Compressors are an important component, for example, if you are a hobby mechanic or if you work within your own four walls. A 12v compressor makes all work easier, but what should you look out for when buying a 12v compressor? We asked customers who have already decided in favor of a 12v compressor and would like to introduce you to the best 12v compressors from the customer’s point of view below. Perhaps this way you can orientate yourself better and get a more detailed overview of what the market is currently offering.
Contents
List of the Top 8 Best 12V Air Compressors
1. VIAIR 85P Portable Air Compressor
VIAIR 85P is a great air compressor for cars as it has a lucrative design and effective output as well. It has got 4.4 stars out of 5 from 681+ reviews. It works on 12 volts and 60 psi max working pressure. It provides 1.83 CFM free flow. This machine is powered by an auxiliary power supply from the car, and the current should be in 10 amperes of 180 voltages. The current flow should not exceed 14.5 amperes. It’s easy to handle as there is a handle-like body shape on the top and the size is 10 X 6 X 3 inches by dimensions. A cigarette lighter power socket powers the whole machine.
Pros:
- The compressor is only 4.8 pounds and has LED displays for the pressure reading.
- It doesn’t bounce or tremble during inflating.
- It takes only 2min and 50 seconds to fill the tube with the fastest airspeed.
Cons:
- The gauge is incorporated with the purchase, and the power cord is 10 feet.
- It’s of a little big size.
You can buy an extension cord with a cigarette lighter plug at $ and an adapter at $ also. It will be a great fit for your private car and other vehicles as well. So, why you are not giving a try of this awesome air compressor?
2. Viair 40047 400P-RV Automatic Portable Compressor Kit
VIAIR 400P is a fast and portable compressor that can provide up to 2.54 CFM. It is perfect for tires up to 35 inches. It has a maximum of 150 PSI of working pressure and 33% of the duty cycle. The quick and convenient connection of the inflation hose allows the user to work efficiently, especially when trapped on the highway. The deluxe carry bag with an anti-vibration tray makes it easy to be kept away in any storage space.
VIAIR 400P portable compressor is a larger portable compressor kit than those in the market. It can inflate each tire of 35 inches from 0 to 30 PSI in less than 5 minutes. It has a maximum working pressure of 150 PSI and a maximum duty cycle of 33%. Users can easily find any 12-volt battery to power the compressor, as this is one of the unique features of the unit. It has a low power draw. All the accessories provided together with this compressor system can be stored in the soft zippered carry case.
The VIAIR 400P has made it to the industry standard for both 12-volt and 14-volt applications worldwide. The VIAIR compressors are used commonly in the world; even in the harshest climates. Their high performance is delivered. Ease of Use The user just simply needs to attach the heavy-duty battery clamp with the power leading to the battery. Then the lever style air chuck to the tire valve stem and turn on the compressor. One of the users’ reviews from Amazon mentioned the speed of inflating SUV tires. The speed of inflating 5 33’ tires from 30 PSI to 40 PSI is only mere under 2 minutes each. There is also no problem with overheating the compressor during or after use.
This compressor is surely sturdy yet portable and little in size. It can fit in any vehicle, and the user will no longer worry about getting stuck on the highway with a deflated tire. The model has made it to the industry standard for both 12-volt and 14-volt applications worldwide. The VIAIR compressors are used commonly in the world; even in the harshest climates. Their high performance is delivered.
3. Viair 00073 70P Heavy Duty Portable Compressor
Weighing almost 5.8 pounds, the compressor is easily stored and packed in your vehicle besides providing heavy-duty services for you. Since this compressor is mostly needed on long journeys, people prefer to take with them small, portable things that are easily stored, take less space, and are easily stored and retrievable.
Specific features of the Viair 00073 includes a 4 feet long air hose and a 16 feet long cable that fuel the compressor using a minimum 15 AMP power port. Planting an onboard pressure gauge allows checking of tire pressure along with the ability to generate 100 psi working pressure. With dimensions stating 9.2 X 8.5 X 8, the compressor is genuinely portable, very easy to carry, and comes in a deluxe style carry bag.
You can easily find numerous reviews and user comments on this product and the more you search, the more you come to know that there are almost no flaws in this portable heavy-duty compressor as everyone who has used it has fallen in love with it. The Viair 00073 70P can be easily defined as a small, portable yet powerful compressor on a mission to make life more convenient and easier for everyone.
Some consider Viair 00073 Compressor to be a bit costly; however, its offering is worthwhile, and every penny paid is worth spending on this model. You can also use it to inflate other things at home. The uses of this portable compressor are immense. This compressor is equally usable domestically and commercially as its heavy-duty nature allows it to handle any kind of inflation job perfectly.
Another quality of this portable compressor is its quiet nature. It is capable of inflating 215 70R14 tires from scratch to 32 pounds in only a matter of 4 minutes which is impressive.
The whole package offered with all the provided items with the compressor is user friendly and is easily manageable. Packing and storing of the compressor is also very easy and since the machine does not heat up easily, you also in several cases do not have to wait for the machine to cool down.
4. Mannesmann 01790 Mini Aluminum Compressor
Mannesmann, a brand that delivers what it promises. Not only the high-quality and robust manufacture of the Mannesmann devices is convincing, no, but the long service life also speaks in favor of such a model. This 12v compressor has a maximum pressure of 10 bar and a delivery pressure of 35 liters per minute.
What is very appealing about this 12v compressor is that all the important adapters are already included, and you can start working right away. The scope of delivery includes 4
Adapters so that you can easily inflate bicycle tires, balls, air mattresses, and other everyday items in a few simple steps. This 12v compressor is operated via the 12-volt cigarette lighter. This model has an overall size of 22 x 20 x 14 cm and weighs only 2.3 kg.
This 12v compressor is a handy companion that you can easily take with you in your vehicle. Thanks to the built-in manometer, you are constantly informed about the current bar pressure of the tire. A special highlight of this device is that it comes in a high-quality nylon carrying bag so that you can easily transport this air compressor with its adapters.
Details:
- Output operating current 15,000 mA
- Working pressure maximum of 10 bar
- PSI pressure 140
- Delivery pressure in liters 35 liters per minute
- Drive type compressed air
This 12v compressor is a model that you should always have to hand because the work is made a lot easier by its flexible device. This model is particularly easy to use, has everything you need to be able to work without any problems, and has a very attractive price.
5. Oasser Air Compressor
This 12v compressor is convenient and therefore preferred in many households. This model is made of stainless steel and has a built-in lithium battery. This Oasser electric pump is rechargeable and can be used quickly in an emergency. AC / DC charging is also supported.
An LCD digital pressure gauge with backlighting is also available with this 12v compressor, and it is possible to set the tire pressure as you need it for the tire. The maximum inflatable pressure here is 150psi. This small 12v compressor is suitable for bicycles, motorcycles, and small to medium-sized cars, including SUVs.
This model has an overall size of 54.8 × 44.8 × 19.8 cm and therefore fits in every pocket. Two integrated LED lights can also be switched independently of each other, so it is always possible to have a good view at night, should this be necessary. Is it possible to inflate bikes with a sport valve with this model? Surely this is possible if you have the adapter you need.
Are the batteries permanently installed, or is it possible to replace them if necessary?
The batteries are built into this device and cannot be exchanged, but they are extremely durable.
Details:
- Maximum power five mA
- Operating temperature of -20 degrees +60 degrees
- PSI pressure 150
- Units PSI, BAR, KPA, Kg / cm² 5. Type of
- drive rechargeable lithium battery
This model is very handy and therefore, quickly accessible due to its size. The built-in LED lights are also particularly appealing, as they also make it possible to carry out actions even in the dark. This model is beneficial and ultimately deserves a buy recommendation.
Related:
Best Air Compressors For Home Garage
6. AUPERTO Digital Tyre Inflator
A 12v compressor like this air compressor has a high-speed automatic pump and therefore has an incredible airflow of a maximum of 35 liters per minute. Furthermore, each tire can be filled in 5 to 6 minutes, and the device is also automatically switched off when the consequently set Pis is reached.
This compressor 12v is multifunctional, because you can use it for heavy trucks, as well as bicycles and motorcycles, but also trucks, RV, or balls with different nozzle adapters. What is also very appealing about this model is that it has LED emergency lighting.
With this 12v compressor, you can read off the three units and the air pressure thanks to the digital display. The adjustable units on this model are PSI / BAR and KPA and can easily be switched by pressing the R button. This 12v compressor is very handy due to its construction and can therefore be easily transported.
Does this device only show the pressure in PSI or also in a bar?
You can easily switch this 12v compressor from PSI to Bar or KPA.
Details:
- Output operating current 120 watts
- Maximum working pressure 10.5 bar
- PSI pressure 150
- Delivery pressure in liters 35 liters per minute
- Drive type compressed air
A small 12v compressor, but with enough power. The handling is also very easy, and thanks to the integrated display, you always have an overview. The power cable with its length of 3 m gives enough leeway to fill tires or wheels with ease.
You can finally use this device via your vehicle’s cigarette lighter. A 12v compressor, which is therefore very appealing and has a very good performance, which we can therefore only recommend. Customers who have already decided on this model were very enthusiastic.
7. SUAOKI Mini
This 12v compressor is particularly handy and can therefore also be taken with you so that you are always well equipped. This model is particularly light with a weight of only 0.33 kg, and the overall size is only 4.25 x 3.74 x 1.85 cm. A special highlight of this 12v compressor is the built-in LED light.
This particularly flexible model is suitable for almost all tires and also has three reading units PSI, BAR, and KPA. The handy Oxford bag, which is included, is an additional highlight, as there is enough space in it for the 12v compressor and its accessories.
Is it possible to fill car tires with this 12v compressor, are appropriate adapters included?
The necessary adapters are included, but please note that this device may only be in operation for 15 minutes at a time and then ultimately also needs a break of 15 minutes.
Details:
- Output operating current 6A
- Maximum working pressure 10 bar
- PSI pressure 120
- Delivery pressure in liters 35 liters per minute
- Drive type compressed air
A model like this one is therefore particularly handy and easy to use, all the necessary adapters and a high-quality carrying case are also included in the offer, so you don’t have to spend any additional money.
This 12v compressor impresses with its type and construction because it is long-lasting and can therefore always be used. Customers who have already decided in favor of this device were delighted with its ease of use and the low price. Anyone looking for a 12v compressor should therefore take a closer look at this model because it has earned a purchase recommendation.
8. BLACK+DECKER ASI300
The Black and Decker brand, you are sure to be familiar with, because you can always expect the best quality from this brand. The 12v compressor from Black and Decker offers a wide range of uses. The digital pressure setting of this model and the automatic shutdown at the end of the pumping process are just some of the advantages that this 12v compressor has to offer.
With this model, you can also work in the dark because the existing scale is illuminated. This device has 10 bar, cable compartments, and is equipped with three-valve attachments. This air compressor has a total size of 20 x 20 x 20 cm and weighs only 998 g.
What is very safe and therefore absolutely positive about this device is that it switches off automatically when the set BAR number is reached. Even in terms of price, this model is first class.
Is the 12V-DC supply possible from a car battery?
Yes, thanks to the appropriate connection, this is also possible.
Is this device very loud, or can it also be used in the home?
According to the manufacturer, this compressor has a volume of 84 dB.
Is it possible to inflate a paddling pool with this device?
Yes, this device can also create a paddling pool, but you have to be patient because this compressor needs time to create a paddling pool.
Details:
- The power operating current 12V direct current or 230V alternating current
- Working pressure maximum of 11 bar
- PSI pressure 160
- Illuminated scale
- Drive type compressed air
A 12v compressor that can be used in a variety of ways and you can also operate this model with 12V, but also with 230V depending on your needs, which is an enormous plus point for such a device. The illuminated scale also means that working in the dark is also possible without any problems. A great and therefore very attractive compressor that does exactly what you want from such a device.
12V Compressor Buying Guide
In the following, we will show you which factors can be used to decide between the huge number of different 12V compressors.
You can use the following criteria to compare the numerous 12V compressor models:
- Maximum pressure
- Maximum power output
- Maximum suction capacity
- Volume
- Furnishing
In the next few paragraphs, we will describe these criteria in more detail and explain to you what to look out for when choosing the right device.
Maximum pressure
The maximum pressure of a 12V compressor is usually given in the bar. The maximum pressure that the device can generate differs depending on the compressor model. The maximum air pressure you ultimately need depends on the area of application of your compressor.
If you want to inflate the tires of a truck or an electric wheelchair, you need about 8 bar of compressed air. 3 to 5 bars are usually sufficient for a car tire. Bicycle tires or balls usually have to be inflated to 2 to 5 bars.
12V compressors create an average of around 5 to 7 bar, which is completely sufficient for smaller jobs. A 12V compressor should be equipped with at least 5 bar for common pumping work.
In general, the more compressed air, the better. You should usually buy a 12V compressor with a higher maximum pressure than your actual pressure needs. This ensures that your compressor is not overloaded and that it lasts for a long time.
Maximum power output
In general, the higher the output, the faster the tires can be inflated. The output power, also called output power, delivery rate, or delivery rate, is one of the most important key figures of a compressor. This figure indicates the maximum number of liters of compressed air the compressor can deliver per minute.
This number is especially important when you connect a device to your compressor. Because every device needs a certain volume of air to work, this value is therefore decisive for what work can be carried out with this device.
If only a small amount of air is to be given off, for example for pumping up a ball, a low output of around 20 l / min is sufficient. An output of around 35 l / min would be optimal to be able to use the compressor in a variety of ways.
Maximum suction capacity
The maximum suction capacity, like the output capacity, is specified in l / min. The suction capacity represents the amount of air in liters that the compressor can suck in per minute. This means that this number describes how much air the compressor can suck in to subsequently compress it.
The suction power is usually always higher than the output power. Therefore it is often given as the preferred number when buying a 12V compressor.
In practice, however, it is much less important than the power output, especially with mini-compressors. Nevertheless, it should be ensured that the suction power is 30% higher than the output power.
Basically, the smaller the compressor, the lower the suction power.
Volume
The volume of the 12V compressor is usually indicated by the sound power level, also known as the noise value, in decibels (dB). The volume varies depending on the size and model of the compressor.
In addition to cooling down the compressor quickly, most manufacturers also try to achieve the lowest possible sound power level for the device. The average volume of a 12V compressor is 70dB. This corresponds roughly to the volume of a regular vacuum cleaner.
For comparison: most of the larger air compressors have a sound power level between 90 and 100 dB. However, the harsh and uneven noise that occurs when air is compressed can still be perceived as relatively annoying.
When choosing the perfect 12V compressor, however, you should not only compare the pure dB value. Even minor differences in volume can go a long way. For example, 3 dB more can mean doubling the volume.
Furnishing
Most 12V compressors come with an extensive set of accessories. This allows you to start working straight away, and you don’t have to buy the right accessories first. The most common and practical accessories include:
- Adapter attachments: A valve attachment for car tires and a ball pump adapter are often already included in a 12V compressor. Also, a 230V adapter for your socket is usually included so that the compressor can also be used at home.
- Air hose: Most of all, however, an air hose attachment is worthwhile. You can use it to inflate anything with ease.
Other: Other accessories that are particularly useful when inflating car tires are tire pressure gauges, inflation guns, and a tire inflator. These are either supplied with the 12V compressor or can be purchased separately.
However, if the 12V compressor comes completely without accessories, you will have to purchase the right accessories yourself. The advantage here is that you only buy the accessories that you really need.
Alternatives to 12V compressor
There are basically many different alternatives to the 12V compressor, especially with regard to the type of connection. A distinction is made between mini compressors with 12V, medium and large compressors with 220 or 230V, and a few exceptions that are even operated with 400 volts. There are also battery-powered compressors that can provide compressed air independently of gasoline or electricity. All devices differ in their performance and thus their area of application.
230V compressor
230V compressors work in a similar way to the 12V compressors but differ in their performance and size. While you can only correct the tire pressure of your car upwards with compressors with 12V, you can completely inflate your car tires with the 230V models. Due to their higher performance, their design is correspondingly larger.
220V compressor
It can be said that there is no difference between a 220 and a 230V compressor. Since our electricity network used to supply 220V voltage via the socket, this term is still anchored in many product descriptions, although 230V voltage is now provided via our electricity network.
400V compressor
This type of compressor is less suitable for private use and is used more in industry and large companies. The only disadvantage here is that it has to be laid separately in advance due to its high current, which is why its use must be well planned.
Battery compressor
Battery compressors are devices that are equipped with both a compressed air compressor and a battery. They are particularly suitable for mobile use in remote locations where there is no power connection. They are often used, especially in the leisure and camping sector.
