Did you know that human heart was the first air compressor? But it can only produce air of 0.3 PSI which is way too low compared to what you need to inflate your car tires. Doing this in your garage with those bulky compressors is fine. But you can’t carry those in your car to wherever you go.
Thanks to the advancement of technology, we can now have compact air compressors that fit in the toolbox of any car. And these compressors are better known as tire inflators.
Among several different types, cordless tire inflators are becoming very popular due to their portability and functionality. Let’s introduce you to some of the most popular tire inflators in the market and help you find out the best cordless tire inflator.
What Is Tire Inflator?
A tire inflator is a specialized air compressor that is used to pump air to your car tires. Compared to traditional air compressors, tire inflators are much smaller in size and functionality. But still they can deliver enough pressure to your car tires to keep your car up and running.
Though the working principle of tire inflators and modern air compressors are almost the same, tire inflators don’t have storage tanks. Tire inflators also can’t power pneumatic tools. These small air compressors are used for only one job where the name comes from, inflating flat tires.
Why Should You Buy A Portable Tire Inflator?
Tire inflators come in various types in terms of power source. While some inflators run on 110V AC power, some other can take power from your car battery. Having those chunky inflators at your home or garage is fine. But what would you do if your car tire gets punctured in the middle of a highway?
This is where portable tire inflators come in handy. These inflator kits are very compact, so you can carry them in your car’s toolbox. Pull them out when necessary and get your car tire pumped with pressurized air in a few minutes.
As almost all portable tire inflators are compatible with 12V power source of your car, you can easily plug in the power cord to crank up the inflator, no matter wherever you are.
Some inflators can even run on battery, so you don’t need to worry about connecting the cord.
Quick Review
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Tire Inflator—Editor’s Pick
Its user friendly, as it comes with roll cage protection for your device as well as rubber feet that keep it still while in use.
CRAFTSMAN V20 Inflator with Battery & Charger—High Capacity
This best cordless tire inflator also includes an AC wall plug that can be used anywhere at any time without worrying about batteries running low on power!
AVID POWER Tire Inflator Air Compressor—Most Versatile
The accuracy of indicated psi +/- 1 means you can be confident knowing it's working as intended every time.
AUTDER Tire Inflator Air Compressor—Quick and Powerful
It will be able to inflate 195/55R15 wheels from 0psi up 35 psi within only 5 minutes!
Makita DMP180ZX 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Inflator
Makita went one step further to ensure long battery life with Star Protection Computer Controls.
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Tire Inflator—Heavy Duty Output
This compact and lightweight device can inflate any tire on your car, truck, or appliance.
M12 Compact Inflator Kit—Quick and Accurate
The M12 compact inflator is the perfect tool for any car owner who needs to inflate their tires regularly.
ICARMAINT Tire Inflator Air Compressor—Multipurpose Use
Just fill up any flats on-site without worrying about running out of air because this little guy packs a punch that lasts all day long.
AVID POWER Tire Inflator Portable Air Compressor—Expensive One
It can be used in either manual mode by pressing down manually onto one side until air comes out (very useful!)
RYOBI P737 18-Volt ONE+ Portable Cordless Power Inflator—Affordable
This multipurpose best cordless tire inflator also works well in different contexts such as sports balls, mattresses, bikes, etc.
Best Cordless Tire Inflator- Pick The Best One From Quick Review
Let’s break some of the most popular cordless tire inflators down to find out what suits your needs the best.
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Tire Inflator—Editor’s Pick
The first cordless tire inflator is from Dewalt, a brand name that's renowned for its reliability. If you're familiar with home DIY tools and accessories then there's no doubt in your mind as to why this product would be worth checking out.
- Air compressor tire inflator comes with high-pressure inflation mode with automatic shutoff
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
What We Like?
(+) Two-Mode Fill Up
For when you need to fill up your tires with just about any kind of air, this DEWALT tire inflator comes with two modes.
The high-pressure inflation mode is perfect for people who want their ride back in no time at all. On the other hand, the low volume and deflation speeds are better suited if space or weight matters more than speediness!
(+) Automatic Shut off
The high-pressure inflator for tires comes with an automatic shutoff, so you can be sure your air is being used efficiently. With this automatic shut-off system, you can stop overfilling at any time without causing serious damage to the equipment or yourself!
(+) High Quality
The wheel inflator includes a brush-less motor and oil-free pump to ensure you can smoothly insert air into the tire.
Keep in Mind
(-) Takes Time to Recover
After using the tire inflator, it can take time for your tires to return to their original state! You should also make sure that you charge up before going anywhere since they can run out quickly.
CRAFTSMAN V20 Inflator with Battery & Charger Starter Kit
This Craftsman inflator is worth a look. This powerful tire deflator can run on either 110V or 12 V power, and it includes both battery options for consistent inflation throughout your day's commute!
The 4 Ah capacity ensures that you will have plenty of juice when needed to get back out there in no time at all. Just don't forget about storing any lost hoses while working with this device because they're easily detached from their cords.
- Part of the V20 cordless system
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
What We Like?
(+) Quick Work
CRAFTSMAN V20 Inflator is a low volume, high-pressure inflator that can be used on anything from your car's tires to an air mattress. It also has the ability of quick inflation in just minutes!
(+) Convenient with 3 Power Source
The CRAFTSMAN V20 Inflator is a lifesaver for those who need their tires inflated quickly and conveniently. It has an ultimate convenience with its 3-power sources, including 20V MAX* battery.
(+) Multifunctional
With its automatic shutoff feature, you can set your PSI and it will automatically stop once reached! It also has an easy-to-use display that makes reading pressures quick & simple - perfect when time counts!
Keep in Mind
(-) Battery drain quickly
When it comes to heavy usage, the battery can drain pretty rapidly.
AVID POWER Tire Inflator Air Compressor
The compact and portable AVID POWER Tire Inflator is another great option for anyone who has to top off their tire. It offers an easy 0-100 PSI range, making it perfect in any situation! This portable tool can be easily carried in your car or bike so it's always ready when you need some new air quickly.
- Multi-purpose: Our cordless tire pump is ideal for inflating car, motorcycle and bicycle tires. It could also be used to inflate sports balls and inflatable pool toys. Note: not suitable for large truck tires.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
What We Like?
(+) Multi-purpose
The AVID POWER cordless tire pump is the perfect way to keep your tires at peak performance. Its durable, compact design means it will work for years on end!
(+) Auto Shut-Off
No need to worry about low tire pressure anymore with this AVID POWER cordless air compressor. Setting the Automatic Stop Function, it will shut off when inflated and indicate!
(+) Double Power Supply
The AVID POWER cordless tire pump has Dual Power Supply, meaning it can be used with two different power sources at one time. If you're traveling and your battery runs out while pumping up tires on the go, don't worry! With provided an available 12V car charger, charging is easy, or else charge them using the USB cable provided.
Keep in Mind
(-) Not suitable for Large Vehicle
Well, this tire Inflator is the best way for your car or bike. But when it comes to the big vehicle, it has shortcomings to that requirement.
AUTDER Tire Inflator Air Compressor
At first glance, you might think this is some sort of high-tech air pump. But it's designed for your car tire! Air Compressor can inflate a variety of different size tires with ease. And it supports up to 140 PSI pressure so that they are always at proper levels on every type of vehicle out there today.
What We Like?
(+) Robust and Rapid Inflation
The AUTDER tire inflator was designed to provide a powerful pressure that can fill up your car's tires in the shortest amount of time.
(+) Included 2 Battery
The portable AUTDER tire inflator air compressor also comes with a 12V car power adapter, allowing you to inflate your rear tires. Its cord is up 4 meters long so that it can reach from inside the truck or van all way out in front where most vehicles mount their outlets for this purpose!
(+) Sturdy Structure
Highly durable material and the sturdy hose is designed to resist high pressures. The auto-shut-off feature allows you to keep your tires at optimal levels without keeping a watchful eye on them. While one click will change their pressure units from PSI (pounds per square inch), kPa(kilopascals), BAR, or even kg/cm².
Keep in Mind
(-) Not for SUV
If you have a large SUV, then this AUTDER Tire Inflator Air Compressor will not suit you. You need to look for another one.
Makita DMP180ZX 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Inflator
The innovative 18V tool is the ultimate solution to top off your car or bike tires. You can use this convenient cordless inflator without worrying about cords getting in the way! It also comes with a long enough battery life so there's no need for an extension cable either, which makes it easy on you when working around machinery.
- Conveniently tops off cars and light truck tires with speed and ease
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
What We Like?
(+) Heavy-Duty Motor
The power of the LXT Lithium-Ion Inflator is enough to inflate any tire with 120 PSI. This means it can be adjusted depending on your needs and will stop when you need it too, preventing overfill! With its auto-stop function that automatically stops inflating tires at preset pressure levels.
(+) Fast Charge Battery
Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Batteries are the best choice for professionals, as their fast charge times help to ensure that your tools stay ready. So you spend less time charging and more time working on your projects.
(+) Star Protection
Makita's 18V tire inflator with Star Protection is a communication tool that allows for the safe use of your tools and battery. It monitors the condition in real-time, so you don't have to worry about overloading or overheating when working on tires!
Keep in Mind
(-) It Can Be Loud
When it comes to the inflation of your tires, this device can be a little louder than usual.
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Tire Inflator
The black and decker cordless tire inflator is a lifesaver for those who don't want to spend too much on their air compressor. It has all the features, like super-fast inflation time which would take minutes in other compressors or even hours!
- Digital gauge to view current pressure and set target pressure
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
What We Like?
(+) LED Light
This tire inflator features a built-in LED light to help you see the reading while it is in use and also has an easy connection system. If this isn't your first time using one of these devices, there's no need for worry because all adjustments can easily be made with just two fingers!
(+) Auto Shut off
The Black + Decker 20V Max Cordless Inflator is a digital pressure gauge that automatically shuts off once the desired air pressure has been reached.
(+) Heavy Duty Output
You can inflate all sorts of things with the Black+Decker 20V Max Cordless Tire Inflator! It has several different settings that will get anything inflated fast and easily like tires, pool floats, and air mattresses - you name it.
Keep in Mind
(-) Frequent Charge Needed
The battery of this device can drain pretty fast. That’s why you need to charge them quite often.
M12 Compact Inflator Kit
The most interesting thing about the Milwaukee tire inflator is that it comes with everything you need to operate without having any wires or buttons. The price tag on this product isn't too high, either! With its ergonomic design and easy-to-use controls, there are no more pesky cords or wires getting in between us (or our car battery).
- Top off a car tire in under 1 minutes 28-35 PSI, fills a lt truck tire in under 4 minutes 30-45 PSI.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
What We Like?
(+) Fast and Accurate
M12 Compact Inflator is a fast inflator that has been designed to ensure accuracy and stability during use. This means you don't worry about over-inflation, as well as the device's design which ensures smooth operation. Easy placement on top of your car while it will stay steady without incident or vibration!
(+) Compact Design
You can use this unit in place of an air pump and save space since you won't need another bulky item taking up precious room in your trunk.
(+) All in One
This M12 tire inflator is perfect for anyone who has trouble pumping their tires. It’s small, lightweight, and portable with an AC power cord included so you can charge up before using. With this device, you can be sure that when it comes time to inflate your spare or drive another mile on an underinflated wheel; all of them are at proper PSI levels with no hassle!
Keep in Mind
(-) Battery Has Issue
The battery of this device can get overheated quite easily with some heavy usage. Otherwise, it’s an amazing device on the go.
ICARMAINT Tire Inflator Air Compressor
You can't go wrong with the Icarmaint Tire Inflator. This durable and reliable handheld cordless tire inflator has been around for years, so you know it will last! It comes in handy when there's no power source nearby or if your battery is dead.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
What We Like?
(+) Fast and Powerful
The ICARMAINT tire inflator is the most powerful and fastest you can find at this price point. It provides up to 140PSI, with airflow of 35L/min which allows it to inflate tires from 0psi up within 5 minutes- much faster than other devices!
(+) Included Dual Battery
The FC368 portable air compressor has an easy-to-use 12V car power adaptor, with a cord up to 4m in length. This is perfect for pumping up your tires on the go or at home when you don't want the hassle of recharging!
(+) Multipurpose
The ICARMAINT portable air pump is a great tool for the person who needs to inflate their tires and does not always have access to an electric outlet. This little gem can provide pressure from 3-140 PSI, making it perfect whether you're playing basketball or just need some extra oomph on those big truck rides!
Keep in Mind
(-) Customer Service
The customer service is not up to the standard which could be better with these amazing products. So, when you have a problem, it’s better to solve it on your own.
AVID POWER Tire Inflator Portable Air Compressor
The 20V Cordless Car Tire Inflator with Rechargeable Li-Ion Battery from Avid Power is a high-quality, durable design that's great for on-the-go use. It has many features to make your life easier and more convenient such as an automatic shut-off function if left unused or running out of power.
What We Like?
(+) Power Supply Has Dual Capacity
With a 20V battery and 12V car adaptor, this cordless air pump ensures quick transmission of power from anywhere without the need for connection. It's also equipped with an efficient motor that can work continuously.
(+) Work In a Flash
This powerful motor provides quick inflation to a standard tire. After only 5 minutes of using this portable air compressor, it can deliver up to 30L/min air flow. This means that if standard car tire needs pumping then they have what's needed!
(+)Auto-Stop
This tire pump is a safe bet because it has an auto-shutoff feature that prevents overfilling and shuts off when the desired pressure for your tires has been reached.
Keep in Mind
(-) Pricier Option
The price point of this product is quite up, due to the multi-functional high-quality features. However, this price is not a deal-breaker at all!
RYOBI P737 18-Volt ONE+ Portable Cordless Power Inflator
A new Ryobi automatic tire inflator is now available! The P731 is an amazing device that can inflate or deflate your car's tires with just a push of a button. It has all the features you need in one easy-to-use package. So check it out today for yourself and see what makes this product different from others on the market right now.
- ONE+ COMPATIBLE! This tool runs on the power sources used in Ryobi’s ONE+ battery system, making this purchase extra smart for the Ryobi veteran
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
What We Like?
(+) Automatic
When you need air in your tire, there's no time like now. The Tire inflator is an automated device that can be used anywhere and on any type of vehicle - it’s perfect for the car or truck driver! When inflated, this product also has adjustable accuracy so users don't have to worry about getting too low when troubleshooting their flat tires out on busy streets.
(+) Easy and Convenient
The RYOBI P737 Power Inflator for Tires is a versatile device that includes two hoses: one to inflate your tires at high pressure and another with higher volume. You can adjust these settings according to what you need from them, whether it be primarily the former or later only using both parts of this kit.
(+) Multipurpose
The Ryobi P737 Power Tire Inflator is your one-stop inflator for all of your tire needs! It comes with both high volume and high-pressure hoses so you can use it on any type or size.
Keep in Mind
(-) Warranty Problems
There are some complaints about purchasing from the third-party vendor that when you buy from them, the company will not provide you warranty.
Things to Consider While Buying Cordless Tire Inflators
Buying just any cordless tire inflator is easy. But you shouldn’t be doing that if you want to get the best cordless tire inflator. We’ll now look at some key factors you need to consider before settling for one. These factors will help you narrow your choices down to the ultimate tire inflator you would wanna invest into.
Pressure
You might have heard the term PSI many times. What does it mean? PSI stands for Pressure per Square Inch. It is a unit of measuring pressure. If you see the manual of your car, you might find the recommended air pressure in PSI there.
Different models of tire inflators can produce compressed air in different pressure. If the pressure level doesn’t match your requirements, it might take longer to pump the tire up.
So, choose something that can produce at least 150 PSI to ensure your car tires will be inflated as quickly as possible.
Air Delivery
Air flow is measured in CFM. It stands for Cubic Feet per Minute and denotes how many cubic feet of air your tire inflator can deliver in a minute. If the CFM rating is high, your car tires will be inflated quickly. So, keep an eye on that too.
Duty Cycle
Duty cycle can be referred to as the ratio of how long can the machine can run at stretch to how long it needs to rest before operating again. For example, if the duty cycle of a tire inflator is 25%, you can run it continuously for 15 minutes and then it will need 45 minutes to rest.
Portable tire inflators usually have smaller duty cycles. As a result, you can’t run them for too long. So, choose something that has a larger duty cycle in class so that you don’t have to wait for hours in the road to pump up the tires.
Build Quality
Cordless tire inflators should be sturdy and durable. As they will withstand rough terrains almost all through their life span, you should choose something that has a rugged build.
If the tire inflator is well-built, it will produce less noise and vibration while operating. So, it will be easy to control as well.
Auto Shut Off
Overinflated car tires can be as hazardous as underinflated tires. You should never overinflate your car tires to play it safe. There lies the risk of over inflating car tires when you do it manually.
Some cordless tire inflators come with an auto shut off feature. With these, you can set the required PSI level according to your tire manufacturer and the device will automatically turn off once it reaches the desired PSI level.
Portability
As cordless tire inflators are mostly used outdoor, they should be very compact and lightweight. A good carry handle will help you pull them out of the trunk or put back in easily.
Some tire inflators even come with a separate carrying case. Having such a sturdy case is a bliss as the sophisticated machine will stay safe inside the tool box.
Features
Advanced tire inflators come with large LCD where you can monitor all the relevant parameters. When everything is in front of your eyes, it will be much easier for you to operate the machine. Some inflators even have lights to work in the dark, in case if your car tires get flat at night.
Conclusion
Modern cordless tire inflators can be lifesavers when you are stuck in the middle of nowhere with flat tires. Even if your car tires are okay, they will gradually lose air pressure which can be dangerous in times.
Checking the tire pressure regularly and making them in tiptop condition with the best cordless tire inflator is the least you can do to ensure your maximum safety.
