Are Budget Tire Inflators a Cost-Effective Investment in Terms of Money Saved?
In the realm of portable tire inflators, two standout contenders are the Hart inflator and the Milwaukee M18 inflator. Both devices are equipped with performance metrics such as Pounds per Square Inch (PSI) and Cubic Feet Per Minute (CFM), making them suitable for a variety of tire inflation needs.
When it comes to power, the Milwaukee M18 inflator is paired with a 5Ah battery pack, while the Hart inflator comes with a pair of 2Ah batteries. The Milwaukee inflator, weighing 8 pounds 11 ounces (including the battery), is heavier than the Hart inflator, which weighs 4 pounds 12 ounces.
In terms of battery life and efficiency, the Milwaukee inflator performed impressively. It inflated each tire in 15 seconds or less, using up just one of the four available "bars" of battery life. Hart's inflator, on the other hand, took significantly longer to inflate tires, especially after the first two tires.
The Hart inflator's batteries can be swapped in a matter of seconds, making it a convenient choice for quick tire fills. However, the long-term reliability of the Hart inflator has been a concern for some users.
As for accuracy, both inflators were found to be fairly accurate. Hart's inflator averaged 38.16 PSI over three runs, while the Milwaukee inflator averaged 36.83 PSI in the same test.
When it comes to price, the Hart Tools 20V Dual-Purpose tire inflator kit is a budget-friendly option, retailing for around $129 at Walmart and $99 at edealinfo.com. In contrast, the Milwaukee M18 tire inflator, winner of the Popular Mechanics 2025 Gear of The Year award, carries a higher price tag.
The Milwaukee inflator's large backlit screen makes it easy to read at any time of day, while its screw-type chuck lets out more air than desired when being taken off. Hart's inflator's motor is buzzy while in use, and its chuck fits tightly on the valve stem, making it difficult to remove without letting out some air.
In conclusion, both the Hart and Milwaukee tire inflators have their strengths and weaknesses. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option with quick battery swaps, the Hart inflator might be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed, accuracy, and a user-friendly design, the Milwaukee M18 inflator could be the ideal choice.
