What are the best digital tyre inflators available? For starters, your vehicle must be running a good, healthy set of tyres on them. Tyres that are capable of passing MOT inspections and hold a good grip to the road. We’ve even created a guide for the best tyres since there are quite a few variants.
The primary difference between a digital and analogue tyre inflator is the display. A digital screen can be easier to read than an analogue dial, particularly in low light, and the exact reading much easier to determine.
Also, digital tyre inflators usually have extra features such as an auto-shutoff function that stops inflation once the unit reaches the pre-set pressure. Some analogue models feature this too, but it’s less common. Nevertheless, they’re easily fit for use on anything from all-season tyres to sets of winter tyres.
The best digital tyre inflators at a glance:
Editor’s pick: Ring Automotive RTC450 – buy from Amazon
Best on a budget: AA 12V Digital Tyre Inflator – buy from Amazon
Best for larger tyres: Sealey MAC05D 12V Digital Tyre Inflator – buy from Amazon
Apart from the gauges, the digital and analogue tyre inflators are pretty similar. Though because of the extra features, digital tyres usually carry a higher price tag than their analogue counterparts. In the event of a puncture whereby you might have to use some tyre sealant, inflating them back up is next. And these are the best with a digital gauge.
The best digital tyre inflators
Editor's pick
Its performance means a full reinflation of a 13-inch tyre is done in under four minutes. You can't overinflate either, thanks to auto-shutoff. The memory function is also a great time-saver. Ring Automotive is one of the industry leaders in aftermarket car equipment and has a firm reputation for quality gear. The RTC450 reflects this.
What keeps the RTC450 at a good price is because it's still a 12V unit rather than cordless. Sure, cordless is nice but plug-in tools still offer the best value.
Pros
- Powerful
- Compact
- Easy to use
Cons
- Not for you if you insist on cordless
Best budget digital tyre inflator
There are even a couple of bonus features such as an LED light that can flash SOS should an emergency require it. It comes with two adaptors.
Pros
- Excellent Value
- Simple and compact
Cons
- The price difference for an RTC450 isn't much
Best compact digital tyre inflator
But there is more. The RTC2000 carries a rechargeable 5200mAh battery which allows it to be cordless and also a power bank for your devices. The versatility of this tyre inflator is fantastic. It's far from the most powerful tyre inflator, but for topping up car tyres, it does the trick.
Pros
- Versatile and compact
- Cordless
Cons
- Suitable for tyre top up only
Most comprehensive digital tyre inflator
You can pre-set the pressure you desire and like other options, will automatically shut off to prevent over inflation. It comes with four different nozzles and comes with an LED light, which is handy in emergency situations in the dark. VacLife claims it can inflate a 195/55 R15 tyre (average size) in as little as 2 minutes.
Pros
- Quickly inflates air
- Very easy to use
Cons
- Not suitable for tyres larger than 245mm
The power cord is three metres long which should be enough to cover all four corners of your vehicle. There are also some handy little slots which you can keep the attachments at the ready.
Pros
- Works continuously for 20 minutes
- Very practical
Cons
- Won't be for you if you insist on cordless
Best for larger tyres
Weighing in at just under three kilograms, it's a lot beefier than the other models here but that's not surprising. The MAC05D has a long 4.5-metre hose for extra reach on larger vehicles.
Pros
- High performance
- Long hose
Cons
- Slightly overkill for most
Best cordless digital tyre inflator
But that's the only significant flaw here. The WX092.9 is a compact and powerful tyre inflator that is of superb build quality. During our testing, it came in second to the Ring RTC2000, mainly due to cost. But the WX092.9 performs much better and is capable of full tyre reinflation if needed.
Pros
- Great build quality
- Good performance
Cons
- Cordless isn't for everyone
FAQs
Are digital tyre inflators accurate? Yes, digital tyre inflators are generally accurate, often within ±1 PSI, making them reliable for maintaining correct tyre pressure.
Are digital tire pressure gauges worth it? Yes, digital tyre pressure gauges are worth it due to their ease of use, precision, and the ability to provide a clear, easy-to-read display compared to analogue gauges.
Are digital tyre pressure gauges more accurate? Yes, digital tyre pressure gauges are typically more accurate than analogue gauges, providing consistent and precise readings.
Do you need the engine running to use a tyre inflator? It depends on the type of tyre inflator. Portable inflators usually require the engine to be running to prevent battery drain, while those that plug into a wall outlet do not.
How do you calibrate a digital tyre pressure gauge? Calibration is usually not user-serviceable; it is recommended to follow the manufacturer’s instructions or send it to a professional service if calibration is needed. Regular comparison with a known accurate gauge can also help ensure accuracy.
What should I consider when looking at digital tyre inflators?
The first thing should be value. Tyre inflators and compressors aren’t cheap. Ring Automotive certainly provide some great digital tyre inflators at competitive prices, and the range extends to more expensive options from WORX or Sealey. However, don’t be tempted by a knock-off brand either. We’ve chosen the options on this list on the grounds of brand quality, and some of which we’ve even tested. This should help you make the right decision and not be ripped off.
Alongside other factors such as weight and versatility, you should also think about the power source. Cordless digital tyre inflators are great for a quick top-up of air for your rubber. However, those with clamps or a cord are ideal if you want more power. Plus, it’s easy to hook them up to your 12V socket/cigarette lighter or battery. Or if you absolutely insist, a good old-fashioned foot pump may be for you.
But most importantly, we urge that you keep an eye on your tyre pressures. Tyre pressure gauges or, indeed, the attachments that come with inflators are a great way to check them. Reason being? Driving on under-inflated tyres is both dangerous and very bad for fuel economy since it increases rolling resistance.
How we choose
All of these digital tyre inflators have been hand-selected by our team of experts who have spent hours investigating and researching digital tyre inflators to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we’d never recommend a product we don’t believe in.
Where possible, we also test and share the latest and best products you should know about.
Chris Williams is an Automotive Content Writer for Parkers and CAR Magazine, he trained as an automotive journalist in New Zealand, prior to which he studied International Relations and History.
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