TOP 10 best automotive compressors

No car owner can do without such a tool as a pump. Today on sale you can find a special modification of this device - a compressor. This is electrical equipment, characterized by compact overall dimensions and connected to the on-board network of the car through the cigarette lighter or directly to the battery.

On the market you can find a huge amount of such products. If you have never before bought this device for yourself and do not know how to approach this issue, then our rating of the best automotive compressors in 2019 will be very useful for you. Here we will not only consider the useful characteristics of specific models, but also give advice on the selection of these products.

How to choose a car compressor?

By type, all these designs are divided into two types - piston and membrane. Membrane systems operate on the basis of air compression obtained as a result of reciprocating movements of a special membrane located under the device’s body. A special membrane made of rubber acts as the main working element of a similar compressor. It is secured between the cylinder and the compressor cover. These devices are not widely popular among motorists, since it is problematic for them to work in low temperatures. In the cold season, the membrane hardens, shrinks and can quickly collapse if it will bear a significant load. Typically, this equipment is used in the summer to inflate bicycle tires, where pressure is usually not too high.

Piston compressors are more common. The most reliable among such tools are those in which the piston rod is made of a durable metal alloy and is mounted on the shaft of an electric motor. No plastic materials are used in the assembly itself. These devices are well resistant to wear and have a decent service life, which has a very positive effect on the design life cycle.

In addition, devices that have a piston ring made of Teflon are popular with motorists. The working life of these compressors is very significant, and during operation the product does not need any maintenance. When choosing the most suitable device, you should definitely pay attention to the performance of the device. As a rule, the wheels of modern cars are inflated with a pressure of 1.8 to 3 atmospheres (the exception is full-size SUVs and freight vehicles), so it is advisable to select the product based on the size of the tires.

If the compressor capacity is about 40 liters per minute, then it can easily cope with wheels whose diameter is from 14 to 17 inches. However, the larger the wheel, the more time it will take to pump it. There are more productive devices - from 45 liters per minute or more. They are characterized by increased power, so they are powered directly from the battery, so as not to create an excessive load on the on-board network of the compressor.For trucks, buses and other large and heavy vehicles, it is advisable to purchase models that have the highest possible performance. When buying, they also pay attention to the pressure gauge - it should be very clearly visible regardless of the time of day or weather conditions.

When choosing models for inclusion in our today's rating, we were mainly guided by all the above parameters. In addition to them, they paid attention to value for money, as well as user reviews. We hope that after reading the review you will be able to choose for yourself the most suitable equipment that will serve you faithfully for many years.

Inexpensive products

5. Phantom PH2034

A fairly simple design, however, characterized by a very reliable performance. According to the manufacturer, the inflation rate is about 35 liters per minute, but in reality this parameter is slightly less - about 30 liters. The electric motor is installed far from the most powerful, however, this had a good effect on the weight of the device and its overall dimensions - the product came out compact and light. It can be safely connected to the cigarette lighter, without fear that a significant physical load will begin to fall on the on-board network of the car. This compressor is ideal for wheels whose dimension is 185 / 65R14. However, for larger diameters, it is most likely not enough, since their needs will begin to conflict with a limited time without interruption.

This device has a minimal configuration. The hose of the product is non-removable, its length is about 60 cm, so the product will need to be carried with it from one wheel to another. The pressure gauge is small, the division value is 0.2 atmospheres.

Benefits:

• Excellent value for money;
• Inflates small diameter wheels pretty quickly;
• The switch is convenient, it is felt instantly;
• Vibration during operation is minimal;
• The kit includes nozzles for balls and other inflatable products.

Disadvantages:

• It is difficult to see anything on the pressure gauge.

4. Skyway Buran-01

It is a standard product, which belongs to the group of reciprocating automotive compressors. The model is characterized by decent build quality, the piston and cylinder are made of high-strength steel alloy, so the products have a decent resource of work. A decent performance for inexpensive products - 35 liters per minute. It consumes a current of 14 A, which is quite a lot for standard automotive wiring. It is better not to connect it to the car’s onboard network through the cigarette lighter, but use the terminals for battery operation, since they are supplied with the device. The products are manufactured in several modifications, which differ from each other, mainly by the different designs of the pressure gauge.

According to users, the most convenient in terms of operation is the cheapest version. The pressure gauge works clearly, shows the correct data, it has three scales. In addition, the kit comes with a special bag for storage and transportation - this will save space in the trunk. The device works quite noisily, can vibrate if it is not on the most even surface.

Benefits:

• A great option in its price category;
• All nodes are made of high quality and durable materials;
• Decent power;
• Compact overall dimensions;
• Reasonable cost;
• Long service life;
• The original appearance.

Disadvantages:

• Quite noisy;
• Too much energy consumption can cause a voltage drop in the on-board network of the car or even lead to a short circuit.

3. Pitch K50

Like the previous model, there is also a very convenient bag for storing and transporting the device.It is made of fabric materials that resist abrasion well and do not particularly absorb dirt. The power button is located on one of the ends, made in the shape of a rocker, made of high-quality plastic. It is quite large, so finding it will not be a problem. A fuse is not provided for the product. By and large, it is not required, since the compressor is characterized by a small amount of electricity consumed. The compressor was assembled simply perfectly - no distortions, cracks between the parts of the housings were found. All parts are painted with a paint that is resistant to physical influences, including fading under direct sunlight.

The length of the hose is about one meter, it is attached to the body using a special clamp. The rubber from which the hose is made is quite soft and does not become wooden even during severe frosts. Its length is about one meter, so it is not necessary to transfer the compressor during tire inflation. The tip is characterized by its original shape, moreover, it is very convenient to work with it. It connects and disconnects almost instantly, so the loss of air in the tire will be negligible. The pressure gauge is accurate, has a rather large scale, so you can always consider the pressure on it. A metal handle equipped with a plastic overlay is provided for carrying on the case. On the legs there are rubber gaskets that do not allow the device to vibrate during operation.

Benefits:

• The developers carefully thought out all the details of the design;
• The assembly is characterized by excellent quality;
• Low power consumption
• Long period of operation.

Disadvantages:

• The power cable could be made longer.

2. Airline X3 CA-040-15S

All moving parts of this compressor are made of reliable and high-quality metal. The engine has a cooling system equipped with a steel radiator, which allows it not to heat up for a long time. The overall dimensions are quite compact, in the kit there are several adapters for pumping other rubber things. From zero to 2.2 atmospheres, the device can pump a wheel for about one minute. The compressor hose is screwed onto the nipple; no lever is provided here. On the one hand, this provides a more snug fit for the hose, and on the other hand, it makes it much more time to put it in place. Moreover, it is not very convenient to do this in the autumn or spring months, when the nipple is constantly dirty.

During operation, the case heats up, but do not worry about it - this is how the compressor has a cooling system. The motor transfers excess heat to the body and radiator, while maintaining the temperature normal for stable operation. Despite the fact that the device is manufactured at Chinese enterprises, it has a pretty decent price-quality ratio. The cylinder is equipped with special ribs, thanks to which the pump is able to work without interruption for about 20 minutes. The dial gauge is not very convenient, the division price is standard - 0.2 atmosphere, but the dimensions are small, so you have to peer at the readings. Some users noted the presence of backlash at the arrow, it is approximately 0.1 atmosphere. This parameter will have to be taken into account during use.

Benefits:

• Low cost;
• Compact overall dimensions;
• There are several convenient adapters;
• Decent performance for its price;
• All elements are made of metal.

Disadvantages:

• Indication error 0.1 atmosphere;
• It vibrates quite a lot;
• The case may heat up;
• There is no storage bag.

1. AGR-50L aggressor

The leader of this part of our review of the best automotive compressors was the products of the Russian manufacturer - Avtoprofi company, which has been on the market for more than 12 years and has been manufacturing everything necessary for motorists. A storage bag is available here, it is made from synthetic fabric and opens with a zipper. This device is powered exclusively through the battery, the plug for connecting to the cigarette lighter is not even provided here. Performance is just superb - 50 liters per minute. This compressor is capable of pumping pressure up to 10 atmospheres. According to the manufacturer, this device can work without stopping for half an hour. Another positive point associated with this product is the long warranty period - as much as 3 years.

As the basis for the piston, heat-resistant Teflon is used here. The design has a bypass valve, with which you can control the pressure level when inflating tires. The compressor also has quite reliable protection against overheating and overloads. The pressure gauge is built into a removable hose, has a special button that allows you to relieve pressure if necessary. The air filter is simple but highly reliable. The compressor has a flashlight that facilitates the use of products in the dark. The fuse is located on the supply wire.

Benefits:

• High power level;
• Rather reliable device;
• Well thought out design;
• Long warranty period.

Disadvantages:

• Weak insulation of wires - may burst due to low temperatures.

Mid-range compressors

3. AGR-40 Digital Aggressor

The first in our rating digital compressor, which has a fairly wide functionality. In addition to inflating the tires, the device is able to test the operability of the battery, generator. It is also equipped with a flashlight. One of the key features of such a product is the ability to program the required pressure level, and this is done quite simply - for this there is a special function, it is enough for the user to enter the necessary data (number of bars or atmospheres). The device itself will create the required pressure in the wheel, and then turn off. On the case there is a fairly bright LCD display, characterized by good information content. On it you can choose the units of measurement - bars or atmospheres, get data on the current level of pressure in the wheels and so on.

When working in test mode, the device will show the voltage on the battery in volts, and will also evaluate the degree of its charge - lack, excess or normal. The design of the device is very original, the interface is quite simple, however, it will still be necessary to study the instructions, otherwise it will be quite problematic to get access to all the functions of such a compressor. It does not consume much energy, so it works through the cigarette lighter socket. It is natural that a large number of adapters are included. The model can work in the temperature range from -30 to +40 degrees. A bag for storing the device is also available.

Benefits:

• Stylish and attractive appearance;
• Extended product functionality;
• Superior workmanship and assembly;
• The presence of a bright and well-readable liquid crystal display.

Disadvantages:

• A level of performance could be made higher.

2. ParkCity CQ-9

It is equipped with a very reliable engine, which has two cylinders at once, each of which is placed in a silumin casing. They are connected to each other by a tube. The outer casing is made of plastic. This can significantly reduce the weight of the device. It is worth noting that the plastic is quite durable, has a matte finish, so dirt will not accumulate on it. There are terminals for direct connection to the car battery. The product also has a flashlight, which is also quite convenient.It is LED, very bright. The terminals are standard, a set of additional nozzles is also available. The quick-detachable tire connector is also a check valve that prevents air from the wheel from returning to the compressor. During operation, the case is very noticeably heated, so it is advisable to work with such a device with gloves on. The pressure gauge here is quite accurate, shows the real pressure.

The air hose is made in the form of a spiral, made of polymeric materials. A valve for bleeding air is not provided, but this is offset by the high accuracy of the pressure gauge. It consumes about 30 A, so it is best to connect the device to the battery, it is not recommended to use the cigarette lighter socket. The device is able to work even with large enough wheels, for example 205 / 75R16C, the compressor pumps up in 4.5 minutes and at the same time practically does not heat up.

Benefits:

• Quite quietly;
• Excellent build quality;
• Decent power of the device;
• It looks stylish.

Disadvantages:

• Decent overall dimensions and weight;
• It consumes a lot of energy.

1. AVS KS900

This compressor is characterized by an extremely high level of performance - this figure is about 90 liters per minute, so the 235 / 75R15 wheel is pumped from zero to 2.7 atmospheres in about 3 minutes. Electricity consumption is exactly the same as the previous review model. The pressure gauge here shows data in atmospheres and bars, and it is the atmospheres that are highlighted, in order to make out the readings, you do not have to peer. The model is assembled solidly - plastic parts are available, but the main elements are made of metal. There is even a metal stand with rubberized inserts that will not allow the occurrence of excessive vibration during operation of the device. the handle has a special fabric insert, which makes it easy to carry the structure. The metal parts are carefully adjusted to each other, no gaps or other assembly defects were found.

The kit comes with a special air filter that will not allow dirt and dust to enter under the housing, thereby significantly increasing the life of this unit. There is no protection against overheating, the manufacturer honestly warns the buyer about this, but the device’s power is enough to quickly fully pump all the wheels of the car to the desired values.

Benefits:

• Reliability;
• Accuracy of indications;
• It does not vibrate very much during operation;
• The metal pad provides excellent stability.

Disadvantages:

• There is no overheating protection.

The most expensive compressors

2. Berkut R17

The device is able to easily cope with a full inflation, and with inflation of tires of ordinary cars, as well as with wheels of SUVs, especially before long trips in rough terrain. The product consumes 12 V and 18 A; at idle it can operate even from 8 A. The highest pressure that this compressor can create is 12 atmospheres. Without a break, the model engine runs for 40 minutes. Within one minute, the product passes 55 liters of air through itself, so it takes a minimum of time to pump the tires. Products were developed specifically for domestic operating conditions - it will fully function in the temperature range from -30 to +80 degrees. It is relatively quiet: the compressor noise level is 67 dB. The supply wire is very long - almost 25 meters, which is quite convenient.

Inside is a piston-type pump that does not need lubrication. The piston ring is made of PTFE, it resists wear well, as it is quite elastic. Air valves are made of stainless steel. The working cylinder itself is made of a special aluminum alloy, characterized by increased strength and wear resistance.The electric motor runs on permanent magnets, does not have brushes, which greatly prolongs its service life. In addition, an automatic motor overheat protection system is installed here. If the compressor runs longer than the set time, and the engine heats up above the set temperature, the device will simply turn off. It will only start working again after the temperature drops.

Benefits:

• Excellent workmanship and assembly;
• A deflator is provided;
• Not very loud noises and vibrates.

Disadvantages:

• The gauge scale is not well thought out.

1. AGR-160 Aggressor

The most efficient compressor in our entire review - up to 160 liters of air per minute passes through it. Due to such a high rate, this model is not able to work for a long time: a maximum of 20 minutes, after which it will be necessary to allow the engine to cool. The manometer of the design is accurate and reliable, it is installed directly on the hose, the length of which is as much as 8 meters. It has an original scale - its step is 0.1 atmosphere, unlike all other products that are presented here. This provides increased accuracy. The model consumes 45 A of current, so it is not recommended to connect it through the cigarette lighter. The kit comes with special terminals for the battery. The length of the power cord is 2.4 m. A fuse is also provided here, which is located directly on the product body.

The design turned out to be very overall - this must be taken into account immediately, since it will occupy a decent amount of free space in the trunk. The compressor has a reliable air filter that prevents dirt from getting under the device body. A reset button is provided, which is very useful in the event of an emergency shutdown of the product. The noise during operation is quite loud, which is quite natural, given such great performance, but it does not cause much discomfort for users. Inflates tires in seconds.

Benefits:

• The handle with the pressure gauge installed on it is very convenient;
• The piston has a teflon seal.

Disadvantages:

• With the exception of decent overall dimensions and a high price, it was not found.

In conclusion, a useful video

So our review of the best automotive compressors has come to its end. For each model, we tried to collect the maximum amount of useful information. If you still have questions, then you can always ask them in the comments to this article. We will try to quickly respond to your comments and provide additional information on the model you are interested in.

(1 ratings, average: 5,00 out of 5)

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