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The 10 Best Portable Tire Air Compressors

Keep your tires properly inflated — no matter where you drive. The best portable air compressors will keep you rolling smoothly on road and off.

Every vehicle and home garage should have a portable air compressor on hand. They’re compact, easy to use, and ideal for pumping up tires in a jam. Not only can you make small adjustments to your tire pressure as needed, but you can also use them to air up your spare tire. For added convenience, you can use them on things like bikes, motorcycles , and mowers.

While there are plenty of outstanding portable tire inflators on the market, there are also others that don’t deserve your hard-earned money. Some barely have enough power to blow up a pool toy, let alone a tire. And given that you might need a portable car tire inflator to get you out of a jam one day, it helps to have one that’s reliable and built with respectable quality. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 choices when looking for the best portable air compressor.

In this buying guide, you’ll find a portable tire inflator option for everyone. Some portable tire inflators are smaller than others, while a few are feature-rich, top-of-the-line units. We also included a couple of budget-friendly choices.

What’s So Important About Tire Pressure?

Properly inflated tires affect your safety, fuel economy, and your wallet. In some cases, if one or two tires badly need air, you might even feel the car pull to one side. If your tires are underinflated, you’ll experience premature wear and poor fuel economy. These factors combined might cost you hundreds of dollars, or much more if you get in an accident.

For vehicles equipped with a TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System), you can’t always rely on this system to check your tire pressure. Most of the time, the TPMS warning light will only come on when the pressure falls 25% below the recommended tire pressure. By that time, driving on underinflated tires will affect handling and uneven wear of your tires.

Know that you don’t need to have a punctured tire to lose tire pressure. If your tires are only three psi below the recommended inflation pressure, you use 1% more fuel and tack on 10% more wear. And you don’t want to overcompensate, either. Overinflated tires can be damaged easier and create a rough ride.

USA Today says that if your tire is 25% below the recommended pressure, you are three times more likely to get into a crash. Suppose it’s 25% above where it should be. Then your chances of a crash double.

With statistics like that, you should be monitoring your tire pressure often — not just to save money but also to keep you safe on the road. Make checking your tire pressure a regular part of your car-care routine.

Choosing the Best Car Portable Air Compressor

Here’s what to look for in the best portable tire inflators. There are several factors you’ll want to consider.

You’ll find products on the market ranging from as low as $15 to upwards of $100. Though we understand operating on a budget, just bear in mind that it’s hard to get something for less than $25 that’s of lasting quality and dependable. If you can, shell out a little bit extra to ensure you get a strong enough unit to inflate your tires properly.

Infrequent drivers or car owners who are religious about maintenance probably don’t need the highest-end model. A middle-of-the-road portable tire inflator will work for the rare unforeseen emergency and the occasional at-home fill-up.

You can also perform regular tire pressure checks and maintenance at the gas station. On the other hand, if you commute daily, spend a fair amount of time in the car, or often drive in remote areas, it would be wise to invest in a higher-priced model for added peace of mind.

The biggest differences between cheap portable tire inflators and expensive models are quality and reliability. The cheap inflators are usually made with plastic parts and have small motors. Exercise caution with these units, as they can fall apart or crack easily.

Many of the cheaper models don’t feature any type of thermal overload protection. They will heat up during use and may eventually burn out. They might work a few times before breaking, but they’re not really designed to last.

A higher-quality portable tire inflator model will feature metal parts that hold up well over time. Many come with alligator clamps as a power supply instead of the typical cigarette-lighter socket plug. These models run at higher currents to drive more power to larger motors. They run quickly and remain cool, plus they often come with thermal overload protection for safety and to prevent overheating.

Convenience

While a low-cost model might be gentle on your budget, it can often be a pain to use. They pump air slowly and require breaks to cool off. You could spend up to three times longer inflating tires with a cheaper model.

You want a powerhouse if you plan to service your tires frequently or have multiple vehicles to look after. Time adds up quickly for every four tires you are waiting to fill.

With that said, if you just want a portable tire inflator for emergencies, you probably won’t mind spending 10 minutes pumping up a tire if it means avoiding calling a tow truck.

10 Best Portable Air Compressors

Without further ado, here are our picks for the top 10 best portable tire inflators on the market. You will surely find something in this list that fits your budget and needs.

• Best Overall Choice
• Best Budget Choice
• Best Premium Choice

Best of the Rest

Best overall: epauto 12v dc portable air compressor.

One of the best models we discovered is this unit from EPAuto. The 12V air compressor  runs up to a maximum of 100 psi. There’s also an included digital display gauge that you can program to display in kg/cm, bar, kPa, or psi.

The auto-shutoff feature ensures you don’t overinflate your tires. It also includes overheating protection, which shuts down the compressor if it becomes overloaded. Many models don’t have this added protection. If you use your air compressor frequently, it’s probably worth spending a little extra.

Stranded on a roadside at night? Thankfully, the built-in LED flashlight will help you see and alert passing traffic. Weighing just under 4 pounds, you’ll find this portable tire inflator easy to carry and use. Plus, it’s relatively inexpensive considering all the features that come included.

Best Budget: AAA Mini 12V DC Portable Tire Inflator

This affordable, compact, and convenient unit from AAA is reliable when you’re in a jam with a flat tire. It’s ideal for anyone who drives but doesn’t know much about car maintenance because it’s simple to use. On top of that, it’s lightweight and can fit in most standard glove boxes.

Don’t let the smaller size fool you; it’s rated up to 300 psi. While it might not actually put out that much pressure, users confirm it’s surprisingly strong. Just plug it into the 12V outlet, attach it to your tire, and turn it on.

The reach is a little smaller than others, as you only get a 10-foot power cord and a 1.5-foot air hose. For this reason, we only recommend it for smaller or medium-sized vehicles. The two accessory nozzles it comes with are great for inflating other objects like air mattresses or pool toys.

If you don’t need a top-of-the-line air compressor and are looking to save some money, this budget-friendly option is a great way to go.

Check Price at Sportsman

Best Premium: Viair 88P Portable Air Compressor

If you want to take things up a notch, upgrade to this portable air compressor. It’s powerful, rugged, and great for anyone who spends a lot of time on the road, or off-road. You’ll be hard-pressed to find anything with more power. It’s made from mostly metal parts, so it’s incredibly durable and comes equipped with a brass chuck.

This portable tire inflator is also quiet. It comes with noise-isolating features and rubber feet, so the vibration and noise are kept to a minimum during operation. Instead of a 12V plug, it operates with alligator clamps directly connected to your battery. If you know how to access your car’s battery terminals, you can use this air compressor in a jiffy.

The unit has a built-in fuse, so you don’t have to worry about blowing a fuse in your car. In total, you get 21 feet of air hose and power cord reach. That’s long enough to get around even the biggest vehicles .

Other features include thermal overload protection and a highly accurate pressure gauge. Because it operates at a maximum of 120 psi, we’d feel comfortable recommending this as a great portable tire inflator for trucks and SUVs with big tires .

Check Price at Amazon

MasterFlow 12V Portable Tire Inflator

If you’re looking for a portable tire inflator that can handle heavy-duty truck tires (or possibly RV or trailer tires), this powerful portable compressor from MasterFlow is made for the job.

This 12V air compressor attaches directly to your vehicle’s battery and comes with a 10-foot, heavy-duty power cord and alligator clips. The 16-foot, self-coiling air hose has a quick connect type M automotive air fitting and easy twist brass inflator. The unit puts out an impressive 5,500 cubic inches of airflow per minute and can inflate a full-size truck tire to 25-35 psi in less than 2 minutes, or a standard passenger tire in under a minute.

Great for off-roaders who are frequently airing up and down at the trailhead, this tire inflator comes with a premium price tag and is geared toward a more specific audience. It comes with a heavy-duty nylon carry bag, two adapter nozzles, and a ball inflation needle.

Kensun AC/DC Rapid Performance Portable Air Compressor

A little higher up on the price scale, this Kensun portable air compressor is a versatile option that works with vehicle DC sockets as well as your home AC outlets. (That means you can use it in the car or around the house.)

It weighs a little over 4 pounds, so it’s easy to tote along with you. There’s also an auto shut-off function that makes sure you don’t overinflate your tires. Before pumping up your tire, simply set the desired psi level on the LCD screen.

It also has a small LED lamp that you can use to illuminate small, dark areas for added visibility if you need to work on your tires at night. Considering that emergencies can happen at any time of day, this is a great additional feature.

When you want to transport or carry the unit, you’ll find that the provided grab handle makes it easier than most other models. This machine reaches a maximum of 100 psi using two powerful motors. The pair of metal motors is more than enough to inflate the tires of most passenger vehicles on the road. Plus, it comes with three connector types so that you can blow up camping mattresses, inflatable toys, and bike tires as well.

Slime 40026 2X Heavy Duty Tire Inflator

If you want a heavy-duty option that is both durable and powerful, this portable tire inflator by Slime should do the trick. The dual-cylinder inflator is powerful enough to inflate a standard car tire in under 2 minutes.

The portable tire inflator has alligator clamps and hooks directly to your vehicle’s battery. With 30 feet of reach to work with, you should be able to reach all four tires on trucks and SUVs with no issue. Moreover, the integrated, ultrabright lamp will light up your work after sunset.

The mini air compressor includes three air accessories and a hard-sided storage case. The hose has an in-line tire pressure gauge to monitor your tire pressure while filling the tire. For added convenience, you can leave this instrument attached to the inflator or remove it to use it solely as a tire pressure gauge.

Avid Power Tools Portable Air Compressor

This versatile tire inflator can run off DC or AC power. In your vehicle, simply plug the unit directly into the 12V plug for use on the road. The powerful dual motors are engineered from metal parts for added durability.

Uniquely, this compressor has an inflation and deflation mode. While you likely won’t need to use the deflation mode on your tires, it can come in handy for deflating air mattresses, rafts, or other inflatables you might have on hand, like for a camping trip or weekend adventure .

The unit comes with three nozzle adaptors and a high-volume hose. The LCD digital display monitors pressure, and you can set it to psi, bar, or kPa, making this air compressor super easy and safe to operate. Lastly, the incorporated LED flashlights will come in handy should you find yourself on the roadside at night.

UTRAI Jstar 6 Portable Tire Inflator and Jump-Starter

Emergency preparedness on the road is a must but often involves carrying around a lot of stuff. The UTRAI Jstar 6 helps by combining a 120psi portable air compressor with a 1,800amp jump-starter in a compact package. More importantly, its nominal weight and small dimensions make it easy to stow.

Additionally, the 18,000mAh battery can jump-start 45 vehicles on a single charge or power mobile electronic devices in a pinch. A mega-bright LED work light, an easy-to-read LCD screen, and a built-in cooling fan round out the features list.

This four-in-one unit is a versatile 12V portable tire inflator. What’s more, the integrated electronic safety features greatly reduce the chance of shock or any issues your car’s electrical system might have with the unit, and it protects the unit from damage.

P.I. Auto Store Premium 12V DC Digital Air Compressor

Another affordable option is this tire inflator from the P.I. Auto Store. Because it features a 12V DC connection, it can inflate most midsize car tires to 30 psi in under 3 minutes. In addition, the company claims that this is one of the quietest portable air compressors around.

It has a backlit LCD for easy monitoring of tire pressure. And thanks to the auto-shutoff feature, you don’t have to worry about overinflating your tire. This machine only weighs 2 pounds, so it’s pretty compact and easy to take on the go.

Between the air hose and power cord, you’ll have about 13 feet to work with, which should be plenty for most users. There’s also a snap-on connector to make attaching the hose to the tire valves simple. Not to mention that the included carrying case, bicycle valve adapter, and four spare dust caps are a bonus.

Fortem Digital Tire Inflator

There’s no doubt that this portable tire inflator is the most stylish on our list. This 12V unit comes with an LCD screen and a built-in LED light. The bright display makes reading your measurements simple and easy — no matter what kind of lighting you’re in.

The easy-to-use controls are simple, even for someone who’s never had to inflate a tire. A handy cord storage compartment is located on the back of the machine to keep it tidy. For good measure, the unit weighs under 2 pounds and is easy to carry around.

You can safely air-up bicycle tires and sports equipment without fear of overinflating them. Simply set the maximum inflation pressure, then let the auto-shutoff feature take care of the rest. Whether you have cars, bicycles, or UTVs , this portable air compressor is a great all ’rounder.

Along with the inflator, you’ll also get an extra fuse, carrying case, and three additional nozzle attachments. In total, the reach is about 14 feet between the air hose and the power cord.

Get One of the Best Portable Tire Inflators

Once you purchase the best portable tire inflator for your car, you’ll be able to refill your tires anywhere. You won’t have to worry if you need to fill up a tire on the side of the road; everything you need will be available to you in a small, compact package. Save yourself some money and protect yourself from danger on the road by ensuring that all of your tires are properly inflated.

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We get that people want the best value on gear before spending their hard-earned money. Our expert team carefully selects the products we cover and vigorously researches and tests our top choices. Bottom line: The GearJunkie staff is dedicated to exhaustive analysis and helping our readers make informed choices. 

What is the difference between a portable tire inflator and an air compressor?

How long does it take to inflate a tire, how often should i check my tire pressure, how often do i need to put air in my tires, does my car need to be running to use a tire inflator.

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Derek is a shopaholic that lives, breathes, and dreams of all things automotive. Prior to his current role at GearJunkie, he established the eBay Motors blog, was an editor at  TFLcar.com , and soaked up a lot of knowledge about custom hot rods during his time with The Goodguys Rod & Custom Association. When not diving into engine bays, gratifying diversions include photography, mountain biking, and the pursuit of happiness.

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• Car Culture

Best Portable Tire Inflators for 2022

Having air on demand can save you from a trip to the gas station or a hefty roadside assistance fee.

The best portable tire inflator options are small enough to take with you when you're on the go with cords that ensure you can reach every tire on your vehicle. Whether you're suddenly dealing with low tire pressure, or even a flat tire, having a portable tire inflator can make all the difference. And with the right tools on hand, you can easily rescue yourself, without having to wait for help. Additionally, having a reliable tire inflator on hand can give you peace of mind, knowing that you're prepared for anything while you're out on the road. In fact, you can even use portable tire inflators to check your tire pressure at routine intervals or right before you head out on a long trip.

To give you or a loved one a hand when dealing with  emergency tire problems , I've assembled a list of our favorite portable tire inflators. These recommendations for the best portable tire inflators options are based on user ratings on popular shopping sites and (most importantly) hands-on experience. Below our recommendations, look out for some tips on what to look for in a tire inflator before throwing down your hard-earned money.

EPAuto Portable Air Compressor and Tire Inflator

Best portable tire inflator overall.

The EPAuto 12-volt air compressor is perfect for most applications and is the best portable air compressor overall. It weighs just 3.8 pounds and measures 13.5 by 8.1 by 5.6 inches. This portable air pump for your car tire is capable of providing a maximum pressure of 70 pounds per square inch and an airflow of 1.06 cubic feet per minute for perfect tire inflation. The power cord on the pump is 9 feet long, and the air hose is 2.5 feet long, which should be enough to reach all four tires of most vehicles.

A screw-on tire chuck means you can set this 12-volt DC tire inflator for maximum PSI and forget it and the EPAuto inflator will stop at a preset air pressure. This car tire inflator will also shut itself off before overheating. The digital display can measure tire pressure in PSI, KPA, BAR and KG/CM. It also comes with a built-in LED work light, its own carrying case and various adaptors to air up sporting equipment. It's also a hit with owners scoring 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon based on more than 14,000 reviews.

A few caveats: The portable compressor can draw up to 15 amps, so be sure your 12-volt cigarette lighter outlet can handle the power. Otherwise you might be going through a few fuses. Also, you should keep your car running while using the 12V air compressor to avoid draining the battery. 

Viair 88P Portable Air Compressor

Best portable tire inflator overall runner-up.

This 12-volt compressor pump gets props for being quiet and its ability to fill up larger 33-inch tires fairly quickly. It measures 6.75 by 6.25 by 10.75 inches and comes in at 4.5 pounds. Maximum pressure on the Viair is 120 PSI, and it has an airflow of 1.47 CFM. The power cord on this car tire air inflator is 9 feet long, while the air hose is 12 feet long, making it great for larger trucks. 

Like the EPAuto compressor, there is a screw-on chuck, but the Viair needs to be connected directly to the battery and not a cigarette lighter socket. The Viair 889 handheld compressor comes with a three-piece accessory kit for inflating other inflatable objects such as sporting and home equipment, and there is a built-in air pressure gauge. Some reviews indicated that it comes with a carrying bag, while other customers weren't sent one, though.

This portable tire inflator gets runner-up status for its higher price tag and lack of an auto-stop feature, but those driving bigger vehicles will surely find the Viair 88P Portable Air Compressor a good value that will come in handy if you find yourself needing it for an underinflated tire. And it's popular with owners, receiving 4.7 out of 5 stars based on nearly 3,800 customer ratings.

Black & Decker Max Cordless Tire Inflator

Best cordless 20v portable tire inflator.

If you're looking to ditch the cord, try the Black & Decker 20V Max cordless tire inflator. This air compressor pump is perfect if you already have a set of Black & Decker tools that run off a 20-volt battery. Just grab one of those from your workbench and you're solid. This air pump can also be powered by the 12-volt DC cigarette lighter outlet in your car or a 120-volt AC outlet, which many newer cars have. 

A threaded chuck keeps the connection to the tire valve tight and an automatic shut off maximum PSI ensures you won't over-inflate your tires. I like the easy-to-read digital tire pressure gauge, which will show your tire's PSI even when not pumping air. It weighs about 5 pounds and at 11.6 by 7.6 by 8.7 inches, so this handheld air compressor won't take up too much space in your trunk.

This digital tire inflator comes with the option of low or high pressure, so you can also use it to inflate an air mattress without worrying about it going kablooey all over your guests. A deflate function quickly clears the air for easy packing up. It also comes with accessories for filling up bicycle tires and various sports balls. And this rechargeable tire inflator has proven quite popular with hundreds of owners, who give it an average score of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Keep in mind, however, that if you don't already have a 20-volt battery in your garage, the battery and charger for this road air compressor are sold separately.

Ryobi P737 Cordless Power Inflator

Best cordless 18v portable tire inflator.

If you're an 18-volt battery kind of person, check out the Ryobi Cordless Power Inflator. This little handheld tire inflator is smaller than the Black and Decker and works on the Ryobi One Plus 18-volt battery system. An overwhelming 91% of users on the Home Depot website would recommend the Ryobi to inflate tires.

There is a digital pressure gauge readout for accurate tire pressure readings. The Ryobi weighs less than four pounds and comes in at a compact 17.90 by 7.7 by 3.4 inches. It is also a pistol grip and doesn't have an automatic tire pressure shut off. However, the inflator here is bundled with a lithium-ion 1.5-Ah battery and charger.

Hausbell Portable Air Compressor

Best value portable tire inflator.

What I like here is the Hausbell's petite size, coming in at 8 by 3.5 by 6.2 inches and less than 2 pounds. The power cord is nearly 10 feet long and the air hose is almost 2 feet long, so it should be able to reach all four tires of a compact car to inflate a flat tire or increase low tire pressure.

The Hausbell air pump plugs directly into your car's 12-volt cigarette lighter socket. A digital readout means it's easy to see what vehicle tire pressure you're running, and an auto-shut off allows users to set it at the desired pressure and forget it without fear of having overinflated tires. A built-in LED flashlight helps when you have to use this 12 volt air compressor at night. If you need to fill up a bike tire, ball, inflatable pool or pool toy, this Hausbell air pump comes with accessories allowing you to do so, but it's not rated for high-pressure items like a stand-up paddleboard.

This small 12-volt DC air compressor isn't as quick as the other portable inflator options on this list, taking 5 minutes to fill up a 195/55R15 tire, and it can only operate for 10 minutes before needing a break to cool down, but it should still get the job done with minimal fuss. Based on nearly 3,000 reviews, it scores a strong 4.4 stars out of 5. 

ARB Twin Motor Portable Air Compressor

Best heavy-duty portable tire inflator.

The bummer about all the above air compressors is that they just don't have the power to fill a larger SUV tire, truck tire or one that runs on a high pressure like a RV tires or trailer tire. That's where the ARB Twin Motor Portable Air Compressor comes in.

This tire pump connects directly to the battery for maximum power and a 1-hour duty cycle before overheating. The power cord is long enough that you can set the unit on the ground, even when connected to a Jeep with 37-inch tires and 19-foot air hose. 

The ARB RV air compressor has a pressure switch that can regulate pressure between 135 and 150 maximum PSI. That's enough to run any air tools you might have. Further, this portable RV tire inflator air pump is capable of an airflow of 6.16 cubic feet per minute with no load, or 4.65 CFM at 29 PSI. You're not going to get that kind of high flow from a light-duty portable air compressor pump. 

However, this compressed air unit is heavy, about 33 pounds, and rather large. The carrying case measures 19.5 by 14.5 by 7.75 inches. It's also spendy. Still, it should never let you down whether you're in the garage or on the trail scoring an impressive 4.7 out of 5 across hundreds of owner reviews.

Comparison of the best portable tire inflators

Why should you buy a portable tire inflator.

A portable air compressor pump is a vital piece of equipment drivers should carry in their vehicles. Driving on improperly inflated tires and with low tire pressure can result in poor fuel economy and uneven tire wear. Further, tires can lose air slowly, even without a puncture. If you do have a car tire puncture and fix it with a plug kit, you'll need a tire inflator to get back on the road again.

If you carry a portable tire inflator, you won't have to wait for roadside assistance to fix your flat tire or limp into your local dealer or service center. And when was the last time the air compressor at the gas station either a) worked, or b) you had quarters to actually start the damn thing?

What should I look for in a portable tire inflator?

There are a few key features you should look for before you buy a portable air compressor pump. Be sure that the air hose is long enough to reach all four tires. If you drive a compact car, it probably won't be a problem but if you're rocking a mondo GMC Yukon XL you'll need more hose. 

You should also look at maximum PSI air pressure. The bigger tires you have, the more pressure you'll want. Some pump units will turn off automatically once it reaches a set PSI, helpful if you don't want to stand around monitoring the gauge or accidentally have overinflated tires.

Most portable air compressors are powered by your car's 12-volt power source. You can also buy a cordless inflator, but may have to buy the battery and charging unit separately. Some heavy-duty air compressors attach directly to your car's battery because they require more juice than a cigarette lighter socket cant provide.

A portable tire inflator means you can fill up your car's shoes, or household items, on the go.

A pivotal part of an emergency car kit

Without question, having a portable tire inflator as part of your just-in-case bag of goodies is an excellent idea that won't break the bank -- unless you spring for something like the ARB unit above. But in addition, having a LED flashlight, tire pressure gauge, portable jump-starter and first aid kit would set you up real well to handle most roadside emergencies and prevent you from being left stranded out in the cold.

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CIRCA AIR Mini Portable Air Pump for Inflatables, Mini Air Pump for Mattress Sleeping Pad, Rechargeable USB Small Air Pump, Travel Vacuum Pump, Tiny Portable Inflator Pump, Pool Float Pump for Toys

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• FAST INFLATION /DEFLATION - Never waste another moment struggling with manual pumps, and enjoy fast and convenient inflation with the Circa Air Travel Electric Air Pump. With its simple design and clear instructions, this electric air pump is quick and easy to use.
• COMPACT & LIGHTWEIGHT: Measuring only 2 x 1.7 x 1.7 inches and weighing just 0.17 pounds, this tiny yet powerful air pump is your ultimate travel companion. You can take it anywhere for effortless and convenient inflation.
• RECHARGE WITH EASE - Use the included USB cable to charge with a power bank, laptop, car charger, or power adapter and keep your travel pump charged and ready. You can enjoy up to 15 minutes of uninterrupted pumping power after a full charge.
• VERSATILE USE - With 5 extra nozzle attachments, it's perfect for inflating a camping/ air mattress, inflatable wedge pillow, inflatable leg elevation pillow, inflatable pool float & toy, Also great for vacuum storage bags and much more.
• LONG-LASTING DURABILTY: Made from high-quality materials , the Circa Air Travel Pump is built to last and withstand the wear and tear of travel. Order yours today and make your next trip more comfortable and conveninet with our Circa Air Travel Electric Air Pump.

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Circa Air is the brand of choice for inflatable products designed for comfort and convenience. Whether you're looking to get a better night's sleep or caring for a loved one at home, we may just have the solution you're looking for.

From innovative inflatable hair basins & shower bags to inflatable wedge & knee pillows that are designed for travel, explore our unique range and allow Circa Air to help you with your every day.

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How did we get our start.

Our philosophy is simple. Make quality products for your comfort and convenience. We started out with an inflatable wedge pillow for travel and since then continued to expand and innovate.

What makes our products unique?

We focus on quality, comfort and convenience! Every product in our range has been designed with your needs in mind.

Why do we love what we do?

You deserve products that really help you in the home and when you travel. No matter how big or small the impact, we love knowing our products make a difference. It drives us to serve you better everyday.

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It's A Pump and A Vacuum

• Measures only 2 x 1.7 x 1.7 inches
• Weighs just 0.17 pounds
• Up to 15 minutes of uninterrupted pumping power after a full charge
• Includes 5 extra nozzle attachments
• USB Charge Cable & Travel Storage Bag Included

How to Use Your Mini Electric Air Pump

Choose the correct nozzle, the travel pump includes 5 extra nozzles to meet all your inflation needs., 2. place the nozzle on the side air port, securely attach the correct nozzle to the side air outlet port., 3. double click to turn on, press the button twice on base of air pump to switch the pump on., 4. how to deflate, add the correct nozzle to the top air port. press the button twice to turn on., 5. fully charge battery before first use, just use the supplied usb cable and plug it into the side power port..

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So handy to pack.

Takes up hardly any space. You can take it anywhere for effortless and convenient inflation.

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Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the performance, attachments, and travel of the air pump. They mention that it works great for their purposes, comes with multiple sized gadgets to fit most inflatable items, and is great for travel. They appreciate the charging speed, and the USB connection. Customers also appreciate the ease of use, inflation, power, and size.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the size of the air pump. They mention it's compact, lightweight, and powerful. Some say it'll fit in a wedge pillow bag.

"Works like a dream . Really Compact yet powerful, Takes 2 minutes to fill the wedge pillow. Great travel tool." Read more

"It’s a tiny pump which doesn’t weigh much and easily packable but does its job quickly and effectively ." Read more

"...minutes, comes with several different size nozzles, and takes up hardly any space to pack . I'll never blow up a pillow up myself again!" Read more

"...Perfect. Works just like it is supposed too and nice and tiny !" Read more

Customers are satisfied with the performance of the air pump. They mention that it works great for their purposes, is surprising useful, and does the trick without tiring them out. The charger works in just a few minutes, and the pump is really powerful. Some say that the pump works great with Circa wedge pillow.

" Works like a dream . Really Compact yet powerful, Takes 2 minutes to fill the wedge pillow. Great travel tool." Read more

"...It comes with a charger that works in just a few minutes , comes with several different size nozzles, and takes up hardly any space to pack...." Read more

"...I have tried other gadgets that didn't work at all. This tiny little pump works like a charm on my (new) CIRCA inflatable wedge!..." Read more

" It works great ...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the connectivity of the air pump. They mention that it charges quickly, works fast, and has a USB connection. The pump comes with a charger that works in just a few minutes.

"...It can inflate and deflate items quickly.It charges quickly with the included charging cord ...." Read more

"Works like a dream . Really Compact yet powerful, Takes 2 minutes to fill the wedge pillow . Great travel tool." Read more

"...accompany a small knee wedge/travel pillow and appreciated that it worked quickly . It is a little noisy, but that's to be expected...." Read more

"...pump which doesn’t weigh much and easily packable but does its job quickly and effectively ." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the inflation of the air pump. They mention that it inflates and deflate items quickly. They also appreciate the fact that it charges quickly with the included charging cord. Some say that it's perfect for inflating wedge bed pillows and objects when traveling.

"...It can inflate and deflate items quickly .It charges quickly with the included charging cord...." Read more

"...I attached the pump to the pillow and turned it on, the pillow was inflating immediately . Wow! I highly recommend." Read more

"...It fully inflated the pillow in than 30 seconds !..." Read more

"...It inflated the wedge pillow with ease and in very little time. I am sure I will have other uses in the future." Read more

Customers find the air pump great for travel, saying it has power and is compact enough to take anywhere.

"... Great travel tool ." Read more

"...to use with a Circa-Air inflatable wedge pillow and it was a life-saver for travel . It fully inflated the pillow in than 30 seconds!..." Read more

"... Great for traveling !" Read more

" Perfect for traveling and easy to use. Purchased for recent vacation and used to inflate pool gear...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the power of the air pump. They mention it's surprisingly small but powerful enough to inflate the Circa. Some say it'll be a perfect inflator for travel.

"...It held a charge for the entire 2 week trip.It is powerful .It was exactly what I needed...." Read more

"Works like a dream . Really Compact yet powerful , Takes 2 minutes to fill the wedge pillow. Great travel tool." Read more

"This little pump is powerful . I purchased the Circa wedge pillow for traveling. I really did not want to blow it up with my mouth...." Read more

"This is surprisingly small but plenty powerful enough to inflate the Circa inflatable wedge pillow that I bought it for...." Read more

Customers find the air pump easy to use. They mention it's portable, convenient, and easy to understand. Some say it'll work as intended and is easy to carry.

"...It is less than half the size of a soda can. Very convenient and comes with various attachments to accommodate different valves." Read more

"I like the easy to use and the extra attachments for other CIRCA inflatables. Great for traveling!" Read more

"Perfect for traveling and easy to use . Purchased for recent vacation and used to inflate pool gear...." Read more

"Small, easy to use . Has a USB connection so I can plug into my European adapter/converter too. Eady to use." Read more

Customers like the attachments that come with the air pump. For example, they mention it has many attachments to accommodate different valves, fittings, and nozzles. They also appreciate the extra attachments for other CIRCA inflatables. Overall, most are happy with the product's attachments.

"...I was very happy with this purchase.It came with many attachments to accommodate many different valves...." Read more

"...Very convenient and comes with various attachments to accommodate different valves." Read more

"...with a charger that works in just a few minutes, comes with several different size nozzles , and takes up hardly any space to pack...." Read more

"I like the easy to use and the extra attachments for other CIRCA inflatables . Great for traveling!" Read more

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The 9 Best Portable Air Compressors of 2024

Keep your tools running full-blast with the right portable air compressor

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• What to Look For
• Why Trust The Spruce

The Spruce / Amelia Manley

If you use air-powered or pneumatic tools, including nail guns, impact wrenches, paint sprayers, or grinders, or if you want to keep your car's tires properly inflated, then you need a portable air compressor. While mechanic shops and tool shops often have very large, stationary air compressors, the average DIYer is better off with a portable air compressor that can be toted from place to place when necessary.

When purchasing a portable air compressor, the most important consideration to keep in mind is the actual size of the compressor that you need. Aaron Barnett , landscaper, carpenter, and owner of the DIY website Banging Toolbox says, "Consider the tank size—the bigger the tank, the more air is on hand to extend run time—the weight if you plan on moving your compressor around much, and the horsepower required to power the tools you’ll be using."

When working with an air-powered finishing gun or brad nailer , a compact portable trim compressor is sufficient. A larger compressor is needed to power air tools like standard framing nail guns. Barnett says the bigger the tank, the less often the compressor will need to run to recharge.

We evaluated the best portable air compressors based on reliability, size, power, maximum pressure and airflow, and ease of use.

Best Overall

Makita mac2400 portable air compressor.

Powers two nail guns simultaneously

Rapid cycling

Rugged construction

4.2 scfm at 90 psi

Fairly heavy

Requires periodic oil changes

This commercial-duty tool is in Makita's "Big Bore" line of compressors, meaning that the large piston and cylinder can compress more air with each stroke, leading to better airflow rates, less downtime waiting for your compressor to cycle, and an overall better experience. We chose this air compressor as our top choice, as it's ideal for handling typical DIY tasks, such as filling tires, powering nail guns, running impact tools such as impact wrenches, or winterizing small sprinkler setups .

It has a powerful 2.5-horsepower motor that runs two nailing guns simultaneously without hesitation; this air compressor has two air outlets for that purpose. The tank holds 4.2 gallons, which is sufficient for most purposes. Although it is not large enough to power tools that run continuously, such as grinders or sprayers, it's a great air compressor for tools that produce intermittent bursts of power, such as nail guns or impact tools.

You can use it to run a paint sprayer if you are only doing a small project. However, this isn't the right air compressor for painting an entire room or an automobile. It has a maximum of 130 psi. The pressure dials are large and easy to read, and the pressure adjustment is very easily handled with a simple knob. At 90 psi, the air compressor delivers 4.2 scfm (standard cubic feet per minute), and at 40 psi, the scfm is 4.8. That's enough to power many common pneumatic tools.

While air compressors are generally very loud, this one is reasonably quiet at a 79-decibel level when used outdoors, thanks to the oil-lubricated pump. The air compressor has a roll-cage design, which helps protect it from damage when used in rugged environments. Its rubber feet help to minimize vibrations. On the downside, it's fairly heavy at 77 pounds, and it does not have wheels for easy transport, although there is a handle on top. It also requires periodic oil changes.

Dimensions in Inches: 19.38 wide x 18.75 deep by 18 high | Tank Size: 4.2 gallons | Max Pressure: 130 psi | Airflow at 90 psi: 4.2 scfm | Weight:  77 pounds

Porter-Cable 6-Gallon Pancake Air Compressor

Porter-Cable

No oil changes required

Two outlets for running two nailers simultaneously

Only 2.6 scfm at 90 psi

Air compressors can be expensive, but this pancake-shaped offering from Porter-Cable is reasonably priced yet still powerful enough to handle most simple DIY tasks. This includes inflating tires, running low-flow pneumatic tools such as nail guns or inflating rafts and pool floats , holiday decor, and similar projects. At 0.8 horsepower, it isn't the most powerful motor, but it gets the job done.

The 6-gallon tank has two outlets, so you can run two nailers or staplers simultaneously. This tool's maximum pressure is a respectable 150 psi, with airflow of 2.6 scfm at 90 psi and 3.5 scfm at 40 psi. That's not enough to power a spray painter but is enough for many smaller pneumatic tools that only require intermittent bursts of air.

This air compressor does not require oil changes or complicated maintenance, nor do you need to carry out any startup procedures beyond plugging it in and turning it on. At 82 decibels, it's fairly loud (about the sound level of a very busy urban street), but that's typical of air compressors in general. This air compressor only weighs 30 pounds, so it's fairly easy to tote along to your job site, even though it does not have wheels.

Dimensions in Inches: 17 wide x 17 deep by 20.38 high | Tank Size: 6 gallons | Max Pressure: 150 psi | Airflow at 90 psi: 2.6 scfm | Weight:  30 pounds

Best Cordless

Ryobi one+ cordless air compressor.

Lightweight option

Can power nail guns

Only for low-pressure tools and tasks

No need to hunt for a nearby electrical outlet with this battery-powered air compressor from Ryobi. It runs off an 18-volt Ryobi battery—sold separately—and can inflate up to nine car tires on one charge. The tank holds 1 gallon of air, and the maximum pressure the compressor can deliver is 120 psi. That gives you air delivery of 0.5 scfm at 90 psi and 0.7 scfm at 40 psi.

This model can power nail guns and staplers or other pneumatic tools that require only very low pressure. It is also useful for inflating tires, pool floats, air mattresses , holiday inflatables, and similar items, but this isn't the air compressor for running tools that need high pressures or continuous airflow to maintain power.

The single coupler requires just a push to connect the hose and can be worked with one hand. This air compressor requires little maintenance beyond charging the battery, no oil changes, and no complicated startup procedures. At 78 decibels, it's not any quieter than corded air compressors, however. The compressor weighs just 14 pounds and has a comfortable molded handle for easy transport.

Dimensions in Inches: 10 wide x 13.5 deep by 11.5 high | Tank Size: 1 gallon | Max Pressure: 120 psi | Airflow at 90 psi: 0.5 scfm | Weight:  14 pounds

Best for Tires

Astroai portable air compressor.

Perfect addition to car's emergency kit

Inflates tires quickly

Must plug into car's charger

Only for inflating tires and small inflatables

Underinflated tires cause your car to use more gas, wear your tires out prematurely, and reduce your car's handling and ability to brake quickly. But keep this handy inflator from AstroAI on hand, and you'll easily be able to maintain your tires at the recommended pressure to help keep your vehicle in tip-top condition. It can inflate most common car tires from flat to full in a few minutes.

The tool's 12-volt motor runs off your car's cigarette lighter, not from an electrical outlet. The power cord is 10 feet long, so you can reach all of your car's tires easily. Of course, you can also use the tool to inflate bike tires, pool floats, balls, and similar items, but the compressor is not meant to run for longer than 15 minutes at a time. Once you set your desired tire pressure, the compressor fills the tire and then automatically shuts off once the set pressure is reached. The backlit screen makes it easy to read the settings even in the dark, plus there's an LED light for even brighter illumination.

Along with the compressor and the power cord, you get several nozzles and attachments for use in inflating balloons, air pillows, and other air-filled items. The air compressor has a 100-psi maximum pressure and delivers a maximum airflow of 35 liters/minute.

Dimensions in Inches: 3.7 wide x 8.3 deep by 6.7 high | Tank Size: Not applicable | Max Pressure: 100 psi | Airflow at 90 psi: Not applicable | Weight:  2.2 pounds

Hafuloky Portable Air Pump

Useful for inflating tires, toys, and balls

Easy to store in the car

Works as a flashlight

Doesn't include adapter for charging from car's 12V port

Only for light use

This handy mini compressor runs on a built-in lithium-ion battery that can be recharged with the included USB-C cord. It's ideal for keeping your car's tires at a safe level of inflation or for keeping in your automotive emergency kit in case of a flat. With a maximum pressure of 180 psi, you can inflate your car's tires in less than a minute, as well as inflate the tires on SUVs, bicycles, and motorcycles.

You can also use it to quickly blow up pool floats, exercise or sports balls, and similar items, even camping mattresses . Even better, the process is greatly simplified by the device's four presets for the type of item being inflated: car, bicycle, motorcycle, or ball. A fifth setting lets you customize the pressure as needed for the item you want to inflate. The digital display makes it very easy to keep track of inflation levels as well as battery life. It shuts off automatically when it reaches full inflation.

Another useful feature of this tool is the built-in LED light, which is very handy when you need to work on your car in the dark or signal an emergency to passing vehicles. Plus, you can use this mini compressor as a power bank to charge your phone, laptop, or other electronic devices. It comes with several nozzles for inflating different items and a storage bag for keeping everything neatly together in your car's glove box, bicycle bag, or garage drawer .

Dimensions in Inches: 2.6 wide x 2.8 deep by 6.7 high | Tank Size: Not applicable | Max Pressure: 180 psi | Airflow at 90 psi: Not applicable | Weight:  1.9 pounds

Best for Continuous Use

California air tools 10-gallon ultra quiet air compressor.

California Air Tools

Continuous runtime

Depending on the set pressure and airflow, this air compressor from California Air Tools can run continuously for up to an hour, allowing you to use the compressor to power paint sprayers, grinders, various types of sanders , and other tools that need close-to-constant airflow for best performance. With a 2-horsepower motor and oil-free dual-piston pump system, the air compressor is quiet—just 70 decibels (equivalent to a washing machine)—and runs smoothly with little maintenance or downtime. The 10-gallon tank is large enough for almost anything you will likely tackle at home, in your garage, or workshop.

The maximum pressure is 125 psi, with airflow of 5.3 scfm at 90 psi and 6.4 scfm at 40 psi. The compressor takes only two minutes to fill the tank from empty but keeps running continuously, so you are not likely to experience any lag or loss of power in your pneumatic tool as long as you match your tool's airflow and pressure requirements to the compressor.

While this is a heavy compressor at 82.5 pounds, its wheels make it easy to maneuver wherever needed. It has two pressure control gauges and two universal quick-connect couplers so that you can run two tools simultaneously.

Dimensions in Inches: 16 wide x 15.1 deep by 35.9 high | Tank Size: 10 gallons | Max Pressure: 125 psi | Airflow at 90 psi: 5.3 scfm | Weight:  82.5 pounds

Best With Jump Starter

Dewalt dxaej14 jump starter with air compressor.

Versatile tool for jump-starting engines and inflating tires

Includes work light

Two USB charging ports

Must purchase extension cord separately

This handy tool will be your best friend should your car's battery die, your tires need inflating, or your phone or other electronic device lose power away from an electrical outlet. This compressor/jump-starter from Dewalthas 1,600 peak battery amps to jump-start batteries in most 4-, 6-, or 8-cylinder gas or diesel engines. It includes the jumper cables, which will trigger an alarm should you connect them incorrectly. It even has a function to check your car's alternator for proper functioning in case that's the reason the automotive battery won't hold a charge.

Of course, it's not just a jump starter. This handy tool also has a 120 psi digital compressor with a sure-fit nozzle that works with the inflation stems on most types of car or motorcycle tires, balls, pool floats, and similar items. It turns off automatically when full inflation is reached.

A backlit LCD screen makes it easy to monitor the tool's remaining battery life and the progress of inflating items or charging batteries. Plus, it has a bright LED work light and two USB ports—one USB-C and one USB-A—for charging your phone or other electrical items. The device itself requires an extension cord for charging, which should be done at least once a month or right away after use.

Dimensions in Inches: 10.8 wide x 5.6 deep by 12.3 high | Tank Size: Not applicable | Max Pressure: 120 psi | Airflow at 90 psi: Not applicable | Weight:  17 pounds

Best for Carpentry

Metabo hpt 6-gallon pancake air compressor.

Require little maintenance

4 scfm at 90 psi

Here's a powerful air compressor that can run up to five 18-gauge nail guns at a time. This is a sturdy tool that's designed for rugged job sites and holds up to rough conditions, yet it requires little maintenance. It has a 1.3-horsepower engine and a 6-gallon pancake tank that has a maximum pressure of 200 psi.

At 90 psi, the airflow is 4 scfm, and at 40 psi, the airflow is 5.1 scfm, so you can run various pneumatic tools often called on in carpentry projects, including sprayers, grinders, nail guns, and impact tools. There are two couplers for attaching your tool hoses.

This air compressor weighs 41 pounds but has no wheels, so it must be lifted and carried from worksite to worksite. While ideal for roofing or other carpentry or woodworking projects that require extensive use of a nail gun, you can certainly use this air compressor to inflate tires and on many other DIY projects. And it's reasonably priced, making it an even better choice for DIYers who take their projects seriously.

Dimensions in Inches: 16 wide x 18.5 deep by 16 high | Tank Size: 6 gallons | Max Pressure: 200 psi | Airflow at 90 psi: 4 scfm | Weight:  41 pounds

Best for Garages

Craftsman pancake air compressor.

Includes accessory kit

Excellent performance

This oil-free, no-maintenance pancake compressor from Craftsman comes with a 13-piece accessory kit that includes a tire gauge and chuck, a 25-foot 1/4-inch air hose with coupler and plug, two blow-gun adapters, and various nozzles for inflation uses. The 0.8-horsepower engine keeps the air compressor humming, and the 6-gallon tank is a great size for the average home handyperson.

The maximum pressure is 150 psi, with airflow of 2.6 scfm at 90 psi and 3.5 scfm at 40 psi. This is adequate for powering nail guns, staplers, and some other low-pressure pneumatic tools. It's also ideal for inflating tires, balls, or pool toys and blowing away dust.

On the downside, this is a noisy air compressor, with a stated decibel level of 82 (comparable to a food blender running), although it can be even louder. It weighs 30 pounds and has a handle for transport. The rubber feet help minimize vibration, but there are no wheels. With a very reasonable price, this is a great addition to your garage workshop that will be useful for many different projects.

Dimensions in Inches: 16.5 wide x 16.5 deep by 17.9 high | Tank Size: 6 gallons | Max Pressure: 150 psi | Airflow at 90 psi: 2.6 scfm | Weight:  30 pounds

Final Verdict

If you want a sturdy, powerful air compressor that can easily run nail guns and similar pneumatic tools that don’t need high levels of pressure, then our top pick, the Makita MAC2400 Portable Air Compressor , is our recommendation. This 4.2-gallon air compressor provides airflow of 4.2 scfm at 90 psi. But if price is a concern, then the Porter-Cable C2002-ECOM Pancake Air Compressor , while not as powerful, is still a fine choice for running low-pressure tools. It has an airflow of 2.6 scfm at 90 psi.

What to Look for in a Portable Air Compressor

Power source.

There are two basic power sources for air compressors: gas and electricity. However, gas models are not often used by homeowners or DIYers; these powerful tools are more common on construction sites or in commercial workshops.

When it comes to electric portable air compressors, including our top pick , the Makita MAC2400 Portable Air Compressor , the majority plug into an electrical outlet and run off your home or workshop’s electrical system. There are also battery-powered portable air compressors or ones that plug into your automobile's 12V electrical port, but these are generally very small—usually just 1 gallon or so—and are mostly used to inflate tires or similar tasks, not to run pneumatic tools. We like the Ryobi P739 18-Volt 1-Gallon Air Compressor (our best cordless ), which has a maximum psi of 120.

Don’t assume that just because an air compressor is labeled as portable, it’s light in weight. In fact, many portable air compressors weigh 50 pounds or more. These larger tools usually have wheels that help you move them from place to place. However, many air compressors that weigh up to 40 pounds do not have wheels, requiring you to lift them by their handle to move them. 

If you expect to tote your air compressor with you from place to place, then it’s a good idea to check on the tool’s weight to be sure you’ll be able to lift it easily if necessary. At just 1.9 pounds, our favorite mini compressor , the Hafuloky Portable Air Pump , is the lightest on our list.

Pressure and Airflow

Air compressors work by pulling in outside air and compressing it within the tool’s tank to build pressure. This pressurized air powers your connected tools or inflates your car’s tires.

There are a few important numbers to know when considering a portable air compressor. The first is the air compressor’s maximum pounds-per-square-inch (psi), which is a measurement of the amount of compressed air that the tool can provide. Most portable air compressors have a maximum psi that’s between 120 psi and 200 psi, with 150 psi being the most common. The Metabo HPT The Tank EC914S 6-Gallon Pancake Air Compressor (our best for carpentry pick) has a maximum psi of 200 and can run up to five nail guns at a time. Because many pneumatic tools require 90 psi to run, an air compressor with a maximum of 150 psi will create enough air pressure to handle just about any tool you have.

But the most important numbers to consider when choosing an air compressor are the cubic–feet–per–minute (cfm) or standard cubic-feet-per-minute (scfm). These numbers reflect the air the compressor can provide in one minute, but cfm is the actual airflow rate, and scfm is the airflow rate at ideal temperature and humidity levels. You might see either one of these numbers indicated on an air compressor’s description.

Different pneumatic tools have different requirements for airflow. Generally, low-pressure tools like nailers and staplers only require 1 to 4 scfm, a socket wrench or drill might need 5 scfm or more, a grinder or sander generally needs around 10 scfm, while an HVLP paint sprayer can require as much as 15 scfm. California Air Tools 10020C 10-Gallon Ultra Quiet Air Compressor (our best for continuous use option) has airflow of 5.3 scfm at 90 psi and 6.4 scfm at 40 psi.

Another important number is the tool’s tank size, which can be as little as 1 gallon or as much as 20 or more gallons. This is a measurement of the amount of compressed air the tank can hold. The larger the tank, the longer it can provide pressurized air to power your tools. For most home purposes, a 4- to 6-gallon tank is sufficient, although you’ll need a larger tank if you are going to use it to power a paint sprayer or other pneumatic tool that requires a steady flow of pressurized air.

There are also specialized tools that include an air compressing function but do not have a tank for holding air, such as our best with jump starter pick, the Dewalt DXAEJ14 Jump Starter With Air Compressor , and the AstroAl Portable Air Compressor , which is perfect for inflating car tires at home or during roadside emergencies.

A portable air compressor isn’t a necessary tool for every DIYer or handyperson. But if you like to use pneumatic (air-powered) tools, then you’ll have to have an air compressor to run them. And a small air compressor is very useful for inflating tires, sporting or exercise balls, pool floats, and other air-filled household items.

Portable air compressors work by pulling air into the compressor and gradually reducing the space the air is trapped in, thus increasing the air pressure. The air is then forced through an output into a storage tank, where it is kept at a high air pressure level. The compressor will turn off when the storage tank reaches its maximum air pressure. The stored air can be used to power pneumatic tools, inflate a tire, or simply clean dust and other debris. After using some of the stored air, the compressor will turn on to pull in more air and increase the pressure in the tank to the maximum before shutting off again.

Aaron Barnett, landscaper, carpenter, and owner of DIY website Banging Toolbox , says, “Most air compressors last for a lifetime with care, but some maintenance and lubrication may be required. Check that all the connections are clean and tight before each use. And consider an oil-less piston system for less maintenance down the road.”

The accessories you’ll need depend on how you’ll use your portable air compressor, but as a general rule, you’ll always need an air hose that’s long enough and large enough in diameter to fit both your air compressor and your tools. An air-line filter, which keeps moisture and other contaminants from entering your tools can also be very useful. And while the air compressor itself will have an airflow regulator, it can be useful to have an inline regulator as well, which can save you trips back and forth to the air compressor when using a long air hose. 

Along with those items, various inflation nozzles, connectors, adapters, and plugs can be helpful for inflating different items, as well as connecting various air-powered tools.

Why Trust The Spruce?

Michelle Ullman is a commerce writer for The Spruce who specializes in home improvement, landscaping, and tool products. She has extensive experience not only in writing about all things related to the home, but also in carrying out various DIY projects, including landscaping, painting, flooring, wallpapering, furniture makeovers, and simple repairs around the house and yard.

For this roundup, she considered dozens of portable air compressors of various types, evaluating each for tank size, maximum pressure and airflow, power, weight, ease of use, and overall value. She also considered feedback from customers, both positive and negative, as well as reviews and information on various home improvement websites.

Our Experts:

• Aaron Barnett , landscaper, carpenter, and owner of DIY website Banging Toolbox
• Daniela Galvez , senior editor at The Spruce

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