The Best Portable Tire Inflators of 2024

When you’re stuck in a remote location with a flat tire, need a quick inflation solution at home or in your workshop, or require adjustable tire pressure for off-road traction, a portable tire inflator is an indispensable tool. This comprehensive review will assist you in selecting the ideal option tailored to your specific needs, considering various criteria.

Whether you’re inflating bicycle, motorcycle, car, or truck tires, planning to re-inflate after deflating all four tires for traction or simply seeking an emergency backup plan, we’ve reviewed six of the leading portable units. Our assessment considers factors such as speed, battery capacity and power source, dimensions, weight, and cost to help you find the unit that best suits your needs. If you you already own some DeWalt tools, save yourself some time and pick up the DeWalt 20V MAX Tire Inflator, it’s our favorite. And if you’re on a budget, the AstroAI Portable Car Air Compressor is the way to go.

Once you’ve perused our round-up of tire Inflators, check out our comparison chart for a side-by-side spec rundown, and read our buyers guide and Price/Value analysis for some critical info to help with your purchasing decisions.

Editor’s Note: After a few more months of testing we gave this guide an update on November 15, 2024, reassessing our top choices and adding a price and value breakdown.

The Best Portable Tire Inflators of 2024

Best Overall Portable Tire Inflator: DeWalt 20V MAX Tire Inflator
Best Budget Portable Tire Inflator: AstroAI Portable Car Air Compressor
Best for Regular Heavy Duty Use: Viair 88P
Best Emergency Portable Tire Inflator: Fanttik X8 APEX

Specs

Max PSI: 160
Power Source: 12V DC, or 110V AC, 20V MAX battery (20V MAX battery and 110V AC adaptor sold separately)
Weight: 2 lbs., 15.4 oz.
Ideal Use: Bike, car, and truck tires, inflatable mattresses, rafts

Pros

Versatile
Powerful
Utilizes a common battery platform

Cons

Expensive
Large
Cannot be used as an auxiliary battery bank

Rugged construction, versatility, and power earn the DeWalt 20V MAX Tire Inflator ($149) the title of Best Overall for our guide. Although significantly more expensive than the other units (even while not including the 20V battery, charger, and 110 AC adaptor,) the DeWalt Inflator is the only cordless inflator in our review that was reasonably capable of being used in both light vehicle and full-sized truck tires. Additionally, this inflator is the only unit in our guide designed to inflate rafts, paddleboards, and air mattresses. The unit has two output ends, one with a standard Schrader valve and a larger high-volume hose designed for larger inflatables.

The DeWalt 20V MAX Tire Inflator has an easy-to-use interface that includes a round ”click-wheel” selector for choosing the desired PSI output, a real-time pressure readout, and an automatic stop. The pressure gauge is accurate in reading pressure to within +/- 1.5 PSI. This inflator is solid and feels well-built. Rubber feet insulate the unit from “walking” along the ground while in operation. A high-quality rubber hose with a threaded brass chuck is designed to attach directly to a Schrader valve or can be attached to an included Schrader-to-Presta adaptor, a needle valve for inflating balls, and a small smooth bore nozzle. All of the aforementioned adaptors are stored neatly in the unit.

A 13’ long 12-volt cable fits into your vehicle’s accessory outlet and is long enough to reach the rear tires of an extended cab F-250 from the accessory outlet on the dashboard. This model features a spotlight that can be turned on and off separate from the air compressor function, which is far more practical than some inflators whose spotlight feature only turns on when running the compressor.

Although we’re very pleased with the DeWalt inflator overall, we do have some critiques. We would like to see an integrated accessory charger, as is seen in several other models in this review, for the emergency charging of phones, headlamps, and other small electronics. It’s the largest in the testing lineup with exterior dimensions of 12” x 5” x 10” but really not that much larger in the grand scheme of things compared to the other units once placed in their respective carrying bags. Also, at $149, it does not include the 20V MAX battery or charger (sold separately for around $100 for the 1.5 Ah battery option.)

This inflator is especially appealing to anyone already using the DeWalt platform as the batteries are interchangeable with everything from impact drivers to lawnmowers. In light-duty vehicle testing (exact parameters of all tests are described in detail below) the DeWalt 20V MAX Tire Inflator was able to inflate a tire from 10 PSI to 45 PSI in an average of 7 minutes and 42 seconds. In the heavy-duty vehicle test, the unit could inflate a tire from 20 PSI to 80 PSI in 32 minutes and 36 seconds, on average, while operating off a 5 Ah 20V battery. The ability to purchase a 110V adaptor makes the unit even more versatile for heavier use in a shop setting.

Ultimately, if you have a medium-sized vehicle or full-sized truck, frequently inflate boats or paddleboards, and want a burly inflator that can be used with or without a cord, the DeWalt 20V MAX Tire Inflator should be your first choice.

Specs

Max PSI: 160
Power Source: 20V 36Wh Li-Ion battery or 12V DC
Weight: 4 lbs., 3.2 oz.
Ideal Use: Balls and small inflatables, bikes, motorcycles, small to mid-sized vehicle tires

Pros

Affordable
Easy to use
Battery can be used as an accessory charger
Extra batteries can be purchased separately ($35.00)

Cons

Not powerful enough for routine use in large truck tires
Bulky
Uses a battery from an uncommon platform

Ease of use, respectable performance, and good price point earn the AstroAI Handheld Cordless Air Compressor ($89) our pick for the best budget inflator. When it comes to getting the job done with a cordless unit, the AstroAI Portable Car Air Compressor came in second place overall in its ability to perform light and heavy vehicle tire tests. Although very similar to the Avid Power 20V Cordless Inflator, the AstroAI Portable Car Air Compressor boasts a slightly larger 20V 36Wh Li-ion battery that has a USB port that can be used to charge small electronics in an emergency. A brass chuck attaches directly to a Schrader valve or an included quick disconnect valve. We liked the option to use a screw-on style chuck vs. only a quick disconnect as we feel it is more secure and less likely to bleed out air while inflating.

The user’s manual states the Compressor is appropriate for SUVs, cars, motorcycles, and other small inflatables, though it advises that it is not intended for RVs, trucks, or other large-volume items. Knowing this, we decided to put it through the wringer anyway and see how it performed on an E-rated ¾ ton truck tire in the heavy vehicle tire test. We are pleased to report that this unit is capable of inflating a large truck tire from 20 PSI to 60 PSI on a single battery discharge, although it took an average of 18 minutes and 53 seconds. While airing up truck tires is outside of the intended scope of the product, it would most likely work in an emergent situation just fine. In the light vehicle tire test, the AstroAI Portable Car Air Compressor worked wonderfully, inflating the 215/70 R16 tire from 10 PSI to 45 PSI in an average of 7:53.

As with most other inflators in this guide, the AstroAI has an auto shut-off feature that makes inflating to a desired level simple and easy and also includes a Schrader to Presta adaptor, needle valve for inflating balls, and 0.2-0.36” smooth bore nozzle. The unit’s display was only somewhat accurate (within 3 PSI) and erred (pun intended) on the side of inflating to a slightly higher PSI than shown on the display. A 12V DC adaptor is included to plug into your car’s accessory outlet. The cable is 9’6” long giving the unit a total reach of 12” while plugged in.

The manual advises a duty cycle of 20 minutes before needing a 10-minute rest. We found this to be a conservative guideline as the compressor did not reach excessive temps while running for 20 continuous minutes under load on a warm day (ambient temperature of 85 degrees).

Our complaints are minor overall, but of course, there were some things we would have liked to have seen. This compressor cannot be recharged from a vehicle’s 12V accessory outlet (without a separate power inverter). Also, the storage bag, while functional, uses a bothersome Velcro strap system to secure the compressor and its other components.

The AstroAI Portable Car Air Compressor is a great choice for those needing a quick and easy way to inflate bicycle, motorcycle, light car, and SUV tires around the shop or out on the road in emergencies. If routine airing down and up of tires is anticipated or you’re rolling big balloon tires or a full-sized truck, you’d probably be better off with another unit such as the Viair 88P.

Specs

Max PSI: 120
Power Source: 12V DC (vehicle’s starter battery)
Weight: 4 lbs., 12 oz.
Ideal Use: Regular inflation of SUV and truck tires, airing up after off-road driving

Pros

Powerful
Fast
Simple

Cons

No automatic shut off
Analog gauge less accurate than some digital ones
Must have vehicle running while in use

Viair is a well-known name in the portable air compressor world, so it was no surprise that the Viair 88P ($90) crushed the competition in the full-sized truck tire test and inflated the smaller 215/70 R16 tire from 10 to 45 PSI in about half the time of the next fastest model in our test. A simple, no-frills compressor, the Viair 88P gets straight to the business of inflating tires.

The Viair attaches to a vehicle’s 12-volt battery via 2 alligator clips and has a simple one-button operation. Since it draws directly from the vehicle’s battery, you will want to keep your car running during inflation to ensure you don’t get stuck with a dead battery. Realistically, it’s the only model in this guide that works fast enough for us to consider using it for airing down for regular off-road use.

The 10-foot power cord has an in-line 20 amp flat fuse and robust alligator clips for attachment to a vehicle battery. The 16-foot hose is made of heavy-duty rubber with a high-quality brass chuck for attaching to Schrader valves (with adaptors for needle valve, Presta valve, and 2 small smooth bore nozzles included). The long power cord and hose give the unit just over 26’ of reach, plenty for most applications.

The Viair 88P inflated the 215/70 R16 tire from 10 to 45 PSI in an average time of 3:09 and the larger truck tire in an average of 15:07, nearly half the time of the next best-performing unit. A small spotlight is built into the unit and turns on when it’s attached to a battery.

One thing we would have loved to see is an automatic shut-off. Without an automatic shut-off, take care you do not over-inflate your tires. The analog gauge isn’t the most accurate (up to 3 PSI higher than actual) although with the gauge being small and somewhat difficult to accurately read, there is a little wiggle room for interpreting the readings. Another thing we noticed was that the compressor can get quite hot (up to 160 degrees Fahrenheit) after running for 12 minutes under load, requiring the user to exercise some caution as the heat exchanger is close to the carrying handle.

The Viair 88P is easily the best choice for those regularly changing tire pressures for offroad use, running heavy-duty tires at higher PSI values, folks with motorhomes, RVs, or just those who are impatient and want something that will do the job quickly. For these reasons, our tester personally chose Viair for his onboard air compressor needs on his full-sized pickup with a cabover camper.

Specs

Max PSI: 150
Power Source: Integrated 28Wh Li-ion battery
Weight: 1 lb., 11.2 oz.
Ideal Use: Small inflatables, bicycles, motorcycles, small vehicles, emergency use for mid-sized vehicles

Pros

Small
Doubles as battery bank
Spotlight works well as a flashlight or SOS signal
Can be charged while on the road

Cons

Less work capacity than other models
Cannot be used while charging

The Fanttik X8 APEX ($119) is a compact, portable, cordless tire inflator that excels as an emergency backup for small to mid-sized vehicles. We’re impressed by its size and sleek design, which incorporates an emergency inflator, battery bank, and flashlight/emergency light, as well as its satisfactory performance on smaller vehicle tires.

While not as small as the Air Moto Smart Air Pump, the performance is significantly better. This is a much better choice for anyone who intends to use it for car tires and does not care about the slightly larger size (it’s still pretty darn small). The unit’s dimensions are 6” x 1.5 ”x 2” and it comes with a 17.5” hose with Schrader valve. Also included are a Presta valve adaptor and needle valve.

In testing, the Fanttik X8 APEX could inflate our 215/70 R16 tire from 10 to 45 PSI in an average of 11:52, with almost enough power left to bring a second tire from 10 to 45 PSI, usually only falling short by a few PSI. With smaller tires, one could expect at least two inflations from nearly completely flat to a normal operating pressure on a single charge.

Although not intended (or advertised) to inflate larger truck tires, the Fanttik APEX 8 is able to bring the larger truck tire from 20 PSI to 51 PSI in an average of 20:10, usually shutting off due to excessive heat before draining the battery completely. Long story short, you could use it as an emergency inflator for a full-sized truck, but that would be pushing it. A powerful LED spotlight works well as a flashlight in a pinch and the blinking SOS mode is great for roadside emergencies (it automatically turns off after 30 minutes).

This unit is ideal for those with a small to mid-sized vehicle who want to keep an inflator (and emergency accessory charging battery) in their kit and is even small enough to consider taking with you on a bicycle or motorcycle. However, if that is your intended use, you might prefer going with something like the Air Moto Smart Air Pump due to its smaller size and adequate power for those applications.

Specs

Max PSI: 120
Power Source: 14.8Wh Li-ion battery
Weight: 1 lb., 3.2 oz.
Ideal Use: Small inflatables, bicycle, motorcycle, and small car tires

Pros

Small
Lightweight

Cons

Limited applications
Cannot be used to charge electronics

The Airmoto Smart Air Pump ($89) is a sleek, lightweight tire inflator that is small enough to fit in a car’s glove compartment or a bicycle frame bag. While impressive for its size, it is lacking in performance. Let’s start with the positives. The Airmoto is undeniably compact and portable. Its design and user-friendly interface are certainly appealing. The automatic shut-off feature works well and the integrated spotlight is plenty bright enough and works as an emergency flashlight. The Airmoto is the only inflator in this guide that has a deflate button to let air out (not a vacuum, just passive deflation) and gives a real-time pressure readout on the display. The device comes with a standard Schrader valve chuck and additional adaptors for Presta, needle valve, and a small smooth nozzle.

While the Airmoto performed satisfactorily for use in bike and motorcycle tires, it lacked the work capacity to fill the 215/70 R16 tire from 10 to 45 PSI, turning off due to the battery running out of charge at 35 PSI. It took the device an average of 21 minutes to do this. While performance would certainly be better on a smaller volume tire (it inflated a 26” bike tire to 45 PSI in just a few minutes), this device is only suitable for small volume items, topping off tires that already have a decent amount of air in them, or in an emergency to get you to the nearest gas station.

Improved battery life and the ability to serve as a backup charger would have been appreciated additions. Nevertheless, its compact size makes it a viable option for on-the-go use, particularly for bike or motorcycle rides. If you prioritize portability and have light-duty inflation needs, the Airmoto Smart Air Pump is a suitable choice.

Specs

Max PSI: 100
Power Source: 20V 27Wh Li-ion battery or 12V DC
Weight: 4.0 lbs.
Ideal Use: balls and small inflatables, bikes, motorcycles, small to mid-sized vehicle tires

Pros

Affordable
Easy to use
Extra batteries can be purchased separately (MSRP $35.00)

Cons

Not powerful enough for routine use in large truck tires
Bulky
Uses a battery from an uncommon platform
Cannot be used to charge other small electronics

The Avid Power 20v Automatic Cordless Inflator ($89) has many of the same attributes of other inflators in this review; automatic shut off, cordless or 12V corded power capabilities, a small integrated light, (only turns on while running the compressor) and performed well in testing on smaller tires. This inflator was able to inflate our 215/70 R16 tire from 10 to 45 PSI in an average time of 8:08 and was able to inflate the larger truck tire from 20 to 51 PSI before draining the battery at around 16:38. We were able to get 2 inflations with our smaller tire before completely discharging the battery.

Since this tire inflator comes with the option of 12V DC power from a vehicle’s accessory power outlet, you could theoretically inflate an infinite number of tires (the manufacturer states that 3 min of cool-down time is required for every 10 minutes of continuous use) but it is worth noting that the unit is somewhat slower on 12V DC power when compared to running on the 20V battery. Also, the 12V cable is 9’, giving the unit a total reach of 11’4”. This is plenty long enough for the RAV4 used in testing but barely long enough to reach the back tires of the F250 extended cab, long bed truck used for the heavier duty tests if the wheel was rotated so the valve was as close as possible.

The unit has a quick-release air chuck for Schrader valves with attachments for needle valves, Presta, and a small smooth bore nozzle. While the quick-release valve is convenient, we prefer a screw-on style chuck for a more secure fit. The digital display gauge is accurate (within 1.7 PSI, erring on the side of being low) and within the manufacturer’s advertised +/- 2 PSI accuracy. Its battery cannot be used to charge accessories (one reason the AstroAI scored higher). Also worth noting is that the unit did get pretty hot (158 degrees Fahrenheit) after just a single inflation of a 215/70 R16 tire. This did not seem to be a significant problem as the handle is insulated well enough to comfortably hold even when the top of the inflator is hot.

The Avid Power 20v Automatic Cordless Inflator offers a suitable choice for those seeking a cordless inflator for light to medium-duty tasks around the house or as an essential component of an emergency vehicle kit. However, for heavy-duty applications, we suggest the Viair 88P. Alternatively, if portability and lighter use (bikes and motorcycles) are your priorities, the Airmoto Smart Air Pump could be a more suitable option.

Portable Tire Inflator Comparison Chart

Inflator	Price	Max PSI	Weight (lbs.)	Dimensions (in case)	Battery Capacity	Time required to inflate 215/70/16 tire (Car)	Time required to inflate 285/75/16 tire (Truck)
DEWALT Corded/Cordless Air Compressor	$149	160	2 lbs., 15.4 oz.	12”x5”x10”	N/A	7:42	32:36
AstroAI	$90	160	4 lbs., 3.2 oz.	11”x13”x9”	36 Wh	7:53	Failed at 60 minutes
Viair 88P	$90	120	4 lbs., 12 oz.	10.5”x6”x6.5”	N/A	3:10	15:07
Fanttik X8 APEX	$120	150	1 lb., 11.2 oz.	8”x2.5”x2.5”	22.86 Wh	11:52	Failed at 51 minutes
Airmoto Smart Air Pump	$89	120	1	6”x1.5”x2.5”	N/A	failed at 37 minutes	N/A
Avid Power 20V Cordless Inflator	$90	100	4	13.5”x9.5”x3”	27 Wh	8:07	Failed at 51 minutes

How We Tested Portable Tire Inflators

Our Expert Testers

For our guide to the best tire inflators, we tapped a few adventurers who enjoy working on their vehicles almost as much as they enjoy off-roading in the desert or braving old fire roads to access backcountry skiing and climbing objectives.

As an avid climber, skier, and traveler who enjoys exploring remote and off-the-beaten-path destinations, lead tester Alex Vaught has firsthand experience driving on rugged roads and facing unexpected challenges. His knowledge of vehicle mechanics, combined with practical insights gained from his adventures, makes Alex a valuable resource for anyone seeking advice on vehicle maintenance, emergency preparedness, fashion, and safe travel in remote areas.

Assisting Alex is DIY enthusiast and amateur mechanic Paul Mandell. When Paul isn’t enjoying the Eastern Sierra Backcountry, he’s usually under one of his beloved trucks, engaged in all manors of off-road modding and repairs to get ready for his next adventure.

We compared every Inflator’s PSI gauge against our in-line pressure gauge; (photo/Matt Bento)

Our Testing Grounds

Both our testers reside in Bishop, California, a small town nestled in the Owens Valley, between the Sierra and White mountain ranges. The valley has hundreds of miles of forest service roads in various states of disrepair, so there’s plenty of opportunity to get a flat far from cell service or any assistance, plus the occasional need to increase or decrease tire pressure to better suit the terrain. Alex Vaught has an onboard compressor on his F-250 and feels everyone should have some sort of inflation device in addition to a spare tire when off-roading in the desert.

Most of the testing happens in a controlled environment (the garage) where we can compare inflation times side by side with a stopwatch, measure hose lengths, and access different-sized tires on different vehicles.

Because of his penchant for adventure in remote areas, our lead tester has equipped his truck with an onboard air compressor; (photo/Phil Wessler)

Our Testing Process

Over our many years of using various portable tire inflators, on-board air compressors, and shop air compressors, as well as patching tires, performing vehicle maintenance, and experiencing all other manner of roadside emergencies, we’ve had ample opportunity to contemplate what features our ideal portable air compressor should have. In our online searches, we’ve observed two recurring issues. First, there’s inconsistency among companies regarding the metrics they use to advertise the “number of inflations” achievable on a single charge. Second, the parameters they employ for testing often seem inadequate, such as considering raising tire pressure from 30 PSI to 35 PSI as a complete “inflation.”

Tires, Big and Small

We aimed to assess how these devices would perform under realistic conditions, where a tire goes from visibly flat to fully inflated according to the manufacturer’s specifications. To achieve this, we selected a compact vehicle, a 1997 RAV4, with a weight of 2,646 pounds and 215/70 R16 tires. We deflated the front tires to 10 PSI (just above the point where the rim is off the ground) and then inflated them to the maximum recommended PSI rating for the tire, which in this case was 45 PSI. We calculated the average time taken for this process. This was referred to above as the “light duty vehicle test.” For a more demanding test, we used a 2000 F250 Extended Cab Diesel weighing 8,800 pounds, fitted with 285/75 R16 E1-rated tires, and repeated the same test, this time inflating the tires from 20 to 80 PSI. This was referred to above as the “heavy vehicle test.”

These inflators generate a lot of heat while inflating truck tires; (photo/Matt Bento)

Overheating

To monitor the temperatures of the devices, we employed an infrared thermometer and recorded any instances where temperatures exceeded what would be considered “comfortable” to touch with a bare hand. We also verified the accuracy of the gauges using a separate digital tire pressure gauge. All testing was conducted away from direct sunlight, with ambient temperatures ranging between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

General User Experience

To make sure readers know exactly what they’re getting into, we measured air hoses, monitored battery charge times and life when applicable, played with each model’s special features, and even inflated a few rafts and basketballs. While the ability to reliably inflate a tire in a remote location is the main metric we judged these by, we made special note of any cool features or inconveniences of each model.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Portable Tire Inflator

Know What You Need

A portable tire inflator is an essential tool for every vehicle owner, providing convenience and peace of mind in case of emergencies or planned use. With the large number of options available on the market today, it’s important to consider several factors before making a purchase. It’s important to understand the manufacturer’s intended use and to realize that many inflators available on the market might not be able to realistically meet your needs, especially if you’re rolling larger tires at higher pressures (even though they often advertise pictures of tiny cordless units attached to monster 33” tires).

These inflators aren’t just for tires. They are also useful for inflating rafts, inflatable SUPs, and air mattresses; (photo/Matt Bento)

Just Because You Can Doesn’t Mean You Should

While much of the testing in this review was maxing out the capabilities of these inflators, our intent was not to try to encourage you to repeat the same thing in the real world. We simply wanted to see what they were capable of. With that being said, you are far better off overestimating your needs than underestimating them. It’s also important to bear in mind that we tested these units with a fresh charge on days with reasonable ambient temperatures. You could expect a little less performance from an inflator that has been sitting in your car for 2 months without a fresh charge on a hot day in direct sunlight. The moral of the story: when in doubt, round up.

An Ounce of Prevention Is Worth a Pound of Cure

It seems like the moment you need something comes right after you let your guard down (just last week our tester broke down on the side of the road after having just gifted an emergency tool kit to his girlfriend). With that being said, dialing in your emergency kit should not be put on the bottom of your to-do list. But don’t be hasty in your choice of what to carry. Before hitting the send button, consider the following criteria for purchasing the best portable tire inflator for you.

Portability

The amount of space on your emergency kit is an important consideration when purchasing a tire inflator. If you have a large vehicle with plenty of storage space, a larger unit such as the Viair 88P or DeWalt 20V MAX Tire Inflator will certainly outperform smaller units. If you’re on a motorcycle or bike where size and weight are paramount, a smaller unit like the Airmoto Smart Air Pump or Fanttik X8 APEX will store much easier and can handle smaller-volume tires adequately.

The most portable models are not the most powerful and are better for use with smaller tires; (photo/Matt Bento)

Power Source

Determine whether you prefer a tire inflator powered by your vehicle’s 12V DC outlet (cigarette lighter socket or starter battery) or a rechargeable battery. Each option has its pros and cons, so choose based on your usage requirements. For instance, cordless units, while convenient, do require some battery maintenance (i.e. you need to put them on the charger at least every few months to make sure the batteries are charged and keep the batteries conditioned), while units that run on 12-volt DC can be left in the trunk until needed without a problem (make sure the cord is long enough for your situation!)

While some inflators plug into your car’s 12-volt outlet, more powerful models like the Viair attach directly to your battery; (photo/Matt Bento)

Inflation Speed

Manufacturers often advertise the inflator’s inflation rate, measured in liters per minute (LPM) or cubic feet per minute (CFM). While these ratings are somewhat useful as a comparison, they are almost always calculated at 0 PSI (i.e. the inflator is not under any load), and some units will perform worse than others when actually trying to achieve a desired pressure.

Faster inflation speeds can save you time during emergencies or when inflating multiple tires. If time is a factor or you intend to regularly re-inflate tires after driving off-road, a unit such as the Viar 88P will save you as much as an hour when re-pressurizing four tires when compared to even the second fastest inflator in this review, the DeWalt 20V MAX Tire Inflator.

The Viair 88P is the fastest inflator we tested, fully inflating our tester’s Rav4 tires in just over 3 minutes; (photo/Matt Bento)

Maximum Pressure

Determine the maximum PSI (pounds per square inch) rating of the inflator. Ideally, it should exceed the recommended PSI for your vehicle’s tires, including any special requirements for off-road or heavy-duty tires.

Durability and Build Quality

Look for inflators constructed from high-quality materials that can withstand frequent use and rough handling. For build quality, the Viair 88P and DeWalt 20V Max stand above the rest. The Viar does this while maintaining a low cost at the price of fewer features and not having a cordless option. With the DeWalt model, you accept a significantly higher price tag, especially considering the additional cost ($100 or more depending on the Ah rating of the battery) of purchasing the separate components to make the device cordless. While warranties and good customer support are nice, they probably won’t help you much when you’re in a remote setting or even just stuck on the side of the road or in a parking lot.

While by far the most expensive model in our guide, the DeWalt inflator has excellent build quality and the best battery life; (photo/Matt Bento)

User-Friendly Design

Opt for a tire inflator with intuitive controls and easy operation. All of the inflators in this review offer a user-friendly interface if you read the user manual and familiarize yourself with its features beforehand. For example, knowing the duty cycle of the unit you carry (located in the respective user manuals) will keep you from overheating the unit during use.

Consider all of the above before purchasing so you can confidently choose a portable tire inflator that meets your specific requirements and provides reliable performance whenever you need it.

The Fanttik X8 APEX automatically shuts off when it reaches the desired PSI. It’s easy to use and a good model to keep in your vehicle in case of emergencies: (photo/Matt Bento)

Price & Value

As with many tools, balancing features and quality with affordability is the name of the game when selecting a portable tire inflator. For inflating large truck tires, you’ll need to spend a little more. But for cars, smaller trucks, and SUVs, some of the less expensive models will do nicely.

Budget

If your budget is tight but you still want cordless capabilities, a digital gauge, and automatic shut-off, the Astro AI ($90) is our pick for best on a budget. Certain sacrifices were made during manufacturing to cut costs, such as the included carrying case feeling of lesser quality than other models, thinner diameter brass used on the air chuck, and a lighter weight hose covered with braided nylon as opposed to the heavier gauge rubber used on the DeWalt and Viair models. Time will tell how well this holds up. The least expensive offerings also come at the disadvantage of buying from companies that do not have a longstanding and well-known reputation behind them such as DeWalt and Viair, which are known to deliver a certain level of quality. The Viair 88P ($90) performs well and also has a nice price. It will need to be plugged into your car’s battery, but it does have enough power to inflate larger truck tires in around 15 minutes

Premium

Spending above $100 gets you an inflator backed by the battery systems of larger, named-brand tool companies, our favorite being the DEWALT Corded/Cordless Air Compressor ($149). If you already own some DeWalt tools and have their battery charger, don’t sleep on this one. We found it to be the easiest to use and most versatile, as you can run it off a battery when you’re out and about or a 110v adapter when you’re in the shop. It has plenty of power for inflating large truck tires, though it takes about 30 minutes if you’re running it off the battery. If you don’t already have a Dewalt charger, you’ll have to add another $100 to the price tag.

The AstroAI is a solid budget choice, plus it can serve as a backup charger for small electronic devices; (photo/Matt Bento)

Frequently Asked Questions

The tire inflator’s capacity should match the tire size. Thus, if your vehicle is equipped with large tires, opting for a high-capacity inflator is recommended to minimize inflation time. Conversely, a lower-capacity inflator would be better suited for vehicles sporting smaller wheel diameters.

Pay attention to the lengths of hoses and power cords. Some may not reach the rear tires on larger vehicles; (photo/Matt Bento)

A tire inflator is a small, tank-less air compressor that’s usually kept in a car and is suitable for inflating tires or other small inflatables. An air compressor is usually much larger and has a higher air output and typically a tank, making it more versatile. Air compressors can be fitted with a range of air-operated tools, including an attachment for inflating tires.

If you’re running the inflator off of your vehicle’s 12-volt system then yes! To avoid this, keep the vehicle running while in use.

Battery-powered items stored in cars are often forgotten about, that is until they’re needed. If you store any battery-powered devices in your car, such as an inflator or jump starter, it’s best practice to fully charge the battery every few months to keep the battery charged and extend its lifespan.