Top-7 Best portable air compressors and tire inflators for car 2020

What is the best portable air compressor?

As the name says the portable air compressor or the tire inflator is a very compact and light-weight tool. It is not used for running pneumatic tools or inflating truck tires. It is great for re-inflating tires of your car or blowing up inflatable mattresses, kayaks, toys, etc. It is the portable compressor which can be powered by various sources, including a built-in rechargeable battery. Thus the above-mentioned features make it a versatile tool which everybody should have both at home and during traveling. The VIAIR 400P mostly suits the above-mentioned needs.

Why have I chosen this model? As the largest manufacturer of automobile and industrial compressors on the global market, VIAIR Corporation gives me this feeling of a total reliability and efficiency of their products, in particular their VIAIR 400P portable air compressor.

The Viair 400P is one of the fastest portable compressors on the market at a 33% duty cycle, that is, a continuous operation during 20 minutes. Although the tool requires cool-down after 20 minutes of usage, it is possible to complete the work before the need for a cool-down. It is capable to inflate the large tire in less than 5 minutes.

This device comes with a number of valuable features like the automatic shut off. This function will allow you saving money and time as it stops the unit as soon as it reaches the target preset pressure level. The 150 PSI rating will let you inflate even some of the largest tires and should have no problem handling your RV tires.

The attachments provided include an inline fuse holder, a 8 'power cable, a 25' air hose with 5-in-1 inflator / deflator functions, a 120 PSI gauge, a heavy duty sand tray with vibration isolators and a super convenient carry bag with storage compartments.

The Viair 400P portable air compressor is not a cheap option. But, if you need a durable, compact compressor that is capable for filling tires of your car in a reasonable amount of time, it is definitely worth its money.

The reason you should think about getting a portable air compressor of you own

The modern lifestyle requires us to be active and mobile in order to catch up with its fast tempo. Luckily there are plenty of the advanced machines and devices that help us to keep pace with the time. A private car is a must for a man of today who fully relies on it. Unfortunately, we often do not foresee those unexpected surprises that can happen at the most inconvenient time. Flat tires or their deflation are the frequent occasions that, probably, each driver in the world had to face, at least once in the life.

I personally can share a sad experience with you. Once I had to stop my car in the middle of the road because of its strange behavior, due to the flat tire, as it appeared later. I couldn’t reach even the nearest service as driving with three wheels was not the best idea. Having realized that there was no tire inflator in my trunk, I had to stay in the middle of the road, crying for help and trying to stop any car. More than that, at the same time the heavy rain was falling on my poor head. So, as you can imagine, I wouldn’t wish the same happens to anybody!

Thus, having your own tire inflator allows you checking tire pressure and making sure they’re in an optimal range, whenever you want to do it. Incorrect tire pressure can lead to plenty of adverse effects on your driving experience. If you strive for increasing your tires life as long as possible and for saving you money in the long-term perspective, you have a good reason to invest in a tire inflator. In fact, it's a small investment with a high effect.

There’s a wide range of tire inflators and portable air compressors available on the market. They range from some smaller units that use your car's built-in 12-volt cigarette lighter, to powerful machines that need a standard power outlet. Most common 12-volt tire inflators won’t fill up your tires as fast as the air compressors. Nevertheless they’re more mobile, convenient and save your money as you can do this simple job by yourself.

Tire inflator or air compressor, what is the difference?

Frankly speaking, the portable tire inflators and air compressors do not differ considerably. Besides, their names are often used interchangeably by manufacturers. Some 12-volt units are offered as air compressors, on the contrary larger units of considerable overall dimensions are labeled as tire inflators.

If you want to use this tool as a tire inflator only or as a versatile powerful air compressor, you should primarily look at the features and specifications. It will help you to figure out the functionality of any particular model.

In particular, some small units, labeled as the air compressors are not designed to inflate trucks' tires. That is why, specify your needs first and only then proceed with search for your ideal tool.

Large air Compressors

They are available in a wide range and can be used for many household purposes. You can use some of them with light pneumatic tools such as nail guns, or for blow dust and dirt out of engines ’compartments, and filling up your tires as well.

Air compressors are bigger in size than small inflators. They need more power to deliver the desired level of pressure. Often air compressors need wall outlets but some lighter ones also run off the 12-volt cigarette port outlets in a car. Thus, they are less portable than the lighter tire inflators.

The biggest advantage of the air compressors is in their versatility in use. Besides, they can work with more efficiency in comparison with the smaller units and usually don’t have batteries to be recharged. Thus, you can use them selecting any power setting depending on the purpose of its application.

Tire inflators

Tire inflators or portable air compressors are designed to inflate the tires of the cars, as the name says. They are smaller in size and lighter than the large air compressors, with a more specialized functionality. The large compressors are equipped with numerous attachments onboard, so they do not fit to the dimensions of the car's trunk. Tire inflators are smaller that contributes significantly to their portability. Besides they come with additional features that simplify the process of their use.

These units are usually 12-volt and can run from the cigarette lighter in a car. Some models come with rechargeable batteries which allow you to be independent from any cords and power outlets. However this feature has its flipsides as the life of the battery which is not long-lasting and needs to be frequently recharged. It may take a longer time to provide an expected pressure level in comparison with their corded counterparts. Finally, it is not powerful enough to inflate high-pressured tires, truck tires, for instance.

In addition there are plenty of various functions and attachments that enhance the efficiency and user-friendliness of its usage.

So, it's up to you to decide which type and which model to choose. Herein I've prepared the list of the Top-7 best portable air compressors / tire inflators for cars within the price range from $ 40 to $ 200.

Best portable air compressors for car

1. VIAIR 400P

VIAIR Corporation, based in Irvine, California, was founded in 1998. It manufactures fractional horsepower DC oil-less air compressors and air accessories for on-road, off-road, and industrial markets.

400P-Automatic is VIAIR's first Automatic shut-off function powerful portable tire inflator. This 33% duty cycle unit is capable to pressure up to 150 PSI. This means the product’s 20-minute runtime won’t cause any problems. This model comes with a gas station-style tire inflation gun for better convenience.

The VIAIR air compressor is able to inflate a tire that is up to 35-inches in a short period of time.

This portable air compressor also comes with a hose that is 25 feet long, durable dual battery clamps, 3 inflation tips, and a heavy duty tray. The latter has vibration isolators that control the vibrations produced by the tool.

Features

• Pressure Max (PSI): 150
• Power supply: 12v DC
• Type: Corded
• Weight (lbs): 8.50
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 11.25 x 4.00 x 7.00

Pros & Cons

Pros: Light-weight Versatile Power efficient Automatic shut-off Reliable air pump Oil-free design

Cons: It takes long to cool down Quite expensive in its class

Overall, it is a reliable, quick and efficient air compressor that fulfills the needs of most regular motorists with its high quality. It is a compact and ultra-portable tool. It is worth its money. As for me, I would definitely prefer to have one in my trunk.

2. Kensun AC / DC Digital Tire Inflator

Kensun, Inc. appeared on the US market in 2009. Vehicle headlights such as HID and Xenon bulbs are their most demanded products. However, the company also produces tire inflators, such as the Kensun Tire Inflator AC / DC Portable Air Compressor Pump.

This powerful highly portable air compressor is very easy to use. It is designed for emergency roadside inflation of tires as well as for inflation of sports balls, swimming pools and air beds.

Kensun's inflator can be powered both with a standard power outlet or your car's 12-volt cigarette lighter. The unit can continuously work for 30 minutes at 35 psi. The 120W solid metal motor is capable to make your tire inflation super-fast and easy.

The unit is made with an automatic shut-off function which is activated as soon as preset pressure level is reached.

It comes with a digital pressure gauge, LCD display, and unit conversion function. All these features contribute to its accuracy and user-friendliness.

There is a white LED light for illumination on the front of the device which makes it useful in any situation and time.

Features

• Pressure Max (PSI): 150
• Power supply: 110AC / 12V DC
• Type: Corded
• Weight (lbs): 5
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 11.8 x 4.3 x 6.7

Pros & Cons

Pros: Fast inflation AC / DC compatible Digital pressure gauge

Cons: No onboard storage compartment Display is not bright enough Fixed DC cable that can't be unplugged

It's a reliable and multifunction tire inflator with AC and DC options. You will never want go to a gas station again to fill up your tires having this buddy on deck.

3. AVID POWER ACAP110D

This Avid Power Rechargeable Cordless Tire Inflator is a product from Avid Power that has proved to be outstanding in its performance. It comes with Lithium 20 Volt rechargeable battery. Its upgraded Technology enhances the battery life and protects the battery cells. Besides, this model comes with 12-volt car adapter.

It also has auto shut off function, so you there’s no need to worry about over inflating or low tire pressure.

This air compressor has a portable design and is very compact. It comes with a bright LED display which illuminates dark working space.

Features

• Pressure Max (PSI): 100
• Power supply: 20V Li-ion Battery / 12V DC
• Type: Cordless
• Weight (lbs): 3.97
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 14.3 x 11.7 x 4

Pros & Cons

Pros: Cordless Rechargeable 20V battery USB ports High accuracy readings Different measurement units

Cons: Battery needs to be constantly recharged

It is a highly versatile cordless model. This tire inflator comes with high accuracy and portability suitable for various uses. You can use it both for tire inflation of your car and for home use, as well. It will be extra convenient during car traveling or in some unforeseen or emergency situations on and off the road.

4. Helteko Portable Air Compressor Pump 150PSI

Helteko is a new company that was founded in 2017 by S.G. Royals. It makes consumer products for cars, including vacuum cleaners, car seat protectors, and digital air compressors.

This is a high-quality tire inflator that is highly portable and easy to work with. It comes with a durable ABS plastic and stainless steel pump. This allows using the digital tire inflator for a long time. The auto shutoff function prevents it from over inflation and other complications.

The large and bright digital display shows accurate readings in different measurement units.

This model inflates a standard mid-size car tire in 3-5 min. In addition, the spare tire inflator has a long cable of 3.5 m which easily connects to a 12V cigarette lighter.

There are additional nozzles available to inflate the wheels of a car, bike, motorcycle or SUV, sport equipment and other inflatables.

Features

• Pressure Max (PSI): 150
• Power supply: 12V DC
• Type: Corded
• Weight (lbs): 2.58
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 9.7 x 6.4 x 4.6

Pros & Cons

Pros: Light-weight Compact Low vibration Pressure gauge Affordable price

Cons: Hose storage compartment requires further improvements in its design No 120-v AC adapter

Overall, it is a good small inflator at a relatively low price. It is very light, compact, easy to use, and quiet. You will always find the space for storage in your car. I would definitely recommend this to be purchased.

5. Yome Portable

This is a heavily upgraded Yome model. With the new technologies, it comes with the dual cylinder system that boosts both cylinders to work simultaneously. The dual cylinder's inflation is faster and safer than a single cylinder pump. The tire pressure can be increased from 0 to 35 PSI in two minutes. It is also covered with the heat insulation shell, which prevents the units from overheating which is common with single cylinder pumps.

Its LED display allows using the compressor in low lighting conditions. The lights of the display can also serve as a warning for the passing vehicles. Besides, this digital display can preset the tire pressure with a high level of accuracy. This air compressor pump also has automatic filling and stopping functions, what you need is just turn the unit on.

Also, preset the required pressure and turn the unit on. You can forget about it, as it will turn off by itself - no need to worry about inaccuracies.

The toolbox coming with a package is very convenient for storing of additional useful attachments like cigarette lighter switch, 10 foot extension hose, 3 nozzles, and high quality battery clamp.

Features

• Pressure Max (PSI): 150
• Power supply: 12V DC
• Type: Corded
• Weight (lbs): 8.5
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 17 x 9.1 x 4.5

Pros & Cons

Pros: Lightweight High-power pump Digital gauge Preset features for higher accuracy Faster operation with no risk of overheating

Cons: Hose might getting hot during operation

Due to upgraded features it can operate longer and faster. Besides, it can be used for higher pressure inflation. For those who knows the value of a personal time.

6. AVID POWER AC / DC PORTABLE AIR COMPRESSOR

Avid Power AC / DC tire inflator comes with dual solid metal motor, which delivers extra power and inflates your car tires or other inflatables faster. It can work continuously for thirty minutes without break and get the pressure from zero to thirty-five PSI. It is suitable for inflating tires of cars, bikes, SUV. However it doesn’t work with heavy-duty truck tires.

This model includes a 120-volt power adapter for a standard power outlet alternating current and a 12-volt direct current adapter which can be connected to the cigarette lighter in a car. It

comes with two hoses with three extra nozzles. A high pressure hose is used for high pressure inflation and a low pressure hose for low pressure inflation of high volume items like air mattresses or floats.

This tire inflator is equipped with an auto shut-off digital gauge. Thus filling of air will be stopped automatically as soon as the desired level is reached. Besides, it has ultra-bright LED flashlights for convenient servicing during the night-time.

Features

• Pressure Max (PSI): 160
• Power supply: 110V AC / 12V DC
• Type: Corded
• Weight (lbs): 5.66
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 12.3 x 9.1 x 8.3

Pros & Cons

Pros: Durable and powerful motor Variable pressure settings AC / DC power adapters Fast inflation time Versatile

Cons: AC power cable could be longer Requires more detailed manual instructions

In case if you need to replace the inflator you have or you are looking for something better, Avid Power AC / DC Air Compressor will definitely impress you with its high efficiency and versatility in use!

7. JETHAX AIR COMPRESSOR

This model provides fast inflation from 0 to 35 PSI under 4min.

It comes with an auto shut off function, that is, the tool is stopped when the air pump reaches the desired pressure. Tire gauge accuracy is within the range of 35 ± 0.5 PSI.

This tire inflator is equipped with bright and durable LED lights, convenient for use during night-time. Digital display will calculate the required values ​​in different measurement units.

The tool has 3 extra nozzles and 1 fuse with10 feet long power cord. It can inflate tires of your car, bike, motor, SUV, air mattress, inflatable boats, balls and other inflatables. However it can't be used for truck tires.

The manufacturer mentions that after each 5-10 minutes of operation, the tire inflator has to be turned off for 10 minutes.

Features

• Pressure Max (PSI): 150
• Power supply: 12V DC
• Type: Corded
• Weight (lbs): 2.2
• Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 8.2 x 6.8 x 3.6

Pros & Cons

Pros: Compact design Light-weight Can be used within a wide range of temperatures Long cord Affordable price

Cons: Not for a continuous operation Plastic materials No onboard storage compartment for cord, hose, etc. No bag for extra nozzles

Its design allows carrying it easily with you, so you never need to worry about being caught with flat tires again. Best compact and light-weight option in its class at an affordable price!

What features to be considered when buying a tire inflator for a car? | Buyer's Guide

Let’s figure out which features should be in the forefront of your considerations when buying a tire inflator for a car.

• Power source: Most of the inflators are still powered from the car's cigarette lighter. However, an AC adapter can be enclosed; otherwise you can buy it additionally. At the same time, there are many advanced tire inflators which are powered by rechargeable batteries.
• Auto cut-off: I guess it is one of the most important features. It enables tire inflation the desired PSI is reached with further immediate auto cut off. This feature allows using the tool with more safety due to elimination of a risk of over inflation or tire burst.
• Duty Cycle: It refers to the amount of time a compressor can be operated in a given time period at 100 PSI, and a standard ambient temperature of 72 ° F. It is expressed in percentage format:

Compressor on time ÷ (on time + off time) = Duty Cycle%.

For instance, 30% Duty Cycle means 18 Min. On / 42 Min. Off.

• Pressure gauge: This enables you to monitor the pressure level of your tires, so you can pump the latter up as soon as it is required.
• Lights: Some models come with built-in LED lights. They are useful for night time tire inflation. Besides, their warning lights will illuminate you and your car, as a sign of alert for other motorists.
• Price: The most simple tire inflators are capable to with car tires only. They will cost you around $ 20. More features like improved gauges, more efficient inflation process, and the ability to deliver higher pressure levels you will find in the units at a price of $ 30- $ 50 range.

More expensive inflators come with more advanced features and design, and can be used for larger tires like those on trucks. But they refer more to large air compressors.

Noise: Air tools can be really loud during operation. Nevertheless nowadays a wide range of the low-noise models are available on the market. Noise isolating components and lower decibel range contribute to reduction of the noise level. In general air compressors run at about 50-100 decibels. Thus, 50-80 decibel range deemed to be “quiet”.

Nozzle Attachments: The best tire inflator can be used for multiple purposes. A model that comes with several attachments will be very useful at home and on the road. Besides tire inflation they can be used for bicycle tires and sports equipment.