So, with one flat per year, you've found that 3 different models have failed to work on their first usage after sitting around for a year -- making this a 3yr study?
I've had the PDW Shiny Object for a bit over 5 years. Still works fine.
I carry a mini-pump as well. CO2 is fast and easy though, so I start with that. Pump is a just in case thing if I were to ever go over 2 flats on a ride.