Tire inflators can get you out of a jam fast. If your tire is low on air or you need to fill the donut, tire inflators can help you make it to the nearest shop. Tire inflators are also handy because they can come with additional accessories that can help you power your vehicle.
Unfortunately, some tire inflators are better than others, and some manufacturers may inflate their product's value. Thankfully, we're here to help you narrow down your options. Learn about the best portable tire inflators and how to use one below.
What Is A Portable Tire Inflator?
A portable tire inflator is a compact and lightweight device designed to inflate vehicle tires quickly and conveniently. It typically consists of a small air compressor powered by either a built-in rechargeable battery, a cigarette lighter socket in the vehicle, or a separate power source like a portable power bank. Portable tire inflators often come with a variety of features, such as digital or analog pressure gauges, preset pressure settings, LED lights for nighttime use, and multiple nozzle attachments to fit different tire valve types. These inflators are highly versatile and can be used to inflate not only car tires but also bicycle tires, sports balls, inflatable toys, and more. Their compact size and portability make them ideal for keeping in the trunk of a vehicle for emergency tire inflation or for use during outdoor activities where access to traditional air compressors may be limited. Overall, a portable tire inflator is a practical and handy tool to ensure proper tire pressure maintenance, safety, and convenience on the road.
How Does a Portable Tire Inflator Work?
A portable tire inflator works by utilizing a small air compressor to draw in air from the surrounding environment and then pressurizing it to the desired level for inflation. The device is typically powered by either a built-in rechargeable battery, a vehicle's cigarette lighter socket, or an external power source like a portable power bank. When activated, the compressor motor drives a piston or diaphragm to compress the air, which is then forced through a hose and nozzle attachment onto the tire valve. Most portable tire inflators are equipped with a pressure gauge to monitor the tire's pressure and ensure it reaches the recommended level. Some models also feature automatic shut-off functionality, which stops inflation once the preset pressure is reached, preventing over-inflation. Overall, the straightforward operation and compact design of a portable tire inflator make it a convenient and essential tool for maintaining proper tire pressure on the go.
Types of Portable Tire Inflators
Several types of tire inflators are available. The most common types are handheld and console inflators. Both tire inflators types are portable, but consoles typically work better when you keep them in a garage. Learn more about each type below.
Handheld Tire Inflators
Handheld tire inflators are smaller inflators that you can stash in your trunk or console. You'll find some that include some extra accessories like work lights or a digital gauge. Their sole purpose is usually to fill automotive tires, so they're efficient. What's more, most handheld tire inflators are affordable.
These inflators connect to a compressor to provide you with compressed air. Some of them have digital gauges to show you the current level of your vehicle's tire pressure.
Console Tire Inflators
Console tire inflators are bigger than their handheld counterparts and usually offer more features. They're more expensive but give you the flexibility to inflate just about anything. Furthermore, console tire inflators may come with additional accessories and power sources to enhance their flexibility.
Console tire inflators also come with an air compressor, so you can inflate the tire on the road using your car battery.
Both types of tire inflators are good options. If you want a more all-in-one tool, go with the console tire inflators. However, if you just want something simple a handheld inflator is all you need.
How Do I Choose the Right Tire Inflator?
When choosing the best portable tire inflator, several factors should be considered to ensure it meets your specific needs and preferences. Firstly, consider the intended use and frequency of use, as this will dictate the required features and capabilities. If you need a tire inflator for occasional emergency use, a basic model with a simple design and manual operation may suffice. However, for regular use or for inflating multiple tires at once, a more powerful inflator with faster inflation times and automatic shut-off functionality may be preferable. Other factors to consider include the maximum pressure capacity, compatibility with different tire valve types, accuracy of the pressure gauge, and the presence of additional features such as LED lights, digital displays, or multiple nozzle attachments. By evaluating these factors and comparing different models, you can choose the right tire inflator that best suits your needs and provides reliable performance when you need it most. Additionally, consider the power source, whether you need a portable inflator with a built-in rechargeable battery or one that can be powered by a vehicle's cigarette lighter socket or an external power source.
Choosing the Right Power Source
There are a few power sources you can choose but the most common include batteries, battery packs, and your vehicle's electrical system.
Batteries
Some tire inflators have batteries you can use to power them. Batteries can include things like AA batteries or even 9-volt, D batteries. Tire Inflators that work the best with batteries are handheld products because there are fewer accessories to power them. If you plan on using batteries, make sure you keep extra batteries in your vehicle and replace your batteries frequently.
Charging and Wall Outlets
Tire inflators may come with multiple power sources. For example, it can have a plug for a 12-volt car battery that plugs into your vehicle or a plug to plug into a wall outlet. Tire inflators will usually be charged and it's best to charge them at home to preserve your vehicle's battery. Some tire inflators can even be plugged into a wall outlet and used directly without needing to charge.
12-Volt Car Battery
Your car has a powerful battery and many handheld tire inflators take advantage of this. If you have a flat tire but your car's battery is charged, you can plug it into the 12-volt outlets that are usually located on the dashboard. Be careful not to leave it plugged in too long or you run the risk of draining your car battery.
Depending on your vehicle, and the condition of your battery, each option can be a good choice.
Different Accessories to Look For
Tire inflators will come with a wide range of accessories for you to choose from. Learn about the best accessories to consider below.
Digital Display
Digital displays are great for handheld and console tire inflators. These displays light up at night to help you see how much air is in the tire. Digital displays will also provide battery life indication tools and they're useful for removing air from the tire.
Working Light
A working light is an LED light that helps you see the tire. Some handheld inflators have these lights but others don't. You'll want a working light if you drive at night often or if you want to read the pressure display.
Other Accessories
Air compressors and jumper cables are available on some tire inflators portable. These can help you power the inflator tool or even jumpstart your battery. You can also look for high-flow accessories that get your tires inflated rapidly.
Any extra accessory is usually worth it but always consider what you need out of a tire inflator.
Our Top Picks for Your Consideration
Several tire inflators are available to help you get back on the road. We recommend our top five choices down below.
1. JEGS Tire Inflator with Gauge
When you need a simple tire inflator that you can use with any air compressor, we have you covered with the JEGS Tire Inflator with Gauge. It's a small, handheld compressor hose attachment that's capable of handling up to 220 PSI, so you don't have to worry about breaking the unit with too much air. That said, our feature is the length of the hose. You'll be able to reach your tires from anywhere with the 11.75-inch hose. Lastly, there is a simple gauge that moves based on airflow. Therefore, you don't need to worry about batteries.
2. Viair 88P Portable Compressor Kit
Worried about getting stranded if you end up with a flat tire? Well, you'll never have to worry again with the Viair 88P Portable Compressor Kit. You get a portable air compressor that can produce up to 120 PSI. To power the compressor you can connect it to your vehicle's car battery via the clamps it comes with. This means you don't have to be at home to use this tool. It's also flexible and comes with a 10-foot power cord and a 16-foot hose. So, even for big trucks you'll have plenty of room.
3. JEGS Digital Tire Inflator
The JEGS Digital Tire Inflator is one of the best options you can choose if you want to combine affordability with premium features. It comes with an LED display that displays the tire pressure, battery life, and the unit of measurement you want to use. Aside from the accessories, it can handle up to 150 PSI and the hose is 14 inches long. It's also one of the few tire inflators that come with batteries, a hose, and a male hose inlet.
4. JOES Racing Products Billet Quick Fill Tire Inflator Digital
The JOES Racing Products Billet Quick Fill Tire Inflator Digital is one of the most flexible options you'll find. Its digital gauge makes it easy to know how much pressure each tire has without sacrificing any air. Using this tool you can also remove air from the tire if you add too much. It also incorporates a built-in fast-fill button and high-flow bleed button. These features make filling your tires quick and easy. The hose is 17 inches long and has a 45-degree swivel to help you reach any tire.
5. Lucas Oil Tire Inflator
One of the more unique options that we feature is the Lucas Oil Tire Inflator. It's one of the best options for emergency repair because it seals and inflates the tire. The seal is enough to get you back on the road and out of a pinch. It's easy to use and sensor-safe, so you don't have to worry about breaking anything. Lucas Oil Tire Inflators come in 16-ounce cans, which is plenty for one flat tire.
Each option is viable depending on your needs. Shop at JEGS to find the right accessories for your vehicle like tire inflators.
