Though they are light in weight and compact in size, 12v air compressors are adequate enough to handle small tasks like inflating cars, sport balls and others. While purchasing a 12 volt air compressor, it is very important to consider air pressure and others. We have mentioned them clearly below…
Maximum Air Pressure: It represents the level of air pressure within the compressor. It is usually represented in terms of PSI (pounds per square inch). For a 12v air compressor, 30 to 80 PSI models are good enough to handle the tasks. Power Draw: Since you are using these 12v air compressor using your vehicle’s battery, their power consumption is quite important to know. Any air compressor with a high power draw can damage the battery of your vehicle. Therefore, you should only go for air compressors with a power draw of 120 watts or lower.
For more information on how to choose a 12v air compressor, we recommend to read our “Buying Guide”. We have provided detail information on several factors that let you choose wisely. Along with that, a list of Best 12V Air Compressors is also provided below. If you haven’t got time, then you can choose anyone from the table below. s
Best 12V Air Compressor 2023
Best 12V Portable Air Compressor: Reviews
1. AstroAI Air Compressor Tire Inflator
The air compressor from AstroAI has a capacity of 35L/Min airflow which is adequate for inflating car tires from 0 to 36psi within few minutes. Apart from car tires, it can also be used for inflating balloons, footballs, basketball and others inflatables.
Best air compressor Best shop air compressors Best airbrush compressor Best pancake air compressors Types of Air Compressors
It comes with an upgraded cable design which pumps the air quieter and stabler. It comes with an emergency LED light that can provide illumination while inflating at the night or dark areas. This air compressor has 2-way attach nozzle. So, you can use it according to the convenience and situation. It comes with easy to operation buttons so you can use it easily. Best Features:
35 L/Min air flow Wide range of applications Heavy-duty 3 nozzles and extra fuse LED screen Convenient operation Compact and handy Smart pre-set pressure Safety design Upgraded cable design
Components:
Digital air compressor Replacement fuse Nozzle adapters Valve extenders Quick connector Screw rotation attach User manual
2. EPAuto 12V DC Portable Air Compressor
EPAuto is one of the most highly-rated brands out there if you are looking for portable air compressors. You can also find a great option from EPAuto in this article. This EPAuto 12v air compressor is in the 3rd position in this article as it offers decent power. You get a power draw of 180 watts in this tire inflator. And it provides a maximum air pressure of 70 PSI that it fills quite quickly. You also get a large LED light at the front that can be quite handy in the night. It even comes with a display on the top for selecting the tire pressure. And you get all of this along with multiple useful accessories. Best Features:
70 PSI maximum air pressure 180 watts power draw 10 feet long power cord Bright LED torch Display for air pressure Great build quality Auto switch-off function High-performance pump
Components:
3 piece inflation tip kit Carry bag Air compressor User manual Warranty card
3. VacLife Air Compressor Tire Inflator
VacLife makes a lot of different car accessories available out there. You can also find an air compressor for your vehicle. It is a great 12v air compressor that connects to the power outlet of your car. You can set any tire pressure up to 150 PSI using the inbuilt display. And even then it only has a power draw of just 120 watts. Another great thing about this air compressor is that it comes with an auto shut off function. You also get a bright LED light at the front that can be quite handy to have while using it in the night. Best Features:
150 PSI maximum air pressure 120 watts power draw 8 feet long power cord 1 year warranty LED torch Inbuilt display Set air pressure Auto-off function Decent build quality
Components:
4 piece inflation tip kit Air compressor User manual Warranty card
4. FORTEM Digital Tire Inflator Portable Air Compressor
Fortem is another popular brand of air compressors available out there. The 12v air compressor from Fortem mentioned in this article is quite affordable. Fortem’s air compressor is in the 2nd position in this article as it offers excellent value for money. Despite its affordable price tag, it provides a maximum air pressure of 150 PSI. And it can offer this with a power draw of just 120 watts. You also get a screen as well as an LED light in this tire inflator. These can be quite handy while inflating the tires of your vehicle. You also get other free accessories with this that includes nozzle accessories, extra fuse, and a carry bag. Best Features:
150 PSI maximum air pressure 120 watts power draw 9 feet long power cord 1 year warranty Display and LED light Various free accessories Value for money
Components:
3 piece inflation tip kit Carry bag Extra fuse Air compressor User manual Warranty card
5. Helteko Portable Air Compressor
Helteko can be another great option if you are looking for car accessories. And this one is also quite similar to the last option present in this article. But unlike the previous air compressors, this one comes with a 1.5-year warranty. And this makes it one of the most reliable options out there. You also get a maximum air pressure rating of 150 PSI in this tire inflator. And just like various other portable air compressors, this only has a power draw of 120 watts via the 12v power outlet of your vehicle. You even get an emergency light indicator in this, which can be quite handy while inflating your vehicle’s tires on the side of the road. Best Features:
150 PSI maximum air pressure 120 watts power draw 10 feet long power cord 5-year warranty Inbuilt screen LED flashlight Value for money Auto shut off function
Components:
3 piece inflation tip kit Carrying bag Extra fuse Air compressor User manual Warranty card
6. Viair 00088 88P Portable Air Compressor
Viair makes a lot of car accessories, including powerful air compressors. And we are here with one of the most powerful 12v air compressors in this article. The Viair 00088 88P portable air compressor is in the 1st position in this article as it one of the most powerful options out there. It has a power draw of 240 watts, and thus, it can quickly inflate the tires of your vehicle. It offers a maximum air pressure of 120 PSI that is more than enough for most vehicles. This air compressor connects directly to the battery of your vehicle using alligator clips. And it comes with a 10 feet long power cord for ease of use. Best Features:
120 PSI maximum air pressure 240 watts power draw 10 feet long power cord 1 year warranty 47 CFM Suitable for up to 33-inch tires High power air compressor LED power indicator
Components:
3 piece inflation tip kit Alligator clips Air compressor User manual Warranty card
7. Kensun Portable Air Compressor
Kensun also makes various air compressor options for vehicles. And we are here with one of the more premium and high-performance options from Kensun in this article. It offers a maximum air pressure limit of 100 PSI that is more than enough for most vehicle tires. And it can deliver this air pressure with a maximum power draw of 120 watts from the 12v power socket of your car. One of the most unique things about this air compressor is that it has two motors. This allows it to quickly fill up the tires of your vehicle without any issues. You also get a tire pressure indicator dial on the front of this unit. Best Features:
100 PSI maximum air pressure 120 watts power draw 32-inch long hose 2 year warranty Highly reliable and durable Comes with two motors Tyre air pressure gauge at the front Works with both 12v and 110v
Components:
2 piece inflation tip kit Twin power connectors Air compressor User manual Warranty card
8. HAUSBELL Portable Air Compressor for Car Tires
Hausbell can be another great option if you are looking for a tire inflator for your car. We are here with one of the best affordable options offered by Hausbell in this article. Just like the various other options present in this article, you get a maximum air tire pressure limit of 150 PSI in this tire inflator. And it is able to offer this with a power draw of 120 watts via the battery of your vehicle. This even features a display on the top. You can use this to either check or set the tire pressure that you want in your vehicle. It also offers a bright LED light at the front for using it at night. Best Features:
150 PSI maximum air pressure 120 watts power draw 10 feet long power cord 1 year warranty Display on the top Bright LED light Decent build quality Value for money
Components:
3 piece inflation tip kit Extra fuse Air compressor User manual Warranty card
9. GSPSCN Silver Tire Inflator Air Compressor
Next, we have an air compressor from GSPSCN. And it offers excellent performance for its given affordable price tag. A great thing about this air compressor is that it comes with various accessories. All of these can be quite handy for inflating the tires of your vehicle. It offers a maximum air pressure of 150 PSI due to its twin-motor design. And even though it has two motors, it only has a power draw rated at 120 watts. It allows you to fill 70 liters of air per minute. You also get rubber feet in this portable air compressor which keeps it stable while inflating tires. Best Features:
150 PSI maximum air pressure 120 watts power draw 9 feet long power cord Comes with various accessories Uses rubber feet Twin motor design 70 liters of air per minute
Components:
3 piece inflation tip kit Alligator clips Hose extension Carrying bag Air compressor User manual Warranty card
10. Yome Portable Dual Cylinder Air Compressor
Coming to the last option, Yome also offers decent air compressor options out there with different power capabilities. And the portable air compressor option present in this article is one of the best out there. One of the best things about this portable air compressor is that it offers a 24 hour support system. You also get twin motors in this tire inflator which allows you to inflate the tyres of your vehicle quickly. You get a maximum air pressure limit of 150 PSI since this is made for cars. But as you get a power draw of 120 watts, it can inflate tires quite quickly. You also get a wide range of accessories with this portable air compressor. Best Features:
150 PSI maximum air pressure 120 watts power draw 9.84 feet long power cord Includes various accessories Reliable and durable
Components:
3 piece inflation tip kit Alligator clips Carrying case Hose extension Air compressor User manual Warranty card
Why Do I Need a 12V Air Compressor?
Flat tire is the common problem faced by car owners. This situation can be particularly annoying when there is no assistance available nearby. Deflation in the car tires can occur slowly and abruptly based on the reason. In most of the situations, you may need to inflate the tire by yourself. Investing in a 12V compressor will let you complete the tire inflation task without waiting for help or assistance. Apart from that, you can also keep the tire pressure and maintain tires durability using an air compressor. 12V air compressor will not help in maintaining the tires properly, but also help you maintain car safety and improve fuel consumption. People who love spending long journeys regularly, no longer have to worry about driving on different surfaces. If you have to drive on wet or loose surfaces, then it is important to decrease the tire pressure. Through this process, they can obtain greater surface area for tires. And major issue for drivers is when they have to get back on the tarmac. This issue can be easily resolved using 12v air compressor. Using this machine, you can re-inflate the tires to their correct air pressure that is suitable for tarmac.
How to Choose the Best 12V Air Compressor?
There are several brands that offer durable 12v air compressors. Choosing the right model that satisfy your requirements is a bit difficult task. However, this can be simplified if you consider the information provided in our buying guide for 12V air compressor.
1. Maximum Air Pressure
This factor lets you understand what type of tires can be inflated using the air compressor. It is measured in terms of PSI (pounds per square inch). If the air compressor doesn’t have enough pressure, then it will not functional properly. To avoid any issues regarding pressure, we recommend to choose a model with higher PSI rating. The PSI rating of air compressors range from 25 to 150. Higher rating means you can fill all kinds of tires including cars, trucks and several others. If it is just for car tires, then air compressor with 50 PSI is more than enough. Most of the car tires come with PSI ranging from 30 to 40 PSI max. Some larger vehicles like RVs, sedans and SUVs require higher PSI as their tires need 70 to 90 PSI. So, check the PSI requirements of your vehicle before purchasing an air compressor. In that way, you can purchase the best model possible for your car.
2. Air Flow
This factor represents the total air volume output provided by the air compressor. To say in simple terms, it represents the speed of air flow delivered by the air compressor. It is measured in terms of CFM (cubic feet per minute). Basic rule to remember while analyzing this factors is – higher the CFM rating, better will be the performance of the compressor. You have to select a model that provides 1.5 times more CFM than required. The buffer space is necessary to prevent overload on the air compressor.
3. Power Capacity
It is one of the important factors to consider while purchasing a 12 volt air compressor. Because it determines the efficiency of the compressor. If the model you choose doesn’t come with enough power capacity, then it is basically useless. Power capacity of an air compressor is measured in horsepower (HP). Most of the models come with HP rating from 2 HP to 10HP. Few models also come with higher horsepower. For compressors that use standard electric power source, it is good to opt for 2 HP rating.
4. Duty Cycle
Duty cycle of a compressor represents the time duration it can be operated continuously at 100 PSI and standard temperature of 72°F. It is usually represented in terms of percentile – duty cycle % = compressor on time + off time. For example, if the duty cycle is present as 25% then it means that compressor can be operated continuously for 10 minutes and can be restarted again after 30-minute break. It is very important to determine the measurement of duty cycle as light-duty models don’t have enough volume in their tank. So, you will run out the of compressed air in the middle of the task. Higher duty cycle rating provides better quality and efficiency to the compressor. If you run the compressor more than its duty cycle, then its efficiency can be reduced. If you keep on repeating this for longer time, then it can decrease the lifespan of the air compressor. Below, we have provided a table representing one-hour cycle chart at 72° F and 100 PSI rating.
6. Tank Capacity
If you want to use the air compressor for running power tool as well, then purchasing a model with in-built tank with adjustable regulator can be more beneficial. Most of the contractors attest that a 2 gallon surge tank is sufficient for inflating the tire quickly. Size of this tank is also suitable for storing easily below the seat or in a toolbox.
7. Power Source
You have to choose the power source based on your usage. For example, 12v air compressor will use cigarette lighter socket. So, it is perfect for inflating car tires. Another option is rechargeable battery-powered compressor. It is perfect for people who travel regular as they don’t have to worry about plugging the air compressor to an electrical outlet. A rechargeable air compressor can inflate two tires with single charge. It can also be used for checking and adjusting all the 4 tires.
8. Power Draw
If you are choosing battery operated 12 volt air compressor, then you should consider power draw factor as well. Air compressors that has high power draw are capable of inflating the tires quickly. But it can also affect the vehicle battery as well. So, we recommend to purchase an air compressor that has 120 watts or lower power draw.
9. Different Socket Types
Air compressors usually are designed to run using DC power only. This is the same power type emitted by cars using cigarette lighter. 12v air compressors are perfect for running off a car but they cannot be helpful if you use AC power socket. AC power is usually present in the electrical outlets of your home. You can use an inverter for converting DC power to AC power. However, you have pay extra amount for that. If your requirements need your air compressor to work both AC/DC power, then choose a portable tire inflator. This compressor comes with both AC and DC plug so you don’t have to worry about the power source.
10. Cord Length
Once the air compressor is connected to battery or 12v power socket, you have to connect the machine to tires for inflation. So, a decent cord length is important to ensure the compressed air reached the tires without any issues. Usually, power cords for 12V compressor are short compared to AC models. This may not be a major deal for most of the folks. But if you have a larger vehicle, then cord length makes a lot of difference in your purchase decision. Shorter cord can pose difficulty of reaching tires. An ideal air compressor should come with 10 – 12 feet cord length. However, if the air compressor doesn’t come with required hose length, then you purchase hose extensions for additional amount.
11. Auto-Shut Off
This feature is available only few models of 12v air compressors. When the air compressor reaches desired air pressure, it will shut down the device completely. For example, if you are inflating a tire, it will automatically turn off when the tire reaches maximum air pressure limit. This feature is helpful for beginners as they don’t have much experience with air compressors. As it available with only few models, read the specifications carefully before making the purchase.
12. Display and Lights
These features are available in several portable air compressors. Having them is very beneficial, especially if you are going to use air compressor in dim lighting conditions or at nights. We recommend to purchase a model that comes with high precision display that provides appropriate values like BAR, PSI and others. LED lights can come quite handy while inflating tires at night on road side. They can also be used as emergency lights. The display will let you to check the tire pressure. Some also let you set the air pressure with auto-off function.
13. Accessories
Some air compressors come with additional accessories that will make the whole experience of using them convenient and comfortable. Some of these accessories are nozzle attachment that lets you inflate balls and bicycle tires. Carrying bag is another accessory that lets you carry the air compressor easily and comfortably. Some of the accessories are hose extensions, alligator clips, extra fuses, and hose extensions.
14. Design and Material
12 volt air compressors are available in several designs. When it comes to durability, it depends on the material and casing used. Make sure the casing can handle the heat range so that overheating doesn’t damage the compressor. Steel and cast iron are the best materials that can handle heat better compared to other materials.
15. Noise
No wants to invest in a device that generates a lot of noise. It will not only lead to irritation and hearing problems but also disturb your neighbors as well. To avoid hearing problems, we recommend to purchase an air compressor that generates noise levels less than 40dB or 60dB.
16. Weight and Portability
12v air compressors are best suited for light duty works. So, we recommend to purchase a model that is light in weight, portable and compact. Compact size and less weight will not help in storing the device properly but also ease the mobility. As you will mostly store the compressor in your car, you should consider their dimensions as well. If you have a small vehicle, then compact model is adequate enough. However, they will have less PSI and CFM levels. Most of the 12V air compressors weigh around 2 to 6 pounds. We recommend to choose a unit that is light in weight and distributes the weight properly.
17. Warranty
Just like any other product, it is important to check the warranty of a 12v air compressor before making the purchase. Considering this factor ensures reliability of the product. During the warranty period you don’t have to pay any extra amount for repairs. This is even more important if you are purchasing online. Usually, 12v air compressors come with 1 to 3 years of warranty.
How to Use a 12v Air Compressor?
Compared to a larger air compressor, 12 volt air compressor is very simple to use. The main important thing you have to do is to plug it into a correct electrical socket. However, if it is rechargeable battery operated model, then you don’t have to worry about it. After that, you have to adjust the PSI settings to correct pressure. Now you can turn on the air compressor and inflate the tires.
Uses of 12V Air Compressor
Apart from inflating car tires, 12 volt air compressor can be used for other reasons as well. Below, we have mentioned some of the ways you can use a 12v air compressor.
Inflation: They are the perfect tool for inflating flat tires, sports balls and camping equipment. Reseating Tires – If the tires of your car have slipped from the rim, then you can reset them with 12 volt air compressor. This will not only save money but also time as well. Powering Pneumatic Tools – For powering tools like nail guns, 12v air compressors is suitable.
Conclusion
12v air compressors can be quite handy and useful to have in your vehicle. These portable air compressors allow you to inflate low-pressure tires of your vehicle even when you are traveling. Therefore, we have mentioned some of the best 12v air compressors in this article along with all of their options and features. You can also find a detailed buying guide in this article that offers all of the details regarding these air compressors. But if you are still not able to choose the best air compressors for your vehicle, here are some of our recommendations:
If you want one of the best performing 12v air compressors out there, then you can go with the Viair 00088 88P portable air compressor. It is one of the only 240-watt air compressors in this article. As a result, it quickly inflates the tires of your vehicle. You also get a 1 year warranty and various useful accessories with this air compressor. But if you are looking for a more practical value for money option, then you can go with the Fortem air compressor. Despite its affordable price tag, it offers 150 PSI air pressure with a power draw of 120 watts. You also get a display in this air compressor, which can be quite useful. And it comes with various air hose nozzles and a carry bag which are quite handy. The Helteko portable air compressor is also quite similar to this one. You get a maximum air pressure limit of 150 PSI in this air compressor. And it even comes with an LED light that can be quite useful while inflating your tires in the night. Another great thing about this 12v air compressor for your vehicles is that it comes with a 1.5-year warranty for reliability.
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