While unarguably important, simply having the best possible tires for your car will not cut it. Along with the top tires, you need to own one of the best tire pressure gauges available today. Here at AutoWise, we want you riding smoothly, in style, and, of course, safely wherever the roads lead you. Using a tire pressure gauge is the best way to ensure your car’s tires have the correct air pressure. Whether your tire ends up overinflated or underinflated, if it is not addressed, you could be looking at some pretty severe damage from a leaking tire or a blowout.
With the many different types of tire pressure gauges, knowing which one to choose can feel a bit daunting. But with this buying guide, you can figure out exactly what you want. Whether you want a top-of-the-line tire pressure gauge that also doubles as a tire inflator or a simple pencil-style pressure gauge that will take up no space in your car, we’ve got you covered. We’ve searched the web to find you the best tires pressure gauges on the market today. With each product, we highlight the important features and answer the most frequently asked questions about tire pressure gauges to help you make an informed purchase.
Types Of Tire Pressure Gauges
The digital tire pressure gauge is among the latest and greatest types of tire pressure gauges. They are simplistic in design, making them easy to read and use. They can be a bit on the larger side, depending on the model you choose. So, if you plan to keep it in your car, you may need to make room in your trunk instead of your glove box or center console. It only takes a few seconds to get a read on each tire. Once the device registers the tire pressure, the PSI of your tire will simply show up on the digital screen.
The dial tire pressure gauge is typically analog in design, although you can also find digital versions, and is perhaps the most popular kind of tire pressure gauge. They are usually relatively compact so you should be able to fit it in the glove box or console of your car. While they aren’t digital, the dial tire gauge typically is shock-resistant.
The stick tire pressure gauge has a simplistic design which actually makes it quite reliable. Along with that, the entire gauge is the size of a pencil. So you could actually even keep one in your pocket. This type of tire pressure gauge would especially come in handy if you often switch between vehicles. These pressure gauges have a ruler that will slide in and out to measure the air pressure.
Coming from AstroAI, this digital tire pressure gauge has an ergonomic grip with a lit-up nozzle and led-display. It couldn’t be easier to use and store. Because of the compact design, the gauge can easily be stored in your glove box or another small space. In terms of what this gauge can read, it has four measurement settings — PSI, BAR, KPA, and Kg/cm2. For measuring your car’s tire pressure, you will use the PSI setting which can read anywhere from 4 PSI to 150 PSI.
The gauge has one button that turns it on, turns it off, and allows you to select the range. Along with that, it will automatically turn off after 40 seconds to save power if not in use. And the gauge automatically resets after each use, so you never need to to calibrate the device.
The AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge comes with batteries included and a 1-year warranty. In addition to checking the tire pressure of your car, you can also use this for motorcycles and bicycles.
For this upcoming winter season, be sure to also check out our guide to the best snow tires for your vehicle!
First of all, if you’re looking for a tool that’ll not only read your tire’s pressure but also can inflate or deflate your tire, this is the device for you. While it’s nifty enough to have a device that’ll inflate and deflate your tires as needed (note you will need an air compressor for inflation), the InDeflate actually can simultaneously inflate or deflate two tires at once. Because of this capability, the process equalizes the two tires to match the exact PSI.
This device, made with an aluminum body, is extremely durable and meant to withstand harsh conditions whether you are racing or driving in rough terrain. The InDeflate device comes with the two-hose unit, a heavy-duty canvas carrying case, and a hook to hang the unit on a vehicle. It comes equipped with a dial tire pressure gauge with a maximum of 100 PSI.
For more information, check out our comprehensive review and product test on the InDeflate. And make sure to also check out our guide to the top brake fluids for your car, to keep improving your car’s safety and performance.
More often than not, there’s nothing wrong with leaning toward simplicity and compactness when it comes to car gadgets. The Gorilla Automotive TG1 Pencil Tire Pressure Gauge gives an accurate read and is able to measure pressure between 0 to 50 PSI. You can keep this tire pressure gauge in your car at all times as it takes up no space.
While it is small, this pencil tire pressure gauge is made to last with both durable metal material and precision component design. To read the gauge, it is important to know that each increment is equivalent to 1 PSI.
There may be a slight learning curve as you figure out how to get the most accurate read. We recommend trying the gauge a few times on each tire to get a feel for the right angle. Alongside this tire pressure gauge, keep a flashlight in your console in case you ever need to read your tire pressure at night.
You may also be interested in some of the best tires chains from our list, winter is coming, so be sure to check them out.
The Vondior Tire Pressure Gauge is a dial gauge that is crafted to be highly durable, accurate, and user-friendly. The gauge can read your tire’s air pressure in less than five seconds. And you can read the dial at night thanks to the glow-in-the-dark display and large two-inch dial. The dial has a rubber shield that is ergonomic to hold and able to withstand typical wear and tear.
This dial tire pressure gauge is equipped with a 360-degree swivel valve hookup and a no-leak air hose and brass stem. You should be able to check your tire pressure from any angle. The Vondior gauge measures up to 100 PSI. And since it doesn’t require any batteries, you’ll know that you always have a way to check your tire pressure with a fast and accurate read.
You may also want to check some of the best tire shine products from our list, be sure to pick your favorite to keep your tires looking shiny, clean, and new.
Though the ARB Digital Tire Pressure Gauge can be used on all car tires, this gauge is uniquely geared toward the 4WD enthusiast. With the fast read, blue backlight display, thumb-operated inflator button, and deflator bleed button, you can adjust your tire pressure as needed to keep your off-road adventure smooth the entire time. Along with inflating and deflating capabilities, the tire pressure gauge has a scale of 0-200 PSI, 0-14 Bar, and 0-14000 Kpa.
The PVC-coated braided hose and air chuck let you attach the gauge to your tire with ease and comfort. Two AAA batteries are required for use and are included with the device. When the battery starts running low, which should be after about 200 hours of use, you will know thanks to the battery indicator.
With just one small device (and an air compressor), you can easily inflate, deflate, and measure your tire’s air pressure all in one go.
If you’re also looking for the best mud-terrain tires for your 4WD, you need to check out our selection of the best one in the market right now!
The Rhino USA Tire Pressure Gauge not only looks intense, but its performance also lives up to the looks. It is made to last with a sturdy braided hose, protective grip cover, a 45-degree tip, and a 360-degree swivel chuck. And, on top of all of that, it is made with brass hardware. The dial gauge does not require batteries, is glow-in-the-dark, and can measure up to 75 PSI.
The compact size of this tire pressure gauge allows you to easily store it in your car. In addition to the pressure reading capacities, this device can also deflate your tires if the PSI is too high. Rhino USA is a small, father-son business based in California so you know that you will be taken care of just like family. The gauge comes with a lifetime warranty and a money-back satisfaction guarantee.
To help your tires stay healthy and ready, make sure to check out our guide to the top tire cleaning products!
7. AstroAI Digital Tire Inflator with Pressure Gauge
With this multi-use tire inflator and digital tire pressure gauge from AstroAI, you can go ahead and assume that every tire in your vicinity will be taken care of — whether on a car, bike, RV, or motorcycle. This single device allows you to attach it to a tire and either inflate, deflate, or check your tire pressure all at once. Made of top-notch stainless steel and brass, this device can measure up to 250 PSI.
The insulated rubber hose prevents leaks and makes the process of checking your tire pressure both smooth and fast. The device is compatible with 1/4″ NPT air compressors. When the handgrip of the gauge is released, the inflation process will automatically stop for safety purposes. AstroAI provides a three-year warranty that covers any issues with any parts. This tire pressure gauge and inflator/deflator come with the following accessories:
4 Valve Caps
1 Brass Air Chuck
2 AAA Batteries
1 NPT Steel Fitting
1 Thread Seal Tape Roll
1 Valve Core Tool
1 Twist-on Air Chuck
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The Accutire MS-4021R is expertly designed to prevent as little air loss as possible when attaching the gauge to the tire. The illuminated LED screen keeps the reading for around five seconds, so you can easily read the air pressure once you remove it from the tire. With the valve stem, you can also release air if your tires are overinflated.
This digital tire pressure gauge comes with four replacement valve caps so when the cap begins to get worn, you can simply replace it with a new one. The handle is coated with rubber for an ergonomic and easy grip. And the device has an automatic shut off that helps prevent unwanted deflation. It can read anywhere from 5 to 150 PSI in 0.5 PSI increments.
If you’re also looking for more tools to help you with the maintenance of your car, make sure to check out our guide to the best torque wrenches in the market!
This EPAuto device offers an all-in-one experience with an inflation gun, chuck, gauge, and hose. The quick-connect plug allows you to seamlessly connect the gauge to your tire for a precise read or easy deflation. The two-inch dial has a rubber sleeve and a gauge range from 0 to 120 PSI. In addition, the dial offers four measurement units — PSI, BAR, KGF, and KPA.
It is important to note that you will need an additional air pump/compressor to pump tires. Once the gauge is hooked up to the air compressor, you can control inflation via the handgrip. To deflate tires, simply push the button on the side of the device. EPAuto is known for being very responsive if any problems should arise. And Amazon offers a 60-day warranty with every purchase.
You may also like some of the awesome all season tires from our list, so check them out!
Coming from TireTek, this heavy-duty tire pressure gauge is ANSI-certified and able to measure from 0 to 60 PSI. You can rest assured that you will get accurate, precise pressure reading to ensure proper air pressure in your car’s tires. Because it is a dial gauge, no batteries are required. With steel and brass construction and a 5mm chuck tip, there should be little to no air leakage when you are checking tire pressure.
The swiveling chuck on the gauge allows you to read the dial well as it takes the pressure from any angle. The dial has a durable rubber cover to protect the gauge and make it easy to hold. And the device has a relief valve so you can simply press the button on the side to release air if needed. TireTek includes a lifetime warranty with every product.
For more quality products for your car maintenance, make sure to check our guide to the best detailing kits.
Key Features To Look For In A Tire Pressure Gauge
There are numerous features to look out for when you purchase a tire pressure gauge. Depending on your preferences, you may opt for or against specific extra features. Regardless, it is important to know what to look for so that you can get the best tire pressure gauge that suits your needs. We’ve outlined the main important features to consider below.
Maximum PSI
When purchasing a tire pressure gauge, the maximum PSI will always be listed in the product description. With that, you will want to choose a tire pressure gauge that matches your car’s recommended tire pressure range. Otherwise, the gauge will not read the air pressure properly. Double-check your tire pressure requirements so that you get the correct gauge. On newer vehicles, the recommended tire pressure is often listed on a sticker on the inside of the driver’s door. Tire pressure gauges tend to have a maximum PSI anywhere from 60 to 100.
Battery Requirements
Digital tire pressure gauges will require batteries. If you opt to purchase a digital gauge, you may need to purchase the proper batteries separately. Along with that, you should have extra batteries at the ready for when the gauge runs out of battery.
User-Friendly
It almost goes without saying that you want a tire pressure gauge that is easy to use. After all, the purpose of buying a gauge is to quickly check tire pressure on-the-go. If you think you might need to check your tire pressure at night, consider a digital gauge with a light-up or glow-in-the-dark screen. Also keep in mind that a digital gauge and stick gauge only require one hand, while a dial pressure gauge requires two hands.
Durability
When looking for a tire pressure gauge, you surely want one that is durable. Because stick tire pressure gauges are smaller, they can be less durable than a dial or digital gauge. Most dial gauges will have some kind of rubber cover to protect the dial against drops and bumps. In addition, look for tire pressure gauges that are weather-resistant if you often drive in harsh weather conditions.
Grip/Weight/Size
Grip, weight, and size all fall under the category of features to consider in good tire pressure gauge design. While many swear by the lightweight, simple design of a stick gauge, these gauges are also harder to grip. With that, dial and digital gauges tend to have more of an ergonomic design that is well-suited for a good grip. But they are always heavier and larger than stick tire pressure gauges. When considering the design of the gauge, consider what you think you would favor the most in terms of grip, weight, and size. Also, consider where you plan to store the gauge and how often you plan to use it.
The Best Tire Pressure Gauges Will Give You Peace Of Mind
Along with having a tire pressure gauge, owning an air compressor means you can air up your tires at any point to make sure you keep them optimally inflated. Be sure to check out our buying guide on the best portable tire inflators to keep your car’s tool kit stocked. And, just remember in some cars, you might have to also learn how to reset the TPMS light yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do I need to check my tire pressure?
In general, you should check your tire pressures once a month. With that being said, it largely depends on your car’s make and model. Generally, your tire pressure will naturally drop about 1 PSI per month. If you check your tire pressure and find that the PSI has drastically gone down, you may have a leak.
Newer vehicles often have digital tire pressure sensors, so you may not have to check the tire pressure unless there is a warning light. Of course, if you think your tire pressure might have dropped due to an external force such as hitting a curb, it is better to be safe and check.
Be sure to check your tire’s pressure prior to it being driven, as that will give the most accurate reading.
Do winter temperatures affect my tire pressure?
Yes, temperature absolutely affects your tire pressure. With that, you don’t necessarily need to be alarmed if your low-pressure warning lights go off when you turn on your car on a freezing winter morning. As the day goes on and the temperature gets warmer, your PSI will likely increase.
During the winter months, however, it is good to be more aware of your tire pressure and check it more frequently than during the warmer months.
What is the normal pressure for a tire?
The normal PSI varies based on your specific vehicle. You can usually find the recommended PSI either on a sticker inside the driver’s door or in your car’s owner’s manual.
What are the benefits of a tire pressure gauge?
One of the easiest things you can do to maintain the longevity of your tires is running them at the right air pressure. Maintaining the correct air pressure will allow the tires to wear optimally and will ensure your safety while driving. Using a tire pressure gauge is the way to determine proper air pressure.
Additionally, having the proper air pressure will improve your fuel economy, improve handling, and give you the best brake performance and smoothest ride possible.
How do I check my tire pressure?
First, check your tires when they are “cold.” This means that you should check them before you drive or even turn the car on.
When you check your tire pressure prior to using your car, unscrew the knob on the valve and then attach the tip of the tire pressure gauge. Don’t worry if you briefly hear the sound of air escaping. That noise will actually tell you that you are attaching the gauge correctly, and losing a tiny bit of air will not affect the tire’s PSI.
Once the gauge is on, the time it takes to read the air pressure depends on the gauge you have. After the gauge records the PSI, simply check to see if the tire is at the proper PSI or if you need to release or add more air.
Joybeth Sullivan is an accomplished content creator. She does it all as a writer, photographer, and videographer. Her work has been published in local and international outlets. She graduated from the University of Georgia in May of 2020 with a dual-degree in English & Film. Today, she is based out of Denver, CO. When she isn't writing, you can find her on long drives in the mountains with her husky, Newman, riding shotgun.
