compact Design
At 41 pounds, you might think the TANK is a burden, but its unique compact design makes up for it.
Its footprint of 16 x 16 x 18 inches (L x W x H) is one of the smallest you’ll find around. And its sturdy metal handle situated in the middle of the tank distributes all that weight evenly. So, while this compressor is slightly heavier than most models, it’s still convenient to carry around.
Stress-Free Maintenance
The Metabo HPT EC914SM requires almost zero maintenance with its oil-free pump. This means that you won’t have to stress over cleaning, gauging, or refilling oil.
In fact, all the maintenance you need to perform is to drain the tank after each use. It prevents the insides of the tank from corrosion. Even better, its drain plug is easy to operate and doesn’t require a difficult release process. Plus, the safety valve — which you must also check before each use — is ergonomic.
Finally, the compressor requires a 10-minute break-in period before the first outta-the-box use. In other words, run it for ten minutes with the drain open before you jump on your first project.
User-Friendly Design
One point that gets my attention is how simple the Metabo EC914SM is to operate.
Firstly, it comes fully assembled straight out of the box. So, you can get to work as soon as it’s delivered — providing you have the necessary attachments, of course.
Secondly, the design of the control panel is user-centric because all the essentials — regulator, coupler, and dial — are in one place — the front. This way, you won’t fiddle with the compressor at any point of operation — whether it’s for connecting tools, regulating pressure, or pulling the safety valve.
And finally, its dials are positioned horizontally, so you can read them while standing. Although, you might have to lean a bit to see the numbers legibly — but not in a back-breaking crouch or on all fours.
Metabo HPT EC914SM Specifications
| Metabo HPT EC914SM | |
|---|---|
| Max PSI | 200 PSI |
| Capacity @ 90 PSI | 4.0 CFM |
| Tank size | 6-gallon (22.7 liters) |
| Quick connector size | 0.25 inches (6.4 mm) |
| Power supply | Electric corded |
| Noise rating | 79 decibels |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 18.5 x 16 x 16 inches |
| Weight | 41 pounds (18.5 kg) |
| Couplers | Dual |
| Amps | 13.5 (US) |
| Warranty | one-year |
What Users Say About The Metabo HPT EC914SM
In my own opinion, the Metabo HPT EC914SM is a powerhouse among 6-gallon compressors. It’s capable of all light use applications, as well as select medium use for multiple operators.
But what do users have to say?
I combed the internet, and from the extensive feedback, I found the majority offered positive remarks.
For one, almost all users acknowledge it has a higher pressure rating than any other pancake compressor they’ve come across. Plus, they enjoy how fast it reaches its max PSI and quickly recovers when it’s below the threshold.
Many also appreciate how The TANK is compact and easy to carry. Its above-average weight was undeniably a talking point too.
However, one minor drawback that resonated among a few owners — is that at 79 decibels, it’s not a quiet workhorse.
Alternatives to the Metabo HPT EC914SM
Although the EC914SM compressor is undoubtedly a powerhouse, it may not be your cup of tea. So, I’ve provided three alternatives that could fit your requirements.
The Bostitch BTFP02012 could be a preferable option for those who don’t require as much brawn for their tasks.
Sporting a lower max pressure of 150 PSI and 2.6 CFM @ 90 PSI, it’s ideal for home use and less demanding applications. However, it does support dual usage. And, weighing only 29 pounds, it’s less strenuous to carry around than the Metabo.
- Lower price point than the Metabo.
- The Bostitch weighs over 10 pounds less than the Metabo EC914SM.
- Both operate at similar noise levels — 78.5 and 79 decibels.
While you can’t expect an air compressor to be completely silent, a machine that’s not so vocal might make the difference to you — and your neighbors. If that’s the case, the DeWalt’s 75.5 decibels may appeal.
This machine isn’t quite as powerful as the Metabo, clocking 165 max PSI and 2.6 CFM @ 90 PSI. However, it’s still above the norm for a 6-gallon pancake compressor.
- Not as hard on the pocket as the Metabo.
- Supports a maximum of two users, compared to the five of the EC914SM.
- The DWFP55126 is lighter — weighing 30 pounds.
If you want a complete accessory package to get to work right away, you may wish to take a look at the Craftsman CMWC6150K. Arriving with the machine is a 25-foot PVC hose, tire gauge, and an inflation kit.
Also, it’s a viable value-for-money option — considering the extras you receive. However, its air pressure and delivery rating are lower — 150 max PSI and 2.6 CFM @ 90 PSI.
- More budget-friendly than the Metabo, despite its many accessories.
- Weighs only 30 pounds — less than the EC914SM.
- Noise rating of 78 decibels — a touch quieter compared to the Metabo HPT.
Conclusion
This Metabo EC914SM review has established that this model is one of the most powerful oil-free pancake compressors you can find. Hence, it offers you the opportunity to widen your air-driven power tool collection.
Its compact design overshadows its relatively heavier build. Besides, the power superiority it possesses over most compressors justifies its extra weight. And, the build quality of the tank and air fittings is solid. What’s more, with its capacity to support multiple operators, you can cut time on tasks significantly.
While some with less-demanding pneumatic tool requirements could consider it overkill, if you don’t mind spending a couple of extra bucks for superior multi-use performance in a portable format — take a look at the Metabo HPT EC914SM.
Metabo HPT EC914SM FAQs
Q: Are Metabo Pneumatic Tools Good?
Metabo pneumatic tools have been in the industry for over a century. And since then, their reputation for making rugged, reliable, and productive power tools has remained untainted.
Q: Does the Bostitch BTFP02012 Come With Hose and Accessories Kit?
Where Are Metabo Compressors Made?
Q: Will the Metabo HPT EC914SM Build to 200PSI Consistently?
Yes, it will. Unused, the compressor will hold 200 PSI for about 20 minutes before it gradually drops to 175 PSI.
Q: Is the EC914SM Tank Stainless Steel?
No, the tank is made of solid steel. Perhaps that’s why it’s heavier than most 6-gallon compressors, despite the similar dimensions.
Q: What Is the CFM at 40 PSI of the HPT EC914SM?
This compressor has an air delivery of 5.1 CFM @ 40 PSI.
Q: Where Can I Find the Manual for the Metabo HPT EC914SM?
You can locate the instruction manual on the official Metabo HPT website. For rapid access to the Metabo EC914SM manual.
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