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Motor Trend
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Motor Trend
The Best Tire Inflators for 2025
Our Recommendations Best Overall: AstroAI Cordless Tire Inflator Best Ultra Compact: Craftsman 12V Max Portable Air Inflator Best For Trucks and SUVs: Viair 88P Editor's Note: We test and review every product we recommend. Read how MotorTrend tests products here. Keeping your vehicle in top condition starts with maintenance, and while I hate to sound like your dentist nagging you to floss more, you probably need to check your car's tire pressure more often than you do. Why? Driving with the correct air pressure can save you money at the gas pump, promote predictable handling when you hit the brakes or turn the wheel, and help your tires last as long as possible After combing through hundreds of tire inflators, I narrowed the field down to seven products that I purchased from Amazon and Harbor Freight. I put each inflator through three rounds of rigorous evaluation from unboxing and assessing its general usability to testing its accuracy and speed in tests simulating real-world situations. After more than 50 hours in the MotorTrend test garage, one inflator stood out for its ability to top off multiple tires, bring a flat back to life, and inflate a tire to 80 psi. Our top pick is the AstroAI Cordless Tire Inflator. What I Looked For I designed the tests for this review and selected products with the goal of finding the best tire inflators that are easy to use and easy on your budget. Among the popular products on the market, seven stood out as the most promising and I put them to the test with the following criteria in mind: Cordless inflators should be able to top up all four tires on a single charge Inflators with cords need to easily reach all four tires Built-in pressure gauges should be accurate A tire inflator that works quickly is more convenient The pump should be able to inflate tires to 80 psi to accommodate the high pressures needed for heavy-duty pickup trucks When stowed in its carrying case, the unit should be compact enough to keep in a vehicle Additional features such as a flashlight, a USB port for charging a phone, and adapters for filling balls, pool rafts, and air mattresses are nice to have but not mandatory Specifications and Test Results for the Best Tire Inflators Tire Inflator Reviews Best Overall Tire Inflator: AstroAI Cordless Tire Inflator Pros Quick to inflate flat tires Useful carry bag Multiple power options Cons Why does it look like a drill? In our test: From a distance, the AstroAI Cordless Tire Inflator looks like it should accept a 3/8-inch drill bit instead of an air chuck. Despite its unusual shape, the AstroAI impressed me with its stout construction, quick inflation, and reasonable price. Inside the carrying case you'll find two power sources, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack and a 12-volt adapter for your vehicle's cigarette lighter port. Set your desired pressure on the high-contrast screen, blip the trigger (no, you don't have to hold it down the whole time), and the AstroAI will automatically shut off when your tire is full. It repeatedly inflated tires to within 1.5 pounds of the target pressure with no obnoxious noise or excessive heat. The battery has enough power to top off four tires from 25 to 35 psi in one session without needing a recharge. In the unlikely event the battery does run out, switch to the 12-volt power source and keep inflating. Bottom Line: Despite its resemblance to a cordless drill, the AstroAI has the performance and power of a proper tire inflator. Best Ultra Compact Tire Inflator: Craftsman 12V Max Portable Air Inflator In our test: Though we were skeptical whether something so compact could bring a flat tire back to life, the Craftsman 12V Max Portable Air Inflator impressed us in every test. Just charge it up using the included USB-A cord, preset your desired pressure on the crystal-clear LED screen, and let it, well, roar. For a tool that can fit inside a glove compartment, this thing makes quite a racket. We were impressed by the rubber construction that's just as useful in drop protection as it is keeping the tool in your hand, and the built-in presets for car tires, bike tires, pool toys, and a custom mode. As you'd expect, an inflator with dimensions between a TV remote and a small brick has a slower pump and smaller battery than our top pick. The Craftsman needed 2.5 minutes more than the AstroAI to inflate one tire from 25 to 35 psi, and it did that for two tires and most of a third tire before the battery died (there is an included 12-volt power cord to finish the job). If you absolutely need to, though, this little beast will resuscitate a flat tire in just over 23 minutes with power left in the battery. Bottom Line: At around $40, the Craftsman is an incredibly portable insurance policy against flat tires that you can charge and store in a glovebox, a motorcycle saddle bag, or even a backpack. Best Tire Inflator for Trucks and SUVs: Viair 88P Pros Wicked fast inflation King of big tires Apocalypse-ready carrying case x Cons Bulky Must clamp to your vehicle's battery Imprecise pressure gauge In our test: The Viair 88P is the best inflator for filling the larger tires of a pickup or SUV, especially if you regularly deflate your tires for off-roading and reinflate them afterwards. It was the fastest of everything we tested, taking a tire from zero to 35 psi in less than seven minutes. The AstoAI needed nearly 16 minutes to do the same task. What's the catch? In addition to the high price (around $90), the Viair 88P has to be connected to your vehicle's battery via alligator clips, which can be intimidating if you don't know your way around an engine bay. The analog gauge makes it tricky to monitor the pressure dial without pausing the inflation process, and since it doesn't have an automatic shutoff, you'll need to pay attention to make sure you don't overinflate a tire. The impressive, rugged construction of the carrying case helps justify the price, but the unit takes up as much space as a small purse or backpack. Bottom Line: If you don't mind its size and popping the hood to access your battery terminals, the Viair 88P is a rugged and reliable way to fill up large tires on your car, truck, or SUV. Other Tire Inflators I Tested Airmoto Tire Inflator: Lacking the battery capacity for anything more than one car tire, this ultra compact inflator might work for a bicycle or motorcycle. DeWalt 20V Max Tire Inflator: The expensive 20V Max is a fantastic tool if you already own DeWalt batteries, but there a several options that allow you to do the job for less money with better portability. Modari Tire Inflator: The Modari has a similar form factor as the Craftsman, but it's more expensive and slower. Pittsburgh Dual Power Tire Inflator: Harbor Freight's inflator plugs into 12-volt or 120-volt household outlets, making it a good choice for garage use even though it's slower than some smaller battery-powered alternatives. How I Tested Tire Inflators I used these products in the driveway and in the garage, just like you would, and evaluated them based on three tests that simulate scenarios you might encounter. Four-Tire Top Up Test: Imagine you find all four of your car's tires a little low on air in the morning before work. You need an inflator that can fill all four tires from 25 psi (visibly low on air) to 35 psi (common operating air pressure in a passenger vehicle tire). I measured how quickly these inflators could get you back on the road. We also checked for accuracy at the end using a calibrated air pressure gauge. Choose your inflator carefully because the offering from Airmoto only packed enough battery power to refill one tire where products like the Viair 88P have no problem inflating all four. Flat Tire Test: Uh oh, your day just got worse! There's a completely flat tire standing between you and daycare pickup. Can your inflator get you from empty to full in one session? I timed how long each inflator took to pressurize a tire from 0 psi to 35 psi. Overheating or failing to reach 35 psi on a battery charge, as the Airmoto did, meant immediate failure. Maximum Pressure Test: Finally, I ran each inflator through the high-pressure gauntlet. This test validated that each pump has the muscle to deliver high pressures. While it's unlikely that you'll need to put more than 100 psi into a car tire or pool raft, there are some bicycle tires and heavy-duty pickup truck tires that could require a healthy dose of air pressure. We hooked each inflator to a five-gallon air canister and attempted to raise the pressure from 40 to 80 psi. The Airmoto also failed this test. Test Equipment: I tested these inflators using the 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT tires on MotorTrend's long-term 2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 midsize pickup truck. A Smittybilt valve stem puller was used to deflate the tires, a calibrated Longacre Pro Digital Tire Pressure Gauge verified the accuracy of the built-in gauges, and a Harbor Freight five-gallon air tank was used to test inflators up to 80 psi. Why Trust Us The MotorTrend staff has lifetimes of experience working in and around cars in the garage, at the track, and on every bit of road and trail in between. We take the responsibility of recommending a product seriously—our team picks the best tools for the job and we take pride in doing the dirty work so you don't have to. We shopped for these tire inflators and purchased them just like you would to make sure that the products we tested are the same units you'll find at the store. You can trust us to bring you the whole story, from every product that started the test to the ones that survived to the finish line. Who Needs a Portable Tire Inflator? If your vehicle has tires, you need a way to keep them topped up. Having a tire inflator in your garage or, even better, in your vehicle makes this routine task easy enough that you won't put it off. A portable pump can also be a godsend if you get a flat. Don't let your emergency plan be that sketchy air pump behind the gas station or a cell phone call when there's no service. When everything goes sideways, a reliable tire inflator along with some basic tools and know-how can spell the difference between stranded and a minor setback. And who knows, with one of these devices in your car, you might be able to lend a hand to other motorists in need. What to Consider Carry the most versatile and reliable tool that you can afford and store in your vehicle. If cost and storage space are no object, a larger air compressor will fill several tires in a hurry. If you need the convenience of a cordless unit that can stow in the center console, consider one of the more compact tire inflators. FAQ How often should I check my tire pressure? At a minimum, you should check your tire pressure monthly. With a tire pressure gauge in your glovebox, you can even do this while fueling up. On newer and more expensive vehicles, you might find tire pressure readouts in the instrument cluster or infotainment menus. Don't wait for a light on the dash to top up your tires, though. Many of those systems don't trigger until the tire is 25 percent below (or above) the recommended inflation pressure. You want to catch an improperly inflated tire long before it reaches that point. What pressure do I set my tires to? The answer is usually within an arm's reach of the driver. Open the driver's door and you should find a sticker on the doorjamb. Some German cars also have a tire pressure sticker on the inside of the fuel filler flap. If in doubt, your owner's manual should have more detailed information. What's the difference between hot and cold tire pressure? Tire pressure increases as the air inside the tire heats up. This can happen due to changing weather or simply driving the vehicle down the road. A tire that's set to the right pressure in a cool garage in the morning could reach excessive pressures if driven through the sweltering heat in the middle of the day. Conversely, if your road trip takes you from the warm garage to the subzero ski slope parking lot, you could notice a drop in your tire pressure. The recommended pressure on the door jamb is meant to be set with the tires cold, which means waiting until the car has been parked for at least three hours.
Indianapolis Star
24-05-2025
- Automotive
- Indianapolis Star
Amazon has up to 50% off the most popular power tools and hand tools
AI-assisted summary Amazon is offering deals on tools for DIYers and home renovators during its Memorial Day sale. Discounted tools include mini chainsaws, paint sprayers and items from brands like Dremel, DeWalt, and Bosch. Some deals are under $20, and there are additional deals on hand tools, accessories and organizers. Ready to get to work? If you're obsessed with DIY projects or have a list of home renovations you still need to finish, Amazon has a tool deal for you. We've rounded up the best Memorial Day Amazon deals to help you save up to 50% on everything from best-selling mini chainsaws and helpful paint sprayers to more intense and expert-vetted picks from the likes of Dremel, DeWalt, Bosch and more. Shop 16 best tool deals at Amazon's Memorial Day sale We even found a few rare Amazon deals under $20 on most-wished for gift ideas like a battery caddy, stripped screw extractor and an insanely popular level. Keep scrolling to shop today's best deals on top-rated power tools, lawn equipment and more. 1. Tietoc 6-Inch Cordless Mini Chainsaw 2. LWQ Electric Pressure Washer, 2.5 GPM Power Washer with 4 Quick Connect Nozzles 3. MirrorZone Paint Sprayer Tool 1000W High Power Electric Spray Paint Gun MirrorZone Paint Sprayer Tool 1000W High Power Electric Spray Paint Gun Tackle all your paint jobs more efficiently with this paint sprayer on sale for less than $40 at Amazon. Save 43% at Amazon 4. Milwaukee 2719-20 M18 Fuel Hackzall 5. Worx WG430 13 Amp Electric Leaf Mulcher 6. Kuxisa Tire Inflator Portable Air Compressor 8. DeWalt 20V Max XR Cordless Jig Saw ➤ Need a level? Or a good tool kit with all the essentials? Jump to the best deals under $20. 9. Dremel 73-Piece Versatile Corded Rotary Tool Kit Worx Pegasus 2-in-1 Folding Work Table and Sawhorse Pick up this best-selling portable workbench for less than $110 at Amazon today. Save 27% at Amazon 11. AOBEN Cordless Electric Ratchet Wrench Set 12. Ryobi One+ HP 18V Brushless Cordless 4-Mode Impact Wrench 13. DeWalt 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver DeWalt 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver Save 43% on this power tool combo kit with two batteries and charger at Amazon Save 43% at Amazon 15. Fiskars 4-Claw Stand Up Weed Puller Tool Fiskars 4-Claw Stand Up Weed Puller Tool Get this helpful weeding tool on sale for less than $50 at Amazon. Save 21% at Amazon 16. Gerber Gear Suspension-NXT EDC Multi-Tool 15-in-1 Pocket Knife Gerber Gear Suspension-NXT EDC Multitool 15-in-1 Pocket Knife Get this best-selling Gerber multi-tool on sale for less than $40 at Amazon Save 20% at Amazon Cartman 39-Piece Cutting Plier Tool Set Save 17% on a best-selling tool set with pliers, hammer, screwdrivers and more essentials. Save 17% at Amazon Katerk 6-Piece 1/4 inch Hex Shank Aluminum Alloy Screwdriver Bit Holder Save on this convenient push to unlock screwdriver bit holder at Amazon and ring up at under $10. Save 43% at Amazon Jiavarry Digital Caliper Measuring Tool This user-friendly digital measuring tool has been purchased 10,000 times in the last month. Get it for less than $20 today. Save 26% at Amazon What are the best tools to buy at Amazon? DeWalt, Milwaukee and Craftsman are among the top three best-selling tool brands at Amazon but we're seeing a lot of new brand grow in popularity lately. The Fanttik electric screwdriver is one of my personal favorite home tools to keep handy (especially if you want to organize your junk drawer). Outdoor tools have also been among the best-sellers, including this mini chainsaw s and even car accessories like the AstroAI portable tire inflator! How much does Amazon Prime cost? New members can try one week of Amazon Prime benefits for just $1.99. After that, Prime costs $14.99 per month or $139 per year. The annual plan will save you about $40 total compared to paying monthly. Amazon has up to 50% off the most popular power tools and hand tools All the best Memorial Day weekend deals and sales: Ace, Stanley, Shark, REI 🇺🇸 🍕 Everyone wants a pizza oven lately: Save $200 on the hottest Gozney Memorial Day deals ✔︎ 5 Memorial Day mattress-in-a-box deals: Save up to 60% Don't miss rare Dyson hair styling tools on sale for Memorial Day ✨
Yahoo
31-01-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Fix flats fast with this Milwaukee tire inflator: 'Saved me from getting towed'
As an automotive journalist for over a decade, I enjoyed some pretty great perks — like driving a new test car home every night. That also meant my car sat in the garage with my tires slowly deflating. Then I realized, instead of spending lunch breaks going to a station to put air in my tires, I could get my own tire inflator. Well, it appears that lots of people recently had a similar light bulb go off: Over 7,000+ Amazon shoppers bought this top-rated Milwaukee M18 Tire Inflator in the past month. That's a lot of happy tires. According to reviewers, it's fast, powerful and compact enough to live in your vehicle — and it's from a trusted brand. If you're lucky, you have a "tool guy" in your life — a person you can go to for everything from a bike pedal wrench to a chain saw. My tool guy's name is Kyle, and his garage is full of tools by Milwaukee, because they work and they last. Sure, there are cheaper tire inflators, but in my experience, they're more difficult to use, skimp on features and burn out after a year or two of light use. Buy this once and you're set. There's never a good time for a flat tire, but they always seem to happen at the absolute worst moment. That's where the portability of this tire inflator shines. It doesn't take up much room and, once you've charged the removable battery, it's ready to go whenever you need it. The built-in nozzle and hose storage keep everything organized when it isn't in use. The M18 is Milwaukee's fastest cordless tire inflator, so you won't be waiting around forever for your tires to be filled, whether you drive a small car or a truck with 33-inch tires. It can also pump out an impressive amount of air pressure — up to 150 PSI — and comes with valves for your bikes, an inflator nozzle for everything from pool toys to rafts, and a needle for all of the balls in your garage. Going on a road trip and need to pack up before you leave? The M18 has an auto shutoff, allowing you to walk away while it's working without worry of overinflation. You can save up to four PSI slots as presets, so you don't have to bother changing the shutoff preset for each of your vehicles. Over 3,200 reviewers have given the Milwaukee M18 a five-star rating, praising its reliability, speed and portability. "Finally an inflator that actually does the job," said one happy reviewer, who tried multiple cheaper inflators first. "I tried it right away on my utility trailer tires and it only took a few seconds to inflate a tire from 47 to 50 PSI." "Saved me from having to get towed," shared a grateful traveler. "My truck tire ran over a screw that caused a tire to lose air pretty quickly. I used this to fill the tire a few times on my 15-mile trip to the mechanic. Worked perfectly." "We recently took a trip out West, and we towed an auto behind our motor home," wrote another satisfied customer. "I needed to add small amounts of air (3 pounds) several times to get the pressures in all four tires equal. This little compressor did a great job topping the pressures off, and it is very simple to operate." "It inflated from completely flat to full in a little over 3 minutes," said another user, who has experience with more than one brand of compressor. "I have DeWalt at work, and I like their portable compressor, but I prefer my Milwaukee tools that I use at home for everything else. So I took the plunge and I am happy." Some shoppers see room for an improvement or two, namely the port options and the price. "My only gripe is that the only power source it accepts is batteries," mentioned one four-star reviewer. "It seems intuitive that it should also have an option to be powered by the DC port in a vehicle. Kind of a silly oversight in my opinion." Other shoppers say the price is high, especially if this is their introduction to the Milwaukee ecosystem. "Great product design and quality construction," said a final customer, "but overpriced at close to $300 when you add the required, but not included, battery pack and charger." The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication. If you have Amazon Prime, you'll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.)
