Best Bottle Jacks
Motor1 Reviews Team Take:
- The best bottle jacks in 2024 include the Big Red Torin 10-Ton Bottle Jack, Big Red Torin Pneumatic Air Bottle Jack, Performance Tools Shorty Bottle Jack, and Pro-Lift Hydraulic Bottle Jack.
- On average, you can expect to spend around $50 for a bottle jack that works reliably with some jacks that advertise a heavier load capacity being upwards of $100.
- When buying a car jack, you want to consider the height range of each bottle jack to ensure that it can fit underneath your vehicle but also extend high enough to lift your car.
A high-quality bottle jack with a high lift height and decent weight capacity.
A heavy-duty pneumatic bottle jack with a high lift capacity.
A squat bottle jack with a high lift capacity and fast lift action.
An inexpensive yet reliable bottle jack for your car.
Bottle jacks are cylindrical car jacks that can typically bear a lot of weight. Though less stable than a floor jack or scissor jack, the best bottle jack is compact and often less expensive than other types of car jacks.
Their compact size makes bottle jacks a convenient choice for roadside emergencies, but this type of jack isn’t for every driver and every car. In this guide, we’ll explain what to look for in a quality car jack and suggest several options that we’ve tested for quality.
Bottle Jack Reviews
When we tested and researched to find the best bottle jacks, we wanted to consider ease of use, durability, and overall value to ensure you’re getting the best bottle jack for what you pay for. Each bottle jack received a rating based on 1.0 to 5.0 stars.
What Is The Best Bottle Jack?
We named the Big Red Torin 10-Ton Bottle Jack, Big Red Torin Pneumatic Air Bottle Jack, Performance Tools Shorty Bottle Jack, and Pro-Lift Hydraulic Bottle Jack as the best-rated bottle jacks on the market in 2024.
| Brand/Model | Cost | Overall Rating | Award |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big Red Torin 10-Ton Bottle Jack | $40 | 4.2 | Best Bottle Jack |
| Big Red Torin Pneumatic Air Bottle Jack | $45 | 4.2 | Best for RVs |
| Performance Tools Shorty Bottle Jack | $140 | 3.8 | Best for Low-Profile Vehicles |
| Pro-Lift Hydraulic Bottle Jack | $20 | 3.5 | Budget Pick |
*Because cost data fluctuates, the prices in the table above are approximate values that our team regularly updates.
Bottle Jack Ratings: Our Testing Process
After looking at factors such as load capacity, weight, customer ratings, and prices, our product testing team ordered the bottle jacks that best met these standards. A team member tested each product on a 2017 Ford Fusion Hybrid SE, taking note of each bottle jack’s quality, durability, and value. Each bottle jack was given a rating out of 5.0 stars based on these criteria.
Learn more about how we tested bottle jacks here.
1. Big Red Torin 10-Ton Bottle Jack: Best Bottle Jack
- Cost: Around $40
- Amazon review score: 4.4 out of 5.0 based on over 1,900 ratings
- Load capacity: 10.0 tons
- Weight: 10.7 pounds
Big Red Torin 10-Ton Bottle Jack Review
Big Red is a popular jack manufacturer known for its quality-built products. It offers bottle jacks at a range of weight capacities (6.0, 8.0, 10.0, 12.0, 30.0, and 50.0 tons). For most automotive needs, a 10.0-ton jack should do the trick, especially if you need to hoist the side of your vehicle for a tire change. This jack is also backed by a one-year warranty.
You can see how the Big Red Torin 10-Ton Bottle Jack performed in each of our testing categories below:
| Review Category | Score (Out of 5.0 Stars) |
|---|---|
| Ease of Use | 4.5 |
| Durability | 4.0 |
| Value | 4.0 |
| Overall Rating | 4.2 |
The Torin bottle jack is relatively standard for a bottle jack. It doesn’t have any standout features, but it is reliable with quality welding. It was easily able to raise and lower our test SUV.
Big Red Torin: Pros And Cons
Below are the pros and cons of the Big Red Torin 10-Ton Bottle Jack:
Big Red Torin 10-Ton Bottle Jack: Our Experience
Overall, we enjoyed testing this bottle jack because of its simplicity and ability to lift and lower our SUV with ease.
Ease of Use: The Torin’s drawbacks are common among most bottle jacks. For one, it has a high clearance and so would not be useful for a low-profile vehicle. This can affect the compatibility of using this bottle jack for sedans and low cars, but it was great for our SUV.
Durability: The pump handle is wobbly when assembled, as no mechanism clicks the two parts firmly into place (one slot loosely into the other).
Value: Despite some difficulty you may encounter if you own a lower-riding vehicle, this jack is worth the money for SUV owners because of its simplicity and range of load capacities.
Big Red Torin 10-Ton Bottle Jack: What Customers Are Saying
Most reviewers are impressed by the Torin’s lift capacity. It is small, easy to stow, and several reviewers note that it is a good jack for lifting trucks because of its high lift height.
Some users report that their Torin arrived leaking oil. Even positive reviews say that it can take a lot of pumping to get this heavy-duty bottle jack to its full work height (though this is common for almost any bottle jack).
2. Performance Tools Shorty Bottle Jack: Best For Low-Profile Vehicles
- Cost: Around $45
- Amazon review score: 4.3 out of 5.0 based on over 600 ratings
- Load capacity: 12.0 tons
- Weight: 13.1 lbs.
Performance Tools Shorty Bottle Jack Review
This bottle jack from Performance Tools is heat-treated for improved durability. It features a wide, stable base and adjustable screw-top extenders. As the name implies, the Shorty bottle jack sits low to the ground, which means it can fit under low-profile vehicles that other bottle jacks cannot.
You can see how the Performance Tools Shorty Bottle Jack performed in each of our testing categories below:
| Review Category | Score (Out of 5.0 Stars) |
|---|---|
| Ease of Use | 4.5 |
| Durability | 4.0 |
| Value | 4.0 |
| Overall Rating | 4.2 |
The downside to the low-profile design is that this jack is too short for high-clearance vehicles. It was not able to reach high enough to raise our test SUV, so we used it with a sedan.
Performance Tools: Pros And Cons
Below are the pros and cons of the Performance Tools Shorty Bottle Jack:
Performance Tools Shorty Bottle Jack: Our Experience
The Performance Tools Shorty Bottle Jack has one of the best designs out of the bottle jacks that we tested. It is very small and lightweight, making it exceptionally easy to position.
Ease of Use: This jack raises very quickly when pumped and the handle actually attaches with a clicking mechanism, making it more stable than the handles of other jacks (though this is a minor convenience).
Durability: A welded carrying handle helps make this jack easy to move and deploy while the wide base appears to enhance durability. With a load capacity of 12.0 tons combined with being ideal for low-profile vehicles, durability wasn’t a big concern for us while testing.
Value: At under $50, this would be a great bottle jack if you own a low-profile vehicle. While not suitable for SUVs or high-profile vehicles, it’s a good addition to your emergency kit.
Performance Tools Shorty Bottle Jack: What Customers Are Saying
A few users claim to have trouble lowering their Performance Tools jack, though this isn’t an issue for everyone (as others mention no issues with lowering). When we tested the shorty, it did not lower easily once the release valve was engaged. We had to stand on the jack or use the vehicle’s weight.
Even negative reviews tend to note that this is a powerful jack. Enthusiastic reviewers are pleased with how quickly it lifts heavy objects. Most say simply that this bottle jack gets the job done. However, there are several comments about the Shorty jack arriving damaged.
3. Big Red Torin Pneumatic Air Bottle Jack: Best For RVs
- Cost: Around $140
- Amazon review score: 4.6 out of 5.0 based on over 1,300 ratings
- Load Capacity: 20.0 tons
- Weight: 32.0 lbs.
Big Red Torin Pneumatic Air Bottle Jack Review
Similar to the other Big Red bottle jack we recommend, this pneumatic air jack features quality construction that is backed by a one-year warranty. The pneumatic pump feature allows you to connect the jack to an air compressor for a faster lift. Of course, this versatile jack also works with regular pumping as well.
You can see how the Big Red Torin Pneumatic Air Bottle Jack performed in each of our testing categories below:
| Review Category | Score (Out of 5.0 Stars) |
|---|---|
| Ease of Use | 3.0 |
| Durability | 5.0 |
| Value | 3.5 |
| Overall Rating | 3.8 |
The clearance on this jack is also the highest amongst those that we tested, which could make it a good option for those with lifted vehicles. The drawback is that this jack is heavy and much less portable than other bottle jacks.
Pneumatic Air: Pros And Cons
Below are the pros and cons of the Big Red Torin Pneumatic Air Bottle Jack:
Big Red Torin Pneumatic Air Bottle Jack: Our Experience
The Big Red Torin Pneumatic Air Bottle Jack is much larger than the other jacks that we tested.
Ease of Use: It was able to fit under our test SUV, but would not fit underneath a sedan. While not easy to position, it is easy to raise this jack manually and with the air pump.
Durability: A 20.0-ton bottle jack may be a bit more than most users will need to lift a car, but it’s necessary for lifting heavy machinery and equipment. Even so, the added stability provided by the wide base is useful in any circumstance.
Value: With a high load capacity and a stable base, we think this bottle jack is a good value. Despite not being applicable for low-profile vehicles, it’s a great option for heavier loads and taller vehicles.
Big Red Torin Pneumatic Air Bottle Jack: What Customers Are Saying
Most reviewers used the Big Red pneumatic bottle jack for an RV, trailer, or to lift part of a house. Reviewers say it maintains its pressure well and works especially quickly. Users also appreciate that the pneumatic feature can save a lot of time pumping. Older reviewers especially appreciate the labor-saving qualities of this bottle jack.
Some users report leaks in the airline. This seems to be an atypical issue not present in every Big Red pneumatic jack, but something that occurs frequently enough to be mentioned in several reviews. Be sure to inspect your jack when it arrives in case you need to request a replacement.
4. Pro-Lift Hydraulic Bottle Jack: Budget Pick
- Cost: Around $20
- Amazon review score: 4.5 out of 5.0 based on over 4,000 ratings
- Load Capacity: 4.0 tons
- Weight: 7.9 lbs.
Pro-Lift Hydraulic Bottle Jack Review
The Pro-Lift Hydraulic Bottle Jack is lightweight, portable, and capable of lifting up to 4.0 tons. It doesn’t have quite the lift capacity as the other jacks on this list, but it’s strong enough to change a tire. It’s also less expensive than our other top picks.
You can see how the Pro-Lift Hydraulic Bottle Jack performed in each of our testing categories below:
| Review Category | Score (Out of 5.0 Stars) |
|---|---|
| Ease of Use | 3.5 |
| Durability | 3.5 |
| Value | 3.5 |
| Overall Rating | 3.5 |
The slim design offers a decent lift height, but it also makes this jack less stable as it means a smaller lifting saddle.
Pro-Lift: Pros And Cons
Below are the pros and cons of the Pro-Lift Hydraulic Bottle Jack:
Pro-Lift Hydraulic Bottle Jack: Our Experience
Our Pro-Lift arrived missing the handle. However, we were able to test the jack using the handle from one of the other bottle jacks that we ordered.
Ease of Use: This jack is simple to use and works similarly to all of the other jacks we tested. It raised and lowered easily and was able to fit under our test SUV.
Durability: We wouldn’t recommend this Pro-Lift bottle jack for especially heavy vehicles or for situations where you’ll need to keep something elevated for an extended period.
Value: At a lower price, this bottle jack isn’t a bad option but we did have some durability issues, making us question the overall value of this product. However, it was easy for us to use, making it worth the purchase if you want a lower-cost bottle jack.
Pro-Lift Hydraulic Bottle Jack Reviews: What Customers Are Saying
According to reviewers, the Pro-Lift is easy to use and maintains its lift height well. Some complain that the top is too small and one reviewer even went so far as to weld a plate to the top of the jack to increase the surface area.
Many complaints come from those with low-clearance vehicles because this jack will not fit underneath. Keep in mind that with any jack you buy, you’ll need to be sure it can fit under your car.
Bottle Jack Buying Guide
Bottle Jacks can be a good choice for those with high-clearance vehicles. Because they stand on end, most bottle jacks will not fit under sedans (though some do). If you’re doing a lot of at-home bodywork, a floor jack is probably a better option than a bottle jack.
If you need a portable jack for emergencies, or an especially high-capacity jack, a bottle jack may be right for you. Bottle jacks are often a good pick for trucks because of their higher clearances.
Clearance
Consider the standing height of any bottle jack and make sure it will fit under your car. Also keep in mind that your car will sink lower if you have a flat, so if you plan to keep a bottle jack in your car for emergencies, take that into consideration.
Load Capacity
Every car jack is designed to lift a certain amount of weight. This will be made clear on the packaging (we note load capacity in our product descriptions). Make sure that the bottle jack you purchase has enough oomph to lift your car. A jack doesn’t need to be rated for the full weight of your car, however. When you change a tire, you’ll only need to lift half the weight of the vehicle.
Compare Bottle Jacks
| Brand/Model | Load Capacity | Weight | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big Red Torin 10-Ton Bottle Jack | 10.0 tons | 10.7 pounds | One year |
| Performance Tools Shorty Bottle Jack | 12.0 tons | 13.1 lbs. | Lifetime |
| Big Red Torin Pneumatic Air Bottle Jack | 20.0 tons | 32.0 lbs. | One year |
| Pro-Lift Hydraulic Bottle Jack | 4.0 tons | 7.9 lbs. | Two years |
How To Use A Bottle Jack
Bottle jacks are useful tools to quickly raise your vehicle. However, because of their narrow design, this type of jack tends to be less stable than floor jacks. While every bottle jack is different, most brands typically work the same way.
- Add Support
No matter what type of jack you are using, you should never rely on the jack to support the entire weight of your vehicle. If you are planning to go underneath your car, you will need jack stands and wheel chocks in addition to the jack itself.
Jack stands add more stable support to your vehicle after it’s been lifted. Wheel chocks prevent your car from moving once parked, adding further stability.
- Park in the Right Spot
Before elevating your vehicle, park on a level surface. Turn off the engine and engage the parking brake before using a bottle jack. If you have wheel chocks, place them behind your car’s wheels.
- Find the Jack Point
Placing a jack in the wrong spot can damage your car’s trim or undercarriage. Some owner’s manuals will tell you where the jack points are located. These points are usually found behind each front wheel and just in front of each back wheel.
- Elevate
Slide the car jack under your vehicle and start lifting. If you’re using jack stands, set those up once your car has been raised and before you get to work. A bottle jack will typically include a handle that fits into a slot on the side of your jack. Pumping the handle up and down causes the bottle jack to raise.
- Lower
Consult your owner’s manual for details on your specific jack. Most bottle jacks have a valve that is turned to release pressure and lower the jack. This valve is usually turned by using the end of the handle included with the jack.
Best Bottle Jacks: Bottom Line
In this article, along with sharing helpful purchasing tips for those interested in purchasing a bottle jack, we reviewed the top four bottle jacks in 2024:
- Best Bottle Jack: Big Red Torin 10-Ton Bottle Jack
- Best for Low-Profile Vehicles: Performance Tools Shorty Bottle Jack
- Best for RVs: Big Red Torin Pneumatic Air Bottle Jack
- Budget Pick: Pro-Lift Hydraulic Bottle Jack
Bottle Jacks: FAQ
Below are some common frequently asked questions about bottle jacks:
What is the strongest bottle jack?
The strongest bottle jack is the one that is rated to lift the most tonnage. The strongest jacks we’ve found are capable of lifting 100.0 tons, though there may be stronger options out there. For overall durability and build quality, we think that Big Red makes some of the strongest bottle jacks, though its strongest jack lifts 50.0 tons.
How do I choose a bottle jack?
Choose a bottle jack based on the load capacity and clearance. Make sure you pick a jack that can fit under your vehicle and will be able to lift it to a height good enough for your purposes. Also choose a jack that can lift at least half the weight of your vehicle. (If you plan to fully lift your vehicle, purchase two bottle jacks.)
Is a bottle jack worth it?
A bottle jack is often worth it, especially considering they are relatively inexpensive compared to other jacks. If you’re looking for a jack to use for regular car maintenance, a floor jack is probably a better choice in the long run. However, if you need a jack that is easily stored for emergency or occasional use, a bottle jack is a good option.
Are bottle jacks good for trucks?
Bottle jacks are good for trucks because these vehicles often have higher clearances. While a floor jack is your best bet for regular maintenance work, a bottle jack can be used for roadside emergencies.
Will a 12.0-ton bottle jack lift a house?
You can lift the corner of a house with a 12.0-ton hydraulic bottle jack. No matter the load capacity, you’ll probably need several bottle jacks to completely raise a house (located at equal points around the perimeter of the building).
Full Bottle Jack Testing Methodology
To test each bottle jack, we unboxed and assembled the jacks according to the instructions. We placed each jack under the test vehicle and lifted it several inches off the ground. We then lowered the vehicle and attempted to use the jack a second time. Our tester was able to note the quality of materials, ease of use, and overall performance.
Ease of Use
Our ease of use score is based on the relative ease or difficulty of assembling and using each bottle jack. Bottle jacks that raise and lower fluidly and require little-to-no assembly score best in this category.
Durability
Our durability score is based on a bottle jack’s materials and longevity. Bottle jacks made with hard materials and that feature smooth welds score best in this category. We also considered customer reviews when assessing durability.
Value
Our value score is based on a bottle jack’s cost relative to its performance in our other test categories. Low-cost bottle jacks that are built with sturdy materials and simple to use score best in this category.
How We Score Products
Star ratings help us differentiate between the best bottle jacks and all other products in our reviews through an honest evaluation during our testing process. Based on our calculations, the bottle jacks in this review scored an average of 3.9 out of 5.0 stars.
- 5.0 Stars: If the bottle jack exceeds our expectations, we will give the product 5.0 stars, which is the highest possible rating in our reviews. If the jack provided good durability and was easy to use, you’ll see a 5.0-star rating.
- 4.0 Stars: A 4.0-star rating is an above-average rating. If we notice that the bottle jack is fairly easy to use but lacks in value when considering the compatibility of different vehicles, you’ll see a 4.0-star rating.
- 3.0 Stars: A 3.0-star rating is an average score. If the bottle jack in our review has a high load capacity but could be easier to use or more compatible with vehicles to enhance the overall value, we would give the jack 3.0 stars.
- 2.0 Stars: A 2.0-star rating is a below-average rating. If we notice some durability concerns or damaged parts when testing each bottle jack, we would likely give the jack 2.0 stars.
- 1.0 Star: A 1.0-star rating is the lowest score we give in any review. If the jack is defective in some way affecting the ease of use and overall safety of the bottle jack, you’ll see a 1.0-star rating.
Each year, we test over 350 auto products on vehicles and in our testing lab. Our team of product testers thoroughly researches top products, unboxes and puts our hands on each component, and tests the items on real vehicles before making recommendations to readers.
We publish hundreds of product and service reviews to bring car enthusiasts detailed guides on automotive tools, detailing kits, car seats, pet products, and much more. For more information on our testing methodology and how we evaluate every product, check out our methodology page here.
*Data accurate at time of publication. Products subject to availability.
