DC car power cords that plug into your "cigarette lighter" outlet often require the engine to be running to power the device. Size is probably the most important thing. The smallest inflators are around 20 x 20cm, so you can leave them in your car without losing too much luggage space. The best don’t skimp on the length of the power lead and air hose, which makes it easier to reach all four valves. Most can be preset to stop inflating when your tyre reaches the correct pressure. Threaded screw-on connectors will provide a surer seal but can be hard to manipulate in cold weather. Furthermore, Schrader air valves are designed mainly for rubber or plastic end caps, not metal screw-on connectors; cross-threading (or stripping) the brass threads on your tire valves is a real possibility.

More known for its cargo carriers, RoofPax's tire inflator stands out because it offers all three power options, a rarity among the off-brand units we tested. It deflates too.

Kayaks & Water Sports

In our test, the Avid Power was more than a full minute faster to both 30 psi and 45 psi than its main rival, the AstroAI pistol-style cordless (below). But instead of an extra battery, it comes with a supplemental 12V DC power cord. ( Note: We tested this unit using the battery.) We also preferred the feel of the Avid's rubberized handle to the AstroAI's grip. It was slightly quieter too. Most portable inflators are rather loud when operating; nearly all of the ones we tested came in at just under 90 decibels, or about as loud as a leaf blower. The neo-industrial design of this miniature workhorse is a delight to both hold and look at. Unfortunately, it's not quite as satisfying to work with.

It wasn't a difficult test per se, but it was a rather taxing and time-consuming process. Here are some things we learned and noted along the way: Whichever one is best for your needs. If you're looking for a truly "portable" inflator to keep in your car, opt for one that's small enough to stash in your vehicle and easy to use, such as the Avid Power Pistol Grip. How long do portable tire inflators last? Timescale to deal with your claim - for technical faults or repairs we use the services of the original manufacturer or nominated agent for inspection, testing and high quality guaranteed repairs. Please allow a reasonable timescale for completion of this process, customer services can advise further as this does vary between products.Powered by a fast-charging (about an hour) 20V 2.0Ah Li-ion battery, it also offers a power cord that plugs into either the wall or your car's cigarette lighter, with an adapter. The pistol-style AstroAI is simple to use; just set the desired psi, clamp on the connector, and pull the trigger. Its inflation times to 30 psi and 45 psi were faster than most of the other units in our test, handheld or console. (It was also louder than most of the other units here.) And it all comes in a carrying case that should fit in most cargo cubbies and perhaps even your spare tire well. Not only does it run cordless via the Li-Ion battery, it will also plug into your car's 12V outlet and includes a wall plug for domestic use. This means you don't have to worry about keeping its battery charged, or buying into yet another battery and charger system if you're not already using the 20V MAX in your garage.

Each of the inflators tested here has a gauge that gives you an instant readout that lets you know whether the tyre needs pumping. To use them, simply remove the dust cap from the valve on the tyre and push the end of the air hose over it, before pressing or releasing any catch to clamp it in place. Petrol station tyre inflators have pressure gauges, too, but these aren’t always accurate so it’s best to test using your own equipment.

Leisure Outlet's Price Match

Considering it's the smallest and lightest unit we tested, this inflator's performance was an eye-opener, right up there with the portable and hands-free VacLife and Teromas. ( Note: An older version of this inflator is linked above. The updated product link is here.) Pro Tip: Battery-powered items stashed in cars are often and easily neglected. If you're keeping any battery-powered device in your car, such as an inflator or jump starter, fully charge its battery every few months—say, every time you give your vehicle a detail job that includes vacuuming and interior cleaning. Portable tire inflators come in many shapes and sizes, but they effectively break down into two distinct types: handheld devices and console units. The most important consideration when shopping for a tire inflator is what you'll be using it for. Renowned brand-name inflators didn't necessarily perform any better than the off-brand ones we tried. Handheld inflators proved to be just as fast as, if not faster than, console units at inflating car tires. Once we had our final tire inflator lineup, we ran them through the Gear Team wringer to see how they performed: which ones stood out, which ones dominated the competition, and which ones left us wanting more. And we photographed the whole process. ( Editor's Note: The above time-lapse GIF is around two minutes of actual time; that Milwaukee inflator is a BEAST .) What to Look for in a Portable Tire Inflator Type