10 Best Portable Air Compressors | 2022 Useful Buyer’s Guide: LED Lights, USB, Built-In Hose — What a Modern Device Should Come With?
This guide will tell you about TOP best portable air compressors, what these devices consist of and how they work. Different models can be classified in accordance with the type of lubrication they use, whether they come with one or two cylinders, as well as how many times the air gets compressed before it is used. In this guide, you will learn how to distinguish various types and choose the best option for you. A chart containing a comparative analysis of the most popular products will help you make the right choice.
You probably have either never heard of an air compressor or, at the very least, thought that they were not something that you might need. I thought the same thing until I learned that many people use smaller, portable ones for things like filling a flat tire. However, not all of them are the same and if you think you might need one, read below and find out.
How Does a Air Compressor Work?
Most air compressors are made of five simple parts: the cylinder, crankshaft, connecting rod, piston and a valve head. The layout can vary between different models, but here is a rough idea of how these parts work to make the device work
At one end of the cylinder are a pair of valves, the inlet and discharge valves. The inlet valve sucks in all of the air which is then compressed by the piston. Then, the compressed air can be sent to the storage tank until it is needed. When it is needed and used, the air travels through the discharge valve to whatever tool that it is connected to. Some common tools are impact wrenches, paint guns, drills, nail guns, car tools, and more.
Almost all air compressors are powered by gas or electric motors, and it is the same for portable options, too.
What Are The Types of Small Air Compressors and Their Differences?
There are three traits that can differentiate these devices: they are either oil-flooded or oil-free, one-cylinder or two-cylinder and single-stage or two-stage.
Oil-Flooded Vs Oil-Free
Knowing the difference between these two is important if you aren't willing or able to maintain the compressor on a regular basis, which for many people is a very daunting and messy task. This whole area of the device is referring to how the lubrication works and how it needs to be maintained given the type of lubrication it uses.
The models that use oil-flooded, also known as oil-lubricated, pumps use oil which coats the walls and bearings inside of the cylinder. This process is called an oil bath and can require more cleanup than oil-free pumps because the oil tends to seep and splatter. On the opposite side, however, if you're using power tools that need lubrication, the seeping oil can be helpful to them.
Oil-free pumps need lubrication to operate properly too, but they use an oil-free type that is meant to last longer. They usually require less clean up and maintenance, but can be a bit noisier and put more pressure on the motor over time.
In terms of quality, air compressors that use oil-flooded pumps are generally the more durable and reliable. If you don't want to have as more of a cleanup, according to Quincy Compressor, using oil separators and air-line filters can help to prevent the oil from entering the air tank.
One-Cylinder Vs Two-cylinder
One-cylinder options are generally smaller, less expensive, and less powerful than those with two-cylinders unless they are two-stage models, but more on that below. Both can be of high quality, depending on the product.
One Stage Cylinders Vs Two-Stage Cylinders
A little more complicated than the cylinders, a compressor's stage is simply how many times the air gets compressed before it is used. A single-stage model gets compressed once while, you guessed it, a two-stage, also called a “dual-stage”, option gets compressed twice.
The amount of stages is also linked to how many pounds per square inch (PSI) the device can produce, usually. Single-stage models commonly have around 120 PSI while two-stage ones have around 175 PSI.
Many people confuse the number of cylinders with the number of stages the device has. While many compressors that have one cylinder are single stage, there are still some that are two-stage as well and vice versa.
What to Look for When Buying a Product
One of the first things you should do is determine what tools you will be using the air compressor for. The four most common uses for them are woodworking, metal work, car maintenance and assembly, and painting, which is usually for cars but can be used for other applications. The tools you have will usually say the requirements they need like the pounds per square inch (PSI) and the cubic feet per minute (CFM).
TOP Best Portable Air Compressors
Below, you will find a review of the most popular products within the price range from $30 to $70. Basically, they differ in terms of PSI, which is a unit of pressure, and CFM, which measures the speed at which air flows into or out of an item. These models have a varying length of hoses and power cords, with the longest ones reaching up to 31 inches.
Portable Air Compressor for Up To 33-Inch Tires | Viair 00088 88P
- PSI: 120
- CFM: 1.47
- Power cord length: 10 feet
- Hose length: 16 feet
This air compressor kind of looks like a mini leaf blower, minus the long nozzle. What really makes this stand out, though is the fact that it is powered by connection jumper cables that are hooked up to a car battery and the air pressure gauge is conveniently located on the top for easier readings.
This can make it especially convenient for having a spare air compressor in the trunk when you have a flat tire, but not so much for other uses.
Advantages | Disadvantages |
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Recommended or not? For those who want the extra reassurance that they can fill up a flat, yes, but for everyone else who needs an air compressor for other uses, no.
Viair: Check the current price
Portable Air Compressor with Auto Shut Off | TireTek TT-303 RX-i
- PSI: 150
- CFM: N/A
- Power cord length: 9 feet
- Hose length: 18 feet with an 11.5-foot extension
With a simple, thin box design, this model is a little more modern with its LCD screen, LED safety light, 2 USB charging ports, and built-in hose that is fed from the top of the unit.
It also comes with several additional pieces, an extension hose, and a protective case for everything.
Advantages | Disadvantages |
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Recommended or not? Yes, this is one of the best deals for a compressor of this quality. With everything that it comes with, the value, and the extra features, it is hard for many to deny that this is a great find.
TireTek: Check the current price
Portable Air Compressor with Long Cable for Car | Helteko 150PSI
- PSI: 150
- CFM: N/A
- Power cord length: N/A
- Hose length: 11.5 feet
Shaped kind of like a waffle maker, this is another more modern design, having an LCD screen and even a brightness control for it too. It doesn't come with as many accessories as the last one, only coming with a case and 3 tips, but it also has an LED work light attached to it which faces the ground while it lays face up.
Advantages | Disadvantages |
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Recommended or not? If you don't mind the noise and vibrations, then sure. However, if you do get it and cannot stand the noise, there is an 18-month warranty.
Helteko: Check the current price
Portable Air Compressor with Analog Pressure Gauge | Kensun
- PSI: 120
- CFM: N/A
- Power cord length: 10.83 feet
- Hose length: 31.4 inches
One of the more simple designs, this item is reminiscent of a purse or a briefcase. Since it can be powered by AC or DC, there are two buttons right above the pressure gauge, one for both power type.
Advantages | Disadvantages |
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Recommended or not? Yes, for the convenience of being able to run off of AC or DC current, but no if you want a product that is higher quality that will have a longer lifespan.
Kensun: Check the current price
Traditional Small Air Compressor | Tcisa
- PSI: 120
- CFM: 1.23
- Power cord length: 10 feet
- Hose length: 25.6 inches
With the traditional style, this model has 2 switches, one to turn it on and off and one for the LED flashlight, and an LCD screen pressure gauge on the top right below the handle.
Advantages | Disadvantages |
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Recommended or not? Since the cons outweigh the pros, making it less convenient, no.
Tcisa: Check the current price
10 Best-Selling Portable Air Compressors Comparative Table
Customers' Choice
Portable Air Compressor Mini Tyre Inflator, VEEAPE Hand Held Pump 2000mAh with Emergency Lighting Digital LED...
- 🚙【Smart & Automatic Tyre Inflator】VEEAPE air compressor electric has 4 unit values as PSI, BAR, KPA, Kg/cm ², preset and monitor tyre pressure,automatically shut off when desired pressure is reached.Providing a safe and reliable use guarantee.
- ⚽【Heat Dissipation Tyre Pump】In the air pump bike there is a built-in fan, provide good heat dissipation, so it can work continuously, never get hot.
- 🚲【Portable & Safty Air Pump】The two sides of the mini-body cordless air compressor are designed in the shape of a drop of water, providing a good grip.The cordless tire inflator is in small size, light and easy to carry and travel. Professional safety overcurrent, overvoltage, overcharge protection to make you enjoy the inflation process.
- 🏀【Dual LED Digital Pressure Gauge Air Compressor Pump】When the stroller tire pump is connected to the tire, the uper number represents the actual inflation pressure value.The below number represents the standard inflation pressure values.
- 🚗【Memory Function Portable Air Pump 】This compact air compressor will display the last used pressure value at your next time use.Please feel free to contact us if you have any problems.To avoid product damage caused by incorrect operation, please read the user manual carefully.
Best Value
Xiaomi DZN4006GL Mi Pump Air Compressor, A, 124 x 71 x 45.3 mm
- Wherever you go, be prepared. Go further and don't be afraid of having a puncture. The high precision alloy allows compression up to 150 psi to measure the necessary air force for road bikes as well as more common bikes.
- Preparation is key. Check tire pressure and anticipate unexpected problems. With the changing seasons and temperatures, it is important to keep your tire pressure up to date. Too low a pressure can be dangerous. If at any time a puncture occurs, My Portable Electric Air Compressor is there to help you.
- Explore without limits. Compatible with a portable charger. Travel requires careful preparation. My Portable does not need to be plugged in to work. It is compact and lightweight and easy to carry in your bag.
- It's easy, keep up the pressure. Don't worry about pressure when you inflate a ball. My Portable accurately measures psi while pumping.
- Segmented movement for long-lasting use . The motor design allows the air compressor to dissipate heat and reduce vibration for comfort while in use. Its 18650 lithium battery is very efficient and long lasting.
- It incorporates a light to use it at night. The LED bulb emits light while the air is pumped.
- Common loading port. Micro-USB charging port, compatible with most smartphone data cables.
Most Popular
AstroAI Digital Tyre Inflator, Portable Air Compressor Tyre Pump 100 PSI 12V with 2 Ways to Screw & Clip on Valve...
- PROGRAMMABLE INFLATION: All you need to do is set your desired pressure and the digital tyre inflator will automatically shut off when it has reached the pre-set pressure
- 2 FORMS to CONNECT VALVE: Screw & Clip on Valve Connector. The Screw-on adaptor valve has a better seal than the clip on version, but the clip-on tip is more practical and easy to use. you can choose your need
- ADVANCED ACCURACY: The final inflation value will be 0.5-1.5 PSI higher than the preset value which perfectly solves the problem of reduced pressure after removing the valve connector, thus making inflation more accurate; 4 pressure units (PSI, kPa, BAR, KG/CM2), LED display, integrated LED light, 10 Foot cord
- WIDE RANGE of APPLICATIONS: Compatible with 12V, 10A Cigarette Lighters; Inflates any schrader valve on cars, small trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, and bicycles, DOES NOT SUPPORT LT, HT and Truck Tyres. The included accessories quickly inflate balls, air pillows, cushions and mattresses
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: 1x Replacement Fuse; 2x Air Nozzle Cones, 1x Needle Valve Adapter, 1x Valve Extender, 1x Easy-Connect Schrader Valve Adapter, 2x Rubber Mat. 3 Year Warranty provided by AstroAI
Best Budget
Ring RAC610 12V Analogue Tyre Inflator, Air Compressor Tyre Pump, 4.5 Min Tyre Inflation, Valve Adaptors
- FIRM FAVOURITE WITH REVIEWERS. Over 1000 positive Amazon reviews for this easy-to-use inflator.
- FAST INFLATION. The RAC610 can inflate a 13” tyre to 35PSI in UNDER 4.5 MINUTES. It also comes with valve adaptors for use on bicycle tyres and balls.
- EASY TO USE. Just one button – no complicated settings. Simply switch on to start inflation, and off when inflation is complete. It’s that simple.
- POWERED FROM YOUR VEHICLE. Plugs straight into your 12V DC socket (cigarette lighter), for easy tyre maintenance whether you’re outside your home or travelling. It’s small and stores neatly, with cable and hose clipping onto the unit.
- SEE THE DIFFERENCE. Watch the video to see the RAC610 in action, and scroll down for more information on this popular inflator. 1000+ reviewers can’t be wrong!
Most Discussed & Reviewed
Audew Portable Air Pump 12V 150PSI Air Compressor Digital Tyre Inflator Mini 3 * 2000mAh Capacity Rechargeable...
- 【Fast Inflation & Save Your Time】Audew electric air pump performs well in pumping up the tyres as you need. 150PSI powerful air pressure provides a faster inflating speed. It could saves your much time if you choose our tyre inflator, without the worry of long waiting.
- 【3*2000 Large Capacity Battery】Longer using time! Audew portable air pump is equipped with 3*2000 mAh Built-in Lithium battery. It could air up for 9 car tyres or 17 motor tyres or about 54 balls after fully charged. Notice: We advise to connect the pump to your car with the cigarette lighter to ensure the best user experience when you try to air it.
- 【Portable and Easy to Store】Audew electric bike pump mini has a size about 14*8*4cm and weight only about 900g. With such a mini size, it could be easily taken in your backbag when you go hiking or just set it in your car for the use of emergency.
- 【Intelligent & 4 Preset Mode】Audew air compressor could change the unit between PSI, BAR, KPA and KG/CM². There are also 4 preset modes ( Motor, Car, Bicycle & Ball ), you could easily choose the suitable mode basing on your need and it will start after pressing the "OK" button. The intelligent technology design will monitor the air pressure of the tyre during the inflation and automaticlly shut down once it reached the preset pressure.
- 【Multifunctional product】Audew tyre inflator is supplied with sufficient accessories which could be used for cars, balls, bicycles and inflatable toys. There are also one bright LED light coupled with the inflator, easily press the "sun" button to change it from " Lighting mode, slow flash mode and SOS mode. What's more, it could be also use as a power bank to charge your phone. If any further questions with the product, please contact with us and we will provide satisfying answer to you.
Best Trusted
AUTDER Cordless Tyre Inflator Portable Air Compressor, Car Tyre Pump
- [ Powerful & Fast Inflation ]: AUTDER Tyre inflator provide 120PSI powerful pressure, the air flow up to 35L/min, which means that it can inflate car tire from 0 to 35psi within 2 minutes, much more powerful and faster than conventional pumps!
- [ Two Kinds of Batteries offered ]: AUTDER Tyre compressor Except the 2600mA rechargeable Lithium battery base, we also offer you with an extra base which powered by car cigarette lighter, it's power cord up to 4m, make it easier for you to inflate the rear tire.
- [ Durable Design & Pressure Preset ]: The inflator is made of extremely durable material, and the sturdy hose is designed to resist high pressures, our upgrade tire pressure monitoring system make sure that when it reached the preset pressure, The inflator will stop automatically.
- [ Multiple Purpose ]: The pressure of AUTDER tyre inflator ranges from 3 to 120 PSI, the maximum inflator pressure is up to 140PSI, It can inflate bikes, motorcycle and midsize SUV easily, and also has a perfect performance on basketball, balloons, motorboats etc.
- [ Portable & Safty Driving Buddy ]: AUTDER tyre inflator and all accessories are well packed into a portable zipper bag before delivered to you, It takes up very little space, you can keep it in the automobile to guarantee the safty of your every journey
Best Cheap
Digital Tyre Inflator 12V Portable Air Compressor Car Tyre Pump with Digital LCD Display, LED Light, 3 Nozzle...
- 💕[STRONG POWER & FAST INFLATION] Plug the tyre inflator air compressor into the 12V power outlet, it inflate the car tire from 0 to 35psi under 6min, not getting too hot after inflating. This car tyre inflator is small and light for easy storing and accessing in the back trunk of a car or SUV to make inflating tires in emergency easier and more convenient
- 💕[AUTO SHUT OFF&TIRE PRESSURE CHECKING] When the digital tyre inflator reaches the desired pressure, it will automatically turn off to avoid over inflating or low tire pressure. Convoy your safety all the way. With the car tyre pump, you can check your tire pressure regularly every 2-4 weeks to help you drive safely and extend the life of your tires
- 💕[Digital LCD Display & LED LIGHTING ] Equipped with high-precision and bright display, digital tyre pump will help you to calculate the required values PSI, BAR, KPA easily. It also equips with built in bright and long-lasting LED lights to use in the dark
- 💕[LONG CABLE & MULTI-PURPOSE] With long power cord, This portable tyre inflator pump can easily reach all front and rear tires from a single 12V charging point. Package include 3 nozzle adaptors to pump up bicycle tires , basketballs, soccer balls, air mattress, inflatable boats and other inflatables
- 💕[RISK-FREE & 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE ] We offer 100% SATISFACTION AND 12 MONTHS EXTENDED WARRANTY. If you have any question, we will always be more than happy to help you
Other Popular portable air compressors
SKEY Cordless Car Tyre Inflator Portable Air Compressor, Handheld Electric Pump with LCD Display and 12V 150PSI...
- 【Powerful & Fast Inflation】SKEY Tyre inflator provide 150PSI powerful pressure, the air flow up to 35L/min, which means that it can inflate car tire from 0 to 35psi within 2 minutes, much more powerful and faster than conventional pumps!
- 【Durable Design & Pressure Preset】The inflator is made of extremely durable material, and the sturdy hose is designed to resist high pressures. Our upgrade tire pressure monitoring system make sure that when it reached the preset pressure, The inflator will stop automatically. Stop guessing what pressure your tyres are at with traditional pressure gauges. The SKEY Tyre inflator digital display is accurate and precise.
- 【LCD Pressure Gauge & LED Flashlight】Digital LCD pressure gauge is easy to read, you can preset tire pressure to what your tires need (4 kinds of unit values: PSI, BAR,KPA and Kg/cm²). The pump with LED light is uniquely pistol-shaped and portable to use in both day and night. It is good for lighting or emergency lighting, a secure and humanized design.
- 【Portable & Multifunction】The space occupied by the portable tyre compressor is very small, it can be kept in the car and provide timely help. The additional 1.5m lengthened hose brings you more inflation possibilities; 5 kinds of nozzles for multi-purposes of car, bike, motorcycle, ball, motorboats and other inflatables.
- 【100% Guarantee】 We strongly stand behind the great quality of these Tyre inflator. If you encounter any issues, we will make it right in a timely manner. Our average response time is 24 hrs or less. Enjoy 7*24 support and 1 year of coverage.
Digital Tyre Inflator Pump, Coquimbo 12V DC 150PSI Portable Air Compressor for Car Tyre with 35L/Min Air Flow, 3...
- Auto Shut Off: The portable air compressor has the feature of automatic shut off. You can preset the pressure value. When the preset tire pressure is reached, the digital air pump will automatically shut off. There is no need to worry about over inflating or low tire pressure.
- Touch Screen Display & LED Lighting: This portable air compressor is equipped with a precise and bright display, which allows you to set the tyre pressure accurately in four unit values (psi, bar, kPa, kg/cm²). And the LED lights can be easily used even in the dark. For example, inflating the tyre, repairing your car and so on.
- Fast Inflation: The max inflatable pressure is 150 psi. The car tyre pump can inflate a standard mid-size car tire in 3-5 mins from 0 to 35 psi. Note: After a continuous use of the machine for more than 10 minutes, the machine needs to be stopped and reused after 15 minutes.
- Multiple Uses: The car air inflator with a 2.8m cable can reach four tires easily. It is suitable to inflate car, bike, motor, ball, air cushion, compact or midsize sedan SUV, etc. Note: The tyre pump can't be used for large or super heavy car or trucks, such as Bus, Big truck, Van, Campervan, Minivan etc.
- Safe & Easy Operation: The tyre inflator is very safe and easy to operate. Just start the car engine, plug the power connector into a cigarette lighter and connect the inflatable line to the tire you wish to inflate. Preset the unit value and pressure and then start switch. It will automatically shut off once reaching at the preset pressure.
GSPSCN Silver Tyre Inflator Heavy Duty Double Cylinders with Portable Bag, Metal 12V Air Compressor Pump 150PSI...
- FAST INFLATION: GSPSCN Heavy Duty Double cylinder design,maximum pressure 150PSI, air flow 70L/min, inflates standard vehicle tyre in 1.5 minutes (200/70/R18, 0-40psi)
- STABILITY TECHNOLOGY: Rubber feet to make sure the 12V air pump stays where it is placed and does not move around during operation ,make the air compressor more powerful,effectively reduce the vibration and noise
- DOUBLE CYLINDERS DIRECT DRIVE INFLATION PUMP: In the direct drive of the motor, the two cylinders at the same time compressed air, powerful and fast inflatable, also direct-drive motor makes the drive low rotating speed, high efficiency, compact, quiet and stability, and easy to control
- WORKS: particularly suitable for SUVs, trucks, vans, RVs, crossovers, MPVs, campers,Auto, trailers, minivans, also can use for cars, motorcycles, golf carts, bicycles, and more
- EQUIPPED: with 3M cigarette lighter switch and 3M extension hose and high quality battery clamp, extension hose meet the needs of the long-wheelbase vehicle inflatable, battery clamp connect directly to your vehicle battery, power tyre inflator and other 12-volt devices, like vacuum, coffee maker, and more
FAQs
Which portable air compressors are the best?
This is a more subjective question since everyone's needs are different.
Which ones are the quietest?
This can vary based on the size and quality of the device. A majority of the large models are commonly the loudest, but there are always exceptions to this rule.
How can I reduce the noise?
There are simple and cheap fixes that can reduce some of the noise and there are complicated and expensive alternatives that may need you to take apart the unit. Some of the more popular choices are to put it over a rubber mat that can absorb the vibrations or even changing the ground stands.
What are air compressors used for?
They can be used for simple tasks like filling an air mattress or complicated ones like car maintenance. Since different uses need different amounts of PSI and CFM.
How long does it take to inflate a tire?
This can vary based on how deflated the tire is and how powerful the unit is. For example, the Tcisa model above can fill a tire with 30 psi in about 2 to 3 minutes while the Helteko model can fill large tires, but it can only be run at 10-minute intervals.
Pros & Cons of Using Portable Air Compressors
One of the largest pros for them is their mobility and ability to be used in places where it is inconvenient to transport the standard-sized units.
While there are more cons, the pro almost always outweighs these cons:
- Sometimes more expensive
- Tend to need more filtering and lubrication maintenance
- Lower CFMs and PSI than standard sizes
- Rare to find a gas-powered portable model
The article above also lists the advantages and disadvantages of every aspect of most if not all of the different types of compressors, not just portable ones.
Conclusion
Those are all the differences with air compressors, portable and not, and the TOP best portable ones that are on the market right now. While all of them were electric-powered, we may see some more with built-in batteries.