What’s the best portable air compressor?/An air compressor is a device that converts power (using an electric motor, diesel or gasoline engine, etc.) into potential energy stored in pressurized air (i.e., compressed air). By one of several methods, an air compressor forces more and more air into a storage tank, increasing the pressure. When tank pressure reaches its engineered upper limit, the air compressor shuts off. The compressed air, then, is held in the tank until called into use. The energy contained in the compressed air can be used for a variety of applications, utilizing the kinetic energy of the air as it is released and the tank depressurizes. When tank pressure reaches its lower limit, the air compressor turns on again and re-pressurizes the tank. An air compressor must be differentiated from a pump because it works for any gas/air, while pumps work on a liquid.
Portable air compressors may seem unnecessary to many until something goes wrong. For those whose car tire had ever developed a dreadful puncture, especially when there was no one nearby to help, can tell how essential this tool is. Considering the work they play, portable air compressors come in different varieties. With some registering better performance than others, it is a challenge to select the best tool in the market. Considering that every customer wants the best product, we will review the best portable compressors that have been found to offer satisfaction to the users.
The Best Portable Air Compressors
- Viair 00088 88P Portable Air Compressor.
- Kensun YS-205 (Home 110V) Portable Air Compressor.
- Campbell Hausfeld RP1200 12 Volt Compact Inflator.
- Q Industries MV50 SuperFlow High Volume 12 Volt Air Compressor.
- Cartman DC12V Heavy Duty Air Compressor.
- ePath China Portable Super Flow 12 Volt 140 PSI Tire Inflator.
- DBPOWER Compact Air Compressor.
- Audew Auto Digital Tire Inflator.
- Helteko Portable Air Compressor.
- Tcisa Digital Tire Inflator.
- Kensun AC/DC Swift Compressor.
- Viair 00088 88P Portable.
- FORTEM THE EXTRA MILE Electric Auto Pump.
- BREEZZ Auto Tire Inflator. CLICK HERE FOR PRICE.
- Makita MAC2400 Big Bore – Top Pick.
- Porter-Cable C2002 – Best for the Money.
- VIAIR 90P Portable Compressor – Good for Car Tires.
- California Air Tools 5510SE – Ultra Quiet.
- DeWalt DWFP55126 Small Air Compressor.
CARYWON Portable Air Compressor Pump Cordless Tire Inflator
- Product Dimensions: 13.3 x 10.5 x 3.2 in.
- Item Weight: 4.2 lbs.
- Voltage: 12V
- Maximum Pressure: 150 PSI
The cordless design of this air compressor pump allows you to inflate the tires without any external power supply. This pump also runs with a built-in, large and rechargeable 2000 mAh Li-lithium battery. Moreover, this tool comes with the maximum inflatable pressure of 150 PSI. The compressor pump only takes less than 3 to 6 minutes to inflate a standard size tire.
This digital inflator also comes with an LCD display to simply preset the desired pressure in four-unit values. Furthermore, you can calculate the air pressure accurately with the units of PSI, KPA, BAR, and KG/CM2. The hands-free design of this machine allows you to inflate the tire with ease. The two additional nozzles help you to fill in the inflatable toys, sports equipment, and other vehicles. The ABS plastic with stainless steel construction makes the air compressor durable.
Tcisa 12V DC Portable Air Compressor Pump
- Product Dimensions: 11.2 x 8.7 x 5.7 in.
- Item Weight: 8 lbs.
- Voltage: 12V
- Maximum Pressure: 150 PSI
The auto shut off the technology of this air compressor pump protects the tires from over inflation. This digital inflator also has a 140-watt of a powerful motor to offer air pressure with a rate of 35-liter/minute. Moreover, this pump easily fills in a tire within 2 to 3 minutes and up to 30 PSI. This inflator comes with a large and bright LCD display and an inbuilt tire pressure gauge to support 0 to 150 PSI. The emergency tool has the 4 display units of PSI, KPA, BAR and KG/CM2.
This tool also allows you to easily read the pressure value. Furthermore, the air compressor has the four built-in bright LED lights to illuminate the road in the dark during inflating the tire. This emergency tool easily fills in the tires of the small cars, SUVs, bikes, and so on. The 3 different adjustable nozzles allow you to inflate various inflatable objects, like sports balls and water toys.
DBPOWER DC 12V Mini Tire Inflator, Portable Compact Air Compressor Pump
- Product Dimensions: 5.4 x 5.4 x 2.2 in.
- Item Weight: 14.4 ounces
- Voltage: 12V
- Maximum Pressure: 35 PSI
The air compressor has a handy design for easy portability. This digital tire inflator is also very easy to use. Moreover, this tool takes less than 10 minutes to inflate a standard mid-sized tire from 0 to 35 PSI. The device easily fits into your car trunk without any problem. The charging cable comes with a length of 3-meter. You can effortlessly reach all the four tires of any cars.
This compressor not only inflates the car tires but also effectively inflates the other inflatable objects. Furthermore, the metal protector box keeps the air compressor pump safe for a really long time. The tire pressure gauge allows you to have the perfect inflation of the tires all the time. This compressor collects the power from any 12-Volt cigarette lighter socket of your vehicle. The inflator comes with a continuous working time of 15 minutes.
Breezz Air Compressor, 12V DC Portable Auto Tire Pump With Digital Display Pressure Gauge
- Product Dimensions: 9.5 x 8 x 3.5 in.
- Item Weight: 2.4 lbs.
- Voltage: 12V
- Maximum Pressure: 150 PSI
Constructed with premium quality ABS plastic and stainless steel material, this air compressor pump inflates a tire with up to 150 PSI. This inflator also takes less than 4 minutes to inflate a tire from 0 to 35 PSI. With this pump, you can easily inflate the tire. Moreover, the digital inflator comes with the automatic shut off technology to prevent the over-inflation of the tire. This unit allows you to preset your desired air pressure value.
This compressor also comes with a bright and high-precision digital display to deliver accurate air pressure. Furthermore, this emergency tool helps you to calculate the air pressure accurately with the units like PSI, KPA, BAR, and KG/CM2. This inflator has long-lasting and bright LED lights for easy visibility in the dark. The compressor comes along with a 10-feet long power cord to reach all the tires of small cars and bikes, etc.
AstroAI Portable Air Compressor Pump 100 PSI
- Product Dimensions: 8.6 x 7.5 x 3.9 in.
- Item Weight: 3.5 lbs.
- Voltage: 12V
- Maximum Pressure: 100 PSI
This air compressor pump comes with overheat protection. The digital inflator also allows you to show accurate air pressure for the tires. Moreover, the automatic shut off technology prevents the tire from over inflation. The digital display of this pump shows an accurate inflation value all the time. The high-flow inflator easily fills in the tire up to 35-liter within a minute. The storage case of this pump allows for easy storage and portability.
The compressor also provides overheat protection after reaching the 75-degree Celsius. Furthermore, the timer of this unit automatically shuts off the pump after reaching the maximum operating time of 15 minutes. The digital LED display with backlit allows you to see the air pressure measurements in PSI, BAR, KPA, and KG/CM2 with ease. The built-in LED flashlight illuminates the dark road in case of emergency tire inflation.
Kensun AC/DC Swift Performance Portable Air Compressor
- By: Kensun
- Product Dimensions: 11.8 x 4.3 x 6.7 in.
- Item Weight: 3.5 lbs.
- Voltage: 12V
- Maximum Pressure: 120 PSI
Kensal is a reputable manufacturer known for offering high-quality products to customers. Therefore, this portable air compressor guarantees you of incomparable service. Besides, this product comes with a unique versatility as it can be connected to an AC-wall socket at home and DC-cigarette lighter socket of your car. Considering the performance it delivers, it can be used to inflate heavy-duty objects like tires still with the ability to be used for a beach ball.
LifeLine AAA 300 PSI 12 Volt DC Air Compressor
- Product Dimensions: 12 x 10 x 8 in.
- Item Weight: 4 lbs.
- Voltage: 12V
- Maximum Pressure: 300 PSI
For over 100 years, AAA always reliable quality products to its customers to ensure safe travel. When it comes to portable air compressors, it is not an exception. This excellent-quality product keeps you prepared just in case your car develops a puncture when on a journey.
The compressor has excellent power to inflate a standard size tire from 0-35PSI in only 8 minutes! Coming with a power cord, you can easily connect the compressor to your car cigarette outlet for convenience.
Digital Tire Inflator For Car W/Pressure Gauge – Portable Air Compressor
- Product Dimensions: 8 x 6.5 x 3.3 in.
- Item Weight: 1.9 lbs.
- Voltage: 12V
- Maximum Pressure: 120 PSI
This air compressor pump allows a quick and user-friendly operation. The digital pump also requires only 12-Volt of the power supply. Moreover, by simply connecting with the cigarette lighter socket of your vehicle, you can charge the pump. With the auto shut-off technology, this inflator automatically turns off after reaching the targeted air pressure for the tires. The multiple nozzles of this inflator easily allow you to fill in the tires of cars, SUVs, motorcycles, sports balls, water toys, and air mattresses.
The compressor pump also comes with an inbuilt LED light to support easy tire inflation in the dark. Furthermore, this inflator comes in a portable carrying case. The emergency device is made of durable quality and lightweight plastic. The super-sturdy hose of this digital inflator effectively withstands high air pressure to support a proper airflow. You can easily store this machine in your car trunk.
Helteko Portable Air Compressor Pump 150PSI 12V
- Product Dimensions: 9.8 x 6.4 x 4.5 in.
- Item Weight: 2.45 lbs.
- Voltage: 12V
- Maximum Pressure: 150 PSI
Made of high-quality ABS plastic and stainless steel, the air compressor pump comes with robust construction. The digital tire inflator also comes with the automatic shut off technology. Moreover, this technology allows the inflator to automatically turn itself off when the targeted inflation is reached. The technology helps to prolong the lifespan of the tool. The high-precision and easy-to-read bright display of this inflator effectively calculate the required values with PSI, BAR, KPA and KG/CM2.
This compressor pump is also highly effective in inflating a standard mid-sized car tire within 3 to 5 minutes. Furthermore, this inflator, with its compact design, is highly portable. This emergency device comes with a long 3.5mm cable. The compressor easily inflates the tires of an SUV, car, bike, or motorcycle. Even, you can inflate the sports equipment, basketball or other inflatable objects effortlessly with this pump. It is one of the best portable air compressors on the list.
Bostitch BTFP02012 6 Gallon 150 PSI Oil-Free Compressor
- Product Dimensions: 17 x 17 x 19.2 in.
- Item Weight: 31.5 lbs.
- Voltage: –
- Maximum Pressure: 150 PSI
This portable air compressor is made with durability in mind. Unlike other brands, this great unit does not require daily maintenance. Being oil-free, no more oil stains on surfaces!
With a maximum pressure of 150 PSI, it works great to get your car tire is inflated within a shorter period. For those of us who dislike loud noise, this should be the perfect deal with just 85dBA noise level. Besides, the 2 couplers mean that the tool can serve 2 users at a time!
VIAIR 85P Portable Air Compressor
- Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 5.5 x 6.8 in.
- Item Weight: 5 lbs.
- Voltage: 12V
- Maximum pressure: 100 PSI
Coming with a maximum pressure of 60 PSI, this is another great tool for every car owner. Unlike some air compressors, you have to ensure your automobile engine is on when using this unit.
You can easily monitor your car tire pressure via the easy-to-read gauge located on the exterior part of this machine. The LED lights are bright enough to provide adequate working light even at night.
Viair 00088 88P Portable Air Compressor
- Product Dimensions: 6.8 x 6.2 x 10.8 lbs
- Item Weight: 4.5 lbs.
- Voltage: 12 V
- Maximum Pressure: 120 PSI
Why should you waste fuel going to gas stations when you can quickly inflate your car tire from anywhere? It’s time you do some math and realize how going to the gas stations turn expensive with time.
With a maximum working pressure of 120 PSI, this outstanding unit is perfect for ATVs, trucks, SUVs and sedans with up to 33″ tires. Unlike other portable air compressors, you have to turn the engine on when using this air compressor. It is directly powered by the battery via the two battery clamps.
Viair 00073 70P Heavy Duty Portable Compressor
- Product Dimensions: 10.5 x 6.8 x 5.8 in.
- Item Weight: 5 lbs.
- Voltage: 12V
- Maximum Pressure: 100 PS
The second position is Viair 00073 70P Heavy Duty Portable Compressor. Boasting unique features, this is the kind of tool that every automobile owner would crave to have. Coming with a carrying bag, this unit offers the user the maximum support in his/her efforts to maintain car tires in perfect condition. Featuring a maximum pressure of 100 PSI, you can easily get your flat tire inflated in a matter of few minutes.
EPAuto 12V DC Portable Air Compressor Pump
- Product Dimensions: 9.7 x 8 x 5.6 in.
- Item Weight: 3.8 lbs.
- Voltage: 12V
- Maximum Pressure: 100 PSI
Scooping our first position is the most preferred portable air compressor on the market. This is because it has unique features that work to ensure that the user needs have been met not only but also beyond satisfaction. Being a convenient tool, you can plug into a cigarette lighter socket of your vehicle. Besides inflating car tires, it can also do stuff with your bike tires. However, it does not support LT, HT, and Truck Tires. Another outstanding feature is that it has an auto shut off that prevents over inflation.
Reasons To Buy This
- Easy-to-read: Features 4 display units; KPA, BAR, PSI, and KG/CM
- Has Led Flashlight: The bright torch means that you can inflate your car tire even at night!
- Has Auto-Shut Off: This avoids the risks that may come with over inflation.
Types of Air Compressors
- As you know that there is various type of air compressor comes in the market. Each one has different from other in shape, size, feature and different method to use to pump the air into tires or anything.
- There are larger compressors which have large tanks to store in the air and later can be used to inflate the tire. These are industrial grade compressor and are not portable in nature. They will be fixed in a workshop or petrol pumps to inflate the tire.
- However, the portable air compress is much smaller than a larger compressor you can store them into your car’s trunk and take them anywhere. They are basically run by a 12v car cigarette socket.
- These are generally designed for private vehicles and mainly not have an air compress tank to store and have to regularly run to fill the tire or any other inflatables.
Classification
Compressors can be classified according to the pressure delivered:
- Low-pressure air compressors (LPACs), which have a discharge pressure of 150 psi or less
- Medium-pressure compressors which have a discharge pressure of 151 psi to 1,000 psi
- High-pressure air compressors (HPACs), which have a discharge pressure above 1,000 psi
They can also be classified according to the design and principle of operation:
- Single-stage reciprocating compressor
- Two-stage reciprocating compressor
- Compound compressor
- Rotary-screw compressor
- Rotary vane pump
- Scroll compressor
- Turbocompressor
- Centrifugal compressor
Buying Guide of Air Compressors
If you’re considering buying a portable air compressor, there are several things for you to consider. From the very requirements of the air tools you’re using to the horsepower the compressor provides, we’ll give you the lowdown so that you can make the right choice without having to spend too long.
Factors to consider before you buy of Air Compressors
- Environment – Since you’re here, we assume you’re keen to have a portable air compressor. But it would be remiss of us to not mention that there are of course other types of air compressors! If you work in a shop or garage and have the space you might want to consider a stationary air compressor. These tend to have higher horsepower and larger tanks for long periods of use. Many have a vertical design that can minimize the space they take up. If you’re planning on moving around then you are best going for a portable one. So it’s all about the environment in which your air compressor will be used as well as what you will use it for.
- Noise – Continuing on the theme of the environment, it’s important to consider whether the noise is a factor in your purchase. Make no mistake that some air compressors are noisy. If you’re looking for one that can run quietly indoors then that rules out many on the market. But some have a significantly lower decibel level than others so if noise is an issue, be sure to check this out. Sometimes having less noise can compromise on the engine so it’s a good idea to try to strike a balance.
- Air tool requirements – This is one of the most important factors to consider. After all, you want to make sure that your air compressor can keep up with you! If you need an air compressor for industrial use for heavy machinery then you’ll likely want a stationary air compressor with a tank. But if you’re simply looking for something to use around the house (powering a nail gun or inflating tires) then a portable air compressor is just what you need. You should consider the requirements of your tools such as pressure and volume before making your decision.
- Space and portability – Of course, these beasts should indeed be portable. Yet you’d be surprised by the difference in weight from product to product. Some are as light as 7lbs and others as heavy as 70lbs! Most come with handles to make it easier when carrying them and some even come with wheel kits. It’s all down to how often you need to your air compressor and if you need it in a variety of places or simply in one place such as your garage. If you’re not planning on moving it much, make sure the hose is nice and long so you don’t have trouble reaching your car tires, for example. Just as the weight of an air compressor can vary dramatically, so too can the overall size. Make sure it’s a size you’re comfortable with and have space for.
- Style – Connected to space and portability is the style of your air compressor. If you’re still set one then it’s worth knowing that they come in several different styles, as reflected by those reviewed in our comprehensive guide. The main styles are as follows: pancake, pontoon, twin-stack, and wheelbarrow. Pancake compressors are flat and round and take up less space. Pontoon compressors are horizontal in design with a single tank. Twin-stack compressors have two horizontal tanks that add air capacity without reducing space. Wheelbarrow compressors have twin tanks as well as wheels and handles for increased portability. There really is an air compressor for everyone!
- Horsepower, PSI, and CFM – The horsepower of your air compressor could realistically be anything from 1.5 to 6.5. Those designed for industrial use go beyond this and tend to offer a much greater psi (pounds per square inch). In general, horsepower isn’t of great concern when deciding on an air compressor for use in and around the home. But if it helps you decide between two products then so be it. With regard to PSI, most compressors provide plenty of pressure for everyday DIY tasks and the tools involved. As such, this isn’t too much of an issue, however, a higher max PSI does mean that a smaller tank can hold more air and perform like a bigger tank. The CFM is about how fast the compressor can supply air. You don’t want your tools using air quicker than your compressor can provide it or you’re going to be waiting around often which isn’t very productive!
- Power source – If you’re able to supply your portable air compressor with electricity then one with an electric motor will do the job! But if that’s not the case, you’ll need to consider an air compressor with a gasoline engine that runs on batteries or fuel. Be sure to check the voltage that your air compressor runs on before purchase. Most run on 110V but larger ones run at 240V.
Advantages Of Portable Air Compressors
- Portable – Just as the name suggests, these compressors can be easily moved from one place to another. This is because they are usually lightweight, with most weighing under 5 lbs.
- Small-Sized – Though portable air compressors come in different sizes, the majority of are small-sized. This makes storage more comfortable and more efficient.
- Highly Versatile – With most traditional air compressors relying on wall outlets for power, for these small-sized machines, it is different. Well, you can use the wall outlet. But wait, what about when you are on a journey? It’s simple; use your car cigarette lighter!
- Less Noisy – For those who dislike noise like me, they should consider buying portable air compressors. Considering that they produce less sound, they can be used indoor, unlike the traditional ones.
- Energy-Efficient – Where there is efficiency, there is saving on cost. With these air compressors using less energy, you can avoid energy wastage and save your money!
How to Properly Check Your Tire/Air Compressors
- First, you will want to get yourself a digital tire pressure gauge. Although standard tire pressure gauges are cheaper and do the job, a digital gauge is more accurate and easier to use.
- Find your recommended tire pressure in the driver’s side doorjamb or in your manual, making sure you note whether the front and rear tires have different values.
- You will want to check your tire pressure when your tires are cold or haven’t been driven for at least 30 minutes. Tires heat up as you drive and the pressure will increase, giving you an inaccurate reading. The recommended tire pressures listed on the sticker in the doorjamb or in the manual are for cold tires.
- Remove the valve stem caps from your tires and put them in your pocket or somewhere safe, where you won’t lose them.
- Press the tire pressure gauge onto the valve stem and reading should appear on your tire pressure gauge. If you’re using a standard gauge, it doesn’t hurt to do the check two or even three times to make sure you have an accurate reading.
- If any of your tires have pressures lower than their recommended values, you will want to inflate them to ensure you’re getting the best fuel economy possible, while making sure your tires don’t experience premature wear.
- Reinstall your valve stem caps before you forget!
How to Properly Inflate your Tires.
If you don’t want to purchase a portable inflator, most gas stations will have an air compressor. Some stations charge and some don’t. Once you’ve determined which method you’ll be using to refill your tires, follow these steps:
- Pull in as close to the compressor as possible, if you’re using one at a gas station. This way you can easily access all four tires without having to move your vehicle.
- Remove the valve stem caps from all four wheels and put them in your pocket or somewhere you won’t lose them.
- Turn on the compressor and push the hose fitting down on the valve stem. You should be able to tell if the tire is being inflated.
- Most air compressors will have a built-in gauge so you can check your tire pressure while you are refilling. Digital air compressors, some of which are available at gas stations, allow you to set your desired tire pressure and the compressor will automatically shut off once it reaches that value.
- It’s better to overinflate your tires when using a compressor since it’s easy to let air back out of your tires afterward.
- Adjust all four tires the same way. If you are refilling after your tires are warmed up, you will want to inflate about 3 PSI over the recommended value. Make sure to check your tire pressure once your tires are cold.
- Once you’re done refilling all four tires, do a final check on the pressure with your digital gauge. You will want to do this when the tires are cold.
- Reinstall your valve stem caps.
Conclusion
From the review, it is definite that there are great portable air compressors out there. With all offering satisfaction to customers, the satisfaction level may differ depending on the brand. Considering that every automobile owner would want the best product for his vehicle, it is always important to go for the best product.