Compactors: types, uses, and how to choose the right one
17/06/2026
Compaction is one of those invisible jobs that everything else depends on: well-densified ground supports loads, prevents settlement, and extends the life of any structure or pavement built on top of it. And the tool to achieve this is the compactor. But there isn't just "one" compactor — there are several very different families, and choosing the wrong one means losing time, money, and effectiveness on the job.
In this guide we explain what compactors are, the types that exist (rollers, plates, and rammers), which machine each type of ground calls for, how to compare them, and how to choose the most suitable one for your project. Let's begin.