The Best Portable Tire Inflators You Can Buy

Of the two pistol-style inflators the Gear Team included in their tests, the AVID Power Cordless was more than a full minute faster reaching both 30 psi and 45 psi than the AstroAI unit.

The AVID Power elevates itself above the competition without significantly raising the price. It offers a backup power source through the 12V socket in your car, and two of each type of valve adapter are included in the package. It also comes with an extra 12V DC power cord rather than an extra battery.

The Gear Team preferred the rubberized handle of the Avid to the hard plastic grip on the AstroAI, and it was even a little bit quieter. When you factor in the quicker inflation time, the USB port on the battery (for charging phones and other devices on-the-go), and the alternate power option, at just under a hundred bucks, the Avid Power Cordless was an easy pick for Best Overall Tire Inflator.

The Milwaukee 2848-20 M18 Inflator far outperformed competitors with astonishing inflation times: 30 psi in a little over a minute and 45 psi in about two-and-a-half minutes. This was significantly quicker than all the other units tested.

Unfortunately, despite its power, this bulky unit isn't practical for daily transport. Is it "portable"? Sure, it can be moved wherever you need it. But could you keep it in your trunk in case of emergencies? Not unless you drive a Crown Vic. Another big downside is that it relies solely on Milwaukee's M18 Li-ion battery, which isn't included.

The 2848-20 could be a great addition for off-roaders or overlanders already invested in Milwaukee's M18 battery system. It would also be very handy around the house for general inflation purposes. However, for occasional or emergency tire inflation, smaller portable options are recommended. (Note: Milwaukee's 2475-20 inflator is smaller and lighter than the one tested here, but it relies on the less-powerful M12 battery.)

The stylish neo-industrial design of the tiny Viair 88P is visually and ergonomically appealing. Moreover, the 88P impressed the Gear Team with remarkably fast tire inflation, significantly outperforming most of the other competitors. Unfortunately, its sole power supply—connecting directly to the car battery with alligator clips—and charming-but-wonky analog gauge hinder its usefulness for everyday drivers.

According to Viair, the high power demands of the unit's compressor motor (16–19 amps) necessitate a direct battery connection, as the typical 12V car accessory port or AC wall plug don't provide enough amperage to power this unit's compressor motor. While this explains the Viair's comparatively rapid inflation time, it also reduces the 88P's usefulness for drivers who don't want the hassle of accessing the car battery every time they want to top off their tire pressure. Moreover, the analog gauge consistently displayed higher-than-actual readings, requiring multiple top-offs.

While the tiny Viair 88P's performance shines, its power supply and outmoded gauge prompt hope for more a user-friendly portable tire inflator from this industry leader in the future.

Easy to use, this flat, box-shaped device inflated the Gear Team's Hyundai's test tire to both 30 and 45 psi in a respectable 4 minutes and 28 seconds and 9 minutes and 11 seconds, respectively. This is about 30 seconds faster than the similarly designed VacLife inflator.

The Teromas includes two tapered stems and a ball needle, and its 21.7-inch hose is a big plus. While it may be a bit more expensive than the VacLife, the optional power supply and the longer hose give the Teromas the edge.

A top Amazon seller, the AstroAI tire inflator lived up to its popularity in the Gear Team's test. Its compact design suits emergencies, fueled by a quick-charging 20V 2.0Ah Li-ion battery (a full charge takes about an hour) or a cord connected to a wall outlet or car cig lighter with an adapter. The pistol-style design is user-friendly: Just set desired psi, attach the connector, and pull the trigger. In our test, it was relatively speedy in inflation time, if a bit noisy.

Two included USB-equipped batteries and a carrying case enhance its appeal, fitting easily in cargo spaces. Remarkably affordable, the AstroAI Cordless Inflator defied cost/quality norms.

The Black+Decker model BDINF20C stands out due to its versatile capabilities, catering to a wide range of needs both in everyday scenarios and high-power requirements. This makes it an excellent choice for various users, with a particular appeal to those already integrated into B+D's popular 20V MAX battery ecosystem.

The inflator offers the convenience of cordless operation through its Li-ion battery, and it also accommodates car usage via the 12V outlet, alongside a wall plug option for use within your home. This eliminates concerns about battery maintenance and the need to invest in yet another battery system if you're already utilizing the 20V MAX setup.

While the Black+Decker name carries a reputation often associated with garage equipment, this particular model is better suited for household inflation tasks than automotive ones. Despite its commendable attributes such as a high-flow hose, versatile attachments, and enhanced portability compared to other console-type units the Gear Team tested, it struggled to meet the demands of larger tire inflation. It boasted a respectable inflation time to 30 psi, but when facing the challenge of inflating our typical SUV tire, it fell short, taking over nine minutes to get to 45 psi.

If you're an existing 20V MAX battery user seeking an inflator mainly for household applications, this model is a fitting choice—provided you've already got at least one B+D 20V MAX battery in your arsenal. The unit they tested did not come with one, and most of the units for sale online don't, either.

Ryobi ONE+ inflator/deflator utilizes its proprietary Li-ion battery, which offers plenty of juice to inflate all four tires, but the ONE+ battery is not included in this package, and there is no backup power option available.

While compact and robust, the Ryobi would be more suitable for household use. Respectable inflation times (30 psi in over four minutes, 45 psi in eight minutes) are on par with the competition. Manipulating the screw-on valve indoors is simple, but not in cold conditions. Like the Black+Decker unit, if you're already invested in Ryobi's ONE+ battery system, this inflator works great. Next time, we'll try Ryobi's P737D pistol-grip tire inflator.

RoofPax, typically known for cargo carriers, distinguishes itself with a rare triple power option and deflation capability. Despite its dual motors, its 30 psi inflation time lags behind handheld alternatives, though its 45 psi time is mid-tier. It does offer a SUP-specific attachment. Suitable for home use, the RoofPax with its power choices holds appeal, but a faster inflation rate and lower cost would elevate its standing.