What to look for
- Buy into a battery platform you already own to save money.
- Auto shutoff at a preset pressure prevents overinflation.
- Check the pressure with a separate gauge now and then; built-in gauges can drift.
- Large truck and SUV tyres need a faster inflator than a small sedan.
How much to spend
Typical prices run from £29 to £119. Budget models cover the basics; spending more usually buys cordless, 12V and AC power in one inflator. Only pay for features you will use.
Who should skip what
- Skip the DEWALT DCC018N 18V XR Inflator if you do not own DEWALT batteries; the tool-only price climbs once you add one
- Skip the Milwaukee M12BI-0 M12 Inflator if you do not own M12 batteries
- Skip the Ryobi R18MI-0 18V ONE+ Multi Inflator if you want the fastest tyre fills on big truck tyres
- Skip the AstroAI Tyre Inflator Portable if you inflate big truck tyres often; it is slow and gets hot on long runs
Buying tips
Battery tool brands discount inflators and battery bundles around Father’s Day, Black Friday and Home Depot or Lowe’s tool events. A bundle with a battery often costs little more than the bare tool.
Our picks
See all our best tyre inflators in the uk for more options.
Recommended products
Best overallDeWalt · Tyre Inflators
DEWALT DCC018N 18V XR Inflator
Three power sources and auto shutoff.
- Verdict
- Buy
- Best for
- DEWALT battery owners
- Typical price
- £79–£109
Pros
- Runs on 20V battery, 12V car outlet or wall power
- Auto shutoff at the set pressure
Cons
- Battery sold separately
Best compact cordlessMilwaukee · Tyre Inflators
Milwaukee M12BI-0 M12 Inflator
Tough and easy to stash.
- Verdict
- Buy
- Best for
- Milwaukee M12 owners
- Typical price
- £89–£119
Pros
- Compact and tough
- Auto shutoff
Cons
- Battery sold separately
Best value cordlessRyobi · Tyre Inflators
Ryobi R18MI-0 18V ONE+ Multi Inflator
Cheap, and it deflates too.
- Verdict
- Buy
- Best for
- Value cordless
- Typical price
- £39–£59
Pros
- Low price
- High-pressure and high-volume modes
Cons
- Battery sold separately
Frequently asked questions
What tyre pressure should I use?
Use the number on the sticker inside your driver’s door jamb, not the maximum on the tyre sidewall. Check when tyres are cold.
Can a portable inflator fix a flat?
It can top up a slow leak to get you to a shop. A tyre with a puncture needs a proper repair or replacement.
How often should I check tyre pressure?
Once a month and before long trips. Pressure drops about 1 psi for every 5°C drop in temperature.