LRM VERDICT
It might seem unfair to put both the Silverline and Draper inflators up against competition with much more L/min output, but both fared better than other such inflators I’ve used. Ignore the gauges, instead note the time they are left running to ensure they don’t overheat. It’s a big ask but they inflated a 7.50x16 tyre enough to a be driven carefully to a garage tyre inflator. Better than nothing in an emergency, if you don’t wish to buy a more capable inflator.
Sealey’s Mini Air Compressor is well designed with good integral storage and capable of getting you mobile in minutes. It coped well with our flat tyre. I like the torch and red light warning function, but the gauge under-read by about 3 psi.
So both honours this month go to Ring. Two accomplished inflators, similarly priced but appealing to two types of Land Rover driver.
First the RAC900 Heavy Duty Mini Compressor. It’s a good solution to inflating several tyres quickly, such as on an off-road event. It’s sturdy, surprisingly quiet and fast. I like the compact coiled air line, and the crocodile clip connectors are perfect for connecting directly to a battery on vehicles without an auxiliary socket. There’s no integral torch but you get an accurate pressure gauge, brass connectors and a carry bag with a separate compartment for the air line. The hands-free deflate function is also ideal for camping beds and dinghies.
The overall winner then, is the Rapid Digital. Although it took a couple of minutes more to inflate our flat test tyre than its big brother, the 830 is so user-friendly and well constructed that it makes a flat tyre little more than a minor inconvenience for even the most inexperienced user. Singling it out as our overall winner are features such as the preset pressure function which automatically stops when the desired pressure has been reached in PSI, BAR or KPA. The backlit LED display additionally makes this function easy to use at night. The bright On/off LED torch is easy to point at the tyre valve and the whole unit feels both sturdy and stable with no movement in use. It is slightly noisier than the 900 but not obtrusive. Finally it has semi-integral storage for the airline and power lead, plus a storage bag to keep everything clean and tidy. Quite simply, a capable, thoughtfully designed inflator for most road users, which is no small feat.