The Rockford CAT944 is a small use air compressor that is meant for home use. This compact little unit is something that is easy to store in your garage and easy to use in your home. Inside the box of the CAT944 is the compressor, 25' recoil hose, 2 nozzles, an inflation needle, female coupler, male plug, and a couple hex wrenches. It is a low cost option that has a limited number of uses.
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At-A-Glance Specs
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Brand:
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Rockford
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Model:
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CAT944
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Category:
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Consumer
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Style:
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Pancake
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Weight:
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15 pounds
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Tank Size:
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1 gallon
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Peak HP:
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N/A
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CFM@90 PSI:
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0.4
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Max Pressure:
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100 PSI
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Pump Type:
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Single-stage
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Oil Type:
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Oil-free
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Noise:
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90 dBA
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Rating:
(1-5 stars)
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>> Check Current Price of the CAT944 <<
Size
The Rockford CAT944 has a one-gallon sized tank that is very easy to tote around. It is one of the lightest air compressors on the market, as the base is not made of cast iron. The whole unit only weighs about 16 pounds, if not a little less. It is meant for stapling, air brushing and inflating tires and toys.
Performance
As the airflow at 90 PSI is a mere 0.4 CFM, the CAT944 only has enough power for inflation purposes and for a few small air tools. The max PSI is 100 and the pressure gauges are placed in an easy to read position. It has an energy efficient electric motor and can be plugged in to standard house power without tripping the breakers. It is easy to use both inside and out.
Pump Type
This Rockford compressor features an oil-less motor so you don’t have to worry about running out of lubrication. The model is meant to be low to no maintenance. If any issues crop up during usage and the compressor needs repairs, you would be much better off simply getting a new (and different) air compressor.
Noise Level
The noise level on this compressor is fairly high (85-90 decibels) but on par with other sub $100 air compressors.
Who It's For
The Rockford CAT944 intended strictly for home use. It does not have the power or the life span for contractor work and will be pretty much useless at a job site. It does the job of tire inflation and and blowing up pool toys and the like. Those into airbrushing, computer repair, or various hobbies may find this type of compressor more than adaquete.
Pros
- Cheap
- Very light weight
- Easy to use
- Comes with a full accessory kit, ready to use out of the box
- No maintenance
Cons
- Cheap!
- Not powerful enough for most tasks
- Poor build quality
- The tank is easier to puncture
- Easy to tip over compared to other models
Final Verdict on the Rockford CAT944 Air Compressor
The Rockford CAT944 is the perfect example of a cheap portable air compressor with limited uses. The full set of accessories on this unit makes it very user friendly and you will probably have all you need to get going as soon as you open the box. While many people will be attracted to its super low price, it is best to look elsewhere. Even the equally inexpensive Campbell Hausfeld 209499 would be a better option as at least the quality of that one is better.
