Table of Contents
Tire inflators are one of those products that you always seem to need when you don’t have one handy. Whether for an occasional flat-tire emergency or frequent use with kids’ toys or bike tires, a tire inflator is a great tool to have on hand at all times.
Every tire inflator is different, and they each have their unique purposes and benefits.
They are incredibly convenient and powerful little machines that can adapt to your lifestyle and significantly reduce the time you spend inflating things. It isn’t all that interesting of an experience, after all.
There are a lot of tire inflators available in today’s market, and it can be difficult to know what brand and model are right for your needs.
There are a lot of factors to consider, including the portability, maximum pressure, user-friendliness, power source, and more.
We evaluated 37 products over 65 hours and considered 387 reviews in order to compile a list of the best tire inflators currently available. We considered affordability, user experience, and performance outputs to help you choose the best tire inflator for your needs.
Following our last update, we recommend the EPAuto AT-010-1Z Tire Inflator for its high-quality build, versatility, and emphasis on a great user experience.
In a rush? Buy it Now on Amazon!
Tire Inflator Comparative Table
| Product | Summary | Rating | Price | |
|
TOP PICK
|
EPAuto AT-010-1Z Tire Inflator
|
|
9.3/10 | See price on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
UPGRADE PICK
|
DEWALT DCC020IB 20V MAX Cordless Tire Inflator
|
|
9.7/10 | See price on Amazon |
|
BUDGET PICK
|
Oasser P6 Tire Inflator
|
|
9.2/10 | See price on Amazon |
Our Pick for The Best Tire Inflator
EPAuto AT-010-1Z Tire Inflator Review
The Best Overall
EPAuto
If you’re looking for a tire inflator that is reliable, versatile, and has some bonus features to add even more convenience, the EPAuto AT-010-1Z Tire Inflator is the best choice for you. Plus, it is affordable enough for every household and doesn’t have many downsides.
EPAuto AT-010-1Z Tire Inflator Video Review
What We Think of The EPAuto AT-010-1Z Tire Inflator
This EPAuto tire inflator is a great choice for anyone needing an all-around inflation device. It weighs only 1 lb so will be quite easy to carry anywhere it needs to go, and it will store anywhere in your vehicle. It uses the cigarette lighter socket in your vehicle as a power source, so as long as you have a running engine, you’re all set. If you don’t have a vehicle handy, we are sorry to say that you are out of luck.
With a max pressure of only 70 PSI, this is one of the lower-power models on the market. It can’t help you out with truck tires, since they often require more pressure than 70 PSI, but for standard vehicles up to SUVs, and any other items you need inflated, this tire inflator will do you just fine. It has overheat protection and a digital screen that allows you to set your target pressure. It will automatically shut off once it has filled to just over the target pressure, to account for the air that escapes once it is removed.
I am so glad I finally decided to take the plunge on a tire inflator. It is so convenient not needing to search for a gas station with an air hose, and now I can fill my tires for free when the air pressure dips. The extra nozzles are great for filling up inflatable toys for my kids and clearing out all the dust and debris from my computer keyboard. Very happy, overall.
jane e.
Its max air flow is 30 LPM, so it will fill your tires and other items quite efficiently. The units are changeable to allow you to understand the pressure in the way that is easiest for you, and with the built in light, you’ll be able to work effectively even at night. Three nozzle types are included with this tire inflator to increase its versatility and add a lot of convenience to your purchase.
EPAuto AT-010-1Z Tire Inflator Specifications
- Dimensions: 13.5” x 8.1” x 5.6”
- Weight: 1 lb
- Max Pressure: 70 PSI
- Max Air Flow: 30 LPM
- Power Source: Cigarette lighter socket in your vehicle
- Auto Shutoff: Yes
- Warranty: 1 year
EPAuto AT-010-1Z Tire Inflator Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Highly affordable
- Will slightly over-inflate to account for some air loss when valve is removed
- Comes with three nozzle types and a built in light
- Has overheat protection and changeable units
Cons
- Cannot inflate tire trucks
- Lower max PSI than average
Our Final Opinion about the EPAuto AT-010-1Z Tire Inflator
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the EPAuto AT-010-1Z Tire Inflator is a great choice for people looking for a versatile tire inflator but without the demands of higher pressures. While this model does have a lower max PSI than is average for the industry, it is a safe and highly accurate tool for a number of uses.
Our Upgrade Pick for a Tire Inflator
DEWALT DCC020IB 20V MAX Cordless Tire Inflator Review
The High Performance Pick
Dewalt
Anyone looking for a tire inflator that is a step above the rest should investigate the DEWALT DCC020IB 20V MAX Cordless Tire Inflator. It is a powerful and accurate model designed for versatility and convenience. The battery power ensures you can use it anywhere, any time, and for any use.
DEWALT DCC020IB 20V MAX Cordless Tire Inflator Video Review
What We Think of The DEWALT DCC020IB 20V MAX Cordless Tire Inflator
Battery powered tools are the height of convenience when you need to be mobile, and this DEWALT tire inflator has incredibly performance to offer in conjunction with that feature. You will need to purchase a battery separately if you don’t already own one for a different DEWALT tool, so that only adds to the large expense of this product. With a max pressure of 160 PSI, this powerful tire inflator is worth the money without a doubt.
This tool has both an inflation and a deflation port, allowing you to easily perform both tasks without waiting a long time for an item to deflate on its own. Plus, it has onboard storage for a number of additional nozzles, increasing the versatility of this inflator. It is a bit heavier than other models at just under 3 lbs, but it is still easy to carry around. Its built-in light helps maintain visibility after the sun has gone down.
If I hadn’t already had compatible DEWALT batteries on hand I probably would have chosen another model, just because it would have been too expensive. For anyone in the same position as me or willing to spend the extra money, this tire inflator is awesome. I love that I can fill my tires without turning my engine on, and it is powerful enough to fill my hubby’s truck tires too.
franny a.
The biggest downside of this model is that it is quite loud while it is operating. For most cases, this won’t be a problem, but there are definitely scenarios where you want to be in stealth mode, so it is something to keep in mind. This unit will automatically shut off once it has reached target pressure, so you won’t have to worry about over-inflating. With rubber feet to keep it still, this is an all-around wonderful product for any use.
DEWALT DCC020IB 20V MAX Cordless Tire Inflator Specifications
- Dimensions: 10.5” x 7.7” x 2.2”
- Weight: 2.9 lbs
- Max Pressure: 160 PSI
- Power Source: Battery
- Auto Shutoff: Yes
- Warranty: 3 years
DEWALT DCC020IB 20V MAX Cordless Tire Inflator Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Onboard accessory storage for multiple nozzles
- Has a built-in light
- Has an inflation and deflation port
- Rubber feet prevent the machine from moving while operating
Cons
Cons
- Very expensive
- Does not come with the battery
- Quite noisy
Our Final Opinion About the DEWALT DCC020IB 20V MAX Cordless Tire Inflator
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 3.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 3.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the DEWALT DCC020IB 20V MAX Cordless Tire Inflator is a machine designed to improve your life as a whole. Although expensive and quite noisy, its powerhouse design means it can tackle any inflation task better than any other model. With convenient features like onboard accessory storage, you won’t regret this choice.
Our Budget Pick for a Tire Inflator
Oasser P6 Tire Inflator Review
The Budget Pick
Oasser
Budget-friendly products often come with a long list of concessions you need to make in regard to quality, but the Oasser P6 Tire Inflator is not one of those products. Its long term durability may be questionable, but for such an affordable unit, its performance and versatility are exceptional.
Oasser P6 Tire Inflator Video Review
What We Think of the Oasser P6 Tire Inflator
If we hadn’t investigated this product ourselves, we never would have believed that this would be the most affordable option on the market. Its quality is just outstanding. It does have two things that bely its cheaper make, so we’ll tell you those first. It won’t be compatible with truck tires even though it has a max pressure of 150 PSI, and its long-term durability is not something to put total confidence in.
This is one of the more portable designs we’ve seen for a tire inflator, as it can be stored pretty much anywhere in your vehicle. It only weighs 2.4 lbs, so it is a great choice if you’ll need to carry it around. It is powered by the cigarette lighter socket in your vehicle and can reach a ma air flow of 25 LPM, pretty respectable for a low-budget product. Its affordability means that everyone can have a great tire inflator on hand when they need it.
I was so happy to find a tire inflator that was really affordable but could also handle the pressure requirements of my new SUV. I have been working on preparing an emergency kit for my vehicle, and this tire inflator was the perfect final addition. I now feel prepared for anything, and I love that it is so easy to store and use.
jamie m.
The power cord for this unit can be stored in the back of the machine, which is incredibly convenient and prevents things from getting damaged. Its accuracy is top tier since it will automatically shut off when it reaches your target, and with both changeable units and built in LED lights, you’ll always know exactly what you’re doing. Since it comes with multiple nozzle types, you can use this machine for pretty much any inflation task that arises.
Oasser P6 Tire Inflator Specifications
- Dimensions: 7.9” x 7.1” x 3”
- Weight: 2.4 lbs
- Max Pressure: 150 PSI
- Max Air Flow: 25 LPM
- Power Source: Cigarette lighter socket in your vehicle
- Auto Shutoff: Yes
- Warranty: 2 years
Oasser P6 Tire Inflator Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Power cord can be stored in the back of the machine
- Comes with various nozzles for versatility
- Has powerful built in LED lights and changeable units
- Highly affordable
Cons
- Long-term durability may be a concern
- Cannot be used on truck tires
Our Final Opinion About the Oasser P6 Tire Inflator
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Oasser P6 Tire Inflator is a great tool for people shopping with a budget in mind. It isn’t quite powerful enough for truck tire inflation, but it will be great for any other use. It is highly portable and easy to store, and its built-in lights ensure you can always have visibility, even at night.
Alternative Products to Consider
Viair 00088 88P Portable Air Compressor Review
The Old-School Pick
Viair
While many modern air compressors have digital screens and automatic shutoffs, there are people who still prefer an old-school way of filling tires and other objects. For those traditional folks, the Viair 00088 88P Portable Air Compressor is the most ideal choice.
Viair 00088 88P Portable Air Compressor Video Review
What We Think of the Viair 00088 88P Portable Air Compressor
Although many tire inflators these days come with digital screens and automatic shutoffs, there are still some models that have the old-school design of a pressure gauge and a reliance on you to pay attention to what is going on and manage the pressure manually. This Viair air compressor is one of those models, so while it doesn’t offer the most convenience, it is a great fit for people who prefer the traditional way of doing things.
Its long power cord and air hose ensure that you can always reach your target object easily, whether that be one of the tires on your vehicle or a separate item. With a max pressure of 120 PSI and a max air flow of 42 LPM, this is one of the most efficient and versatile machines money can buy. It is pretty unique since it uses your vehicle’s battery as a direct power source, and it comes with durable alligator clamps to ensure a safe connection.
I am that kind of person that is always prepared, especially when it comes to vehicle maintenance. I like the traditional gauge style of this tire inflator, since it is the kind that I grew up with and I’m comfortable with it. It is a powerful unit with a high-powered air output, so it doesn’t take long to fill even my truck tires from empty to perfectly pressurized. It cost a bit more than I planned on spending, but it was definitely worth it.
marvin p.
The 3-piece inflation kit that is included with your purchase guarantees that you’ll be able to use this air compressor with any object. It is powerful enough to inflate tires up to 33”, so that likely won’t be a limitation for you as it is with other models. A year of warranty coverage is included as well. This is a heavier model at 4.5 lbs, but it still isn’t unreasonable for the performance it is capable of.
Viair 00088 88P Portable Air Compressor Specifications
- Dimensions: 6.7” x 6.3” x 10.7”
- Weight: 4.5 lbs
- Max Pressure: 120 PSI
- Max Air Flow: 42 LPM
- Power Source: Vehicle battery
- Auto Shutoff: No
- Warranty: 1 year
Viair 00088 88P Portable Air Compressor Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Usable on any vehicle with tires up to 33”
- Connects directly to your vehicle’s battery for a stronger power source
- Comes with a 3-piece inflation kit
- Long power cord and air hose add convenience
Cons
- Does not have a digital display
- No auto shutoff
- Pricey
Our Final Opinion About the Viair 00088 88P Portable Air Compressor
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 3.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 3.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Viair 00088 88P Portable Air Compressor is a great option for those individuals who aren’t keen on digital screens. This is an old-school model that relies on you to pay close attention. It’s certainly not for everybody, but its powerful performance and versatility make it a highly respectable product.
Oasser P2 Portable Electric Air Inflator Review
The Handheld Pick
Oasser
Anyone interested in a more hands on tire filling experience should consider the Oasser P2 Portable Electric Air Inflator. Its ergonomic design and battery power make it one of the most user-friendly models on the market, as long as you don’t mind the extra engagement it requires in your task.
Oasser P2 Portable Electric Air Inflator Video Review
What We Think of The Oasser P2 Portable Electric Air Inflator
Oasser is a great brand, and their handheld air inflator is indicative of the quality and thought put into every single one of their products. This model weighs 3.5 lbs and is designed with ergonomics in mind, ensuring you have a comfortable experience even if you need to use it frequently in a short amount of time. The portability of this unit is truly outstanding since you can bring the model right to your target object.
The battery power is incredibly convenient for portability and mobility on the job, but you do need to keep in mind that the battery life can be a limitation if you use it a lot. However, you won’t be reliant on a working vehicle for a power source, which is a notable benefit. This is a fairly powerful unit with a max PSI of 130, but its lower air flow rate of 23 LPM at most does mean it isn’t the most efficient model available.
This is exactly the kind of tire inflator I was looking for. I didn’t want one of those models that sits on the ground because I am beyond clumsy. It is really comfortable to hold and I like that I can keep an eye on the pressure in real time. The light is really convenient for air filling at night, and with the temperature changes where I live, I fill my tires more than is typical. Love this tool.
kyle m.
Since this tire inflator comes with two air hoses, three different nozzles, and a storage bag, you won’t ever need to buy separate pieces to complete the inflation kit. Plus, it has a built in light and changeable units that guarantee you the ideal user experience. The digital display allows you to choose a preset pressure, and the machine will automatically shut off once it reaches that target.
Oasser P2 Portable Electric Air Inflator Specifications
- Dimensions: 10.4” x 3.1” x 3.3”
- Weight: 3.5 lbs
- Max Pressure: 130 PSI
- Max Air Flow: 23 LPM
- Power Source: Battery
- Auto Shutoff: Yes
- Warranty: 1 year
Oasser P2 Portable Electric Air Inflator Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Ergonomically designed for handheld operation
- Comes with 2 air hoses, 3 nozzles, and a storage bag
- Changeable units and built-in light
- Digital display allows you to choose a preset pressure
Cons
- Battery life may be limiting if you use it frequently
Our Final Opinion About the Oasser P2 Portable Electric Air Inflator
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Oasser P2 Portable Electric Air Inflator is the perfect choice for individuals looking for a handheld model. With convenient features like changeable units and an auto shutoff, the limitation of battery life may be an easy thing for you to overlook.
Makita DMP180Z 18V LXT Tire Inflator Review
The Versatile Pick
Makita
While there are a number of tire inflators designed for various purposes, there aren’t many models that can handle any job. If you’re in the market for a tire inflator that can do it all, the Makita DMP180Z 18V LXT Tire Inflator is the right choice for you. Its battery power and user-friendliness make this a great model for everyone.
Makita DMP180Z 18V LXT Tire Inflator Video Review
What We Think of the Makita DMP180Z 18V LXT Tire Inflator
Tire inflators have a wide range of uses beyond just inflating tires, and it is incredibly convenient to have a machine that can do it all, instead of purchasing multiple to get all the tasks covered. This Makita tire inflator is one of the most versatile models on the market, since it offers the trifecta of battery power, changeable nozzles, and the ability to change how you operate it.
Although you’ll need to purchase the battery separately, this power source offers the most mobility and therefore versatility. You don’t need to be tethered to a vehicle to use this machine, so you can use it both indoors and out, even when you don’t have access to another power source. Since it comes with three nozzle types, it can be used to inflate anything from basketballs to vehicle tires. You can use it as a handheld unit or let it do its thing on the ground, so you are truly overwhelmed with choice in the best way.
I am such a huge fan of this tire inflator. It is powerful enough to inflate any size of tire, which is awesome because between my husband and I, we have three different vehicles, all with different tire sizes. It is also versatile enough to keep our bike tires inflated and help out with the inflatable toys we have for our dogs. It does require a slight amount of manual effort, but we don’t mind at all.
joan b.
The digital display is backlit for easy nighttime readings, and the units are changeable to help you understand the pressure in the most comfortable unit. With a max pressure of 120 PSI, this isn’t the most powerful unit out there, but it is enough to excel at nearly any inflation task you are presented with. A 3-year warranty gives you a lot of peace of mind. You will have to manually hold the trigger for this machine to work, but that is a small concession in our eyes.
Makita DMP180Z 18V LXT Tire Inflator Specifications
- Weight: 3.1 lbs
- Max Pressure: 120 PSI
- Power Source: Battery
- Auto Shutoff: Yes
- Warranty: 3 years
Makita DMP180Z 18V LXT Tire Inflator Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Can be placed on the ground or used as a handheld unit
- Digital display is backlit for easy nighttime reading
- Units are changeable and multiple nozzles are included
- Can inflate almost anything
Cons
Cons
- Battery not included
- Requires you to hold the trigger for inflation
Our Final Opinion About the Makita DMP180Z 18V LXT Tire Inflator
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 3.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Makita DMP180Z 18V LXT Tire Inflator is a model designed for a range of uses. You’ll have to buy the battery separately, but the outstanding versatility and performance make the extra expense worth it. Plus, its backlit digital display and changeable units add a whole lot of convenience to this model.
AstroAI AIR150 Portable Air Compressor Pump Review
The Safety-Conscious Pick
AstroAl
While all tire inflators are safe to use, there are some models that do a little bit extra to make their product as safe as it possibly can be. One of those extra-safe products is the AstroAI AIR150 Portable Air Compressor Pump, and its performance and versatility won’t be disappointments either.
AstroAI AIR150 Portable Air Compressor Pump Video Review
What We Think of The AstroAI AIR150 Portable Air Compressor Pump
Although all tire inflators/air pumps are designed to be safe for use, this AstroAI model is one that takes safety just a little bit more seriously than the rest. This model is designed with overheat protection, which isn’t unheard of, but it also has a max runtime of 30 minutes. This ensures that the machine will shut itself off just in case you’ve forgotten about it.
With a max pressure of 150 PSI and a max air flow of 35 LPM, this is one of the most powerful and efficient tire inflators currently available. It uses the cigarette lighter socket in your vehicle as a power source and weighs only 3.5 lbs, so you won’t have any trouble moving this machine around. It is one of the bulkier models and must be stored on its feet, so you’ll have to ensure you have the storage capability for it in your vehicle.
This air compressor pump is exactly the tool I’ve been looking for. I love how accurate it is, because proper pressure is really important to me and it makes me feel more confident in my vehicle. The extra safety features give me a lot of peace of mind as well. Plus, with its high max PSI and efficient air flow, it doesn’t take long to accomplish my inflation tasks. Very impressed with this pump.
nate k.
This is another model that will allow you to set a target air pressure, and then will shut itself off once it has reached your target. It will actually slightly over-inflate in order to account for the loss in pressure that occurs once the valve is removed, making it one of the most accurate machines you can buy. The built in LED light ensures visibility day and night, and the four included nozzles guarantee you will never be met with an inflation task you cannot accomplish.
AstroAI AIR150 Portable Air Compressor Pump Specifications
- Dimensions: 8.6” x 7.5” x 3.9”
- Weight: 3.5 lbs
- Max Pressure: 150 PSI
- Max Air Flow: 35 LPM
- Power Source: Cigarette lighter socket in your vehicle
- Auto Shutoff: Yes
- Warranty: 3 years
AstroAI AIR150 Portable Air Compressor Pump Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Has overheat protection and a maximum operating time of 30 minutes
- LED light build in
- Will slightly over-inflate to account for slight loss in pressure when valve is removed
- Comes with 4 different nozzle types
Cons
Cons
- Fairly bulky
Our Final Opinion About the AstroAI AIR150 Portable Air Compressor Pump
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the AstroAI AIR150 Portable Air Compressor Pump is a great choice for everyone looking for those extra steps taken for safety. With multiple safety features in place and a reliable, powerful performance, we have all the confidence in the world that you won’t regret this purchase.
Why Should You Trust Us?
All the recommendations we make on The Good Choice are the result of many hours of research, comparisons, analysis of consumer reviews and, if necessary, expert feedbacks. The products we recommend here are the ones that will best perform their daily tasks, passing all security, reliability and efficiency tests while having an appealing price-quality ratio for everyone.
What are our criteria for judging the products reviewed and selected by The Good Choice?
- Quality: Does the product have a solid construction? Will it be reliable over time? Does it have a good warranty?
- Efficiency: Is the product efficient in its task or do you need to give it some help? Is it for example powerful, fast, quiet?
- Usability: Is the product easy to handle, easy to use and maintain?
- Price: Is the price of the product and/or accessories and/or spare parts reasonable compared to the rest of the market?
In addition to these main criteria, we then establish a list of specific criteria for each product category, detailed a little further down in this article.
In the end, the products we recommend are the ones we would want to buy, and the ones we would also choose for our friends and family.
Things to Know Before Buying a Tire Inflator
Benefits of Owning a Tire Inflator
A tire inflator can save you a lot of time and hassle in a number of ways. They are so many different power sources to select from, so whether you want one that is corded electric, battery powered, or even powered by your running vehicle, you can find a model that fits your needs. Plus, many of them will come with extra nozzles that allow you to not only fill your vehicle tires, but also inflate bicycle tires, basketball balls, kids’ toys, air mattresses, and so much more. Digital models make it a lot easier to fill your tires to the exact pressure they should be, and most will have changeable units in order to help you understand the pressure in a way that makes the most sense to you. Whether you are regularly filling up kids’ toys or you just want an emergency tool on hand, a portable tire inflator is the perfect purchase.
How to Properly Choose Your Tire Inflator
- Price.
In general, tire inflators are not expensive products. At most, you’ll be spending around $160, but that is only for the most technically advanced, high-performance models that are beyond what most individuals need. Tire inflators can also be priced as low as $35-$40, so even budgeted shoppers can have one of these incredibly useful products handy whenever they need it. A lower priced product will have inferior performance, but will likely be more portable.
- Size.
Since the tire inflator you buy will most likely end up in your vehicle, its size is an important factor to consider. Some models are highly portable and can be stored any which way, while others are fairly bulky and can only be stored on their feet. The size of your vehicle and your organization level are two things to consider when deciding on the right size of tire inflator.
- Power Source.
Tire inflators can be powered by a number of things. Some will connect to your vehicle’s battery directly, others will use your vehicle’s power through the cigarette lighter socket, and others will run off of batteries. Each power source has its benefits, but there are cons with each as well. Being able to use your vehicle as a power source is incredibly convenient when you are using it to actually inflate your tires, and the energy supply is essentially unlimited. However, this also means that you ALWAYS have to be near your vehicle when you want to inflate something, even if it is a bike tire or even a kid’s toy. Battery power is much more convenient for portability, but you will have to carefully manage the battery life and make sure it is fully charged at all times.
- Accuracy.
The accuracy of a tire inflator is an important thing to pay attention to. Digital models will be the more accurate than traditional gauge-models because you can be very precise with your readings, and even set a target pressure for the machine to reach. Some models take accuracy a step farther and will actually slightly overinflate your tire, in order to account for the loss of air when you remove the valve and replace the cap. This ensures the pressure is exactly the value you set it to, instead of slightly less.
- Max PSI.
The max PSI, or pressure output, of a tire inflator should be something you consider. Depending on the target item’s ideal pressure value, some tire inflators will simply not be strong enough to inflate it. Some tires will need to reach a pressure of 80 PSI to be safe, but some tire inflators can only reach 70 PSI. Top end tire inflators will be powerful enough to reach 150-160 PSI, and these will be the best models for people with truck tires and other larger objects requiring a higher pressure value. In general, as the max PSI goes up, so will the price, but this isn’t always the case.
- Versatility.
The versatility of a tire inflator is dependent upon two things; its max pressure rating, and the types of nozzles included. Some tire inflators will only come with one nozzle for inflating tires, and it won’t be much good for any other uses as a result. Most models will come with three or four different nozzle types to increase its usability. These nozzles will be compatible for things like basketballs, inflatable kid’s toys, air mattresses, and more. Also, the higher the pressure rating on a tire inflator, the more versatile it will be.
- Warranty.
Although tire inflators won’t be too much of an investment, it is still a good idea to look for a model that has warranty protection. Even saving $50 can help you out, and if your product is defective or breaks in the first month or two, that $50 isn’t money you should have to spend. Many tire inflators will come with warranty coverage included in the purchase price, but some companies will require you to pay for it, or just not offer it at all.
We do our best to provide you with a comparative guide of tire inflators allowing you to choose the best product possible. If we are missing information or new models, do not hesitate to leave a comment below or to send us a message.
