Oh, compressors with a pump allow you to run air tools etc, if the compressor is big enough to cope. The smaller ones are useful for inflating tyres and having compressed air to clean things.

I would like the ability to sue air to dry chains/bearings etc – what do i need? a tank one?

The first Aldi one we got came with a blow gun which if fine for blowing dust out of brakes, water from around bearings and popping on tyres. Always dry the chain with a towel after washing.

Its noisy when its switched on but no more so than a compressor when its filling the tank.

If you want something to pop on tyres and blow away dust and water it will do the job. If you want to run air guns, impact wrenches or do the odd spray job then it wont. I do have access if needed to my dads workshop, its fully set up for restoring vintage vehicles, but have never needed it to work on the bike. It would be like using a sledge hammer to crack a nut.😉

Most of the things mentioned will be fine. I have an airshot because my
CRC charger pump thing died trying to mount on a slightly stubborn tyre (2.3” aggressor onto a 30mm rim). I wanted something quickly and I couldn’t find a cheaper alternative available delivered within a day or so.

I also ordered the neoprene case for it as it doesn’t really stand up / I didn’t want it to get all scraped and mangled. So far it’s been really good – it normally pops tyres on in one blast – apart from a stubborn Specialised black diamond casing butcher onto a wtb rim I did for a mate. I had to spray soapy water on the bead of that tyre and 3 blasts before I got it fully seated. It was a nightmare just getting the tyre on the rim full stop though!

I like the look of the bigger diy fire extinguisher pumps – but if you don’t have the enthusiasm or time for those then I get that.

If I were to buy a compressor I think I’d get one with a tank so I had the option to run air guns / small paint spray attachments (only for small jobs – otherwise you’d need a really big tank) / an impact wrench.