Milwaukee Compact Inflator

Milwaukee's Compact Inflator, model 2475-20, has quickly become an essential part of my tool kit. As someone who frequently deals with various tire inflation tasks, I was eager to see how this compact, cordless inflator would perform in real-world scenarios. The first thing that struck me was its portability and compact design. Measuring just 6.5 inches in length and width and 7.5 inches in height, and weighing in at 3.83 pounds, this tool is easy to store and carry around, making it perfect for keeping in a vehicle for emergencies.

One of the standout features of this inflator is its high-efficiency pump and motor, capable of delivering up to 120 PSI. This means it can inflate a car tire from 28 to 35 PSI in under a minute and a light truck tire from 30 to 45 PSI in under four minutes. I tested these claims and found them to be accurate. The tool's performance is impressive, especially considering its size. It’s a lifesaver when you’re in a pinch and need to inflate a tire quickly.

The illuminated digital gauge is another excellent feature. It provides clear readings of both the current and target pressures, making it easy to monitor the inflation process. The automatic shut-off function ensures that you don’t overinflate your tires, which is a common concern with less sophisticated inflators. This feature alone adds a layer of convenience and safety that I greatly appreciate.

One area where the Compact Inflator excels is its build quality. The tool is weather and impact resistant, thanks to its reinforced cage. This durability means it can withstand the rigors of being stored in a vehicle or garage without any issues. The anti-vibration feet are a thoughtful addition, minimizing tool movement during operation and making the inflation process smoother.

However, the inflator is not without its drawbacks. One of the most significant issues I encountered was the difficulty in removing the M12 battery. The design of the battery compartment doesn’t allow for much leverage, making it a struggle to remove the battery using just my fingers. This is particularly frustrating when you need to swap out batteries quickly. I found that using locking pliers was the only way to remove the battery without a hassle, which is far from ideal.

Battery life is another area where the Compact Inflator could improve. While it’s sufficient for topping off a few tires, inflating multiple tires or larger ones can drain the battery quickly. During my tests, a fully charged 2.5aH battery was nearly depleted after topping up two tires on an SUV that were about 15 pounds low. This makes it less suitable for more demanding tasks unless you have multiple batteries on hand.

Additionally, the tool lacks a memory function for the target pressure. If you accidentally turn off the inflator between inflating multiple tires, you’ll need to re-input the desired pressure each time. This can be a minor inconvenience but is something I expected to be streamlined in a tool of this caliber and price point.

Despite these issues, the Compact Inflator has several redeeming qualities. It comes with various inflation accessories, including a ball inflation needle, a Presta chuck, and an inflator nozzle, all stored neatly on the back of the tool. This makes it versatile for different inflation needs, from car and bike tires to sports equipment.

The inflator’s performance in terms of speed and accuracy is commendable. It’s relatively quiet compared to other inflators I’ve used, which is a pleasant surprise. The digital display is intuitive, and setting the desired pressure is straightforward. The tool’s compact size and lightweight design make it easy to handle, even for extended periods.

In terms of durability, the Compact Inflator has proven to be reliable over several months of use. It has handled various inflation tasks without any significant issues, apart from the battery removal challenge. The reinforced cage and sturdy construction give me confidence that this tool will last for years with proper care.

However, it’s not perfect. The design flaws related to the battery compartment and the lack of a memory function are notable downsides. Additionally, the tool’s performance can be limited by the battery life, especially for more demanding tasks. These are areas where Milwaukee could make improvements in future iterations of the product.

To conclude, would I recommend Milwaukee’s Compact Inflator? The answer is yes, but with some reservations. If you’re already invested in Milwaukee’s M12 ecosystem and need a portable, reliable inflator for emergency situations or light to moderate use, this tool is a solid choice. Its compact design, ease of use, and performance make it a valuable addition to any tool kit. However, if you require an inflator for more demanding tasks or frequent use, you may need to consider the battery life limitations and the cumbersome battery removal process. Overall, the Compact Inflator is a well-made, reliable tool that excels in many areas but has room for improvement in others.