In the past decades, most of the used air inflators were corded. However, the best cordless air compressor models have taken the top lead. The units are portable allowing you to refill your inflatables anytime and anywhere. These units have an LCD system to preset and control the air pressure. Some even have LED lights for night illumination.
Moreover, this is the best device to use if you are an amateur. It has an auto-stop mechanism that prevents your inflatable from taking in excess air.
However, how will you know the inflator you want is the best for your application?
Read on to find some of the top models reviewed below with a comprehensive buyers’ guide to help you make a perfect buying decision.
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Best Cordless Air Compressors of 2023 at a Glance
- Avid Power Tire Inflator Air Compressor
- DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Tire Inflator, Tool Only (DCC020IB)
- Ryobi Portable Power Inflator
- DEWALT FLEXVOLT 60V MAX Air Compressor Kit (DCC2560T1)
- Oasser Air Compressor Electric Inflator
- Makita DMP180ZX 18V LXT Cordless Inflator
- BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Tire Inflator
- Ridgid R0230 1 Gal. 18-Volt Brushless Cordless Air Compressor
Also Read:
Best Cordless Air Compressor Reviews 2024
The Avid power inflator is highly effective for numerous applications, including inflating cars, motorcycles, and bicycle tires. Besides, you can use it off-road for implementations like enlarging life buoys, inflatable boats, sports balls, and other materials that require inflation. However, this air compressor is not ideal for large trucks.
Like its best cordless car tire inflator counterpart, the unit has an automatic stop function that controls the amount of pressure entering your inflatable. You only have to key in the value corresponding to the amount you wish to pump, and this automotive compressor does the rest for you by shutting down when it reaches the pressure set.
In addition to its cordless scheme, this unit has a dual power supply system comprising a rechargeable 1.5Ah lithium-ion battery pack and a 12V car adapter to enhance your convenience when operating. Besides that, you can monitor the battery level using the real-time capacity indicator. This device ensures accuracy using its +/- 1psi allowance.
Pros
- This tool has a bright LED light to facilitate your vision when working in the dark.
- Compact and lightweight at only 3.96 pounds.
- It comes with one battery and a 12V car adapter.
- The tool has an auto-stop function.
- You can use it for numerous inflation applications.
Cons
- This unit is not appropriate for large truck tires.
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Even though the DCC020IB DEWALT air compressor is a cordless appliance, it can also take power from three other sources- This includes its 20V max battery, 12V DC or 110V AC. Thus, it increases its versatility for job sites or on the go.
This unit comes fully packed with all the necessary accessories for different applications. They comprise threaded chuck and other integrated ornaments- This gives the okay to use this inflator on varying equipment types, from football to car tires.
The Dewalt 20V max inflator also has an embedded digital gauge that you can use to set your desired air pressure. It also incorporates an automatic shut-off mechanism that stipulates accuracy during inflation.
Additionally, working with this unit is convenient and efficient, gratitude to its high-volume hose that facilitates fast inflation over various inflatable materials. It also has nested LED lights for effective working in the dark.
Pros
- Onboard LED lights for dark places convenience.
- This tool can run on three different power sources.
- It has suitable onboard accessory storage.
- The tool also has an automatic shut-off with a high-pressure inflation mode.
- It also has high deflection and volume modes.
Cons
- It does not come with a battery, charger, or AC power adapter.
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The Ryobi portable power inflator has a more compact body than other air compressors. Thus, you can comfortably strap it with you when traveling. This tool also has a user-friendly pistol grip handle, ensuring comfort during operation and transportation ease.
This tool will save you the extra coin and time you might spend on getting more accessories for other portable air condensers. Ryobi’s P737D includes all the supplements necessary for inflation, like the sports equipment needle. Besides that, it also swanks off its two high-pressure nozzles that deliver air at a constant set pressure.
This tool also flaunts its new onboard numeric pressure gauge, which monitors the air flowing through the nozzle. This unit utilizes Ryobi’s ONE + battery system, which has excellent robust power for all your inflation applications. Besides, this tool also has a storage unit at its base that can hold all the bits and nozzles.
Pros
- This tool’s 20″ hose and 2″ pressure gauge ensures maximum inflation.
- It produces air at a pressure ranging from 0-150 psi.
- The tool has a storage compartment for bits and nozzles.
- It’s smaller than other compressors.
- Ergonomic pistol handle grip for comfort and less fatigue.
Cons
- This tool’s battery rating is 18V.
- It has no LED lighting system.
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4.DEWALT FLEXVOLT 60V MAX Air Compressor Kit (DCC2560T1)
This design has a sturdy oil-free pump that imparts a corded machine’s power despite the fact that DCC2560T1 is a cordless device. It has a strong, highly competent brushless motor that gets its robust power from the flex volt 60V max battery. 
Furthermore, the DEWALT FLEXVOLT has an air tank that holds up to 2.5 gallons of air. Thus, it has a tank pressure limit of 135psi- Which conveys up to 1.2 SCFM at 90psi. This device also features a one-turn regulator. You use this patented dial to regulate the air for unerring pressure modification.
This unit has a durable protective roll cage and rubber feet that absorb any vibration, preventing it from walking for safety reasons. The DCC2560T1 generates up to 1220 nails per charge. Therefore, ideal for baseboards, molding, deck lattice, door and window casing work, and furniture and cabinet projects.
Pros
- The machine has an embedded large-capacity air tank of 2.5 gallons.
- This device produces up to 60V energy from its DCB606 flexvolt lithium-ion battery.
- It has a brushless motor and a heavy-duty oil-free pump.
- This tool has a franchised, accurate pressure regulator.
- It also has a maximum tank pressure of 135 PSI.
Cons
- It weighs 25.5 lbs.
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The Oasser electric air compressor has an enormous rechargeable 2200mAh lithium-ion battery. With this device, you have assured durability and excellent performance- Since it has a maximum inflatable pressure of up to 130 PSI. Moreover, when fully charged, the Oasser electric fluffer can inflate up to four car tires of size 185/70R/70R14.
This tool emulates a modern, fashionable design. Besides, it’s also portable and compatible with LED lights on the unique pistol-shaped pump. Thereby a convenient means to use both during the day and night.
With its LCD digital pressure gauge, it’s capable of displaying power usage. You achieve this by presetting your desired tire pressure and then letting the machine self-regulate. Additionally, the LCD system displays the values in three different units, which include PSI, BAR, and Kg/cm^2.
Pros
- Hasty and easy to use.
- It’s compatible with any valve.
- This tool has a great air pump and a vigorous air compressor.
- LED lights for day and night use.
- They also have a digital LCD system.
- It comes with many accessories, including a storage bag, two air horses, 13.78″ and 4.72″, a 12V power base, quick coupling, and tooling rubber gloves.
Cons
- It has an input voltage of only 12V.
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6.Makita DMP180ZX 18V LXT Cordless Inflator
The Makita DMP180ZX LXT cordless air compressor has a potent Makita-built motor that transmits up to 120 PSI of pressure. This device is a division of the world’s most massive cordless scheme, powered by an 18V lithium-ion slip-mode battery. They have the most rapid charge time in their genre.
The DMP180ZX LXT also has an auto-stop system that stops the machine after reaching the desired pressure. It also swanks with its conspicuous pressure gauge, blacklight for easy supervision, and LED lights for night illumination.
Furthermore, it also relishes the star protection computer controls. It’s capable of exchanging data with the battery in real-time- This enables it to oversee the machine’s performance and protect it from overloading, overheating, and over-discharging.
Additionally, it has a long hose measuring 25½” for better access to the inflatable tool. Its handle has a soft rubberized grip to absorb all vibrations, thus providing you with comfort while working.
Pros
- Lengthy hose for improved reach.
- It is suited with a Makita 18V lithium-ion battery with a symbol star.
- It’s compact and lightweight.
- Capable of producing a pressure of 120 PSI.
- Convenient for cars and light truck tires.
- It has a highly discernible pressure gauge flaunt with a backlight.
Cons
- This unit uses only genuine Makita batteries and chargers.
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7.BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Tire Inflator
The BLACK+DECKER inflator is among the best cordless air compressors. It can utilize three diverse sources of power consisting of 12V DC, 120V AC, and 20V max battery- This ensures that your inflatables never run flat despite your location.
This unit has a nested motor that delivers a high-volume output to fill oversized inflatables like air mattresses and rafts quickly. Besides, this device gloats with it deflate mechanism that swiftly drains the air for quick tidies.
Like most air compressors, the BDIF20C design also features a pressure gauge regulator and an automatic shut-off system for convenient pumping. Anyway, handle all your inflatable needs easily- using these tools’ a ball needle, BDINF20 inflator, one Presta valve adapter, a large volume hose, and a petite inflatable adapter.
Pros
- It has an improvised gauge to view preset and target pressure.
- This tool’s motor delivers high volume and pressure outputs.
- The automatic shut-off system satisfies its economic benefits by saving on power usage.
- It is compatible with three power sources.
- You have two years guarantee on the tool’s performance.
- This tool also has a deflate function for easy emptying and cleaning up.
Cons
- The battery isn’t part of the purchase.
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Ridgid R0230 cordless air compressor delivers vigorous power even though it’s refurbished. It has an 18V lithium-ion battery powered by its heavy-duty brushless motor. Thus, producing up to 120 PSI better than other inflators.
The R0230 has a large pressure tank that holds up to 1 gallon of air- This enables you to do all your inflations and other duties ranging from trimming to finishing applications. Additionally, this device gloats with its lock-regulate system, ensuring your inflatables get the right pressure by preventing any pressure changes while pumping.
Moreover, it also boasts a 1/4 – turn ball valve tank. This dial can empty the one-gallon tank by just making a solitary turn. Being a refurbished machine, the R0230 is compatible with many attachments- This includes an 18GA narrow crown stapler, 16GA straight finish nailer, 18GA narrow crown stapler, 15GA angled finish nailer, and a headless pinner.
Pros
- This tool is a refurbished machine with the power of a new device.
- This unit also has an incredible nested locking regulator to prevent pressure changes.
- A robust brushless motor.
- Ideal for use with five other attachments.
- It has a one-gallon pressure tank.
- Applicable also in trimming and finishing.
Cons
- The attachments are not part of the purchase.
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Best Cordless Air Compressors 2024 Buyers’ Guide
Cordless air inflators have evolutionarily taken the mantle of their effective purposes. They are now commonly used by many for different inflation purposes. Being cordless, they have an embedded battery and motor that provides potent power for their numerous applications.
However, there are many manufacturing companies with diverse designs- This has rendered picking the best cordless air compressor a demanding task for many.
But put your troubles aside; below is a list of the reasons and factors you will consider before making your next purchase.
Benefits of Cordless Air Compressors
- Portable
Perhaps, the most important of having a cordless air compressor is its portability. With this device, you can do all your inflation tasks anywhere. It’s very light and compact. Thus, you can carry it on your bike, car, or even your backpack.
The cordless air compressors do not require any cord, allowing you to use them in remote areas or locations without access to electricity. This aspect makes these tools ideal for construction sites, emergencies, and outdoor projects.
- Convenience
The fact that you can use these models anywhere without the hassle of dealing with power cords or finding an electrical outlet provides you with the convenience of usage. Eliminating cords gives you more flexibility in using the compressor and makes it easy to move around while working on different tasks.
Also, cordless air compressors come in different sizes and designs, making them convenient for various applications. You can use the tools to inflate tires, operate airbrushes, power pneumatic tools, and do other projects requiring compressed air.
- Enhanced Safety
Since the air compressors are cordless, they limit the risks of tripping over or accidentally cutting the cord and compromising the operation. Besides, the cords are always a safety hazard when working in crowded job sites or at home with children or pets.
- Environmental Friendliness
Using the best cordless air compressor models will reduce your carbon footprint as it eliminates the need for electricity. Your air compressors are powered by rechargeable batteries. No oils or fuels are used that, when burnt, release carbon gases into the atmosphere, reducing environmental pollution.
Also, you significantly reduce noise with cordless air compressors, unlike the corded types. Cordless air compressors use an efficient motor, making them suitable for indoor use or in environments sensitive to noise pollution.
Applications of Cordless Air Compressor
- Used in Pneumatic Tools
The cordless air compressors are a power source for various pneumatic tools like staple guns, impact wrenches, and nail guns that require compressed air to operate. For instance, pneumatic tools like impact wrenches and nail guns are designed with an air inlet connecting to the air hose from the cordless air compressor. The air hose is integrated with a quick-connect coupling to allow for a secure and easy attachment to the impact wrench’s inlet. The connection allows for the compressed air flow from the compressor to the impact wrench for operation.
The compressed air flow from the compressor to the wrenches or nail guns is controlled through a trigger. The pneumatic tools have a control trigger to control the flow of compressed to the tool. When you press the trigger, compressed air is released from the air compressor through the air hose into the pneumatic tool.
Pneumatic tools like impact wrench is integrated with a hammer mechanism to drive the compressed air. Once you have pressed the trigger, the hammer mechanism is powered to rotate at high speed, providing a series of powerful impacts to the output shaft. The hammer mechanism generates repeated impacts that establish high torque, permitting the impact wrench to loosen or tighten the nuts, bolts, and other fasteners.
Remember, while using the air compressors in pneumatic tools such as impact wrenches, there are adjustable torque settings that you can use to adjust the air pressure. The air compressor has a pressure regulator to regulate the air pressure from the compressor, ensuring that you use the correct pressure for every task.
- Inflating Tires
Cordless air compressors have wide applications and are ideal for inflating tires, including vehicles and bicycle tires, sports equipment like balls, and other inflatable items like pool toys and mattresses.
First, to inflate tires using a cordless air compressor, ensure the compressor has enough charge as they use rechargeable batteries. If there is insufficient charge, connect the battery to its correct charging system and ensure it is fully charged.
Once the air compressor has sufficient charge, check your vehicle or bicycle’s current tire pressure to help you determine how much pressure you will add. The cordless air compressors have an air hose with a nozzle or attachment on one end. Connect the hose securely to the air outlet on the compressor and the other end with the nozzle to the tire valve. The hose always has a nozzle that fits the tire valve. However, ensure you have removed the valve cap from the tire and firmly attached the nozzle to the valve stem to prevent possible leakage.
After connecting the air compressor to the tire valve, turn it on. Most air compressors have on/off switches, while others automatically start when pressure is applied to the trigger. For the models with an on/off trigger, turn the compressor on by pressing the switch and, subsequently, the trigger to start the inflation process. Ensure you have set the correct pressure requirement for the tire in the pressure gauge.
As you inflate the tire, hold the nozzle securely on the tire valve and allow the air to flow into the tire. If you did not set the tire pressure in the gauge, keep an eye on the gauge to monitor the increasing pressure. However, if you have set the correct pressure, you will be notified or hear a pop sound to indicate the set level has been reached. You need to remove the nozzle and take back the valve at this point.
Once you have achieved your desired pressure, stop the compressor by turning it off or releasing the trigger. Repeat the same process for the other tires on your vehicle or bicycle until you have inflated all the tires to the required pressure.
Once you are done with the whole process, carefully store your air compressor in a safe and dry place. If your cordless air compressor has a detachable battery, you can remove it for storage or recharge it if it is low on charge.
- Construction and DIY projects
The cordless air compressors can be applied in construction and DIY projects like roofing, framing, installing trim, and carpentry. The DIY projects and construction works use numerous pneumatic tools. Air compressors can power these tools, including nail guns and impact wrenches.
- Airbrushing
An airbrush is essential for hobbyists and artists to create detailed and smooth paintwork on different surfaces. The cordless air compressors provide the convenience of portability, allowing you to work in different places, even in locations with no power outlets, as they use rechargeable batteries.
Like other cordless tools, ensure your compressor has its batteries fully charged before using it to complete the airbrushing sessions. If this is not the case, charge the batteries.
The cordless air compressor is connected to the airbrush by the air hose. Note that airbrushes have a gravity cup on top, while others have a siphon-feed bottle attached. Either way, ensure you have correctly installed the airbrush’s nozzle and the needle.
The cordless air compressors are integrated with pressure regulators that you will use to adjust the pressure depending on your airbrush requirements. For instance, if you want to realize finer details when airbrushing, use low pressures while you will need high pressure for broader coverage.
Once you have set the compressor to the correct pressure and connected it to the airbrush, you can do a test spray on a paper or scrap surface to determine your airbrush’s performance and further adjust the pressure if needed. After testing, begin your airbrushing project. Ensure you have comfortably held the airbrush and control the trigger with your index finger to regulate the air and paint flow.
Besides, you must maintain consistent pressure from the compressor to guarantee smooth and even paint application. Also, ensure there are no sudden changes in pressure, as this may influence the quality of your work.
What to Consider when Buying a Cordless Air Compressor
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Automatic stop function
The auto-stop function shuts off the compressor’s motors when a predetermined pressure level is reached. The feature is imperative in the cordless air compressors designed to fill storage tanks with compressed air.
The cordless air inflator is a self-regulatory device. You should consider if it has an auto-stop function or the condition of the stop function. This dial helps you save on power and protects your inflatables from taking in excess air.
Additionally, this dial is straightforward to use. You have to key in the desired value corresponding to the amount of pressure you need- and the machine will do the rest. Thus, the auto-stop function effectively ensures that pressure in the tank only reaches the pre-set desired level. It stops inflation by shutting off the air supply to an object.
Besides, the auto-stop function removes the need to monitor the pressure levels constantly. Once you have set desired pressure, the compressor will stop when the pressure is reached, allowing you to focus on the task, creating convenience.
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LED lights
LED lights help you work efficiently in dark places or at night. Some units, like the TACKLIFE Rechargeable Cordless Tire Inflator, have a more improvised superior lighting system. These consist of three lighting modes: SOS, spotlight, and strobe.
Although all the air compressors perform the same task, we recommend choosing the one with LED lights for adequate inflation at odd times.
Particularly when working in low-lit environments, the LED lights will provide bright and focused illumination, improving your ease of work in the dimly lit environment or during nighttime jobs. The elements are vital when inflating tires, fixing equipment, or executing other tasks in areas with poor lighting.
Moreover, the illumination offered by the LED lights improves safety while using the machine. If you work in a well-lit environment, you reduce the risks of accidents and ensure proper visibility of the equipment and your surroundings.
Also, if you are traveling, emergencies or unexpected breakdowns can cause you to stop in the middle of the road at odd hours in the night. An air compressor equipped with an LED light can be a lifesaver in such a circumstance. You can use the lights as emergency flashlights to offer visibility and safety while working on the vehicle or waiting for professional assistance.
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Weight and size
The weight and size of the cordless air compressor is a crucial consideration when making a purchase decision. For instance, the weight and size of any tool will determine how easy it is to transport it from one work area to another. If you move your air compressor from different workstations or use it in other places, you want a less bulky and lightweight tool to improve its portability.
A less bulky tool will give you ample storage time and space. That is, smaller air compressors are more suitable for limited space. Hence you can easily store them after use when you have space constraints.
Moreover, you should determine your job requirements before you decide on a given weight or size of your preferred air compressor. The size and weight of the compressor you choose should match your application’s demands.
You may want to consider smaller air compressors if you intend to use them for light-duty tasks such as inflating tires or powering pneumatic tools. However, if you plan to use the compressors for heavy-duty tasks involving continuous operations like in construction projects, go for larger, more powerful air compressors.
The larger air compressors have more power than the smaller ones. If you need a more powerful tool, choose the larger units. Also, the larger units have more air capacity than the smaller ones due to the larger tank, which is essential if you intend to work on a continuous project with limited breakdown.
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LCD
To prevent over-pumping and ensure accuracy, your device needs an LCD system. This scheme can display all your preset values in different optional units such as kg/cm^2, Bars, Psi, and Kpa.
Besides, this system also enables you to monitor the battery level and alerts you on the next charging time.
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Battery Life
Cordless air compressors derive their power from rechargeable batteries. Thus, the batteries directly influence how long you use the tool before recharging. Look for a model with longer battery life, especially if you intend to work on heavy-duty tasks.
Besides, the battery ratings matter. For instance, if your machine has a higher rating, it will perform more effectively than those with a lower rating.
Most standard batteries have a maximum of 60V, while other designs have a maximum of 20V. However, some units like the DEWALT (DCC020IB) and BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Tire Inflator can work under three different sources, including their 20V battery, a direct current, and an alternating current input.
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Add-ons
Additional specs on your air compressor will give you a new experience in inflation. For instance, the handle should have a rubberized, heat-resistant, non-stick design to increase your comfort while working.
Due to vibrations from the motor, you should also consider a compressor with a rubber base- This helps prevent the machine from walking while in operation. Some units also have a storage kit to keep all the bits while transporting the machine.
Additionally, you should also contemplate a machine that is compatible with other attachments for different inflation purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions-FAQs
Q1. What is a good psi for a cordless air compressor?
Cordless air compressors operate within a PSI of 30 and 120. If you choose a model with this PSI range, you can be sure to tackle almost all your needs.
However, in most instances, the type of project you want to execute with your air compressor will determine its PSI rating. For example, if you buy a cordless air compressor for inflating tires, a psi range of between 30 and 100 will be sufficient. Most car tires require just between 30-35psi, while for bicycles, you may need a psi range of between 40 and 100.
On the other hand, if you want to use the compressor on the air tools like pneumatic nailers or staplers, you will need a psi range of between 70 and 120 psi for effective operation.
Also, for air mattresses, sports equipment, or pool inflatables, a lower PSI range of between 20 and 40 will be sufficient. Thus, if you aim to use your cordless air compressor for light-duty DIY tasks such as small paint spraying, a PSI range of 40 to 60 is the most suitable.
Q2. Can I use a tire inflator as an air compressor?
Yes. Tire inflators can be used in place of air compressors. The inflators and air compressors do the same job and can be used interchangeably.
However, if you want to execute jobs that require more power, tire inflators may not be appropriate as they are small and less powerful. If you want more versatility or intend to use your tool in various applications, choose air compressors.
Q3. How Much Do Portable Air Compressors Cost?
Cordless air compressors cost between $30 and $350. The differences in brand and power may cause price variation. For instance, the smaller, more portable air compressors used for light tasks cost between $30 and $100.
However, high-end cordless air compressors with higher air capacity and larger tanks can go up to $800 from $300. Other mid-range portable air compressors cost $100-300. As a result, you should determine your project or where you want to use the air compressor before making a purchase decision.
Conclusion
Cordless air compressors have proven to be more effective on different inflatables. Besides, their portable nature never lets you run flat. You can also use these devices on numerous applications besides inflating tires.
However, when choosing the best cordless air condenser, remember to look at the key aspects mentioned above. My best pick is the DEWALT FLEXVOLT 60V MAX Air Compressor Kit (DCC2560T). It has a 2.5 gallons pressure tank delivering up to 135psi of pressure with 1220 nails per charge.
With all the reviews and guides above, we hope you will make a rationed decision when choosing the best cordless air compressor.
