I did a bunch of research and asked a couple of Facebook groups of professional mechanics what is the best tire pressure gauge and inflator combo tool. What I found out was that there exists an off-brand tire pressure gauge and filler on Amazon that looks and works like a direct copy of the Blue-Point (Snap-On) tool. From what I found, the overall best tire pressure gauge and filler is the Astro 3018 Digital Tire Pressure Gauge and Inflator (Check the price on Amazon). This tool combines both a highly accurate tire pressure gauge and a handy inflator. This is the type of tool you connect to your compressor to fill and adjust tire pressures fast and accurately.
No need to switch from your filler to your gauge. This inflator is accurate up to .5 psi, meaning no more TPMS lights on.
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What makes it the best digital pressure gauge in 2021?
I asked a bunch of professional automotive technicians that work day in and day out on cars. They are constantly filling up car tire pressures, and with today’s very sensitive tire–pressure monitoring system (TPMS) their inflators must be accurate and durable.
It used to be that you had to fill the tire with one tool, then switch over the pressure gauge and adjust. This tool does it both, no need to switch between a separate gauge and inflator. That is why this Astro digital tire gauge is my favorite in 2021 (and for so many other professional technicians). The low price doesn’t hurt either.
Also, the Astro 3018 comes with a one year warranty and doesn’t break the bank.
Why would you pay $300 for a Snap-On similar model that most technicians say breaks easier than this Astro brand one? More expensive is not always better.
Don’t Just Believe Me, Here’s What Professional Mechanics Have To Say About the Astro 3018:
To check the most recent reviews on Amazon of the Astro 3018 and the price click here.
Pro Tip If You Do Buy The Astro 3018:
Use some heat shrink tubing on the stainless steel line. Why?
It will keep the stainless steel from fraying and poking you. It won’t affect how it works either. Just a nice way to keep it from getting sharp and pokey from the beginning.
Top Rated Straight Tire Pressure Gauges:
For lighter duty applications like motorcycles, scooters, and ATV’s grab something like this:
ACO ElitePro Tire Pressure Gauge – 60 PSI
- Has insanely good reviews all over the internet.
- Doesn’t break the bank at all
- Only goes to 60 PSI. Not for heavy-duty trucks (some of those go up to 75 psi or more).
- Has a lifetime satisfaction guarantee.
- Mechanic Recommended: Performance tested, certified accurate, & calibrated to ANSI B40.1 International Accuracy Standards (±2-3%), ensuring precise tire pressure readings without relying on batteries
- Feels solid in the hand & built from premium heavy-duty components shielded by a rugged gear-style protective guard; features a flexible no-leak air hose making checking tire pressure easier than ever
- Robust design is equipped with a built-in air bleeder valve to reduce pressure in over-inflated tires, and the handy 360-degree swivel chuck allows.
- Larger, 2″ glow dial features an easy-to-read 60 PSI single increment scale that glows in the dark
- 100% Lifetime Satisfaction Guarantee
For Heavier Duty Applications (Above 60PSI) This Gauge Is Awesome Value & Recommended:
AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge, 180 PSI RV
- Has a range up to 180PSI (great for heavy duty trucks, RV’s, etc)
- Green Backlit LCD display and flashlight easy-to-read digits help you easily measure your vehicle’s tire pressure
- Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Made And RV/Truck Special Designed
- quick and accurate readings in 0.1 increments; 4 settings with longer range: 0-180PSI
- Simply press “ON/UNIT/OFF” button to turn on the tool, select the range, and automatically shut off in 30-40 seconds to save the power; Non-slip texture makes it easy to hold onto
- 1 Year Warranty and batteries included; Versatile use for cars, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles etc
Don’t just buy a cheap tire inflator/gauge:
Either way, the most important thing to keep in mind is don’t skimp on your tire pressure gauge and filler. If you get a cheap one that doesn’t work right, you will battle cars TPMS lights. If you’re going to be filling your own tires, just make sure it is right the first time.
Get the Astro 3018, it comes seriously recommended by professional technicians.
I also asked a group of mechanics what battery tester they recommended and why. It took a ton of time, but I think I learned a lot about battery testers and you can too. Read the article here.