One of the biggest fears of vehicle owners is to find yourself stranded in unfamiliar territory. In most cases, this is because of something as simple as a flat tire. The simplest solution to prevent this fear from turning into reality is to keep a portable tire inflator pump handy.
The best 12V air compressor on the market right now is the VIAIR Automatic Compressor Kit. It features a compact design and can easily withstand 40 minutes of continuous usage.
Let’s look at this phenomenal tire inflator pump in detail along with some other options to suit various requirements. After that, we’ll give you some pointers on choosing the right tire inflator pump for you.
The best 12V Air Compressors
VIAIR 450P Automatic Portable Compressor Kit VIAIR 450P Automatic Portable Compressor Kit VIAIR 85P Portable Air Compressor VIAIR 85P Portable Air Compressor VIAIR 400P Portable Compressor VIAIR 400P Portable Compressor Helteko Portable Air Compressor Pump Helteko Portable Air Compressor Pump Kensun 12V Portable Air Compressor Pump Kensun 12V Portable Air Compressor Pump EPAuto 12V DC Portable Air Compressor Pump EPAuto 12V DC Portable Air Compressor Pump FORTEM Digital Tire Inflator FORTEM Digital Tire Inflator HausBell Portable 12V Air Compressor HausBell Portable 12V Air Compressor TIREWELL 12V Tire Inflator TIREWELL 12V Tire Inflator
Detailed Product Reviews
1.VIAIR Automatic Portable Compressor Kit
Features:
- Automatic shut off function
- 60-ft coiled hose
- Vibration resistant tray
- Quick-connect coupling
- Gas station-style tire inflation gun
VIAIR is an active contributor to the car accessories market. They manufacture some of the best accessories in the world. One of their many amazing products is the VIAIR Automatic Portable Compressor Kit.
The VIAIR compressor is the perfect buddy for long road trips. It is mainly designed for RVs, but its versatility makes it compatible with any kind of vehicle. The compressor inflates a maximum pressure of 150 PSI with ease into virtually any tire.
For ease of use, this device takes the prize. While most air compressors require you to constantly go back and turn them off and on again to switch between tires, this one by VIAIR operates only when you pull the trigger on its inflation gun. If you ask us, that makes a huge difference. You can inflate tires on the go and save yourself a lot of time.
You also get not one but two 30-ft coil hoses providing you with a total length of 60 feet. This is more than enough for any vehicle. Speaking of attachments, let’s not forget that this great product comes with a 45-degree chuck and 90-degree twist-on chuck. With so many amazing features, this is one of the handiest air compressors you can own.
Pros:
- Long coil hose
Most air compressors lag because the hose is not long enough to reach tires on the opposite end. You’ll end up carrying the air compressor to get close enough to each tire. But with this tire inflator, you get a 60foot hose (30-ft primary + 30-ft extension air hose).
- Special tire attachments
The gas station-style inflation gun makes it a breeze to shift to the next tire. You also get different chucks to easily access every tire.
- Automatic shut off
When moving from tire to tire, this feature proves extremely helpful. You need to turn off a typical portable air compressor between tire fills or to check the air pressure. If the compressor isn’t nearby, this can turn into you running laps around the vehicle. This is where the benefit of the automatic shut off functionality really shines.
Cons:
- Cool-down time
This product is among the most powerful options. However, the only drawback was it only runs at 100 PSI for 20 minutes. After that, it will need some time to cool down before the next use.
2.VIAIR 85P Portable Air Compressor
Features:
- Built-in LED work light
- Inflates up to 31-inch tires
- Gauge to monitor tire pressure placed on the top
If you’re looking for a compact, portable air compressor, this might be it. The VIAIR 85P Portable Tire Inflator works brilliantly for pumping air into tires as big as 31-inches.
Its functioning is quite simple, too. Plug it into your vehicle’s cigarette lighter power port, connect the screw-on tire chuck, and start your engine. Make sure the chuck is securely attached before you turn the unit on.
You get a 10 foot long power cord, which seems ideal for medium-sized vehicles and RVs. The maximum working pressure is 60 PSI and the fill rate varies for different sized tires.
The kit features an impressive LED light to work in low-light conditions. It makes monitoring the tires and the pressure gauge on top easier. This basic yet so important aspect can make a huge difference, especially when you’re stuck somewhere at night with no help around.
Pros:
- Easy to read pressure gauge
- Tire pressure is visible on the top of the unit through the in-built gauge. Although the gauge needle remains unstable while inflating, you can still figure out the pressure level. Once the pump is off, you get a more accurate reading.
- Great LED work light
The LED work light proves beneficial during emergencies. It gives you a better view of the tire valve stem allowing you to attach the chuck quickly.
Cons:
- Small air hose
The air hose is not very long. You get a mere 3-foot air hose with no extension whatsoever. The power cord is around 10 feet in length. You may need another extension air hose, or you’ll need to carry the compressor around. So, inflating tires can turn into a day’s work out.
3.VIAIR 400P Portable Compressor
Features:
- Compact and portable design
- Compatible with a variety of vehicles
- Comes with numerous accessories
This amazing compressor kit can inflate a 35-inch tire from 0 to 30 PSI within 5 minutes. You only need to attach the heavy-duty battery clamp to your vehicle’s battery and the air chuck to the tire valve stem. Then turn on the engine.
To monitor air pressure, you can simply use the 5-in-1 inline inflator/deflator hose and gauge. Before you ask, no you won’t spend a fortune buying these accessories. All these come with the VIAR 400P Portable Compressor. Besides these, you also get a zippered soft carry case and three inflation tips.
The open-ended tire inflation hose with its included 100 PSI gauge provides the following functions: air up, air up intermittently, air down, and check tire pressure.
Overall, this is a reliable air compressor that works well and comes with a warranty.
Pros:
- Multiple accessories in the box
When it comes to in-box accessories, the VIAIR 400P knocks the ball out of the park. You get different attachments and a soft carry to make it easier to carry around.
- Portable and lightweight
The design and construction of this model make it light and easily transportable. It comes with a handle on the top, so you don’t have to lug it around uncomfortably.
Cons:
- Compatible with only specific vehicles
4.Helteko Portable Air Compressor Pump
Features:
- 5-year warranty
- In-built screen
- Auto shut off function
Helteko is another reliable name in the vehicle accessories industry. The Helteko 12V DC Portable Air Compressor Pump sports a fun and sleek design. You get two color options–bold red and yellow.
The pump features a large, high-precision LCD that lets you calculate the required values (PSI, BAR, KPA, and KG/CM2) on the spot.
You also get LED-lighting in this elegant machine. It is a perfect alternative in emergencies and when working in dark conditions.
The Helteko Portable Air Compressor Pump inflates a standard mid-size car tire in just three to five minutes. To do that, you get a 3.5M cable that helps in reaching all the tires easily.
You also get the auto shut off functionality, which is essential if you’re new to using air compressors.
Pros:
- Durable and high-quality construction
This air compressor from Helteko is a prime example of elegance and durability. Not only do you get a good-looking air compressor but also a durable ABS plastic and stainless-steel construction.
- Auto shut off
Simple, yet effective. When the tire reaches the desired pressure, the pump automatically turns off.
- LCD screen and led light
You get a high-precision bright LCD screen that displays multiple values. This eliminates the need to calculate the value in different units. Also, you get a very bright LED light that is exceptionally helpful during an emergency.
Cons:
- Trouble with the automatic shut off function
Now, we didn’t personally experience this, but many users have reported that the auto shut off feature does not work at times.
5.Kensun 12V Portable Air Compressor Pump
Features:
- 32-inch long hose
- Includes two motors
- Works with both 12V and 110V sockets
This air compressor from Kensun is a premium high-performance option. One of its most unique features is its dual motor design. The dual solid metal motors provide enough power for fast inflation.
The Kensun 12V Portable Air Compressor Pump boasts AC and DC switching capabilities. This means you can connect it to your car’s cigarette lighter plug as well as any 110V wall plug in your home. Its versatility makes it a must-have air compressor.
Worried about the space it’ll take up in your trunk?
All its accessories and cords have separate compartments where you can store them easily. Also, you get a zipped carry bag for maximum comfort.
Pros:
- Convenient and portable
The dual-motor design is a boon. You can use this model at home or keep it handy in the trunk of your car. It is a highly versatile option thanks to its AC/DC switching. However, it is not bulky like most 110V air compressors. You can easily carry it around without lugging.
- Different nozzles included in the package
This tire inflator comes with multiple accessory nozzles. You can easily change the nozzles and inflate car tires, bicycle tires, sports balls, balloons, and many other items.
Cons:
- Unimpressive runtime
This air compressor may run out of pressure in between jobs. We don’t recommend using it for heavy-duty tasks.
6.EPAuto 12V DC Portable Air Compressor Pump
Features:
- Overheat protector shuts off the unit automatically
- Digital display
- LED flashlight included
The biggest problem faced by portable air compressors is that they overheat quickly. This is not ideal for the machine’s performance in the long run. This portable air compressor from EPAuto eliminates that problem with its overheating protection system. Although the CFM and maximum PSI is not extremely high, the unit still performs admirably. You can fill a variety of tires and balls with air on the go. Of course, you must ensure that the tire or object you’re using it on does not need a higher PSI.
The cord length is only around 9 feet. So, we don’t recommend this product for larger vehicles.
Pros:
- Easy-to-read display
You get 4 display units with the values visible on the screen. They are PSI, KPA, BAR, and KG/CM2.
- Overheat protection system
The auto shut off feature plus this phenomenal overheat protection system makes a great combo. The compressor shuts off automatically when it gets hotter than 167 degrees Fahrenheit.
- LED flashlight
The compressor includes a bright LED flashlight that can prove useful in different scenarios.
Cons:
- Long wait time
The CFM of this product is not very impressive. You need to stay patient until it fills the tire.
- Short air hose
The air hose is only 9 feet long which makes it difficult to reach tires on the other side of the vehicle.
7.FORTEM Digital Tire Inflator
Features:
- Long power cord
- Affordable price
- High maximum PSI
If you’re looking for a high-quality compressor with a high PSI, this is the inflator for you. The FORTEM Digital Tire Inflator is an easy-to-use and beautifully designed sturdy air compressor. For travelers, this is a great option to keep handy in the back of their vehicles.
The air hose itself is not particularly long but the long power cord makes it easier to cover more ground.
This is a great compressor to have in emergencies because of its bright LED light. It allows you to work in the dark and works as a signal for other drivers telling them that you need assistance.
This is among the quietest air compressors in the market. So, if you can’t stand the noise made by air compressors, this should be your go-to model.
Pros:
- Reasonably priced
This is a great air compressor if you’re on a tight budget. Surprisingly, the cheap price does not compromise its functioning.
- Built-in flashlight and LCD
You get an in-built flashlight for emergencies and using the compressor in low-light situations. The device is also equipped with a bright LCD.
Cons:
- Slow inflation rate
Compared to the other models we came across, this one took a long time to get the job done.
8.HausBell Portable 12-Volt Air Compressor
Features:
- 150 max PSI
- Digital tire pressure gauge with pressure selection
- Offers overheat protection
This superb air compressor delivers a super-fast inflation rate of 35L/min. It can inflate smaller tires within seconds. The auto shut off feature turns the device off after it reaches a set tire pressure.
You get a 3-meter power cord with additional nozzles to connect it to the front and rear wheels conveniently. This product does not support high pressure or large volume applications like inflating truck tires. You can, however, use it to inflate car tires, motorcycle tires, bicycle tires, Jeeps, and SUVs.
The air compressor features a bright and easy to use pressure gauge display. You can set the pressure and switch between units in one click.
Pros:
- Versatile air compressor
This air compressor offers value for money as it can be easily used for multiple applications. From inflating bicycle tires to SUV tires, you always get the best results.
- Easy to set digital tire pressure gauge
You can switch the units with just one-click and set the pressure without following complex steps.
Cons:
- Not easy to read
While the digital pressure gauge is extremely easy to set, it is not easy to read. The numbers are small and difficult to monitor.
9.TIREWELL 12V Tire Inflator
Features:
- Double cylinders
- Quick inflation
- Suitable for larger vehicles
This air compressor from TIREWELL works well with SUVs, trucks, RVs, and minivans. Unlike many compressors, this is a versatile option that can inflate tires of both light and heavy-duty vehicles.
You get two motors in the direct drive of the compressor. This ensures fast inflation without the compressor being noisy.
What we liked was that this model comes with a 5-meter extension hose and a high-quality battery clamp. These two accessories make it perfect for larger vehicles.
Pros:
- Extension hose included
This amazing product comes with a 5-meter extension hose that makes it simple to reach tires on the other side of bigger vehicles.
- Double cylinder construction
The double cylinders allow this air compressor to inflate tires faster. They also ensure stability and a noiseless inflation process.
Cons:
- Expensive
This product is a bit costly. But for the features you get, if you can afford it, this compressor is a great buy.
Buyers Guide to the Best 12V Air Compressor for You
A tire inflator is often seen as an option rather than a necessity. But let us tell you that a portable air compressor can prove lifesaving.
Consider this situation for instance:
You have a flat tire in a blizzard. There is no cell reception nor any help nearby. How long do you think you will survive?
Instead of relying on luck, we would highly recommend keeping a tire inflator at hand. A flat tire may just be around the corner. With an air compressor, you can fill it and get going in minutes. It’s that simple.
So, how do you know which tire inflator works best with your vehicle?
This guide will tell you exactly how to do that. Once you are done reading it, you will spot a great air compressor when you see one.
Air compressors come with many different features, some more essential than others. The first thing you should know is some factors make or mar the effectiveness of an air compressor. Let’s see what they are and how each of them acts as a catalyst for portable air compressors.
The Cost
Perhaps the most important element for people on a budget is the price of the air compressor. You can look at the most expensive model with the best features all you want. But if you cannot afford it, you are better off buying a less expensive air compressor that works best for you.
Know that the cost does not determine how good the compressor is. The most expensive model may lack basic features a low-cost air compressor proudly boasts. Similarly, if you buy a cheap model, don’t expect it to perform as a premium tire inflator. There are limitations to any product, make sure to check them before setting your expectations.
Different Power Sockets
There are two types of sockets you may notice on air compressors.
- Cigarette socket.
- Standard plug socket.
This will mainly depend on the application and where you intend to use it. For car owners, the best option is to go for an 12V air compressor that plugs into their car’s cigarette lighter socket.
If you look at the portable air compressors in our list, you will notice all of them are compatible with a cigarette socket.
You can also get compressors that come with a rechargeable battery. So, if you’re traveling somewhere with access to a power socket, they are quite handy.
PSI
What is PSI?
PSI stands for pounds per square inch. This unit represents the air pressure within a tire or other inflatable device. For 12V compressors, the ideal range of PSI is between 30 and 80.
It is particularly important to check the PSI value of the unit you are about to buy. Also, check the maximum PSI value of the items you are planning to use the 12V air compressor with. If the value of either does not work with the other, it will severely affect the working of the compressor.
Inflation Speed
The inflation speed, or the airflow, is the total air volume output the 12V air compressor offers. It is generally measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM).
A good rule of thumb is to get an 12V air compressor with the highest CFM rating. The higher it is, the better performance you get out of the compressor. However, select a model that provides 1.5 times more CFM than you require. This gives the product enough performance buffer to prevent overloading.
Runtime or Duty Cycle
This is the duration for which you can continuously operate the machine at 100 PSI and a standard temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit. You can calculate the duty cycle easily by using the equation given below.
Duty Cycle = compressor on time divided by compressor off (cool-down) time
We recommend getting a compressor that requires less time to cool down.
To help you understand better, consider this instance.
An 12V air compressor has a 25% duty cycle. This means the compressor works continuously for ten minutes and needs a 40-minute break before it cools down.
It is not advised to get models with a small tank as they run out of the air in between tasks. You’ll end up wasting a lot of time with such models. Their off time is way more than the runtime making them highly impractical.
Higher duty cycle ratings provide more efficiency and value for money. If you run a compressor more than its duty cycle, you will experience a decrease in its efficiency. Don’t repeatedly exhaust the 12V air compressor as it can severely deteriorate its performance in the long run.
High Precision Display and LED Lights
This is a great feature to have, especially for portable 12V air compressors. When you’re driving in dim lighting conditions or at night, a flat tire becomes difficult to fix. The analog 12V air compressors are impossible to read and use in such situations. But with a digital display, you can easily view the pressure level on the brightly lit screen.
LED lights let you illuminate every corner even at night without facing any trouble. You can also use LED lights during emergencies to alert or catch the attention of passersby.
Auto Shut Off
Very few 12V air compressors come with this feature. What is it?
With auto shut off, the 12V air compressor turns off completely after reaching the desired air pressure. For car owners, this is an immensely helpful feature to have. It automatically turns off the machine when the tire reaches its maximum pressure.
For beginners, 12V air compressors with the auto shut off feature prove beneficial as they don’t need to worry about going overboard or leaving the tire underinflated.
This feature is not available for many 12V models, so make sure to check the specifications for this phenomenal feature. Especially if you’re a beginner.
Power Cord Length
You got the right power socket, great. But it is of no use if the power cord is not long enough to reach the tires. A decent cord length becomes essential when you want to inflate tires.
12V air compressors come with shorter cables than the DC variants. This is not trouble until you own a larger vehicle like an RV. With a smaller cord, it becomes difficult to reach tires on the opposite side of the power outlet.
Ideally, air compressors must possess a 10 to 12 feet cord to avoid any difficulty when inflating tires on a larger vehicle. However, you can easily purchase an extension cord to get the desired hose length.
Size and Weight of Air Compressor
We recommend 12V air compressors for light-duty work only. They are not ideal to perform heavy-duty tasks. So, there’s no point in investing in a heavy and bulky 12V air compressor.
Most 12V air compressors weigh between 2 to 6 pounds. Get one that fits in your car’s trunk without weighing it down.
Warranty
When buying any product, it is important to look at the warranty period. Even more so for 12V air compressors. It gives you a sense of reliability since the warranty covers any repair cost till the period ends.
Usually, you can expect the warranty to cover the repairing costs from a year to three years. Check the specifications to learn about product warranty.
Final Thoughts
12V portable air compressors are a very handy tool for vehicle owners. They allow you to inflate low-pressure tires on the go. Some air compressors also come with LED lights and displays that let you work in low-light conditions easily.