To answer this question, we must first explain why some air compressors need oil and others don’t. Just like a car engine, some air compressors use a special oil to lube its moving part and decrease friction. Reduced component wear and robust durability are the apparent upsides here, although such compressors demand more maintenance. As opposed to them, oil-free compressors have a layer of Teflon or similar material that acts as a lubricant. This eliminates a need for lube-related maintenance, making them ideal for amateur and DIY applications.