Over time, a basketball deflates the more it is used. It doesn’t matter if the ball is new, old, or still in the box years after it was given for Christmas. When a basketball deflates, shots are not as accurate and dribbling becomes more difficult to control on the hardwood.
On the flip side, when the ball is properly inflated, you will have the best experience on the court. A good ball needs a reliable pump, so it is important to buy a valuable one that will not hurt your orange investment. In this post, we’ll go over the best basketball pumps: our favorites, runner ups, and value picks.
With the help of a basketball air pump, you will be able to know for sure how much air is in your basketball. You will never have to guess again if your ball is pumped up appropriately.
If you want to get back to playing basketball, get our top pick for best basketball pump here.
Our Favorites for the Best Basketball Pumps
Our Favorites for the Best Basketball Pumps
TorrX Smart Ball Pump
The TorrX Smart Ball Pump is a hand pump that helps inflate basketballs quickly and efficiently. When working with this pump, you can use the automatic or manual mode that is very simple to use. When you are in the automatic mode, the pump can inflate any basketball to a targeted pressure that you want. With the help of an LED display, you will be able to get an accurate reading for how much your pump is pressuring a basketball.
For this basketball pump, it uses a lithium battery that can be recharged when it starts to die. When the battery is fully charged, you will be able to pump a basketball 50 times on one charge. As a lightweight model, you can take this pump wherever you roam, whether it’s at home, in the car, or at the stadium. With this pump, you will never be caught with a flat basketball ever again.
Additional features include:
- The TorrX comes with indestructible needles that are protected under a cap
- Charges with a micro-USB adaptor
- Easy on/off by twisting the cap
- Sets to pressure and is very accurate
- Low noise will not annoy you or others as you pump up your basketball
The TorrX Smart Ball Pump not only pumps basketballs, but is perfect for soccer, football, rugby, water polo, and handball to name a few. When you are done, store the pump in a backpack or ball bag.
What Makes the TorrX Smart Ball Pump Unique:
- Pump only weighs 12.5 ounces – super light and easy to travel with
- Made with a sturdy aluminum design
Why Choose this Basketball Pump:
- Can plug the pump into a vehicle, if you need a quick pump at the park while you are playing ball
- The pump delivers pressure at 0.2 to 0.3 pounds per square inch per second
- The TorrX has both AUTO and MANUAL MODES. In AUTO MODE the TorrX will accurately inflate or deflate to your Target Pressure. Pressure readings are displayed using high quality LEDs that are clearly visible in bright sunlight. Embedded MACHINE LEARNING capability constantly enhances operating accuracy and speed
- RECHARGEABLE lithium-ion battery: More than 50 ball top-ups on one charge. Individual players will rarely have to charge the TorrX...coaches will be able to inflate all the team balls over weeks of practice. Micro-USB charging cable included.
- ALL SPORTS BALLS - soccer, football, volleyball, basketball, rugby, water polo, Assie-rules football, handball, etc.
- NO MORE BROKEN NEEDLES!! Designed to significantly reduce the possibility of needle breakage. Protective cap secures needle during non-use.
- PORTABLE AND LIGHTWEIGHT (12.5oz); easily stores safely in a backpack, glovebox, ball bag, or equipment kit.
Morpilot Automatic Electric Ball Pump
The Morpilot Automatic Electric Ball Pump inflates basketball with intelligent detection technology. With a built-in pressure gauge, you will get to view the information from an LED screen. Within 1 to 2 minutes, you will be able to inflate any almost empty basketball.
When you are finished with your ball pump, you can place it into a bag or your pocket and take it away with you. Make sure you charge the pump when you are done with the help of the DC 5V 1A charging system. With a simple on/off button, you will be able to get your hands on one of the top ball pumps around.
Additional features include:
- The Automatic Morpilot pump comes with preset pressures that work perfectly for any basketball
- Uses LED light for accurate readings, you can see it in the dark
- one of the top ball pumps around that pushes air volume at 4 liters per minute
- Charges with a USB
- Comes with an LED flashlight
Because of the presets on this pump, if you have girls’ basketball and boys’ basketball, you’ll have two different presets to get the right psi. This way, you avoid overinflating a girls’ ball.
What Makes Morpilot Unique:
- Can pump 30 balls in one charge
- Can work between -15 to 60 degrees Celsius
Why Choose this Basketball Pump:
- Uses a rechargeable lithium battery
- Pumps volleyballs, handballs, and even balloons
- 【4 Ball Modes, Easy to Use】The ball air pump is designed with 4 ball modes; basketball, football, volleyball and rugby ball (BB, FB, VB, RB). Just one key to select the ball mode you need, then start inflating, easy and convenient even for a beginner to use.
- 【Auto Off Function, Free Your Hands】Featuring intelligent pressure detection and auto-off function, Morpilot electric ball pump can inflate sports balls fast and efficiently just after a click on the power button. It will automatically shut off when the desired pressure is reached.
- 【Large Capacity, Fast Inflation】With an airflow of 4L/min and battery capacity of 2000mAh, the small ball pump inflates the ball as fast as 1-2 minutes, inflates more than 30 balls on a charge. It takes about 3H to get fully charged via a usb charging port.
- 【Widely Used, Flashlight Function】The ball pump is mainly for athletic soccer, basketball, football, volleyball, rugby ball and other inflatables, not for any bike tires. It can also be used as a flashlight when inflating the balls in the dark.
- 【Compact Design, with Waterproof Bag】The portable ball pump with needles fits in your bag or pocket well (Size: 6.3*1.37*1.37inch, Weight: 0.4 lb) . It's pretty easy to take this mini ball inflator to wherever you might need it. With a Waterproof Bag, you don't need to worry about the sudden rain.
The Runner-Ups for the Best Basketball Pumps
The Runner-Ups for the Best Basketball Pumps
Under Armour Dual Action Ball Pump
Under Armour comes onto the scene with the next pump. In every package, you will receive two needles in case one of them breaks. As a controller that uses analog pressure, you can imagine its versatility in the sports’ world.
This is a traditional manual pump that will always be reliable for you. In this day and age, technology-driven pumps can be exciting and useful, but they will break down sooner than this best-ball pump. With dual-action technology, you can customize the pressure you want without damaging your basketball.
Additional features include:
- Needle storage compartments come standard with this pump
- Large pump handle for added leverage
- An O-ring that will not allow air out
- Flexible tubing for added malleability
- Easy-to-read gauge
Under Armour Dual Action Ball Pump are simple to use. With a little elbow grease, you can pressurize the ball the way you want it. The gauge will help you in that department.
What Makes Under Armour’s Dual Action Ball Pump Unique:
- The flex hose is 6-inches long allowing for a better reach
- Very lightweight at only one pound
Why Choose this Basketball Pump:
- The pressure gauge is easily accessible and readable
- Ergonomic design is easy to hold
- Dual action ball pump twice as efficient as traditional ball pumps
- Inflation needle storage in handle
- Extra needle
- 3 1/2 inch extension hose
- Ergonomic design to prevent hand fatigue
Franklin Sports Perfect Pump
With this dual-action Franklin Sports Perfect Pump, you will love the built-in gauge that is ideal for measuring the air in your basketball. The gauge comes with a valve for deflation to give you the ideal psi. When you have optimal pressure, your basketball will be perfect for gameplay.
As you use this best-ball pump, the handle is created for easy storage for your needles. A comfortable hold when in use is something you will notice as well. With your purchase, you will receive 3 pump needles to help professionally inflate any basketball.
Additional features include:
- Uses a push and pull pump stroke
- Oversized gauge for easy-to-read access
- Compact enough to fit into your pocket
- Accurate reading to help with regulation pressure
- Twistable mount to place the needle in and out of the pump
Having a hard time reading gauges these days? Not with this pump. With an oversized gauge, you can see what psi your basketball is at with a Franklin Sports Perfect Pump.
What Makes Franklin Sports Unique:
- The pump is only 10-inches long
- Franklin Sports' pump works for a variety of sports
Why Choose this Basketball Pump:
- Made of sturdy plastic that will not bend
- Needle extends the pump to over 13-inches which gives more versatility to your pump
- Handy dual action compact pump with built in gauge
- Gauge measures the amount of Air in ball
- Ensures you pump Air to optimal Air pressure
- Gauge includes deflation valve to ensure exact psi measurements
- Handle designed with convenient storage well to secure the needle when not in Use
Our Value Picks for the Best Basketball Pumps
Our Value Picks for the Best Basketball Pumps
Nike Dual Action Ball Pump
The Nike Dual Action Ball Pump hits the review as an amazing option for air compression. With a needle and extension hose, you will have everything you need to pump up your basketball. As a small, compact design, you can take this best basketball pump wherever you go.
Not only does it pump up basketballs, but bike tires as well. With its pretty gold metallic, you will love the way it looks. But, you will appreciate how it works even more.
Additional features include:
- Easy-to-use pumping action that allows for maximum usage
- Long hose gives you great extension capabilities to get maximum pumping action
- The heavy-duty construction keeps wear and tear away when pumping a multitude of basketballs
- Very easy to haul around because it is small enough to fit into pocket or basketball bag
- Quick dual-action pumps up ball faster than the traditional options
Are you worried about a basketball pump breaking down? Made of sturdy aluminum, this Nike product has been around for over a decade. This track record allows people to trust this product.
What Makes Nike’s Dual Action Pump Unique:
- Nike has its pulse on the basketball world with more people buying basketball-related products than any other brand
- The gold design is one that is unique compared to any other brand
Why Choose this Basketball Pump:
- Customers have said this Nike Dual Action Ball Pump still works decades later
- Perfect for pumping 1 or 2 basketballs at a time
- Efficient air compression.
- User-friendly design
- For easy inflation.
- Colour: yellow/black.
- With extension hose and tip.
Brill’s Portable Digital Tire Inflator Pump
When it comes to the Brill’s Portable Digital Tire Inflator Pump, you have found a great air pump for balls. As a portable compressor, you have the psi power to around 150 psi. This compact design is something you will enjoy to pump up your basketballs at home or away.
In under 4 minutes, you can pump up to 30 psi. This makes the pump great not only for basketballs, but bikes, cars, and inflatables to name a few. At all times, you will be able to monitor the pressure of your basketball. You can automatically set your pump to insert the air reading that you want.
Additional features include:
- The back-light display will help you to see pressure readings in the dark
- Can reach up to 15 feet from the pump to give you added flexibility
- Comes with 2 adaptors to help you in your home or your car
- Carrying case will keep all your accessories in one place
- The Brill’s Portable Digital Tire Inflator Pump only weighs 2.3 pounds which means you can haul it around with ease
An electric pump that only weighs 2.3 pounds? That is truly astounding when it compares to other portable compressors. If you want something lightweight, you have found it here.
What Makes Brill’s Smart Solutions Unique:
- Their pump comes with an SOS flashlight and automatic shutoff technology
- Easy-to-use pump design to get your basketball pumped up quickly
Why Choose this Basketball Pump:
- The Brill’s Portable Digital Tire Inflator Pump has 2 lighting settings
- Built with a strong make-up meaning it will not break if dropped
- ✔ 𝗡𝗢 𝗠𝗢𝗥𝗘 𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗚𝗔𝗦 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦 - Portable air compressor Tire Inflator Capable to inflate a midsize car tire from flat to 30 Psi in under 4 minutes, Pump up To 150 psi. Compact and portable but still powerful.
- ✔ 𝗠𝗨𝗟𝗧𝗜𝗨𝗦𝗘 - 𝗖𝗔𝗥𝗦 - 𝗕𝗜𝗞𝗘𝗦 - 𝗜𝗡𝗙𝗟𝗔𝗧𝗔𝗕𝗟𝗘𝗦 - Helps you inflate your car tire, Bicycle, Motorcycle, Sports Equipment and Inflatables. Does not support Truck tires. 𝗦𝗜𝗠𝗣𝗟𝗘 𝗧𝗢 𝗨𝗦𝗘 – Monitors tire pressure, automatically stopping at the precise pressure you set (+/- 1 Psi). Bright back-light digital LCD display gauge helps you read the pressure in the dark easily. Total reach of 15 feet will access all tires on your vehicle from the cigarette lighter plug.
- ✔ 𝗜𝗡𝗖𝗟𝗨𝗗𝗘𝗦 𝗕𝗢𝗡𝗨𝗦 𝗔𝗗𝗔𝗣𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗦- 2 Bonus nozzle adaptors: Sports ball needle and inflatable adaptor, spare fuse and carry case. 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘 𝗚𝗜𝗙𝗧: Double USB car charger.
- ✔ 𝗦𝗢𝗦 𝗦𝗔𝗙𝗘𝗧𝗬 𝗙𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗘 - Includes standard flashlight and emergency flashing red SOS light. Keeping your tires inflated to the right pressure will slow down on tire wear and maximize the miles per gallon of gas you use. No more being stuck on the road side.
- ✔ 𝗠𝗢𝗡𝗘𝗬 𝗕𝗔𝗖𝗞 𝗚𝗨𝗔𝗥𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗘: We're so confident you will love your inflator we happily offer it with a No-Risk 100% Satisfaction LIFETIME Money-Back Guarantee. Order today risk free!.
FAQs on Basketball Pumps
What Types of Basketball Pumps are There?
With so many air pumps for balls out there in the 21st Century, it can be hard to navigate which ones are good and are not. There are two types of pumps though that seem to run the market: dual-action and electric.
Dual Action:
A dual-action pump allows you to hand-crank the air into your basketball. These models are the smallest pumps out there. The time it takes to pump a basketball will take longer than an electric pump.
Electric:
An electric pump needs a power source to run appropriately. Either a 12-volt home plug or a car adaptor in the cigarette lighter will do. There is no manual labor with this pump. This pump can also handle a lot more psi. Lastly, you can set them to a certain psi, and a pump will do it automatically.
Automatic vs. Manual Basketball Pumps – What is Good for What?
Automatic:
When it comes to automatic pumps, they are best used for car tires, inflatables, and bike tires. They can handle balls, but if you are only looking to pump up one ball, then it might be overkill to get an automatic pump. However, these pumps can handle tons of balls without getting overloaded.
Manual:
As it pertains to a manual pump, this is an ideal product for someone to leave in their basketball bag. This way, they can pump up their ball and someone else’s if needed. The hand pump is not for a complete fill-up, but rather a pump to get the ball to a necessary reading.
Do Basketball Pumps Work with Any Size Ball?
If you have a needle attached to the air pump, then you can inflate any type of ball that uses the same needle. This includes, but is not limited to, soccer balls, footballs, rugby balls, handballs, basketballs, 4-square balls, and volleyballs.
How to Choose the Best Basketball Pump for You
When choosing the best basketball pump for you and your basketball, you must look into these factors and features. This way, you will find a ball pump that exceeds your expectations. Only then will you be content with your purchase. The features you should look into include build, ease of use, flexibility, portability, and pressure.
Build:
The best basketball pumps are made with durable materials that will last you year after year. With most of the pumps being made out of aluminum, this means your pump will also be very lightweight. This means you will not get weighed down by your pump. Sturdy plastics might be another material that is used, but they break down a lot quicker than aluminum.
Most of these types of pumps also have a rubber casing for the handle. This will make it comfortable when carrying the pump around or using it. Build should be the first thing you look for to make sure you are getting a pump that will not break down the first time you use it.
Ease of Use:
Everyone wants a new product to be easy-to-use. When it comes to a dual-action pump, nothing is easier to get started, but it could put some strain on the body as you continue to pump and pump. Pumping up one ball is one thing, but having to pump up a lot of balls will make things a lot less easy.
On the other hand, an automatic pump can be easy-to-use when you set it to a certain psi and let it do the work for you. However, you may have to use the owner’s manual to understand how the pump works for you to get to this point. There may be more work up front, but after that, the pump will be simple to use.
Whatever pump you decide upon, there are pros and cons you have to weigh. Think about the uses you need. Then, you will have a pump that is easy-to-use for what you need it for.
Flexibility:
Flexibility with any product is a good thing because it gives you more possibilities than what you first thought possible. Depending on if you are looking to pump up one ball or a dozen, you need to have a pump that can pump up a variety of balls, or have other uses as well. Some of these uses could be for toy balls, pool toys, and a plethora of other sports balls.
When you have a ball pump like this, you will have added convenience when you run into a need for a good pump. You never know when you might have to use it more than just for basketball. It will make all the difference when you have the pump to back you up.
Portability:
Hauling a heavy ball pump can get annoying quickly. That is why you need to check out how portable your possible pump is. When you get a lightweight option with lightweight material, portability will be a breeze. There are even pumps out there that come with a carrying case to help you in this area.
Pressure:
When it comes to pumping up a basketball, you do not need some exorbitant psi amount. If you over pump a basketball, it will explode, ruining your orange ball for good. With this in mind, know that a good dual-action pump is plenty for what you need it for. But, if you are wanting to use an electric pump for more things, then go in that route. No matter what you decide, you will be able to pump up a basketball effectively.
If you need help with how much air pressure your basketball should have, then make sure to check out our ultimate guide here.
Summary of the Best Basketball Pumps
To sum up, here are the best basketball pumps we looked at today:
Now that we have come to the end of our buyer’s guide/review, it is time for you to make the right decision for you and your lifestyle. Remember that the TorrX Smart Ball Pump is our favorite, the Franklin Sports Perfect Pump is a quality runner-up, and the Nike Dual Action Ball Pump is a best value pick.
With these pumps in mind, look for lightweight, powerful options that can pump air quickly. In the end, you will have a pump that pumps up your basketball with ease. Enjoy the product you ultimately choose, and the game itself!
If you found this post helpful, check out our other basketball gear reviews here.
