If you require a quick answer, the best car tyre inflator is the Ring RTC1000. It’s the brand’s new and improved model that features a large digital display and is packed full of intuitive features. However, if you require a more affordable option, the AstroAI A220B is the best alternative that’s built to a much higher standard than similar priced inflators.
To rate the car tyre inflators within this article, we based our recommendations upon our experience of using multiple inflators, plenty of research and a number of factors. Some of the factors that we considered included the type, display, ease of operation, supplied accessories, additional functions, maximum pressure, warranty and value for money.
Table of Contents
Car Tyre Inflator Comparison
| Car Tyre Inflator | Type | Display |
|---|---|---|
| Ring RTC1000 | 12V Compressor | Digital |
| AstroAI A220B | 12V Compressor | Digital |
| Oasser TT-TUK 15 | Cordless | Digital |
| VonHaus Handheld | Cordless | Digital |
| AA 5502 | 12V Compressor | Digital |
| VEEAPE 240 | Dual Power | Digital |
| Ring RAC750 | Mains Compressor | Analogue |
As with most technology, tyre inflators have improved massively over the years. They are more portable and they can inflate tyres to a range of different PSI ratings far more quickly.
Using a digital tyre inflator is the preferred option when compared with the analogue alternatives. Not only are they easier to read but they often include additional features such as an automatic switch off, LED torch and so much more.
Below is a list of the best tyre inflators that are easy to use and include a range of intuitive features.
The Best Car Tyre Inflator
1. Ring Automotive RTC1000 Compressor
Ring are well-known for their video doorbells but they also produce a range of other products such as this digital tyre inflator. It’s known as the RTC1000 and it’s a new and improved model by the brand that continues the great reputation from the RAC635 predecessor. Everything about this model is new and it has been built to the highest of standards.
A standout feature of this model is the large backlit digital display that’s been designed for improved usability. Rather than just showing the PSI, it also features a progress bar that allows you to track the inflation.
Other features of the Ring RTC1000 include:
- Fast inflation with programmable functions
- 3.5 metre cable and 70 cm hose
- Automatic stop once the pre-set value is reached
- Supplied with a case, adaptors, gloves and spare dust caps
- Cable winds away into the inflator
- Integrated LED torch
- 1 year warranty
To conclude, the Ring RTC1000 is the ultimate tyre inflator that’s packed with functionality and has been designed with the user in mind. It’s also relatively affordable when you consider all of the features and the reputable brand backing.
2. AstroAI A220B Digital Tyre Inflator
By far the most popular and highly rated tyre inflator on the market is the AstroAI A220B. It’s a relatively affordable digital tyre inflator that’s easy to use and comes with a large LED display for setting the pressure values.
A great feature that this particular model offers is the ability to attach the air nozzle using a screw rotation or with the quick connector. The brand also supply a range of adaptors in the box for inflating other products too.
Other features of the AstroAI A220B include:
- Integrated LED flashlight
- Max pressure rated at 100 PSI
- Supplied with extra nozzles
- Multiple unit pressure units available
- Programmable inflation with automatic switch off
- 3 year warranty and lifetime support
Overall, the AstroAI A220B is the best budget tyre inflator on the market that’s affordable yet still feels very high quality. It really does tick all the boxes and it even comes with a long warranty for complete peace of mind.
3. Oasser Digital Cordless Tyre Inflator
A more convenient method of inflating your tyres is to use a cordless tyre inflator and the Oasser TT-Tuk 15 is the perfect solution. It’s the brand’s new and improved model that features more stable performance and a clearer display.
In terms of powering up the device, it uses a rechargeable 2,200 mAh lithium battery that the brand claims can fully inflate a flat tyre in 6 minutes.
Other features of the Oasser TT-TUK 15 include:
- Easy to use cordless unit
- Weighs just 1.35 KG
- LCD display with switchable units
- Pressure pre-set ability
- Fully recharges in 4 hours
- Multiple accessories
- LED torch light
- Includes a 2 year warranty
If you want the freedom to move around your car to inflate your tyres, the Oasser TT-TUK 15 is the best cordless tyre inflator on the market. It’s powerful, compact, easy to use and a worthwhile investment that you won’t regret.
4. VonHaus Cordless Tyre Inflator
Another popular cordless tyre inflator is by the VonHaus brand and it uses a rechargeable 12V 1,500 mAh Lithium ion battery that’s easy to attach and remove for charging. The LED light of this model is a standout feature due to its large output of 450 Lumens. This allows you to light up the tyres and also use it as a standard mechanics torch too.
Other features of the VonHaus 9519 include:
- Intuitive LCD display
- Pre-set and auto-shut off functionality
- Max pressure of 125 PSI
- Built-in LED torch
- Weighs 1.2 KG
- Suitable for a range of applications
- Includes a 2 year warranty
Overall, the VonHaus 9519 is a more affordable cordless tyre inflator when compared with the Oasser model above but it does lack in power. However, the integrated LED light that also doubles up as a red hazard light can be very useful in certain situations and it may be the deal breaker when choosing between the two.
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5. AA 5502 12V Digital Tyre Inflator
The AA 5502 tyre inflator is a popular option that’s been around for many years now and still continues to provide excellent value. It’s a versatile inflator that can be used to inflate your tyres with a choice of pressure settings such as PSI, KPA and BAR. However, it can also be used for other inflatable products too with the supplied adaptors in the box.
In terms of using this car tyre inflator, you simply pre-set the required pressure, switch the compressor on and it will automatically stop at the required pressure value.
Other features of the AA 5502 include:
- Easy to use with a screw stem fixing
- Clear digital display
- PSI, KPA or BAR pressure readings
- LED lamps with three settings
- 3 metre plug cord
- Weighs 0.8 KG
- Maximum pressure of 100 PSI
- Additional adaptors for other inflatables
To conclude, the AA 5502 12V air compressor offers great value for the money and it’s backed by the highly reputable AA brand. It ticks all the boxes and is perfect for storing in the boot of your car until required.
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6. VEEAPE Dual Power 240V Air Compressor
By far the most expensive tyre inflator within this article is the dual powered VEEAPE 240. It’s a dual powered model offered by the brand that can be plugged into a 12V socket or straight into a plug socket.
Other features of the VEEAPE 240 include:
- Maximum pressure rated at 150 PSI
- Supplied with extra nozzles
- Easy to read digital display
- Integrated LED torch
- Choice of pressure measurement units
- Backed by a 12 month warranty
If you require a versatile tyre inflator that can be used virtually anywhere and for a range of inflatable products, you can’t go wrong with the VEEAPE 240. It isn’t the cheapest but the build quality along with the powerful compressor makes it a worthwhile investment that certainly won’t disappoint.
7. Ring RAC750 Mains Tyre Inflator
If you require a car tyre inflator that you can simply plug into a plug socket, the Ring RAC750 is the best option. It’s a powerful device that’s rated at 250 PSI and is capable of inflating a flat tyre in under two minutes. With an inflation rate of 41 litres per minute, it’s one of the most powerful car tyre inflators on the market.
Other features of the Ring RAC750 include:
- Power cable length of 1.8 metres
- Extra long air line cable
- Flexible hose and air tight valve
- Carrying case and adapters included
- Analogue gauge with PSI, bar and KG/CM2 units
Overall, the Ring RAC750 is the best option for garage or home use and it’s the most powerful unit within this article. The only drawbacks are the lack of a digital display and LED light but this may not be an issue for some people.
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How We Rated The Inflators
A car tyre inflator is a device that we class as essential and we have tried a variety inflators from a range of different brands over the years. We personally prefer the digital models but there is a huge selection to choose from to best suit your personal requirements. As well as our experience of using a variety of tyre inflators, we also based our recommendations upon hours of research and a number of factors. Some of the factors that we took into consideration included the type, display, ease of operation, supplied accessories, additional functions, maximum pressure, warranty and value for money.
Car Tyre Inflator Buying Guide
Old tyre inflators used to be a real pain to setup and they were also slow to inflate the tyres too. However, the latest range of devices have overcome these issues with intuitive digital displays and extra functionality.
Driving with tyres that aren’t inflated to the correct PSI can cause abnormal tyre wear and handling issues. Keeping them inflated to the manufacturers specification is highly advised and you can do so with any of the recommendations above. To help you make an informed buying decision, we have produced the below guide regarding car tyre inflators.
12V Socket vs Cordless vs Mains
Most manufacturers offer a range of portable tyre inflators that can be powered by different methods. The most common type is one that’s powered by a 12V socket via a long power cord. They are the cheapest type to buy and they often come with a range of additional features when compared to the alternatives.
One of the newest types of inflators that are becoming more popular are the cordless inflators. The reason for their popularity is due to the freedom you have to move around without having to worry about any wires. Although this is a great bonus, it does mean that you’ll have to remember to keep the device charged up.
The least common type but one that’s ideal for home or garage use is the mains powered inflator. These are often the most powerful type and they can be extended to reach your car from a power socket using an extension cable.
Analogue vs Digital Display
Choosing between the classic analogue display with dials or the modern digital display is very much dependent upon your personal preference. For example, some people find it easier to read dials with multiple unit readings at once rather than a digital display. However, a digital tyre inflator is by far the most popular and it often comes with extra features. Some of these features include the ability to switch between units, automatic shut-off via pre-set values and much more.
Hose and Power Cord Length
There is nothing worse than an inflator that’s not able to reach all four wheels of your car from the 12V socket. If you own a large vehicle, you’ll want to check that the hose and power cord length is long enough to reach.
If you are struggling to find a device, it’s advised that you choose a cordless alternative because there are no power cords or hoses to worry about.
Automation
Due to the improvements in tyre inflator technology, there is plenty of automated features built into the devices. The automatic shut-off is one of our favourite features because it stops the inflation process once it reaches a pre-set pressure. This prevents over inflating your tyres and allows you to do something else whilst waiting for the tyre to inflate.
Inflation Time
The time it takes to inflate a tyre is highly dependent upon the compressor’s power. Unless you are inflating large tyres (such as off road or 4×4 tyres), this isn’t a major factor to consider. Although, most brand’s will state the inflation time to inflate certain tyre sizes, it isn’t always worth spending the extra for a few seconds difference.
What Tyre Pressure?
The tyre pressure that you should use for your car will be specified by the manufacturer. As you can see in the image below, the pressure should reflect upon the weight in the car and the tyres that are used. You will be able to find the correct tyre pressures for your car by checking the user manual, side of the driver’s door or in the fuel filler cap.
Portable Design and Storage
Most tyre inflators will weigh less than 2KG but this doesn’t mean that they’ll be easy to store and carry around. You’ll also want to ensure that the portable tyre inflator you choose has an ergonomic handle that’s easy to grip. Another factor is the size because you may want to store it inside of your car for emergency use whilst out on the road.
Pressure Units
As shown in the image above, there are many units used to measure pressure. The most commonly used in PSI but others include bar and KG/CM2. The majority of premium tyre inflators will allow you to switch between different units to best suit your requirements. However, if you are unable to switch between the units, you can use a calculator to determine the correct tyre pressure for your car’s tyres.
Price and Warranty
Cheap tyre inflators may seem tempting but we advise that you spend slightly more for a device that comes with extra features and adapters. The automatic shut-off feature is a desirable inclusion that’s found in most premium options and we highly recommend it. You should also consider the warranty because many cheaper alternatives may not provide any whatsoever and this could be an issue if the device stops working unexpectedly.
Conclusion
Thanks to the improvements in technology, most modern vehicles are fitted with tyre pressure monitoring systems to notify us straight away if there are any abnormalities. This means that as soon as you receive an error message, you can instantly correct the pressure with a tyre inflator. However, if you drive an older vehicle, we recommend that you check the tyres on a regular basis to ensure that the tyre pressures are what they should be. The AA state that you should check your tyres every week to ensure they are correctly inflated.
All of the recommendations above are suited to a range of budgets and can be powered by a variety of methods. To avoid disappointment, we strongly recommend purchasing from a reputable brand that are well known for their tyre inflators. Alternatively, if you do purchase a cheaper alternative, ensure that it comes with a warranty for peace of mind.
