Compressor vs. Supercharger — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on October 25, 2023
A compressor increases the pressure of a gas; a supercharger boosts an engine's air intake to increase power.
Difference Between Compressor and Supercharger
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A compressor is a device that's designed to increase the pressure of a gas by reducing its volume. On the other hand, a supercharger is specifically an air compressor designed to increase the pressure or density of air supplied to an internal combustion engine.
While compressors have a broad range of applications including air conditioning systems and industrial processes, superchargers are mainly found in automotive applications to enhance the performance of engines.
Both compressors and superchargers function on the principle of taking in a certain volume of gas and releasing it at a higher pressure. However, a supercharger's primary objective is to increase the power output of an engine by delivering more oxygen-rich air to the combustion chamber.
The term compressor encompasses a wide variety of devices that can compress various gases, while the term supercharger specifically denotes devices that compress air for performance engine applications.
In the automotive industry, a supercharger is distinct from a turbocharger, even though both are types of air compressors. A key difference is that superchargers are mechanically driven by the engine, whereas turbochargers are driven by exhaust gases.
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Comparison Chart
Primary Function
Increase the pressure of a gas.
Boost an engine's air intake.
Applications
Broad range: air conditioning, industrial processes, etc.
Mainly automotive to enhance engine performance.
Types of Gases
Can compress various gases.
Compresses air specifically for engines.
Relation to Engines
Not specific to engines.
Designed to increase power output of engines.
Driving Mechanism
Various mechanisms depending on application.
Mechanically driven by the engine.
Compare with Definitions
Compressor
An electronic device that reduces the dynamic range of audio signals.
The radio station used a compressor to maintain consistent audio levels.
Supercharger
A device that increases the pressure of air supplied to an engine.
His car's performance improved after installing a supercharger.
Compressor
A machine used to supply air or other gas at increased pressure.
The workshop had a large compressor for power tools.
Supercharger
Mechanically driven compressor for engine air intake.
Unlike a turbocharger, a supercharger is directly driven by the engine.
Compressor
A device that consolidates and packs something into a smaller space.
He used a compressor to reduce the volume of the trash.
Supercharger
A component enhancing combustion efficiency in engines.
Racing cars often have superchargers for added power.
Compressor
A compressor is a mechanical device that increases the pressure of a gas by reducing its volume. An air compressor is a specific type of gas compressor.
Supercharger
Automotive tool for increased horsepower and torque.
Many muscle cars come equipped with superchargers for that extra kick.
Compressor
A pump or other machine that increases the pressure of a gas.
Supercharger
A device to force more air into the combustion chamber.
With a supercharger, more fuel can burn, releasing more energy.
Compressor
An instrument or device that compresses, such as a forceps or clamp.
Supercharger
A supercharger is an air compressor that increases the pressure or density of air supplied to an internal combustion engine. This gives each intake cycle of the engine more oxygen, letting it burn more fuel and do more work, thus increasing the power output.
Compressor
A muscle that causes compression of a body part.
Supercharger
A blower or compressor, usually driven by the engine, for supplying air under high pressure to the cylinders of an internal-combustion engine.
Compressor
A device that produces pressure, such as a gas compressor that produces pressurized gas.
Supercharger
An inlet air compressor for an internal combustion engine (either Otto or Diesel cycle).
Compressor
A device that squeezes (compresses).
Supercharger
(most commonly) Such a compressor which is specifically powered from the crankshaft.
Compressor
An instrument for compressing an artery (especially the femoral artery) or other part.
Supercharger
A device that can rapidly recharge a battery cell/pack.
Compressor
An apparatus for confining or flattening between glass plates an object to be examined with the microscope; a compressorium.
Supercharger
Compressor that forces increased oxygen into the cylinders of an internal-combustion engine
Compressor
A machine for compressing gases, especially an air compressor.
Compressor
(audio) A device that reduces the dynamic range of an audio signal.
Compressor
(anatomy) A muscle that compresses certain parts.
Compressor
(computing) A program or algorithm for compressing data.
Compressor
Anything which serves to compress
Compressor
A mechanical device that compresses gasses
Compressor
A device that increases the pressure of a gas.
The air conditioner's compressor was malfunctioning.
Compressor
Part of refrigeration systems that compresses and circulates the refrigerant.
The fridge stopped cooling due to a compressor issue.
Common Curiosities
What is the main objective of a supercharger in vehicles?
A supercharger's main objective is to boost an engine's air intake to increase power and efficiency.
What is the primary purpose of a compressor?
A compressor's main purpose is to increase the pressure of a gas by reducing its volume.
How is a supercharger different from a turbocharger?
While both boost engine air intake, a supercharger is mechanically driven by the engine, while a turbocharger is driven by exhaust gases.
Can compressors be found outside the automotive industry?
Yes, compressors have various applications, including air conditioning and industrial processes.
Is adding a supercharger to a car always beneficial?
While superchargers can increase power, they can also put additional strain on an engine and decrease fuel efficiency.
How does a compressor in an air conditioner work?
It compresses the refrigerant gas, raising its temperature and pressure before it's moved to the condenser coil.
Can a compressor be used for liquids?
Typically, compressors are designed for gases, but there are devices called "pumps" for increasing the pressure of liquids.
Is a supercharger a type of compressor?
Yes, a supercharger is specifically an air compressor for internal combustion engines.
Does every performance car have a supercharger?
No, not every performance car has a supercharger. Some use turbochargers or are naturally aspirated.
Can a compressor also refer to an audio device?
Yes, in audio engineering, a compressor adjusts the dynamic range of audio signals.
Can a compressor be used to inflate tires?
Yes, air compressors can inflate tires by providing air at increased pressure.
Are there different types of superchargers?
Yes, there are various designs, including roots, twin-screw, and centrifugal superchargers.
How does a supercharger affect fuel consumption?
Superchargers can increase fuel consumption since they allow for more air and, consequently, more fuel to enter the combustion chamber.
Do all compressors run on electricity?
No, while many compressors are electrically driven, others can be powered by gasoline, diesel, or other means.
How do superchargers affect engine longevity?
While they can enhance performance, superchargers can also introduce additional wear and strain on an engine. Proper maintenance is crucial.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
