12 best plate compactors

A plate compactor is a heavy-duty construction tool that falls under the category of power tools and is commonly used in concrete work and other construction projects. These machines are designed to compact various types of materials, primarily soil, gravel, and asphalt, to create a more stable and uniform surface. Here is what you need to know about plate compactors:

  1. Purpose: Plate compactors are used to compact and flatten different types of surfaces, making them more solid and even. They are especially useful for preparing the ground before laying concrete, paving stones, or asphalt. Compacting the ground ensures proper stability and reduces the risk of settling or uneven surfaces.

  2. Operation: A plate compactor consists of a heavy steel plate mounted on a vibrating base. It is powered by an engine, typically gasoline or diesel, that generates the necessary vibration. The operator pushes the compactor over the surface to be compacted while the machine vibrates, effectively settling and compacting the material.

  3. Types: There are two primary types of plate compactors: forward plate compactors and reversible plate compactors.Forward plate compactors are easier to maneuver but are generally less powerful. Reversible plate compactors can move in both forward and reverse directions, providing more versatility and increased compaction force.

  4. Applications: Plate compactors are used in various construction applications, including:

    • Compacting soil and gravel before laying foundations or road surfaces.
    • Preparing surfaces for the installation of pavers or bricks.
    • Compacting asphalt for road repair or installation.
    • Trench and utility work to ensure stable backfill.
  5. Power Tools: Plate compactors are considered power tools because they rely on an internal combustion engine to generate the necessary vibration and force for compaction. They are commonly used in construction and landscaping, making them an essential tool for professionals in these fields.

  6. Tools Home Improvement: Plate compactors are associated with the tools and home improvement category because they are often used by homeowners and contractors to improve the surfaces around homes, driveways, and gardens. They help ensure stability and longevity for various outdoor projects.

In summary, plate compactors are powerful construction tools used to compact and stabilize various materials, including soil, gravel, and asphalt. They are commonly used in construction and landscaping projects to prepare surfaces for the installation of foundations, paving, or road surfaces. These machines are considered power tools and are valuable assets in the tools and home improvement industry.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best plate compactors on the market
  

Stark Pro-Series 6.5HP Walk Behind Plate Compactor Gas Vibration Compaction Force 2,360Lbs Force w/Built-in Wheel

Based on 62 reviews Check latest price
  • A perfect combination of practicality and performance, provides durable products for both the typical homeowner and professional contractor
  • Fold-up transport wheels are attached and able to be used anytime from anywhere on the jobsite
  • Versatile equipment ideal for compaction of interlocking paving stones, trenches, landscaping and maintenance
  • Ideally used for finishing asphalt, sand, and sloped surfaces while working within narrow confined areas
  • Engine Type: Forced Air -Cooled, 4 -Stroke Gasoline Engine; Power: 4.1kw / 6.5HP; Displacement: 196cc; Effective Base Area: 20" x 14"; Impact Force: 2,360lbs

User questions & answers

Question: can you tell me how much this actually weighs
Answer: It's only under pressure when you are actually spraying. I would not recommend trying to adjust by hand while actually spraying.
Question: What stand behind equipment will smoothe out digs in cement floor
Answer: I've only seen it sold with the blue tip and housing. It does fit the rac 5 tips and housing though. You don't have to use the blue housings.
Question: Where the engine? Stay tuned for my stars and review. Im sure there an explination
Answer: It does not come with housing and tip shown ? If so then the tip has to coordinate with tip guard.
Question: How is this product shipped
Answer: yes there is a shut off valve

SuperHandy Plate Compactor AlphaWorks 7 HP 209cc Gas Engine 4200-Pounds of Compaction Force with 20 × 15 Inch Plate for Paving Projects Landscapes Sidewalks Patios EPA/CARB Compliant

Based on 84 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This SuperHandy Force Compaction Plate Compactor has a powerful Alphaworks 7Hp 209cc 4 Stroke Single Cylinder OHV Gas Engine. Performing at a Max Output Power of 5kW, Exciter Speed of 5500VPM, Travel Speed 115FT/min, a High Max Rotation Speed of 3600RPMs granting a Compaction Force of 4200-Pounds (19Kn burst high impact force). With a Max Compaction Depth of 12", with a Heavy Duty Industrial size 20” (508mm) x 15" (381mm) Steel Compacting Plate, includes folding wheels.



Our Plate Compactors have specially designed shock absorption systems, resulting in minuscule vibration transfer to the single lever direction control providing easy handling, increased operator comfort & reduced fatigue. Great for Outdoor & Concrete projects: lawn/garden, sand, walkways, patios, paver installations or asphalting projects. Great Mobility on surfaces in narrow confined areas. Dimensions: 26" x 18.5" x 22". Storage with the Collapsible Folding Handle.



SAFETY & PROPER USE - The engine is designed to ensure the operator's safety. Always operate machine according to directions in the user manual, always wear the appropriate ANSI standard hand & eye protection (ENGINE OIL NOT INCLUDED, MUST ADD UPON UN-BOXING). The engine runs on Unleaded 87+ octane Gasoline (10%< less ETHANOL recommended) & a Max capacity of 0.7 gallons. ONLY use this Plate Compactor for approved applications. Our Compactors are EPA Certified/CARB Compliant.

  • PROFESSIONAL SPECIFICATIONS - This Force Compaction Plate Compactor has a powerful Alphaworks 7Hp 209cc 4 Stroke Single Cylinder OHV Gas Engine. Performing at a Max Output Power of 5kW, Exciter Speed of 5500VPM, Travel Speed 115FT/min, a High Max Rotation Speed of 3600RPMs granting a Compaction Force of 4200-Pounds (19Kn burst high impact force). With a Max Compaction Depth of 12", with a Heavy Duty Industrial size 20” (508mm) x 15" (381mm) Steel Compacting Plate, includes folding wheels.
  • EFFICIENT & MANEUVERABLE - Our Plate Compactors have specially designed shock absorption systems, resulting in minuscule vibration transfer to the single lever direction control providing easy handling, increased operator comfort & reduced fatigue. Great for Outdoor & Concrete projects: lawn/garden, sand, walkways, patios, paver installations or asphalting projects. Great Mobility on surfaces in narrow confined areas. Dimensions: 26" x 18.5" x 22". Storage with the Collapsible Folding Handle.
  • SAFETY & PROPER USE - The engine is designed to ensure the operator's safety. Always operate machine according to directions in the user manual, always wear the appropriate ANSI standard hand & eye protection (ENGINE OIL NOT INCLUDED, MUST ADD UPON UN-BOXING). The engine runs on Unleaded 87+ octane Gasoline (10%< less ETHANOL recommended) & a Max capacity of 0.7 gallons. ONLY use this Plate Compactor for approved applications. Our Compactors are EPA Certified/CARB Compliant.

User questions & answers

Question: If i buy it now how long before i get this item to my door
Answer: I don’t have a scale ,, but as women of age I used it just to see how is was,, lived it has rollers to move easily!!
Question: Does it come with rubber mat for pavers
Answer: You will need a rotating grinder for that. This unit will not do that.
Question: Why i start it then engaging, it will shut off
Answer: Yes
Question: Is there a rubber pad available for this? Is one included? Looks like a clear plastic on bottom
Answer: It was either fed ex or ups. It comes in two heavy boxes, one for the engine and one for the rest of the unit.

Stark 2.0HP Gas Vibration Compaction Force Construction Plate Compactor 2,000 Lbs Force for Paving Landscaping Sidewalk Patio Project EPA

Based on 155 reviews Check latest price
  • A perfect combination of practicality and performance, provides durable products for both the typical homeowner and professional contractor
  • 79cc vibratory plate compactor model delivers powerful blows per minute courtesy of its 2.0 HP engine, making it ideal for residential paving projects
  • Can be used in multiple jobs such as working on paving, landscaping, sidewalk, patio project, providing professional results
  • Fold-up transport wheels are attached and able to be used anytime from anywhere on the jobsite
  • Effective Base Area: 17 x 11.8"; Vibration Frequency: 5210; Compaction Area Maximum: 2691 ft./hour; Forward Speed (Soil) CM/S (IN/S): 25 (9.8); Overall Dimension: 40"(L) x 15-1/2"(W) x 34-1/4"(H)

User questions & answers

Question: Will this work on dirt driveway to push dirt level again, that was worn from driving on it
Answer: 1 week
Question: Could something like this be used to even out patio pavers
Answer: Yes
Question: What engine does this model use
Answer: It’s a piece of junk. Mine kept doing that. Return it.
Question: Where is this manufactured
Answer: Yes, the clear separates it from the harder metal

XtremepowerUS 2.5 HP Walk Behind Gas 1920lbs Force Construction Plate Compactor Vibration 79cc Motor LC152F CARB EPA Motor w/Wheel

Based on 31 reviews Check latest price
  • ★ Ideally used for finishing asphalt, sand, and sloped surfaces while working within narrow confined areas; Can be used in multiple jobs such as working on walkways, patios, paver installations or asphalting projects
  • ★The compactor features an adjustable control throttle, cushioned handlebars, engine-oil drain tube, and heavy duty frame for lifting compactor for easy transportation
  • ★Efficiency: 4280 ft 2/hr; Plate Size: 18.7 x 11.8"; Compaction Depth: 8"; Engine Type: Loncin LC152F Forced Air -Cooled (EPA and CARB Engine)
  • ★ Built-in Wheel - Fold-up transport wheels are attached and able to be used anytime from anywhere on the jobsite
  • ★Loncin engine design of overhead valve (OHV) the engine operation temperature is low. It has strong power, efficient performance of suction and exhaust, and OHV structure greatly increasing combustion efficiency

User questions & answers

Question: Any quality issues with this model brand
Answer: No
Question: Does this have wheels
Answer: Not recommended. Most paver suppliers specifically say not to use plate compactors on pavers. It is intended to pack and level the base materials under the pavers.
Question: What type of fuel does it use
Answer: A Chinese Honda like motor
Question: Is coming with water tank
Answer: I don’t know... it works good for me though

Product features

Ideally used for finishing asphalt, sand, and sloped surfaces

Ideally used for finishing asphalt, sand, and sloped surfaces while working within narrow confined areas; Can be used in multiple jobs such as working on walkways, patios, paver installations or asphalting projects

Great for multiple jobs

Ideally used for finishing asphalt, sand, and sloped surfaces while working within narrow confined areas; Can be used in multiple jobs such as working on walkways, patios, paver installations or asphalting projects

Single-direction/Reverse-direction Plate

Ideal for smaller jobs like trenches, retaining walls and other tight areas that don't require as much compaction

Adjustable control throttle

The compactor features an adjustable control throttle, cushioned handlebars, engine-oil drain tube, and heavy duty frame for lifting compactor for easy transportation

Quad-Clean System

All-season -stage cyclonic air filter effective engine protection for tough-and-dirty conditions

More Specs & Comparison

TOMAHAWK Vibratory Plate Compactor Tamper for Dirt, Asphalt, Gravel, Soil Compaction with Kohler Engine

Based on 21 reviews Check latest price
  • 6HP Kohler CH260 Engine with 3 Year Warranty
  • Compaction force of 3000 lbs/ft²
  • Compaction of cohesive and granular soils and clays up to 22 in.
  • Beveled 17" x 21" plate for compaction that does not dig in
  • Achieve 98-100% Compaction on Field Density Tests

User questions & answers

Question: How much more is the lifting accessories
Answer: None
Question: Can i use this on uphill and downhill slopes
Answer: No, I need to use a cart to move it around.
Question: Does it have a centrifugal clutch
Answer: Unleaded, I used ethanol free fuel.
Question: Would it be suitable for gravel? Would use on 3/4 " minus
Answer: It does not come with a water tank

Product features

COMPACTION FORCE OF 3,000 LBS/FT

98-100% Compaction Rating

Vibrating at 6,400 blows/min, this forward plate compactor is perfect for professional applications requiring nuclear density testing and field compaction tests.

5.5HP KOHLER ENGINE

Command PRO CH255 ENGINE

Durable and tough, this plate compactor is built to last, making it perfect for professionals, construction equipment rental, and do-it-yourselfers alike.

NARROW 17" X 21" BASE PLATE

Versatile & Compact

Designed to maneuver narrow, cramped spaces at 79 ft/min - this plate compactor is a contractor's first choice for sidewalks, driveways, and repair work.

SPARE PARTS AND ACCESSORIES

Tomahawk Power understands to keep a job site running smoothly, the proper equipment and parts are needed at the drop of a hat. Gain access to faster spare parts availability, nationwide repair centers, and a comprehensive library of operations manuals, assembly guides, explosion diagrams, and more. Choose Tomahawk today and Power Your World!

Stark 5.5HP Walk Behind Gas Vibration Construction Plate Compactor Tamper Rammer Water Tank, Powered By GX160 Engine

Based on 7 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Powered by an incredible 163cc / 5.5 HP Honda GX160 Engine, this vibratory plate is perfect for job sites, households and rental fleets. Designed specifically to maneuver narrow, cramped spaces, the stark compacts cohesive and granular soils up to 12 in. The open base plate minimizes rock and dirt build up. Ideal for compacting landscapes, hardscapes, roadways and asphalt, this vibratory plate is perfect for professionals, construction equipment rental and do-it-yourself alike.

Features:

  • The compactor features an adjustable control throttle, cushioned handlebars, engine-oil drain tube, and attached wheel kit for easy transportation
  • Can be used in multiple jobs such as working on walkways, patios, paver installations or asphalting projects
  • The process of compacting aggregate material provides for a solid and leveled foundation which keeps the road resistant to erosion for years to come
  • Ideally used for finishing asphalt, sand, and sloped surfaces while working within narrow confined areas
  • Built-in foldable wheel kit for central lifting and easy transportation

Specifications:

  • Color: Yellow/Black
  • Engine Type: 163cc Honda GX160 OHV engine
  • Displacement: 163
  • Power HP: 5.5
  • Fuel Tank: Gasoline
  • Start Type: Recoil
  • Effective Base Area: 20-5/8" x 16-6/8"
  • Vibration Frequency: 4,930 per mins
  • Climb Ability: 0-20 Degrees
  • Travel Speed: 65~82 ft per mins
  • Grade Ability: 30%
  • Compliant: CARB and EPA

Package Content:

  • Compactor Plate
  • Manual

  • Ideally used for finishing asphalt, sand, and sloped surfaces while working within narrow confined areas; Can be used in multiple jobs such as working on walkways, patios, paver installations or asphalting projects
  • Engine type : Forced Air -Cooled , 4 -Stroke Gasoline Honda Engine 163cc GX160 with cast iron cylinder liner
  • Single-direction plate compactor is ideal for smaller jobs like trenches, retaining walls and other tight areas that don't require as much compaction
  • The compactor features an adjustable control throttle, cushioned handlebars, engine-oil drain tube, and attached wheel kit for easy transportation
  • Process of compacting aggregate material provides for a solid and leveled foundation which keeps the road resistant to erosion for years to come

User questions & answers

Question: Is there a warranty with this product? If so how long
Answer: yes it works good on Type II and 1/2'' would be suitable as well.

Multiquip MVC82VHW Honda GX160 Plate Compactor with Water Tank, 18" Wide - Black/orange

Multiquip Inc.

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This Multiquip, model MVC82VHW, is a Plate Compactor, Honda GX160, With Water Tank, 18" Wide. Recognized as the industry standard for compacting granular soils and asphalt. Anti-vibration handle, reduces vibration to the operator by 50%. Economical price tag. Solid, high-strength steel base plate with curved edges for excellent performance and smooth turns on hot asphalt. Highly maneuverable, ideal for tight, confined areas. Unit Specifications include: Exciter Speed: 5,600 VPM. Plate Size: 17.7 x 22.4 in. Max Forward Speed Per Min: 72 ft. Fuel Consumption Per Hour: .31 gal.

User questions & answers

Question: I just had this in my cart for $1640. you raised the price 360.00 whats up with that
Answer: $15
Question: Refacciones de compactor Mikasa
Answer: yes a slight angle it works uphill and it works well going downhill
Question: What is the engine hp
Answer: yes this plate compactor has a centrifugal clutch. you can find it behind the metal cover on the left side of the machine (Assuming you are standing behind the machine).

Stark 6.5 Gas Impact Jumping Jack Tamper Tamping Gasoline Engine Plate Vibratory Compactor Recoil Equipment, Yellow

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price
  • Can be used in multiple jobs such as landscaping on walkways, patios, paver installations or asphalting projects
  • Plate compactor will efficiently compact aggregate materials for a solid and leveled foundation that will keep the road resistant to erosion for years to come
  • Engineered for its high performance and lasting durability, provides efficient compaction of both granular and cohesive soils
  • Engine safeguarded with exterior plated ribcage housing for secure protection
  • Tamping rammer is built to be lightweight and well-balanced, the slim and upright construction of the rammer makes working in trenches and tighter spots an easy task; Overall Dimension: 16"(W) x 29-1/2"(L) x 42-1/2"(H)

Product features

Good for multiple jobs

Can be used in multiple jobs such as landscaping on walkways, patios, paver installations or asphalting projects

Efficiently compact aggregate materials

Plate compactor will efficiently compact aggregate materials for a solid and leveled foundation that will keep the road resistant to erosion for years to come

High performance

Engineered for its high performance and lasting durability, provides efficient compaction of both granular and cohesive soils

Lightweight and well-balanced

Tamping rammer is built to be lightweight and well-balanced, the slim and upright construction of the rammer makes working in trenches and tighter spots an easy task

Compare:

Multiquip MVC82VH Honda GX160 Plate Compactor with No Water Tank, 18" Wide

Multiquip Inc.

Product description

This Multiquip, model MVC82VH, is a Plate Compactor, Honda GX160, No Water Tank, 18" Wide. Recognized as the industry standard for compacting granular soils and asphalt. Anti-vibration handle, reduces vibration to the operator by 50%. Economical price tag. Solid, high-strength steel base plate with curved edges for excellent performance and smooth turns on hot asphalt. Highly maneuverable, ideal for tight, confined areas. Unit Specifications include: Exciter Speed: 5,600 VPM. Plate Size: 17.7 x 22.4 in. Max Forward Speed Per Min: 72 ft. Fuel Consumption Per Hour: .31 gal.

Stark 31cc Vibratory Screed Gas Power Screed Engine EPA Concrete Surface Finish Leveling Tamper Ruler with 7' feet Blade

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price
  • Vibrating Power Screed Assembly with Engine with 7-feet Screed Blade
  • Accurately level up to 4 times more concrete than traditional methods
  • Easily maneuverable, pick the frame up easily for simple portability on commercial & residential job sites
  • Simple to operate with Low Maintenance design, this equipment is the ultimate screed assembly for professional concrete jobs
  • Easily change blades in less than 2 minutes with the 7ft blade

CCTI Walk-Behind 36" Power Trowel with Float Pan - Powered by 5.5 HP Loncin G200FA Gasoline Engine

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This 36" 4 Blades Power Trowel is a strong machine that includes easy to use Pitch and Speed Controls. 36 inch blade guard diameter provides a large area of concrete straightening for big jobs whether you are working on an area for a room, driveway, or parking area. Use this tool for that Professional finish to concrete.

  • 5-10 Days Freight to Lower 48 States(Excludes AK,HI,GU,VI,PR) Business Address Only!
  • 90% Assembled - Almost Ready To Run Out of Box
  • Powered by 5.5HP Loncin Gasoline Engine (EPA and CARB Certificated)
  • Crate Dimension: 40" x 40" x 30"H - Shipping Wt: 293 lb. - Net Wt: 205 lb.
  • Includes: Power Trowel, Float Pan, Tool Kit and User Instruction Manuals

WEN 56035T 7 HP 4500-Pound Compaction Force Plate Compactor, CARB Compliant, Black

Based on 184 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Forget about spending money to rent a plate compactor. With a price this good and equipment this reliable, buying a compactor for the job site has never made more sense. A must have tool for anyone working on walkways, patios, paver installations, landscaping or small asphalt projects. Powerful 212cc /7 HP engine delivers 4, 496 lbs. of force at 5, 400 blows per minute, increasing the density of loose granular soils, gravel, sand, crushed aggregate and other mediums into a sound, level foundation. This type of foundation extends the life of your project as it reduces water seepage, swelling and expansion. Our unique swing-over handle makes it easy to maneuver around the work area even in narrow, cramped spaces. Our engine features an angled combustion chamber (for more power per displacement), a pull recoil start and a low-oil shutdown to protect the engine. Vibration isolators between the welded steel plate and the engine reduce vibration, extending the engine's life. High density foam in the handles also reduces vibration to the user. 1 Gal. fuel tank provides ample work time. Tough powder-coat finish keeps the product rust-free.

  • Powerful: 212cc engine is larger than most in its class, producing 4, 496lbs of force at 5, 400 blows per minute
  • Maneuverable with our unique swing-over handle and the compact 24 x 17-3/4" Contoured edge plate
  • Fast travel speed = productivity; single direction plate travels up to 82 feet per minute
  • Vibration isolators between the welded Steel plate and the engine reduce vibration extending the engine's life
  • Easily transportable with lift handles at the plate, as well as central lifting/load Bar
  • Power Source Type: Gas Powered

User questions & answers

Question: What's the Warranty
Answer: I did Nothing of the sort , that is the shipping charge amazon is adding on. Sorry reach out to me for for more info .
Question: How long will it take to get this item
Answer: Yes it is . Reach out for a deal.
Question: Can a 50+ 160lb. women menuver this compactor or will it be too heavy
Answer: Thank you for inquire and Lets Make A Deal ! please reach out to Bob from shipping and customer service so I can give a great price including shipping to a commercial doc. Here are the manufacturer specs. Engine – Honda GX160 4.8 hp. Centrifugal Force - 3080 lbf / 13.7 kN Exciter Speed - 5600 VPM Plate Size - 17.7 x 22.4 in / 45 x 57 mm Max Forward Speed Per Min. - 72 ft. / 22 m Fuel Consumption Per Hour - 0.31 gal. / 1.17 L Water Tank Capacity - 11.5 qts. / 10.88 L Dimensions & Weights: Overall Length - 36 in / 914 mm Overall Width - 17.7 in / 450 mm Overall Height - 39.5 in / 1003 mm Shipping Dimensions - 33.5 x 18.5 x 27 in / 851 x 470 x 686 mm Operating Weight - 182 lbs. / 83 kg Shipping Weight - 200 lbs. / 91 kg
Question: Who makes the engine
Answer: I am sorry I do not have warranty info for you. I wanted to reply anyway because this compactor is amazing. I am avo tractor and cannot recall purchasing a more quality product. This thing compacts uphill! Starts every time. I am so pleased with it. Now you know why I have no warranty info. It is not necessary for such a great product.

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