Best air compressors in Australia

The best air compressors in Australia

• Best air compressor overall: 12V Princess Trade Air Compressor Tyre Inflator
• Best budget air compressor: 20V Cordless Air Compressor Car Tyre Inflator
• Best premium air compressor: UNIMAC Industrial Air Compressor
• Best 12V air compressor: Giantz 12V Air Compressor Tyre Deflator Inflator
• Best portable air compressor: Giantz Digtal Hawk Portable Air Compressor
• Best 4x4 air compressor: OUTBAC Car Air Compressor

These days air compressors are becoming a common household and workplace item, with technology making them smaller and more powerful. Air compressors have a range of uses, from inflating bike and car tyres and various camping equipment, all the way to industrial usages – such as powering hospitals and oil rigs. Here are what we consider the six best air compressors in Australia, based on customer feedback and reviews.

How did we pick this list?

Our editorial team put together this list based on months of research into the Australian market and using customer reviews online to compare air compressors. Based on this information, we collated a list of comprehensive categories that should fit anyone's needs and covers the basic usages of air compressors. From this list, anyone should be able to identify the perfect air compressor for their needs.

Read more detail on our methodology below.

The 12V Princess Trade Air Compressor Car Tyre Inflator is one of the best all-round picks for tyre-based air compressors on the Australian market, sitting in a nice middle ground of specifications and price range. This air compressor has 4.5 stars out of 5 on Australian eBay, with over 1,130 units sold, along with 100% buyer satisfaction. If you are looking to pick up an air compressor to safely inflate or deflate car tyres, truck tyres or bicycle tyres, and even recreational goods at home, this is the best choice overall.

The 12V Princess Trade Air Compressor may have less voltage than most air compressors available on the market, but it also outperforms most of the 20V models. With 220PSI and 300L/min, this air compressor inflates and deflates all kinds of tyres much faster than the majority of air compressors, most of which are capped at 160PSI.

It also works on a much wider range of car tyres, including 2WD, 4WD, truck tyres and trailer tyres. For added safety, the air compressor unit has a safety circuit breaker to protect against current overload. It also has an easy control pressure gauge for quick release and an accurate pressure gauge attached to the 5 metre hose. It can even run on the power from your car battery using the premium alligator clamps included, allowing for roadside inflating in case of emergencies. The unit is small and light enough to be kept in the boot of your car, with a padded handle for comfort and better grip.

This model also comes with a free tyre repair kit and four different kinds of inflation valves, fitted for various uses. It includes free postage across all Australia, with a 60-day return policy.

What users say

This compressor is ideal for the serious 4WD enthusiast with strong robust construct & power to inflate large 4WD tyres with minimum effort & time.

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The Augienb 12/20V Cordless Air Compressor Car Tyre Inflator is one of the best budget picks for tyre-based air compressors on the Australian market. This portable air compressor is priced way under the average price for air compressors, all while being able to do the same job as the majority of its competitors. This model has 4.5 stars out of 5 on Australian eBay, with over 300 units sold. If you are looking to pick up an air compressor to inflate car tyres, bicycle tyres, sport balls or recreational toys and goods either in the home or in a business, this is the best choice.

The 20V Cordless Air Compressor Car Tyre Inflator comes with a 20V 1.5 AH lithium-ion battery with hours of charge, along with a charger for recharging the battery after use. This battery works 30% faster than a 12V battery, which should not be picked over the 20V option as it usually takes forever to actually inflate a tyre using a 12V battery air compressor. It also has an in-built pressure gauge for reading the levels of whatever it is you're inflating, which is great for maintaining air levels in car tyres, as well as pre-setting a desired pressure level for inflation.

It has an in-built LED light for visibility, allowing you to see what you are working on even in dark environments or at night. The small size and weight is easy to transport, making it the perfect tool for on-the-road usage. Keep it in your car for emergency tyre replacement or bicycle tyre pumping on the go.

This air compressor model comes with three valve adaptors for a range of inflating needs. Full Powertool Protection can be purchased as well, including over a year's worth of warranty. This compact and portable air compressor comes with free standard posting in Australia with a 30-day return with free postage.

What users say

Easy to use good settings, simple to operate. Great value!

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The UNIMAC Industrial Air Compressor is one of the top-priced air compressors on the Australian market, capable of performing jobs that most air compressors cannot. This industrial air compressor is designed to be used for both commercial and industrial usage, unlike most of the models on this list. It has a 4 out of 5 star rating on eBay Australia, with over 100 units sold and 100% buyer satisfaction. If you are looking to buy an industrial air compressor for your business or commercial usage, this is the perfect one for the job.

The UNIMAC Industrial Air Compressor comes with a commercial 4-stroke OHV petrol engine fitted with uni-glide coated sleeves for continuous smooth running and durability. It is powered by a 3-piston compressor, which allows for ultra-fast recharging and minimises down time between uses. There is also an electric version available with a 415V electric motor.

The air pressure gauge allows for precision readings, with dual outlets for simultaneous usage on 2 hoses at once. The iron cast tanks allow for 115 PSI working pressure, with up to 160 PSI run off. This unit is fitted with superior cooling, meaning it can be used for a long time without overheating. The large 6.5L fuel tank for petrol also allows for continuous usage.

This unit comes with a bonus battery and a Full Powertool Protection can be purchased as well, including over a year's worth of warranty. Unlike other models, this air compressor does not have free shipping across Australia, due to the weight and size of the unit. A 30-day buyer return is included, but return shipping is up to the buyer.

What users say

Great unit still running like a top after a year of heavy use. Only part that needs to be replaced is the muffler as it has cracked

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The Giantz 12V Air Compressor Tyre Deflator Inflator is a compact air compressor for a reasonable price that can fit into most budgets and is widely available in Australia on eBay. This air compressor model has 4.5 stars out of 5 on eBay Australia, with over 1,200 sold and over 40 product ratings. If you are looking for a 12V air compressor for around the home or for work, this is the one to get, especially if you are looking to maintain or repair tyres or work on vehicles.

This Giantz 12V Air Compressor Tyre Deflator Inflator is easy to use and compact enough to transport. The air compressor is 200PSI and 200L/min, making it powerful enough to inflate medium to large vehicle tyres. This class-leading power is more efficient, with superior twin cylinders and easy pressure control; anyone can use this air compressor thanks to the deflection valve and pressure gauge for monitoring air volume. It's also small enough and light enough to be kept in the boot of a car for on-the-road tyre maintenance.

This air compressor comes with a bonus bag for storage, and a $39 tyre repair kit can be bought, which includes everything you need to repair a tyre. This air compressor comes with three extra kinds of nozzles, for inflating balls, bicycle tyres, toys and other kinds of inflatables such as air mattresses, along with a 7.5m PA hose. The Giantz 12V Air Compressor Tyre Deflator Inflator comes with free standard postage across Australia, along with a 30-day buyer return guarantee. If for whatever reason this isn't the right air compressor for you, you can return it with free shipping and postage. It comes with one-year coverage and after-sales service in case anything goes wrong.

What users say

Living in the bush I need a 12V compressor that is strong enough to top up tractor tyres and this unit does the job very well!

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The Giantz Digital Hawk Portable Air Compressor is a handheld, portable air compressor that can easily be transported and inflates tyres just as well as the larger models on the Australian market. This model has sold over 390 units, with a rating on eBay of 3.5 stars out of 5. When it comes to portable air compressors, the Giantz Digital Hawk Portable Air Compressor is the perfect tool to have on hand either for working at home, on the road, or at a business.

The Giantz Digital Hawk Portable Air Compressor is compatible with a wide array of tyres, and is able to inflate bicycle tyres, car tyres, air mattresses, balls and other recreational toys. The air compressor is powered by a USB power bank; it can also be powered through a compatible smartphone. The built-in 2,200mAh lithium battery can be checked through the power indicator on the side. The unit is covered in a comfortable slip-proof grip, helping to make it easier to hold when in use.

For such a small and compact size, the Giantz Digital Hawk Portable Air Compressor is still able to keep up with the competition, pumping out 150 PSI. It also has a built-in LED torch function, which can help you to see what you are inflating, which is perfect for emergency situations where you need to inflate a tyre on the side of the road in the dark, or in a dimly lit room.

The Giantz Digital Hawk Portable Air Compressor comes with a bonus car adaptor and three valve adaptors for a range of inflating needs. Full Powertool Protection can be purchased as well, including over a year's worth of warranty. This air compressor comes with free standard posting in Australia with a 30-day return with free postage.

What users say

Great unit with lots of power and easy to use. I have recommended it to many of my friends. Very easy to carry on my motorbike.

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The OUTBAC Car Air Compressor is a heavy-duty compressor that can inflate 4x4 tyres and is widely available in Australia on eBay. This air compressor model has 100% buyer satisfaction on eBay Australia, with over 3,890 units sold. When it comes to air compressors specialising in car maintenance and tyre inflation for 4x4 vehicles, the OUTBAC Car Air Compressor is the perfect choice. It can be used on dirt bike tyres, 4WDs and even 10R.15 off-road tyres.

This lightweight yet durable air compressor is only 3.9kg, can be kept in your boot for emergency use on the road or for camping trips, with a fold-out handle for portability and compact storage. In terms of power, it has twin cylinders, pumping out 540W of power, which can manage a massive 300 litres per minute. The air compressor uses NPT fittings to maintain air pressure gauge readings and the 300L/min output. The hose runs up to 5 metres, combined with an easy access pressure valve to make the process easier. It can even run on the power from your car battery using the premium alligator clamps included.

This heavy-duty air compressor comes with a bonus tyre plug kit and head attachments, including nozzles for inflating balls, bicycle tyres and toys. These nozzles are all compatible with the OUTBAC Car Air Compressor's Quick'n'Easy nozzle connector, which is simple enough for anyone to use.

What users say

Easy to use and it replaces one I've had in all cars I've owned since my first car, hope it continues as long. Thanks

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Buying an air compressor

Do I need an air compressor?

There are many reasons you may need an air compressor, whether it be for around the house, for your business or to take with you on the road or on a camping trip. Air compressors can do an array of different jobs, from filling gas cylinders to inflating tyres, running power tools, cleaning computers and even in dental work. There are all kinds of air compressors and uses.

What to consider

There is such a wide array of compressor options, from ones used around the house in home maintenance all the way up to industrial air compressors which can power oil rigs. They come in all different sizes and shapes, so the right air compressor needs to match the kind of job. At home, whether you are working with wood, blowing up balloons, outdoor power tools, painting or inflating bike/vehicle tyres, you'll need something between a small handheld compressor and a stationary 60+ gallon tank model.

Businesses may require a slightly stronger air compressor, depending on the type of job required. These days most electric power tools run on compressed air. A business that works on engines, vehicles, dental services or outdoor recreational activities may need just about any kind of air compressor, except of course for the biggest ones on the market which are reserved for powering entire buildings and industrial facilities.

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eBay prices last updated on 29 November, 2024 at 08:17 pm

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A portable air compressor can help you quickly and easily ensure that your car tyres are inflated to the perfect pressure. Portable compressors are particularly handy for off-road enthusiasts who regularly need to adjust tyre pressure to suit different conditions.

When buying a portable air compressor, the most important factors you need to consider are how quickly it inflates tyres and how much money you're willing to spend. Prices typically range from less than $50 up to $500 or more. We'll help you compare the available options so you can choose the best air compressor for your needs.

Compare some of the best air compressors

What is an air compressor?

An air compressor uses an electric or petrol/diesel-powered motor to compress air. The energy stored in that air can then be used in a variety of ways.

Around the home, common uses for an air compressor include:

• Inflating car tyres.
• Inflating kids' toys, balls, sports equipment and other items.
• Powering various air tools, such as nail and spray guns, impact wrenches and sanders.

However, for the purposes of this guide, we're looking at portable 12V air compressors. Designed to be powered straight from your car's battery, these portable compressors are perfect for throwing in the back of your car so you can check your tyre pressure wherever you go, or inflating mattresses, toys, balls and other items around the home.

Popular with off-road enthusiasts, they usually attach to your car's battery using alligator clips. Some models can also be powered from your car's 12V sockets or cigarette lighter.

There are also some battery-powered or cordless air compressors that use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.

Pros and cons

Pros

Why get a portable air compressor? There are a few important reasons:

• They're handy. Whether you want to put air in your tyres before a long road trip or adjust tyre pressure to improve fuel economy, an air compressor is a useful tool to have at your disposal.
• They're versatile. As well as adjusting tyre pressure, you can use a portable air compressor to inflate pool toys, sports equipment and more.
• Essential for 4WDers. If you love taking your 4WD off the beaten track, it's essential that you're able to adjust tyre pressure to suit changing track conditions. As a result, a reliable 12V compressor is an important investment for any regular off-roader.

Cons

But there's also a good reason why you might decide you don't need an air compressor:

• You can pump up your tyres elsewhere. While portable air compressors are no doubt handy, you can fill up your tyres at your local servo and inflate other household items with a good old-fashioned pump. If you don't regularly head off-road and you don't mind the hassle of inflating tyres at a service station, a portable air compressor may be an unnecessary purchase.

How to compare portable 12V air compressors

Before you start shopping around for a portable air compressor, take a moment to think about how often you plan on using it. If you head out on a 4WD adventure every other weekend with a camper trailer in tow, you'll want a compressor capable of fast inflation and long running time.

This means you'll probably be willing to spend a little more than someone who is simply looking to get a small portable unit to use in case of emergency and just to pump up their tyres before a long road trip.

Once you know exactly what you need from a portable compressor, you can start comparing the features of different products. Below are the key factors you'll need to consider when comparing portable 12V air compressors:

Connections

Check exactly how the motor in your compressor is powered. The most common option is to attach it to your car battery using alligator clips, but there are also compressors that can be plugged into your car's cigarette lighter – these tend to have less power and will take longer to finish the job.

While less widely available, there are also cordless compressors that use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. If considering one of these, check the amount of power they can provide as well as battery run time and charging time before you buy.

Flow rate

Flow rate, also known as Free Air Delivery (FAD), is expressed in litres per minute or cubic feet per minute and refers to the volume of air a compressor can produce. For example, a compressor that releases air at 150L/min will get the job done 50% faster than a unit that pumps at 100L/min.

If you want maximum inflation speed, you'll want to opt for a twin-piston compressor over a single-piston model.

Duty cycle

Duty cycle refers to the time for which a compressor can run before overheating or needing to take a break. This is commonly given as a percentage of how long a compressor can run in a specified time period. For example, a 50% duty cycle means that if you run your compressor for 20 minutes, it will then need to rest for 20 minutes.

Other manufacturers will list the duty cycle in terms of minutes. For example, if a duty cycle of 60 minutes is specified, this means the compressor will need 30 minutes of rest time.

Price

As a general rule, the more inflation power you want, the more you'll have to pay. Most portable 12V compressors are priced between $50 and $500, but there are a few more powerful units that exceed this $500 limit.

Hose length

How long is the inflation hose that comes with the compressor? These generally range anywhere from 2 to 10 metres, so check that the supplied hose is adequate for your needs. Look for a hose that is long enough for what you need, but not so long that you can't move or store it easily.

Portability

If choosing a portable compressor to take with you on the go, check its weight and size to determine how much boot space it will take up and how easy it will be to maneuver.

Additional factors to think about

• Pressure gauge

  This displays the level of pressure in PSI and needs to be both easy to read and accurate.

• Power cord length

  Check the length of the power cord to make sure you'll be able to draw power from your car's battery and still comfortably reach all tyres and other items you need to inflate.

• Accessories

  Does the compressor come with multiple inflation nozzles so you can easily use it to inflate a wide range of items other than tyres?

• Tank

  Some of the larger, more expensive models come with a tank for storing compressed air. This provides you with increased inflation time even while you're allowing the compressor to rest, and there are some portable compressors that can be used to power air tools.

• Storage

  Does the compressor come with a durable carry case so you can quickly chuck it in the back of your 4WD? Some units also come with brackets so they can be mounted in your vehicle.

Light

Some models come with a built-in light to help you see exactly what you're doing in all sorts of conditions and at any time of day or night.

Thermal cut-out protection

This feature is designed to shut off power to the unit when it's in danger of overheating.

Base

Check that the compressor has a solid and sturdy base so it remains stable in use. Many also come with a handy tray so you can use the compressor in sandy terrain.

Deflating

Keen 4WDers will need to lower their tyre pressure regularly, so check what you'll need to do when using the unit to deflate tyres. Some models allow you to do this hands-free, but most require you to push a button.

Warranty

Check the length of the manufacturer's warranty and what sort of protection it provides. Most models come with a warranty of between one and five years.

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