12-volt air compressors are the ideal device to keep in case of emergencies. They are small, lightweight, and cost a lot less than their larger counterparts. If you have something that needs inflating, it might be time to consider a 12-volt air compressor.
Join us as we rundown the best 12V air compressors to give you the knowledge to buy one with confidence.
- Maximum 150 psi
- 33 percent duty cycle
- Anti-vibration tray
- Maximum 150 psi
- 33 percent duty cycle
- Vehicle mountable
- Maximum 120 psi
- 25 percent duty cycle
- Lightweight & portable
- Maximum 80 psi
- Easy to store away
- Has 3 light modes
- Maximum 120 psi
- Comes with LCD
- 5 light modes
- Maximum 150 psi
- Fast inflation times
- Double cylinder pump
- Maximum 150 db sound
- Lightweight
- Chrome-plated casing
- Maximum 150 psi
- 25-gallon tank
- 33 percent duty cycle
- Maximum 150 psi
- LED display
- Night light
- Maximum 150 psi
- Direct drive double cylinder pump
- 212 CFM
What Is a 12V Air Compressor Used For?
12V air compressors are small, light, and reasonably quiet compared to larger models. They store away in the trunk of your car, ready for when you need one in an emergency. A 12V air compressor comes into its own when you have a flat tire.
These compressors are also ideal for inflating swimming pools, beach toys, sports balls, and even balloons. If you’re a keen camper, a 12V air compressor is the best tool to inflate your air bed.
How to Choose the Best 12V Air Compressor?
What should you be on the lookout for when selecting the best 12V air compressor? Here’s a handy guide.
Maximum Air Pressure
Air pressure is measured in PSI (Pounds Per Square Inch), and it tells you what the operating pressure of your tire is, as well as the compressor. This is important because if the air compressor lacks the PSI to inflate your tire, it will struggle.
The best advice is to choose a compressor with the highest PSI values. These can vary from 25 or 30 PSI to 150 pounds per square inch. The higher the air pressure rating, the larger the tires you can inflate.
Most car tires average out at 30 to 40 PSI, whereas SUVs and ATVs can jump to 70 or 80 PSI.
Maximum Airflow
Cubic feet per minute, or CFM, is the measurement of the speed of the airflow. Like PSI, the higher the CFM, the more power it has to move the air rapidly. To get the best models, choose the highest CFM rating you can, and make sure there is a buffer of 1.5 times more CFM than needed.
This stops your compressor from overloading.
Maximum Duty Cycle
Duty cycles get a lot of attention when people talk about air compressors. It is the measurement of the continuous timespan you can use the compressor at a maximum of 100 PSI at a temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit.
The most common way to represent this is in percentages as follows:
Duty cycle = compressor on time / (on time + off time) * 100%
Maximum Tank Capacity
12V air compressors are at the smaller end of the compressor scale. They have small tanks and some have none. A 2-gallon chamber should be sufficient to inflate a truck tire easily. If you are looking for a model that’s easy to store, consider the tank size.
Power Source
12V air compressor power sources come in two forms, namely, clamps that connect directly to your car battery or a 12V socket that slots into your car’s cigarette lighter. You can buy battery-operated versions, but they are less common because you already have a fully-charged battery in your vehicle.
Maximum Power Draw
You should consider the power draw because air compressors that use more power are better at pumping up tires faster. They also inflate truck and SUV tires, thanks to their increased power. However, they draw more current from your car’s battery.
Consider an air compressor rated at 120 watts or less for the best results.
Maximum Cord Length
How far does the cord stretch? This is an important consideration when choosing a 12V air compressor. When you need to reach all four tires a short cord is going to restrict you.
Look for a model with a power cord at about 10 or 12 feet to get the best results. That should be ample to reach all the tires.
Auto Shut-Off
Sometimes called set and forget, an auto shut-off feature is invaluable if you want to avoid overinflating your car’s tires. Just set the required PSI level, and when the compressor reaches pressure, it shuts off.
The Best 12V Air Compressors of 2021
Here are ten excellent 12V air compressors to consider.
1. Viair 40045 400P Portable Compressor
Viair air compressors feature a lot in this review, for one simple reason; they are excellent products and hugely popular. This 400P model has a maximum working pressure of 150 PSI, and it creates a CFM of 2.3 at zero PSI.
It inflates all sizes of tires up to 35 inches, so it is ideal for maintaining ATV and farm vehicles. It has a duty cycle of 33 percent at 100 PSI, meaning you can run it for just over 3 minutes out of every 10 between rests.
It comes with a carry bag, a 25 ft extension cable, and an 8 ft power cord. It even has an anti-vibration sand tray.
- Maximum 150 PSI.
- 33 percent duty cycle.
- Anti-vibration tray.
- 2.3 CFM.
- Great for high volume use.
- Very expensive.
Additional Specs
Weight (pounds) | 8.5 |
Dimensions (inches) | 11 x 4 x 7 |
Max PSI | 150 |
Max CFM | 2.3 |
Duty cycle (percent) | 33 |
Power source | Battery clamps |
Price | $$$$ |
Warranty | 1-year limited |
2. Viair Heavy-Duty Portable Air Compressor
So, we come to the second Viair 12V air compressor. This one is an onboard air system because it is designed to be mounted in your vehicle. It has a maximum PSI of 150 and a duty cycle of 33 percent.
The peak airflow is 2.54 CFM, and it has a 2.5-gallon air tank. It means you can fill the tank and store the compressed air until you need it. It is even powerful enough to run some small pneumatic tools.
This kit comes with a selection of tips, a 35 ft hose, and everything you need to mount it.
- Maximum 150 PSI.
- 33 percent duty cycle.
- Vehicle mountable.
- 35 ft hose.
- 2.54 CFM.
- Very expensive.
- Bulkier than some other models.
Additional Specs
Weight (pounds) | 30.15 |
Dimensions (inches) | 26.5 x 14.5 x 10 |
Max PSI | 150 |
Max CFM | 2.54 |
Duty cycle (percent) | 33 |
Power source | Battery clamps |
Price | $$$$ |
Warranty | 1-year limited |
3. Viair 00088 88P Portable Air Compressor
This Viair is less powerful compared to other models. It’s lighter, smaller, and easier to handle. It has a maximum working pressure of 120 PSI and generates a CFM of 1.47 at zero PSI. The weaker motor restricts the types of tires you can inflate, so this model will only handle tires to a maximum size of 33 inches.
Like the other models featured, this one has alligator clamps that attach directly onto the battery, and it has an LED/power indicator and a 10 ft power cord, plus a 16 ft hose and a 3-tip inflation set.
It costs a lot less than the other Viair air compressors, so if you want to save a few bucks, this is the model to get.
- Maximum 120 PSI.
- 25 percent duty cycle.
- Lightweight and portable.
- 16 ft hose.
- 1.47 CFM.
- Lacks power.
- Only suitable for 33-inch tires.
Additional Specs
Weight (pounds) | 4.5 |
Dimensions (inches) | 6.75 x 6.25 x 10.75 |
Max PSI | 120 |
Max CFM | 1.47 |
Duty cycle (percent) | 25 |
Power source | Battery clamps |
Price | $$ |
Warranty | 1-year |
4. TACKLIFE 12V DC Car Tire Inflator
If you want a tire inflator that’s small and stores away in the trunk easily, this could be the best candidate. It only measures 8.9 x 7 x 3.4 inches and weighs just 2.35 pounds.
It can inflate car tires, bike tires, and some small sports equipment. It does have limitations because it won’t work with swimming pools and inflatable kayaks. It has a maximum PSI of 80, 3 light modes, an LCD, and auto shut-off when the correct pressure gets reached.
It’s also cheap when you compare it to the lowest priced Viair model. This compressor is half the price!
- Maximum 80 PSI.
- Lightweight.
- Easy to store away.
- LCD.
- 3 light modes.
- Lacks power.
- Limited uses.
Additional Specs
Weight (pounds) | 2.35 |
Dimensions (inches) | 8.9 x 7 x 3.4 |
Max PSI | 80 |
Max CFM | Not stated |
Duty cycle (percent) | Not stated |
Power source | 12V socket |
Price | $ |
Warranty | 2-year |
5. Energizer 12V Portable Tire Inflator
When it comes to inflating tires, this 12V air compressor is pretty hard to beat. It plugs directly into your car’s cigarette lighter, and because it is compact and lightweight, it is a breeze storing away in the trunk of your vehicle.
This model has a maximum of 120 PSI, a preset pressure feature, and an LCD for easy nighttime readings. It also has 5 light modes, including a flashing light and a power-saving setting.
The hose is 3.7 ft long, and the power cord measures 9.8 ft. It can handle small car tires as well as SUVs and sedans, so it is the perfect travel companion.
- Maximum 120 PSI.
- Lightweight.
- Easy to store away.
- LCD.
- 5 light modes.
- Lacks power.
- Limited uses.
Additional Specs
Weight (pounds) | 4.3 |
Dimensions (inches) | 8 x 4 x 6 |
Max PSI | 120 |
Max CFM | 35 liters per minute |
Duty cycle (percent) | Not stated |
Power source | 12V socket |
Price | $ |
Warranty | 1-year |
6. GSPSCN Heavy-Duty Tire Inflator
This 12V air compressor is seriously impressive. It has an airflow of 70 liters per minute, which is double that of the energizer model. It means that this compressor will inflate truck, SUV, ATV, and car tires in no time at all.
It has a maximum air pressure of 150 PSI, and it has a double cylinder direct drive pump, which delivers an efficient service to make the compressor quiet and reliable. It comes with all the kit you need to keep you moving in an emergency.
And thanks to the large carry handle, it is portable and easy to stow away. Like other similar models, this heavy-duty compressor clamps directly to the car’s battery, and it has an 11.5 ft coil hose and an 11.5 ft power cord.
- Maximum 150 PSI.
- Lightweight.
- Fast inflation times.
- Double cylinder pump.
- Quiet and vibration-free.
- Limited to tires and inflatables.
Additional Specs
Weight (pounds) | 6.6 |
Dimensions (inches) | 11.9 x 9 x 6 |
Max PSI | 150 |
Max CFM | 70 liters per minute |
Duty cycle (percent) | Not stated |
Power source | 12V socket |
Price | $$ |
Warranty | 1-year |
7. GAMPRO 12V 150 dB Air Horn with Compressor
If you’ve ever dreamt about driving through the streets of your town sounding like the Dukes of Hazzard, now’s your chance. This GAMPRO compressor and air horn will blast out 150 decibels of sound. That’s enough to wake up the entire block.
The air compressor has an aluminum turbine cavity and a chrome-plated metal case. It is lightweight, compact, and delivers when it’s needed. It connects to any 12V vehicle, from a car to a boat, and is the ideal tool when you need to get noticed.
- Maximum 150 dB.
- Lightweight.
- Chrome-plated casing.
- Limited uses.
Additional Specs
Weight (pounds) | 2.42 |
Dimensions (inches) | 17.72 x 3.54 x 3.54 |
Max PSI | Not stated |
Max CFM | Not stated |
Duty cycle (percent) | Not stated |
Power source | 12V socket |
Price | $ |
Warranty | No warranty |
8. Viair Medium-Duty Onboard Air System
This is the final Viair product to appear, and like the Viair heavy-duty model, this one has a 2.5-gallon tank. The compressor and tank are designed to fit your vehicle, giving you a mobile pneumatic station that can power small air tools and inflate tires.
This compressor has a maximum working pressure of 150 PSI and a duty cycle of 33 percent at 100 PSI. It also generates a CFM of 1.77 at zero PSI. Because it is mounted to your vehicle, it can withstand ambient temperatures ranging from -40 degrees Fahrenheit to 158 degrees Fahrenheit.
The tank is ideal for storing compressed air for when you need it, and it has a drain valve for siphoning away any excess moisture.
- Maximum 150 PSI.
- 2.5-gallon tank.
- 33 percent duty cycle.
- 1.77 CFM.
- Mounts to your vehicle.
- Expensive.
Additional Specs
Weight (pounds) | 10.25 |
Dimensions (inches) | 25.5 x 14.25 x 10.25 |
Max PSI | 150 |
Max CFM | 1.77 |
Duty cycle (percent) | 33 |
Power source | Battery clamps |
Price | $$$$ |
Warranty | 1-year |
9. Breezz 12V Air Compressor
Budget 12V air compressors are more important than you might think. They give people the ability to own a compressor even if they have limited funds. This Breezz model is a prime example of a cheap 12V air compressor.
It’s compact, lightweight and it does what it says on the tin. With 150 maximum PSI and the ability to fully inflate a 195/65R15 car tire in just 4 minutes, you can see why this is a valuable tool to keep in the trunk of the car.
It has an LED light, an LCD readout, a pressure adjusting switch, and a 10 ft long power cord. For the price, this is pretty hard to beat.
- Maximum 150 PSI.
- Compact and light.
- LED display.
- Night light.
- Excellent value for money.
- Lacks real power.
- Limited uses.
Additional Specs
Weight (pounds) | 2.38 |
Dimensions (inches) | 7.8 x 7.1 x 2.4 |
Max PSI | 150 |
Max CFM | Not stated |
Duty cycle (percent) | Not stated |
Power source | 12V socket |
Price | $ |
Warranty | 1-year |
10. TIREWELL 12V Heavy-Duty Tire Inflator
If you want an air compressor with a little more power, consider this TIREWELL model. It produces 150 PSI and a CFM of 2.12 at zero PSI. When you have larger tires, airflow is crucial to speeding up the process.
It also benefits from a direct drive double cylinder pump, which is responsible for delivering fast and efficient service to the compressor. It also means this compressor is quiet and as vibration-free as possible.
It works particularly well with RVs and trucks, but it is equally at home inflating kayaks, sedan tires, and other equipment.
- Maximum 150 PSI.
- Compact and light.
- Direct drive double cylinder pump.
- 2.12 CFM.
- Gets super-hot.
- Build quality issues.
Additional Specs
Weight (pounds) | 7.61 |
Dimensions (inches) | 9.88 x 4.26 x 8.26 |
Max PSI | 150 |
Max CFM | 2.12 |
Duty cycle (percent) | 50 |
Power source | 12v socket |
Price | $$ |
Warranty | 1-year |
Product | Best | Weight | Dimensions | Max PSI | Max CFM | Duty cycle (%) | Power source | Warranty |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Viair 40045 400P Compressor | High Volume | 9 lbs | 11 x 4 x 7″ | 150 | 2.3 | 33 | Battery clamps | 1-year limited |
Viair Heavy-Duty Air Compressor | Off-Road | 30 lbs | 26.5 x 14.5 x 10″ | 150 | 2.54 | 33 | Battery clamps | 1-year limited |
Viair 00088 88P Compressor | Portable | 4.5 lbs | 6.75 x 6.25 x 10.75″ | 120 | 1 | 25 | Battery clamps | 1-year |
TACKLIFE Car Tire Inflator | Compact | 2.35 lbs | 8.9 x 7 x 3.4″ | 80 | N/A | N/A | 12V socket | 2-year |
Energizer 12V Tire Inflator | Tires | 4.3 lbs | 8 x 4 x 6″ | 120 | 35 L/m | N/A | 12V socket | 1-year |
GSPSCN Heavy-Duty Tire Inflator | Heavy-Duty | 6.6 lbs | 11.9 x 9 x 6″ | 150 | 70 L/m | N/A | 12V socket | 1-year |
GAMPRO 12V 150 dB Air Horn | Air Horns | 2.42 lbs | 17.72 x 3.54 x 3.54″ | N/A | N/A | N/A | 12V socket | None |
Viair Medium-Duty Air System | With Tank | 10 lbs | 25.5 x 14.25 x 10.25″ | 150 | 1.77 | 33 | Battery clamps | 1-year |
Breezz 12V Air Compressor | Cheap | 2.38 lbs | 7.8 x 7.1 x 2.4″ | 150 | N/A | N/A | 12V socket | 1-year |
TIREWELL Heavy-Duty Tire Inflator | RV | 7.61 lbs | 9.88 x 4.26 x 8.26″ | 150 | 2.12 | 50 | 12v socket | 1-year |
How To Use a 12V Air Compressor?
12V air compressors are easier to use than the larger models. All you need to do is plug it into the 12V socket in your car and attach the air compressor hose to your tire’s air inlet. Clamp it down so the end won’t disengage with the tire, and you’re ready to set the pressure limit.
Now you can switch it on and wait while the tire inflates.
How To Repair a 12V Air Compressor?
Air compressors fail from time to time, so knowing how to deal with basic repairs could save you a chunk of money. If the compressor springs an air leak, locate the source and use plumbers tape to plug the gap.
If the airflow is weak, grab a screwdriver and turn the upper screw until the flow improves. Also, you may have to restore the power. To do this, reset the switch on the back of the compressor.
FAQs
What Size Compressor Do I Need To Run Air Tools?
Air tools typically use 70 to 90 PSI with a CFM of between 2 and 5, so you need an air compressor that exceeds those limits. Something with a maximum PSI of 135 and a CFM of 5 should suffice.
For larger air tools, you might need a bigger air compressor with a higher PSI and CFM.
What Is a Good CFM Rating for an Air Compressor?
To get the best out of your air compressor and your pneumatic tools, you should look for one with a CFM rating between 2 and 10. Most medium-size air compressors produce about 5 CFM, while larger capacity models can get as much as 10 to 20 CFM.
How Can I Increase the CFM of my Compressor?
The best way to increase your air compressor’s CFM value is to dial down the tank’s pressure. You can do this by adjusting the regulator, so the tank fills more slowly, which increases the CFM level.
Compact 12V Compressors
You cannot deny the benefit of a 12V air compressor. They are small, lightweight, and store easily in the trunk of your car. They come to your rescue time and again, whether you are inflating tires or a swimming pool on a hot summer day.
A 12V air compressor should be on every car owner’s wish list because life gets that little bit harder without one.