To choose the best portable air compressor among various models or designs in the market, first you have to check with the type of air compressors and its working performance, & duty cycle. Types – In general, there are 4 main types of portable air compressors – air inflators, pancake air compressors, hot dog air compressors, and twin stack air compressors. Here is the table that differentiate these types. Select the air compressor by depending on your work requirement. Duty Cycle – It is the amount of time that run in a full cycle, including both running time and resting time. Most of the models built with thermal protection feature that make it shut off automatically when reaches certain temperature. For instance, a 10% duty cycle has 1 minute on and 9 minutes off whereas 50% duty cycle has 5 minutes on/5 minutes off and for 100% duty cycle, you can have continuous operation without off. Apart from these 3 key factors, you have to follow various other factors like airflow, power source, motor power, tank size, etc. which are clearly mentioned in the below “Buying Guide”. Also, we came up with a list of best-selling portable air compressors in the market. Just go through them to know how to choose and where to purchase the best portable air compressors.
Best Portable Air Compressor in 2023
Top Portable Air Compressor: Reviews
1. EPAuto 12V DC Portable Air Compressor
Best air compressor Best airbrush compressor Portable air compressor for truck tires Best shop air compressors Types of Air Compressors
You can find a wide range of automobile-related tools from EPAuto, including the portable air compressor we have mentioned here in this article. The EPAuto portable air compressor is present in the 1st position in this article as it is one of the most powerful options available out there. It uses up to 180 watts of power while connected to your car’s battery via a 12-volt socket. And while it can only reach up to 70 PSI of maximum air pressure, you can use this air compressor even with large sized tires or other heavy-duty applications if needed. Another great thing about this EPAuto portable air compressor is that it has a digital meter on the side for precise pressure reading. Its inbuilt LED lights allow you to easily use it during the need if needed. You even get multiple control buttons on this unit for setting a specific PSI level as per your needs and requirements. Highlights
Maximum air pressure of up to 70 PSI Power draw of 180 watts Inbuilt LED lights Digital pressure meter for precise readings Ideal for heavy-duty applications
Pros
Precision pressure reading LED lights for night usage
Cons
Small pressure High power consumption
2. VacLife Air Compressor Tire Inflator
VacLife is a popular brand that deals in vacuum and air blower accessories. You can even find a portable air compressor for your vehicle made by VacLife. VacLife’s portable air compressor is present in the 2nd position in this article as it is the most reliable option present here. While most other air compressors come with a 1 year or a 2-year warranty, this one offers a lifetime warranty. You can even expect a great build quality while using this air compressor. Even though it is a portable one, you get a high air pressure of up to 150 PSI while using it. This portable air compressor uses up to 120 watts of power when its electric motor is compressing air to inflate the tires of your vehicle. A handy feature found in this air compressor is its auto shut off feature that turns off the compressor after reaching a specific air pressure. Highlights
Maximum air pressure of up to 150 PSI Power draw of 120 watts Lifetime warranty Auto shut off feature for ease of use 13 feet long power cord
Pros
Highly reliable Long power cord Various handy features
Cons
Subpar build quality A bit on the larger side
3. Fortem Digital Tire Inflator for Car
Fortem is another brand of air compressors out there that also makes portable options for using along with your vehicle. This portable air compressor from Fortem is present in the 3rd position in this article as you get a wide range of useful features with it. Just like various other high-end air compressors out there, this one is also rated at a maximum air pressure of up to 150 PSI. It uses the 12v power socket of your car to operate with a power consumption of up to 120 watts. Fortem offers a 1-year long warranty to its users along with a wide range of features. Its auto pump and auto shut off features can be quite handy for reaching a specific PSI level quite easily. You also get various include nozzle tips and a carrying bag for ease of use while using this air compressor. Highlights
Maximum air pressure of up to 150 PSI Power draw of 120 watts 1-year warranty Comes with various accessories Works via a 12v power socket Auto shut off feature for precision
Pros
Includes various features Offers various accessories Decent performance
Cons
Slightly expensive Average build quality
4. AstroAI Air Compressor Tire Inflator
AstroAI has been providing high quality and reliable products for several years. Their product range varies from mini air coolers, air compressors to electrical tools. Their air compressor is suitable for a wide range of applications that include inflating car tires, balls, air pillows, mattresses, cushions, balloons, and several others. It is capable of pumping 35 litres per minute which means it can inflate a car tire from 0 to 35psi under 5 minutes. It will automatically shut down once it reaches the desired psi. It is equipped with a large LCD screen which enables easy reading even in dim lighting conditions. Highlights:
Wide range of applications Advanced accuracy 3 nozzles and extra fuse included Heavy-duty cord Auto turn off
Pros:
Easy to install and use Compact and portable Value for money Fast inflation LCD screen with backlight
Cons:
No warranty details
5. Avid Power Tire Inflator Air Compressor
Avid Power is a highly popular brand of power tools that is known for making all kinds of products. And as you would expect, it even makes portable air compressors for vehicles. Avid Power’s portable air compressor is one of the only cordless options out there. As a result, you can easily fill tires using it without being tethered by any power cord. This is possible due to the 20-volt battery system by the Avid Power air compressor. Even if this battery runs out, you can simply use the 12-volt power socket of your car for powering this air compressor. Despite its portable and battery-powered design, it is able to offer up to 100 PSI of maximum air pressure that is quite decent. Since Avid Power is a reputable brand of power tools, you get a 2-year long warranty with it that is always great to have. Highlights
Maximum air pressure of up to 100 PSI 20-volt battery system 2-year warranty Two power input options Small and compact Digital pressure gauge
Pros
Flexible power input options Battery for cordless usage Small and compact design
Cons
Average power Low battery life
6. Kensun Portable Air Compressor
You can find different unique products offered by Kenson, including their portable air compressor that offers two different power modes to the user. This Kensun portable air compressor is one of the only options out there that work with both 12 volt as well as 110-volt electricity. It is able to do this as it comes with two different power plugs. But whether you use it with AC or DC current, you get a maximum air pressure of up to 100 PSI that is quite decent. As for its power consumption, it is rated at 120 watts that is as same as various other options out there. Even though this portable air compressor has an analog pressure gauge, it shows decently accurate pressure ratings. Its included nozzles allow the user to easily fill tires, balls, and various other things if needed. And you get all of this along with a 2-year warranty while buying this Kensun portable air compressor. Highlights
Maximum air pressure of up to 100 PSI Power draw of 120 watts 2-year warranty Works with both AC and DC current Comes with two power plugs Accurate analog pressure gauge
Pros
Use at home or on the go Decent power Highly reliable
Cons
Analog meter Slightly large
7. Teromas Tire Inflator Air Compressor
Teromas also makes portable air compressors for vehicles like cars and trucks. And its offering has a high user rating because of the various features that you get along with it. The Teromas portable air compressor is another great pick if you want a versatile option. Just like the previous Kensus air compressor, this one also comes with two different power cords. As a result, you can use it with either AC 110 volt or DC 12 volt power supply as per your need. In other words, you can use this air compressor for portable as well as home usage. But since it has a digital pressure gauge, it is much more accurate than other similar analog options. It can be used to set a specific air pressure of up to 150 PSI. You get a 1-year warranty with this Teromas portable air compressor. Highlights
Maximum air pressure of up to 150 PSI Power draw of 120 watts 1-year warranty Inbuilt LED lights Digital pressure gauge for high precision Comes with two different power cords
Pros
Various useful features Great performance Runs on AC or DC Supply
Cons
Poor build quality Short power cords
8. Hausbell Portable air Compressor for Car Tires
Hausbell is known for making affordable and value for money products for its users. Its portable air compressor is the cheapest option present in this article. Despite the affordable price tag of the Hausbell portable air compressor, you get a high 150 PSI air pressure limit. This is possible due to the 120-watt electric motor offered by this air compressor that can be powered using a 12-volt power socket of your vehicle. Since it has a 9.8 feet long power cord, you can easily reach all of the tires of your vehicle. You also get useful features with this portable air compressor, including an inbuilt LED light for using it at night. Just like various other options out there, this one also has a digital pressure gauge. As for the warranty, Hausbell offers a 1-year long warranty with this air compressor. Highlights
Maximum air pressure of up to 150 PSI Power draw of 120 watts 1-year warranty Night usage with LED lights Digital LCD display on top
Pros
Great for both cars and bikes Detailed digital LCD display Low power consumption
Cons
Slightly large Lacks accessories
9. Helteko Portable Air Compressor
Next, we have a great option from Helteko that offers various useful features to the user. This Helteko portable air compressor is quite small and compact, which makes it a great portable option for a lot of users out there. You can easily store it in the trunk of your car when it is not in use. And if you want to inflate tires, you can connect it to the 12-volt power socket of your car that results in up to 120 watts of power consumption. It allows this air compressor to go up to 150 PSI air pressure that is more than enough for most users out there. Another great thing about this portable air compressor is that it comes with a 1.5-year warranty that is quite good to have for its given price. You get a 3.5-meter long power cord with this air compressor for easily reaching all tires of your vehicle. Highlights
Maximum air pressure of up to 150 PSI Power draw of 120 watts 5-year warranty LCD display for pressure reading Comes with an auto-shutoff feature Small and compact
Pros
Quite reliable Low power consumption LCD display for various information
Cons
Average performance Poor build quality
10. Prow Portable Air Compressor
Coming to the last portable air compressor, Prow is a reliable brand that manufactures and sells a wide range of products including automotive parts, garden equipment, and air equipment. The Prow Portable air compressor offers you a maximum working pressure of 120 PSI with fast inflation at a rate of 35 L/min. With this power, you can inflate a tire to 35 PSI within 5 minutes. You do not have to worry about the over-inflation of your tires. The compressor will shut off automatically once the pressure reaches the value you have preset. Like the Kensun option mentioned above, the Prow Air Compressor can also be run using either 12V DC from your car or from 110V AC Mains. The air compressor comes packed with several features that make it convenient to use. For starters, the analog tire gauge provide useful information regarding the PSI value. Apart from car tires, you can use this to inflate basketballs and bike and motorcycle tires. The air compressor is covered under a 2 years warranty from the date of purchase. Highlights
Maximum air pressure of 120 PSI Fast inflation rate of 35 L/min Runs on 12V DC socket or 110V AC Mains Auto-shutoff feature Built-in Analog tire gauge 2 years warranty
Pros
Provides decent power Dual power supply Additional accessories to inflate basketballs and bike and motorcycle tires
Cons
No torch Analog gauge
How To Choose The Best Portable Air Compressors?
One should know all about portable air compressors, including how it works, its types, airflow, & other essential factors to consider while purchasing. You can find all this information in this buying guide that can be quite handy for choosing perfect one. You have gone through various best portable air compressors available online. To choose the best one, you can go through this buying guide until the end.
1. Power Source
Generally, the portable air compressors are powered by either electricity or gasoline. Here is a detailed note about it.
Electric Air Compressors – Runs on standard household voltage (110 – 120V). It requires 220 – 240V outlet while working with motors excessing two horsepower. They won’t emit fumes and are considered as best choice for indoor applications. Also, remember that compressor powered with a generator will damage the motor. Gas-Powered Compressors – They are used by remodelers and builders for mainly commercial purposes due to their high output and convenience. They emit fumes, exhaust and can be operated only in well ventilated areas or outdoors.
2. Maximum Pressure
One should check the maximum air pressure limit of any air compressor before buying to inflate your tires or power up your air tools. In general, the air pressure is measured in terms of pounds per square inch (PSI). Compressors with high PSI won’t have powerful motors but also need tough air tanks. For instance, car tires may take 30 – 35 PSI, most of the air powered tools require 90 – 100 PSI whereas for heavy duty tasks, it need 200 PSI or more. The most portable air compressor come with 50 – 230 PSI, while the practical air compressor rating is 150 PSI, which used for various applications. Note – Having a higher PSI means, a smaller tank will hold more air. So, simply invest in smaller unit with higher PSI to have effective working/performance.
3. Air Flow
The airflow is generally measured in terms of cubic feet per minute (CFM) and this let you know how much air the compressor can deliver to power up your tools/tires. Make sure that you reading the delivered CFM but not displaced CFM, as delivered CFM is reliable number to consider. To know the required CFM of a tool while using multiple tools or large tool, then simply multiply the given CFM of the tool by 1.5, this will ensure a plenty of airpower that let you power any tools effectively. The air compressor will have minimum CFM required to run the tool for its operation. For instance, a 3/4-inch impact wrench will work best with air compressor that produce 14 CFM but work better than 16 CFM. Always, prefer to choose highest possible value why because pneumatic tool uses air faster than compressor provides and you have to stop working and wait for the tank to refill. Have a look on CFM of some commonly used power tools.
Brad nailer – 3 CFM Pneumatic drill – 3 to 6 CFM Angle Grinder – 5 to 8 CFM HVLP spray gun – 12 CFM
4. Duty Cycle
The duty cycle refers to how long it can run before it needs to take a break to cool down and how long it cools down. They are measured in a percentage and refers to the amount of time it run in full cycle, including both running and resting time. The thermal protection feature is built in various high-performance models that shuts off automatically, when it reaches a certain temperature. In case, the model without this feature will make the operator to shut down the machine before it overheats. The duty cycle of a given air compressor refers to the length of time it operated at 100 PSI and ambient temperature of 72-degrees. Although, the amount of required cooling time will vary if running compressor during extreme temperature changes. One can find a duty cycle expressed in following percentages.
For 10% duty cycle – 1 minute on/9 minutes off 20% duty cycle, you should run for 2 minutes on and 8 minutes off. 30% duty cycle, run it for 3 minutes on and 7 minutes off 50% duty cycle, it should on for 5 minutes and off for 5 minutes. 100% duty cycle, it can run on continuous duty.
5. Power Draw
Most of the portable air compressors use 12-volt power socket of your car for power requirement. Simply, they use the battery of your vehicle for compressing air and inflating tires. So, one has to check the power drawn by your air compressor to ensure that it won’t affect your car battery. Some air compressors use up to 150 watts of power while some other use 120 watts, which are safe to use with most vehicles.
6. Motor Power
It is the power rating of any compressor’s gas or electric motor and it is measured in terms of horsepower (HP). For gas-powered models, the HP is given in terms of running HP & peak HP. 0.5 HP motors are used for consumer grade air compressors but 2 HP will provide enough power to the motor to run the compressor for most tools. The electric cordless models use volts to powerup the compressor and the Ah rating of the battery in cordless tools will affect the power and its runtime as well.
7. Cord Length
When once you connect the portable air compressor to 12-volt power socket of your vehicle, then it needs to reach to all of the tires of your vehicle. So, it should have a long power cord for ease of use. While some portable air compressors come with a 10 feet long power cord and other might have a 15 feet cord. Here, one has to choose the longer power cord (15 feet), as it is more practical and used even with large vehicles without any issues.
8. Tank Size
The tank size is generally measured in gallons. Most of the portable air compressors come with a tank capacity of 0 – 6 gallons. One has to check whether the tank size & capacity of a given portable air compressor suits best for their project or not before buying. A small tank of about 0 to 3-gallon tank capacity suits best for most of the domestic compressors for smaller applications. But while dealing with medium – large projects with a small tank will make waste your energy, and put extra wear and tear on the compressor. For heavier applications/professionals/dealing with larger projects, a larger tank with at least 5 – 6 gallons tank capacity will suit best. As it will inflate the tires without any need to refill and thereby saves a lot of time.
9. Weight
The weight of the portable air compressor will definitely matter while purchasing. Although, it won’t be a deciding factor but it helps you in making proper decision.
Large compressor with big tank will weigh 80 pounds or more. However, they come with more features but makes it difficult to move the compressor around from one tire/project to another. The small household units will weigh about 20 pounds, which makes it easy to move around.
Also, prefer to purchase a small, compact and lightweight air compressor to make it easy to carry while moving from one tire to another and to fit easily in the trunk of your car while not using.
10. Warranty
To ensure the durability and reliability of any product, one has to check its warranty. Most of the portable air compressors comes with a manufacturer’s warranty of 1 – 2 years while a few models come with a lifetime warranty. So, make sure to purchase the product with best built quality and longer warranty to make it use for a longer time.
11. Price
However, the price of any product will depend on its construction, capabilities / features, size and warranty. So, one has to check the price of various portable air compressor models and select your best that comes within your budget. One can get a good portable air compressor with basic features within the price range of $100 – $300. But some models may even costs $500+ depending on the compressor type, size and capabilities.
12. Other Features
Portable air compressors come with a variety of options / features that allow you to work comfortably. Here are such extra features you have to consider while purchasing this compressor.
Belt Drive/Direct Drive – Here, the compressor comes with a belt to connect the motor to air compressor pump with pulleys. It allows you to adjust the airflow and pressure flexibly as per your need. They are less expensive, and easy to install & maintain but not suitable for harsh conditions or severe temperatures. Continuous Speed/Dual Control/Auto Start or Stop – Auto start/stop with pressure switch will allow you to automatically turn on the motor whenever air is needed and turns off when tank is full. Continuous speed will make it run constantly by adjusting the airflow as per requirement. Dual control will let you set the compressor to either run in continuous mode or auto-start/stop mode, whenever needed complete the operation, as these features will deal with operating the compressed air production. Cast Iron Components – The design of air compressor mostly comes in standard cylinders but a few models with piston style. This piston style models have cast iron crankcase, crankshaft, flywheel or valve seats, which add durability to your portable air compressor. Horizontal / Vertical Tanks – The compressor with vertical tank will occupy less space whereas the horizontal tank is more portability. Most of the models comes with horizontal tanks. ASME Parts – The parts or components of air compressor should meet the codes set and standards given by American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Low Oil Protection – This technology will make the compressor shut off while the oil levels are low and thus prevents downtime and expensive repairs caused due to low fluid or oil levels.
What are the Different Types Of Portable Compressor?
Although, the portable air compressor comes in variety of types like hand carry air compressor, wheeled air compressor & mobile air compressor but most of the commonly used type is hand carry air compressor. Let’s know about them in detail.
Hand Carry Air Compressors
These are small and easy to move around. In case, if the compressed air requires inflating balls, tires and mattresses, DIY work and light-duty applications, then this compressors suits best for you. This type of compressors is available in various sizes and most of them are electric powered while some are gasoline. Air inflators, pancake air compressor, hog dog air compressor, & twin stack air compressor are its types. Let’s know about them in detail.
Air Inflators – The best quality inflators are mostly cordless battery powered and comes in 12 – 120 volts. They are useful to kept in car’s trunk, especially reserved for emergency use. The smallest air compressors are available for consumer needs. They are specially designed for inflating pool toys, small vehicle tires or bike tires and won’t fill RV-size tires or power air tools. Pancake Air Compressors – They are small, portable, easy to use and needs less maintenance. This basic entry-level compressor offers small tanks and quite useful for performing small projects around your home. The gauges and regulators of this compressor will allow you to monitor PSI. One can use this pancake for lighter air tools but with its smaller air capacity, you have to wait for refilling the tank. Hot Dog Air Compressors – Its elongated tank of 1 – 7 gallon size will look like a hot dog. The tank’s size will determine how long one can use air tool before compressor kicks on. The rubber feet and durable carrying handle will avoid scraping floors. The 3-gallon air compressor works well for small projects, especially around home. It is lightweight, compact, and versatile device. For heavy-duty tasks, prefer to use large tank for your compressor. Twin Stack Air Compressors – It comes with two tanks, which reduces your waiting time for filling the tank. The two tanks will let you power up most of the air tools consistently with less down time. They are direct drive and needs less maintenance when compared with belt-drive compressors. The oil-free twin stack compressor with oil lubricated pump then need to check the oil, if no oil to lubricate the pump then compressor will wear out quickly
Conclusion
If you want to inflate the tires of your car on the go, a portable air compressor can be a great option. We have mentioned various such options in this article, along with their major features and options.
Always, inspect the compressor’s equipment to check whether any oil leaks before using. Make sure to check if there are any air leaks. Assess the ability of compressor to decide whether you need to change anything. Verify and consider whether the temperature should be safe or not before operating. Drain out the condensation, if any left from the air receiver tanks.
5.What are the other uses the portable air compressor offers? You can even find a detailed buying guide in this article that has various relevant factors related to such air compressors. However, if you are still not able to buy one, you can simply choose one of the following recommendations:
You can go with the VacLife air compressor if you want a highly reliable as it comes with a lifetime warranty. This even offers a decent maximum air pressure of up to 150 PSI with a nominal power draw of just 120 watts that is similar to other options out there. Although, if you want a cordless portable air compressor, the Avid Power tire inflator can be another great pick. It can achieve up to 150 PSI of air pressure while offering various useful features to the user. This one uses only 120 watts of power from your car’s battery. If you are on a budget, then you should also consider the Hausbell portable air compressor. It allows you to go up to 150 PSI air pressure while using only 120 watts of power. This even comes with a 1-year warranty that is quite decent for the given affordable price tag.
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