Mini Air Compressors - We Test Twelve

Mini compressors take the strain out of pumping up your tyres, and make it easier to keep them inflated to the correct level. Which should you carry in your boot? We pick from 12...

Auto Express Car Reviews

September 2009

Driving with your tyres just a little under pressure can make a big difference to your costs.

Not only do you use more fuel, but tyre wear is increased, too – plus, handling and braking are compromised.

So, it’s vital you keep your rubber properly inflated, and the easiest way is with a weekly check using a mini compressor powered by the cigar lighter.

Designs and pumps have improved in recent years, so which is the best buy? We plugged in 12 to find out.

The Test

Top of our mini compressor wishlist was an accurate, easy-to-read gauge – nobody wants to have to pay for a separate one, and then keep switching between the two. We tested each product against a certified gauge at 20psi and 30psi.

Next, we measured how much pressure was added to a 14-inch tyre in one minute’s running. We also looked for user-friendly accessory storage.

Cable and air line length were taken into account, as were power switches, adaptors, build, plus cost. Prices here do not include delivery charges.

Contacts

* Draper 023 8049 4333, www.draper.co.uk

* Halfords (Michelin) 08457 626625, www.halfords.com

* Maplin (Nikkai) 0844 557 6000, www.maplin.co.uk

* Michelin 0800 591 859, www.michelin.co.uk

* PCL 0114 248 2712, www.pclairtechnology.com

* Ring 0113 213 2000, www.ringautomotive.co.uk

* Saxon (MVP Silverline) 01488 689400, www.saxon-brands.com

* Sealey 01284 757500, www.sealey.co.uk

Verdict

It’s two test victories on the trot for Ring and its all-conquering RAC600, which ticks all our boxes for less than £30.

Not only does it feature a super-accurate gauge, the pump is punchy and the design is neat – it’s an easy winner.

Choosing between the Michelin pair was harder, but the cheaper Hi-power gets the nod. It was among the best in the pump test and the gauge can be used separately.

Although the Rapid’s pump really delivered, you pay for that extra performance.

* 1 Ring RAC600
* 2 Michelin Hi-power
* 3 Michelin Hi-power Rapid

Top 3

Ring RAC600
Michelin Hi-power Tyre Inflator
Michelin Hi-power Rapid Inflator

2 Comments

I don't know about these ones, but my Halfords rapid tyre inflater works quite well, my only criticism is that the plug won't fit my BMW 5 series, i went to Halfords to see if there was a solution, maybe an adaptor or something, but they said i'd have to change the plug to get it to work!,i thought these plugs were universal but obviously their not!,yes I know my car has runflats but if you want to check or adjust the pressures you have to got to a garage, nt very handy, is it?

By gladstone1 on 15 September, 2009, 10:37am

@gladstone1

Thanks for your comments, We looked at the Halfords rapid tyre inflater yet at £52 it would have been more then five times as expensive one of the units on test, so we took value for money into consideration and looked at the Halfords Advanced Twin Motor Inflator instead. Regards, Jamie Fretwell Consumer Writer

By jamiefretwell on 16 September, 2009, 9:50am

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