The Milwaukee M18 Inflator (model 2848-20) is designed to provide high-efficiency inflation for various applications, from vehicle tires to job site equipment, and it is finally back in stock!
The M18 inflator delivers up to 150 PSI of pressure and is powered by Milwaukee’s M18 RedLithium battery system, offering compatibility with a wide range of existing M18 tools.
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Key Features and Specs
Maximum Pressure:
- The inflator is capable of reaching up to 150 PSI, making it suitable for inflating tires on passenger vehicles, light trucks, and compact equipment.
Output and Speed:
- Milwaukee claims it can inflate a car tire from 0 to 35 PSI in under 1 minute, depending on tire size.
- The inflator features TrueFill™ Auto Shut-Off Technology, which automatically stops inflation when the desired pressure is reached, ensuring consistent and accurate results without overinflation.
Build and Design:
- The unit measures 10.5″ L x 7.5″ W x 8″ H and weighs approximately 6.2 lbs without the battery.
- It features a sturdy build with an integrated handle for easy portability around the job site or garage.
- A backlit LCD display and a simple control panel make it user-friendly, even in low-light conditions.
Hose and Accessories:
- The inflator comes with a 26″ hose and onboard storage for the included ball inflation needle, Presta valve adapter, and Schrader chuck.
- The hose has a reinforced design to prevent kinks and withstand regular use in tough environments.
Performance on the Job Site
The Milwaukee M18 inflator performed as advertised in testing, delivering quick inflation times and consistent pressure readings. The TrueFill™ auto shut-off worked reliably, making it easy to set the desired pressure and let the inflator do the work.
The inflator is relatively quiet compared to other cordless models, though it’s not entirely silent. An M18 XC5.0 battery provided enough runtime to inflate several tires before requiring a recharge.
Use Cases
This inflator is ideal for:
- Automotive use: inflating cars, trucks, and bike tires.
- Jobsite needs: Maintaining pneumatic tires on wheelbarrows, compressors, and other job site equipment.
- Recreational gear: Inflating sports balls, air mattresses, and pool floats.
Do You Really Need the Milwaukee M18 Inflator?
If you already own Milwaukee M18 tools, the M18 inflator’s compatibility with existing batteries makes it an obvious choice. Its speed, accuracy, and portability make it a great addition to any toolkit, especially for professionals who frequently need to inflate tires or equipment on the go.
For those who don’t have Milwaukee’s M18 system, the price might feel a bit steep, especially since batteries and chargers are sold separately. However, the performance and build quality justify the cost if you’re in the market for a high-end inflator.
Who Should Buy It?
- Frequent Travelers: Its portability and ease of use make it ideal for road trips and emergencies.
- Milwaukee Ecosystem Users: Those who already own M18 batteries will find it a cost-effective addition to their toolkit.
- Light to Medium-Duty Users: It is best suited for inflating passenger vehicle tires, light truck tires, and other medium-duty applications.
Who Should Avoid It?
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: The high price may not justify the purchase for occasional users.
- Heavy-Duty Users: Those needing high CFM output or continuous use may find it insufficient.
Other Options to Consider
If you’re looking for alternatives, Milwaukee also offers the M12 Compact Inflator, which is smaller, more portable, and slightly less expensive. Alternatively, for a budget option, there are corded inflators available from brands like Ryobi and DeWalt.
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Pros and Cons
Pros
- High Power and Fast Inflation: Capable of quickly inflating a wide range of tires and equipment.
- Durable Build: Rugged design suitable for tough environments.
- Portability: Lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry and store.
- Battery Compatibility: Works with the entire Milwaukee M18 line of batteries.
- Auto Shut-Off: Ensures precise inflation and prevents over-inflation.
- Digital Display: Easy-to-read display for precise pressure settings.
Cons
- Price: The Milwaukee M18 Inflator is priced higher than many competitors, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.
- Battery Not Included: Unless you already own an M18 battery, you’ll need to purchase it separately, adding to the overall cost.
- Limited for High-Volume Applications: While it’s excellent for regular use, it may not be the best choice for regularly inflating large truck or trailer tires.
Milwaukee M18 Inflator vs. Competitors
When compared to similar inflators from brands like DeWalt, Ryobi, and Makita, the Milwaukee M18 Inflator stands out for its superior build quality, accuracy, and ease of use. While it may be slightly more expensive, the added durability and battery compatibility with the M18 line make it a worthwhile investment for Milwaukee tool users.
| Feature | Milwaukee M18 Inflator 2848-20 | DeWalt DCC020IB | Ryobi P737D |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max PSI | 150 | 160 | 150 |
| Power Source | M18 battery | 20V MAX battery | 18V ONE+ battery |
| Digital Display | Yes | Yes | No |
| Auto Shut-Off | Yes | Yes | No |
| Inflation Speed | Fast | Medium | Slow |
| Weight | 6.3 lbs | 5.5 lbs | 4 lbs |
| Price | $$$ | $$$ | $$ |
Customer Reviews and Ratings
We analyzed hundreds of customer reviews from various platforms such as Amazon, Home Depot, and Milwaukee’s official website to provide a balanced perspective. Below is a summary of key insights:
| Rating Category | Average Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall Satisfaction | 4.8/5 |
| Ease of Use | 4.9/5 |
| Durability | 4.7/5 |
| Accuracy | 4.8/5 |
| Value for Money | 4.5/5 |
Customer Feedback Highlights
Positive Feedback
- Performance: Many users praise the inflator for its speed and accuracy. One customer noted that it “operated flawlessly” when inflating trailer tires to 126 PSI and truck tires to 110 PSI.
- Portability: Customers appreciate its lightweight and compact design, which makes it easy to transport and store.
- Ease of Use: The intuitive controls and PSI memory presets have been highlighted as user-friendly features.
- Durability: Several reviewers have commended the inflator’s build quality and reliability, with some stating that it has exceeded their expectations over extended periods of use.
Negative Feedback
- Battery Consumption: Some users have expressed frustration with the high battery usage of the inflator, particularly when inflating larger tires.
- Price: The cost of the inflator has been a common point of criticism, with some customers feeling that it is overpriced compared to similar products on the market.
- CFM Output: A few reviewers have mentioned that the inflator’s airflow is insufficient for heavy-duty tasks, limiting its versatility.
Is the Milwaukee M18 Inflator Worth It?
The Milwaukee M18 Inflator delivers exceptional performance, portability, and ease of use. It’s a premium tool with a higher price tag, but it justifies the cost through its robust build, fast inflation speed, and accurate pressure control. If you’re already invested in Milwaukee’s M18 ecosystem or need a reliable inflator for personal or professional use, the M18 Inflator is an excellent choice.
For those looking for a durable, portable, and high-performance inflator, the Milwaukee M18 Inflator is a top contender. Its innovative features, reliable battery life, and user-friendly design make it stand out in the crowded market of cordless inflators.
FAQs
1. Does the Milwaukee M18 Inflator come with a battery?
No, the M18 Inflator is typically sold as a bare tool, meaning you’ll need to purchase an M18 battery separately unless you already own one.
2. Can the inflator be used for large truck tires?
Yes, but inflating larger truck or trailer tires may take longer. It’s better suited for standard cars, SUVs, and bike tires.
3. How long does it take to inflate a car tire?
It takes about 4 minutes to inflate a standard car tire from 0 to 35 PSI.
4. Is the M18 Inflator compatible with other Milwaukee batteries?
Yes, it’s compatible with all Milwaukee M18 batteries.
5. Does the inflator come with any accessories?
Yes, it includes a sports needle, a Presta valve adapter, and a raft nozzle.
6. Can I use the inflator indoors?
Yes, it can be used indoors for inflating sports equipment and air mattresses, but be mindful of the noise level.