The FLEXTAILGEAR Tiny Pump X is a pocket-sized electric air pump designed for inflating sleeping pads, deflating vacuum bags, and doubling as a camping lantern. Weighing just 94 grams and packing a 1300mAh battery, it’s a multi-use tool that’s become a cult favourite among ultralight backpackers, bikepackers, and minimalist campers.
In this review, we test the Tiny Pump X across multiple use cases—from inflating air mattresses and floaties to lighting up a tent at night—to see if it lives up to the hype.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Weight | 94 g (3.3 oz) |
| Dimensions | 1.8 × 1.7 × 2.3 in |
| Battery Capacity | 1300 mAh |
| Air Pressure | 4 kPa (0.58 PSI) |
| Airflow | 180 L/min |
| Lighting Modes | 40 / 160 / 400 lumens |
| Runtime (Pump) | ~30 minutes total |
| Runtime (Light) | 10 hrs (low) / 2.5 hrs (med) / 1 hr (high) |
| Charging Port | USB-C |
| Water Resistance | IP44 (splashproof) |
| Extras | Magnetic base, 5 nozzles, carry pouch |
Design and Build Quality
Tiny Form, Big Function
The Tiny Pump X is roughly the size of an egg, with a matte ABS plastic shell and a built-in wire handle for hanging. The USB-C charging port is protected by a silicone flap, and the magnetic base allows it to stick to metal surfaces—ideal for vanlife or car camping.
- Build quality feels solid, with tight seams and a satisfying click on the power button
- Double-click to activate pump, long-press to activate light
- Included nozzles fit most sleeping pads, air mattresses, and vacuum bags
Despite its size, it doesn’t feel fragile. The IP44 rating means it can handle light rain or splashes, though it’s not submersible.
Inflation and Deflation Performance
Surprisingly Powerful for Its Size
We tested the Tiny Pump X on a variety of inflatables:
- Standard camping air mattress (6 ft x 2 ft x 8 in): Fully inflated in ~4.5 minutes
- Ultralight sleeping pad (e.g. Therm-a-Rest NeoAir): ~1 minute
- Pool floaties: ~2–3 minutes depending on size
- Vacuum storage bags: Fully compressed in ~1.5 minutes
The pump maintains consistent airflow across multiple uses. We were able to inflate a full-size camping mat 7 times on a single charge, with a 5-minute cooldown between sessions.
The deflation mode is equally useful—especially for vacuum bags or compressing floaties for storage.
Lantern Functionality
A Legitimate Camp Light
The Tiny Pump X includes a built-in LED lantern with three brightness levels:
- 40 lumens: Ideal for reading or inside a tent
- 160 lumens: General camp use
- 400 lumens: Bright enough for cooking or group use
In testing, the light ran for over 2 hours on high and 10+ hours on low. The magnetic base makes it easy to attach to a car, tent pole, or bike rack, and optional silicone lampshades (sold separately) diffuse the light for a softer glow.
Charging and Battery Life
USB-C Simplicity
The 1300mAh battery charges in about 2.5 hours via USB-C. It can be topped up from:
- Power banks
- Solar panels
- Car chargers
- Wall plugs
You can also use the pump while charging, which is rare for devices in this category.
Real-World Use Cases
Where It Shines
- Bikepacking: Fits in a frame bag or saddle pack; inflates pads and lights your bivvy
- Camping: Replaces bulky manual pumps and lanterns
- Travel: Compresses vacuum bags for efficient packing
- Beach days: Inflates floaties and deflates them fast
- Emergency kits: Compact light and pump in one
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Ultralight and compact
- Fast inflation and deflation
- Built-in lantern with 3 brightness levels
- Magnetic base and hanging loop
- USB-C charging with passthrough use
- Includes 5 nozzles and carry pouch
Cons
- Not waterproof (IP44 only)
- No battery level indicator
- Light diffuser sold separately
- Limited airflow for very large inflatables
Comparison: Tiny Pump X vs Tiny Pump 2X vs Zero Pump
| Feature | Tiny Pump X | Tiny Pump 2X | Zero Pump |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 94 g | 130 g | 34 g |
| Air Pressure | 4 kPa | 4 kPa | 3.5 kPa |
| Lantern | Yes (3 modes) | Yes (3 modes) | No |
| Magnetic Base | Yes | Yes | No |
| Water Resistance | IP44 | IP44 | IPX0 |
| Best For | Ultralight camping | Car camping | Pure weight savings |
Final Verdict: Is the FLEXTAILGEAR Tiny Pump X Worth It?
If you’re looking for a multi-use, ultralight air pump that also functions as a camp lantern, the FLEXTAILGEAR Tiny Pump X is one of the most versatile tools you can pack in 2025. It’s not just a gimmick—it’s a genuinely useful piece of kit that saves time, space, and effort.
For bikepackers, minimalist campers, and frequent travellers, it’s a smart, compact solution that punches well above its weight.
