It's possible to remove the strut without a spring compressor, but then you need one to disassemble the strut to take the insert out, and to re-assemble the strut after you put the insert in. I borrowed a spring compressor from Kragen, had it such a short time, a few hours, they didn't charge me the rental.
It is nowhere near as easy as the rears.

Also, maybe consider changing the steering bearing at the top of the strut, this is the time to do it and I found it makes a difference. And, make sure you really understand which part goes where and in which orientation, (take pics maybe?) including the small washer that engages near the top of the strut insert and has a relief to sit correctly against the strut top where it changes diameter. When I put mine back together I clearly remembered everything.
Incorrectly.