Our car experts choose every product we feature. We may earn money from the links on this page.
The Best Portable Tire Inflators You Can Buy
Portable car tire inflators are flooding the market right now, but they come in all shapes, sizes, brands, and styles. Which ones are the best? We turned to the Gear Team to find out.
If you've ever been stranded roadside with a flat tire, you know that it can bring the most cheerful among us to a fit of rage. Fussing with your car's factory jack, rusted lug nuts, and cumbersome spare can turn a quick trip into a multi-hour affair. However, all of that time and effort could have been saved had you had a portable tire inflator with you. A tire inflator won't save you in every case, but if you've developed a small to moderate leak, an inflator may be just the thing to get you home or to a service center.
Being that there are literally (not literally) a million different tire inflators out there, we thought we'd cut through the jargon and reach out to our colleagues on the Gear Team, who recently put a bunch of handheld and console-type portable tire inflators to the test. Here's the verdict:
Our Top Picks
What to Look for in a Portable Tire Inflator
With so many tire inflators on the market, a lot of them manufactured by unfamiliar brands, it's important to know what you're shopping for. Here are some important considerations to keep in mind.
Type
While there are numerous types of tire inflators, including a slew of flashlight-sized models and, of course, the good ol' analog hand pump, for this article we're concerned primarily with handheld and console air compressors.
Portable Handheld Inflators:
These compact and lightweight inflators are designed for on-the-go use. They are suitable for emergencies and can be easily stored in a vehicle. They typically run on vehicle power outlets or rechargeable batteries and often come with digital gauges, LED lights, and quick-inflation capabilities.
Console Inflators:
Console inflators are larger units designed for household use and more versatile applications. They can handle inflating not only tires but also sports equipment, air mattresses, pool toys, and other inflatables. They often come with multiple power options, attachments, and advanced features, making them a versatile choice for various inflation tasks.
Power Source
When selecting a portable car tire inflator, prioritize models with alternate power sources. For battery-powered handhelds, ensure they have a backup 12-volt car plug. Wall plugs are suitable for filling your tires at home, but proximity to an outlet or an extension cord is necessary. Direct-to-battery power options offer maximum power but can be cumbersome.
Accessories and Features
Attachments and Nozzles:
Many tire inflators include various attachments and nozzles to inflate different types of items, such as sports balls, air mattresses, and pool toys.
Digital Gauge:
A digital gauge allows you to set and monitor the desired tire pressure accurately, ensuring precise inflation.
LED Work Light:
Built-in LED lights illuminate the tire valve area, making it easier to connect the inflator, especially in low-light conditions.
Auto-Shutoff:
This feature automatically stops the inflator once the set tire pressure is reached, preventing over-inflation.
Alternate Power Source:
Some battery-powered inflators can also be powered by vehicle 12-volt outlets, wall sockets, or both, providing versatility.
Deflation Function:
Some inflators can deflate tires or other items, making them versatile tools.
Overheat Protection:
Safety features like overheat protection prevent damage to the inflator from prolonged use.
The Assistant Commerce Editor for Hearst Autos, Justin Helton is an enthusiast with a passion for heavily depreciated autos and a penchant for philosophical debate. As a lifelong Manhattanite, he has mastered the ins and outs of classic car ownership in one of the least car-friendly cities in the world.
Jon Langston is an avid motorcyclist and gear collector whose work has appeared in Men’s Journal, Cycle World, The Drive, Rider, Iron & Air, Motorcyclist, and more.
Collin Morgan is an Associate Commerce Editor at Hearst Autos, where the former Rust Belt mechanic and gadget enthusiast presents the best gear for your automotive endeavors.
Best Shop Vacs for 2023, Tested
Best Garage Flooring of 2023, Tested
9 Best Coffee Makers of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Top-Rated Tire Pressure Gauges