What are the best portable tire inflators and battery boosters?

There isn’t one universal “best” portable tire inflator or battery booster, but these are strong, commonly recommended short-list picks by use case:

• Best 12V plug-in tire inflator for many drivers: VIAIR 88P. It’s a good choice if you want a durable compressor for cars, SUVs, and light trucks and don’t mind connecting it to the vehicle battery.
• Best cordless inflator if you already use DeWalt batteries: DeWalt 20V Max Inflator. The main reason to choose it is convenience if you’re already in the DeWalt 20V battery system.
• Best compact jump starter for many cars: NOCO Boost Plus GB40. It’s a popular trunk-size lithium booster for typical passenger vehicles, but confirm its engine-size and battery-voltage rating for your vehicle.
• Better step-up jump starter for larger engines, colder climates, or more demanding use: NOCO Boost X GBX45 or GBX55. These make more sense if the GB40 is undersized for your engine or use case.

For a trunk emergency kit, I’d usually buy a separate inflator and separate jump starter rather than an all-in-one unit. Separate tools tend to be more flexible, and if one fails you don’t have to replace both.

Quick buying tips:

• Match the booster to your engine size, fuel type, and battery voltage.
• For cold-weather use, buy more jump-starter capacity than the minimum rating.
• Cordless inflators are most attractive if you already own compatible tool batteries.
• Check duty cycle, hose length, power source, maximum PSI, and whether the inflator can realistically handle your tire size.
• Product lineups, prices, and availability change, so verify current specs and reviews before buying.