Popular Reviews is a participant of Amazon Associates program, when you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Have you ever wondered how alcohol affects your body? It isn’t just affecting your pocket, but you must see what it’s doing to your nervous system, including your memory. In the past, these breath-testing devices were extremely expensive and not very easy to use. But over the last few years, more and more people start using them. The truth is that they have become smaller, cheaper and more accurate. Plus, they are more widely available for sale. However, fewer drivers are in a hurry to get a breathalyzer. With so many models available on the market, it could be quite difficult to make the right decision. Therefore, in order to help you decide what to choose, we have gathered some of the most accurate and reliable breathalyzers available in stores. Take a look at our comparison table and choose the one that meets your requirements.
After 1 week of researching, analyzing and reviewing more than 50 types of breathalyzers, we finally conclude that the BACtrack S80 is the most accurate model out there. It comes with a compact design and gives fast and accurate alcohol content readings from 0.000 to 0.500 %(BAC). We selected this one as the best on the market because it uses police-grade sensor technology which makes it similar to the previous tests, the ones that only the police officers could use. However, if you are thinking about purchasing this breath-testing device, there are several things to consider before making a purchase.
First of all, it is important to know that it features a platinum fuel cell sensor. It runs on 2 AA batteries instead of AAA that provides approximately 1500 tests. More than that, it uses an advanced technology, the Xtend Fuell Cell Sensor technology thanks to which, it is able to deliver fast and accurate readings. In addition to this, it comes equipped with a 4-digit LCD display that allows you to read easily the accurate results. All the results are provided in an extended accuracy format. The reason why we choose to focus on this model is that it is very easy to use and operate. In spite of its multiple features, it is extremely easy to use. Due to the one-button operation feature, the readings will be displayed in less than 10 seconds. You just have to press power and begin operating. It is also worth mentioning about its continuous temperature checking and internal pump system for breath capture.
PROS
Xtended Fuel Cell Sensor Technology
The best high accuracy breathalyzer
One-button operation
Continuous temperature checking
Internal pump system for breath capture
CONS
High price
Verdict
The BACtrack S80 is the best high accuracy breathalyzer. It uses advanced technology and comes equipped with a plethora of impressive features. Of these, we will mention the Xtend Fuel Cell Sensor Technology, one-button operation, internal pump system for breath capture as well as its 4-digit LCD that provides incredibly easy to read and accurate results.
Another great option to go with is this model made by AlcoMate. It is an accurate breath-testing device that doesn’t need calibration. The AL7000 comes with a compact design and an ABS molding construction. It is durable and safe to use. More than that, like the above model, it comes with advanced technology and plenty of features. It has an oxide semiconductor sensor and a 4-digit LCD display. The device runs on two 1.5V AA batteries and has a single-button operation. What we really like about this breathalyzer is the fact that you can count on it to serve all your personal and/or professional alcohol breath testing needs. You may wonder why? The answer is simple: it is DOT approved for law-enforcement grade accuracy and US Coast Guard. As mentioned above, it comes with advanced technology: the PRISM technology. This is the solution to calibration. In simple terms, it eliminated two important elements of traditional re-calibration, such as the turnaround cycle and sensor degradation.
In what regards the design, we already mentioned that it comes with a compact design, however, keep in mind that it measures 4.0″ x 2.0″ x 0.8″ and weighs about 3.4 oz.. It is small, portable and fits easily into your pocket. We mentioned everything, but we didn’t say anything about its accuracy. This breath-testing device has an accuracy of +/-0.01 at 0.10 g/dL (%BAC) and a detention range within 0.000 – 0.400% BAC (G/DL). All in all, this great option should be considered by anyone in need of a quality breathalyzer.
PROS
Oxide Semiconductor Sensor
Sensor module technology – it restarts in seconds
Easy to use: single button operation
PRISM technology: it eliminates the problems with re-calibration
4-Digit LCD display
CONS
Verdict
If you are looking to purchase an accurate yet affordable breath-testing device, the AlcoMate Premium AL7000 could be exactly what you need. With PRISM technology and plenty of other interesting features, it will provide you with fast and accurate blood alcohol content (BAC) readings. It is also worth mentioning that it comes with 5 mouthpieces for every member of your family.
Display type: It doesn’t have an LCD. It displays the results on your smartphone.
Number of mouthpieces: 3
Based on market popularity and available features, we are glad to introduce you our third option. The BACtrack Mobile Smartphone is one of the best breath-testing devices available in stores. It is an accurate breathalyzer that wirelessly delivers accurate blood alcohol content (BAC) readings to within 0.004% to your enabled Bluetooth devices. This BACtrack model measures 1.75 x 2.75 x 0.63 inches and weighs 1.7 oz. It is lightweight and portable. Unlike its competitors that come with multiple mouthpieces, this one has only 3 mouthpieces included. It runs on a rechargeable battery with included micro USB cable.
It comes with a lot of features. Of these, the most important are:
Xtend Fuel Cell Sensor Technology – Thanks to this, the device is extremely accurate. The technology provides the highest level of consistency and accuracy.
ZeroLine Technology – Advanced technology – It will estimate when your blood alcohol content will return to 0.00%.
Internal Breath Pump – This model is equipped with a mini solenoid breath pump for more efficient breath capture.
As compared to many of its competitors, this BACtrack breathalyzer is extremely easy to use. Just breath into the device and it will send the readings to your Android or iOS device. According to the manufacturer’s specifications, it is compatible with most Apple, Samsung, and Google devices. Overall, this is a great option to consider when making a purchase.
PROS
Xtend Fuel Cell Sensor Technology
It comes equipped with an internal breath pump
Bluetooth connectivity
ZeroLine Technology
Extremely accurate
CONS
It doesn’t have an LCD display
It only has 3 mouthpieces
Verdict
Although it doesn’t come with an LCD display and it only has 3 mouthpieces, the BACtrack still is one of the most popular options on the market. It uses advanced technology and it is compatible with most iOS and Android devices. It is capable of delivering BAC readings to your smartphone via Bluetooth, letting you know if you are too drunk to drive.
Our 4th option is a quality breathalyzer that will estimate your alcohol level in seconds. The BACtrack C6 Keychain is an efficient device that runs on 1 AAA battery and comes with 3 mouthpieces for protection. They are made of hygienic plastic and can be removed, washed and reused. For increased accuracy and consistency, the device uses an advanced technology: BlueFire Fuel Cell Sensor Technology. It is the same technology used by hospitals and clinics. Furthermore, it has the ability to estimate the time until the blood alcohol content will return to 0.00%. Wait a couple of minutes and the device will provide you with the most accurate readings.
This breath-testing device also comes with some other features. Of these, you must know about its dual-mode operation and its easy-to-read OLED display. The readings are displayed on the display if you choose the Standalone Mode and wirelessly delivered to your smartphone if you choose the App Mode. It is easy to use operation that can be done in seconds. If none of this is enough to convince you to purchase the device, maybe the fact that it is ultra-portable will. The C6 Keychain breathalyzer measures 2.21 x1.875 x 0.66 inches and weighs 2.0 oz. It is one of the smallest breath-testing devices ever created. It is so small that you can attach it to your keys or even put in into your pocket. Overall, for this price tag, it clearly is a great deal.
PROS
High-level of accuracy
Dual-mode operation
The app is sleek and integration is flawless
Generous cooking surface
ZeroLine technology
CONS
According to several customers, it has some calibration issues
Several customers claim that its sensors go bag after a couple of years
Verdict
Looking for an accurate breathalyzer with a sleek app and a nice design? Then, the BACtrack C6 Keychain may be exactly what you are looking for. Accurate, portable and very easy to use, this is one of those models that stands out from the crowd. It uses advanced technology and comes with many features that will satisfy your needs and meet your requirements.
5. Oasser T5
Oasser T5
Specifications
Battery type: 3.7V AAA Li ion battery
Battery life: Rechargeable battery
Sensor type: Semiconductor
Sensor Accuracy: 0.5‰BAC
Warm-up time: 25 seconds
Blowing time: 5 seconds
Response time : 3 seconds
Display type: Digital LCD display with bi-color Backlight
Number of mouthpieces: 4
If you are interested in replacing your old breathalyzer with a newly released model, we are glad to introduce to you an effective model equipped with 4 mouthpieces and other impressive features. Powered by a 3.7V AAA built-in lithium-ion battery with an input of 5V-1V, Oasser T5 is a popular model that can easily be charged by a normal charger. It is an energy saver due to its auto power off button. It takes up to 25 minutes to warm and about 3 seconds to deliver the results. If you intend to use it, keep in mind that you have to blow for up to 5 seconds. It is built with a semiconductor sensor thanks to which it is extremely accurate. The Oasser T5 is small in size and light in weight. It is portable and fits perfectly in your pocket. Besides, it will impress you with some of the most surprising features.
Advanced semi-conductor technology It measures in a quickly way your alcohol concentration.
Alarm function It let you know if your blood alcohol concentration is higher than 0.08%. It has an indicator button that will blink.
Memory function It is capable of saving up to 10 test results.
Digital LCD display It comes equipped with an LCD display with bi-color backlight that displays the most accurate results in 3 seconds.
PROS
Advanced semi-conductor technology
Smart alarm function
15 second – auto power off
One button operation
CONS
Verdict
Oasser T5 is in your 5 best personal breathalyzers top for plenty of reasons. The first being that it uses an advanced semi-conductor feature to measure and deliver results in a quickly manner. Also, it comes with a smart alarm function that will let you know when the results are higher than 0.08%. Overall, it is a good value for the money.
This is one of the most reliable models on the market as it’s FDA and DOT approved. The police-grade technology used to craft this unit proves this is highly accurate. With the touch of a button, you will be able to know the situation within seconds. Additionally, this breathalyzer will provide a reading between 0.000% to 0.200% hence, you will always know the level of alcohol in your system. Equally important, the test has an accuracy of +/- 0.005%.
Furthermore, as this is one of the best models on the market, it has been designed with a memory function. Therefore, the unit will memorize 5 different tests. When it needs re-calibrated, you will hear an alarm so it removes the need for second-guessing. As well as, the low battery indicator will let you know when it’s time to charge it. Also, the 4-digit display is easy to see in low-light conditions as it’s backlit and the numbers are large and bold.
PROS
One-touch operation
Designed with a memory function
Blowing interruption detection
Police-grade technology
1-year money back guarantee
CONS
According to several customers, it has some calibration issues
Verdict
Without a doubt, we not only recommend this model for its accuracy and reliability, but also because it’s affordable for all. Inside the package you will find 5 different mouthpieces and a carry case so you can take it wherever you go.
According to several U.S. studies and statistics, more than 200.000 people were arrested in 2010 for driving under the influence of alcohol. A breathalyzer is that tool that every driver should own. Over the last few years, it has gained popularity because of its lack of side effects. Most models are small, portable and easy to hold in your pocket. With this in mind, we have included on our list a portable alcohol tester that can definitely become your drinking buddy. The GDbow breathalyzer is a compact alcohol tester that provides fast and accurate BAC readings to within 0.001%. It is equipped with a lot of features, including auto-calibration and sensor fault self-checking system. It is capable of recording up to 32 testing results and comes with 5 hygienic plastic mouthpieces.
The breathalyzer is very easy to use. Just press the button for 2 seconds and wait for warming up. After that, blow into the device for 5 seconds and wait for the readings which will appear after 3 seconds. The results will be displayed on the LCD screen. The device comes with a large and easy to read display so you don’t need to worry about this aspect. The device is powered by 3AAA alkaline batteries that will last for up to 200 tests. The breathalyzer is available for sale at a great price. Plus, it comes with a 12-month warranty. However, if you have any issues with the device and you need more detailed information, feel free to contact the customer service department or visit the manufacturer’s official website.
PROS
Auto-calibration
Sensor fault self-checking system
5 Removable mouthpieces covers
Capable of recording up to 32 readings
6 different testing modes
CONS
Verdict
Looking for a good quality alcohol tester? Then, take a look at this portable device and you will be surprised to discover how accurate it is. Plus, it provides results in just 5 seconds after 20 seconds of warming up. Overall, the breathalyzer by GDbow is a good option to consider when making such a purchase.
There are many models of breathalyzers you can buy for personal use, but the one by AlcoHAWK is one of the best out there. It is a compact device that provides fast and accurate blood alcohol content readings to within a range of 0.000 – 0.400%. Of all the models on the market, this one is among the best as it is capable of remembering all your previous tests and comes equipped with an electronic airflow sensor that provides a deep lung sample for testing.
In addition to this, it has a semiconductor sensor with a 2 digit display for precision. Due to its one-button operation and ruby red LED display, the detector is extremely easy to use. Aside from being efficient and very accurate, it also is lightweight and portable. It features a folding mouthpiece design that makes it portable and easy to carry. According to the manufacturer’s specifications, it is tested and cleared by the department of transportation DOT, so rest assured as it is a trusted device.
PROS
It provides accurate results
Small and portable
Removable mouthpieces covers
It meets DOT/NHTSA Breath Alcohol Screeners standards
Easy to use
CONS
Verdict
At a very attractive price and with a 1-year warranty, we are proud to include on our list one of the most efficient and accurate alcohol detectors out there. The AlcoHAWK Slim Digital Breathalyzer provides accurate and fast results. All in all, it is a nice option to consider when making a purchase.
You should trust this model as it has been designed with a police-grade technology. The semiconductor sensor provide a detection range of 0.00% -0.19% BAC; 0.00-0.99 mg/l. As well as, it has an alert level of 0.05% BAC; 0.50 % BAC; 0.25 mg / l; 50mg / 101ml. This model is trusted by hospitals, law enforcement, and clinics as it has an accuracy rate of -0.01 – + 0.02% BAC. The warm-up time is of 10 seconds which means that you need to wait before you can use it. Blow into the tester for a maximum 6 seconds and the results will be provided after 3 seconds.
The display is backlit which means that you can use it in low-light conditions such as night time. As well as, it’s also large and the numbers are clearly displayed for easy reading. The tester is compact and lightweight which means that you can carry it wherever you go. In fact, it has been noted that it can fit in your back pocket with ease. In order to make it work, you do have to use 2 AAA batteries. Please bear in mind that they’re not included. Nonetheless, it comes with numerous mouthpieces.
PROS
It provides accurate results
Small and portable
Easy to use by beginners
It’s trusted worldwide by law enforcements
CONS
Verdict
The reason why we recommend this model is because it has been made so you can rely on it in all situations. What stands out about this product is the fact that it comes with money back guarantee. Thus, you can purchase in confidence.
10. CoolerFive Professional Breathalyzer
CoolerFive Professional Breathalyzer
Specifications
Battery type: LR03 AAA batteries
Battery life: Not specified
Sensor type: Semiconductor sensor
Sensor Accuracy: +0.05%BAC or 0.50‰BAC
Warm-up time: 15 seconds
Blowing time: Quick response (not specified)
Response time : Quick response (not specified)
Display type: LCD screen with Blue backlight
Number of mouthpieces: 6
With one-touch operation and an easy to read LCD, the CoolerFive Breathalyzer claims to be one of the easiest and most effective alcohol tester available on the marketplace. Available in a small size, the tester easily fits into your pocket. It is more accurate than many other similar devices. If the results are above 0.05%BAC, they will be displayed on the LCD screen in seconds. The fact that it comes equipped with 6 mouthpieces is a major perk as all your family can use it. However, each mouthpiece can be cleaned and recycled.
Like all the above testers, this one is packed with many features. Of these, we mention the auto-power off function and automatic alarm that will announce you know when the results are displayed. The tester has a preheat time of 15 seconds and it is powered by a 3 AAA battery. However, the battery is not included. It should be purchased separately.
PROS
Easy to read LCD
Extremely accurate
Auto power-off feature
CONS
Verdict
CoolerFive Professional Breathalyzer is a high accurate tester that comes with an easy to read LCD and 6 mouthpieces. It is accurate and delivers results in seconds. Plus, it is a good value for the money.
The Most Relevant Aspects to Consider
The market is flooded with so many different types and models of breath-testing devices, that finding the best one in stores could be a backbreaking task. Therefore, when making a purchase, you should pay attention to several aspects that differentiate quality breathalyzers from the poor-quality models. In order to help you decide what to choose, we have gathered some of the most important factors to consider.
Important Features
Their Characteristics
Best Option
Accuracy
Since breath-testing devices are the most popular way to test for blood alcohol content (BAC), it is very important to know how accurate they really are. The most advanced models provide accurate estimates of BAC. Their accuracy is typically based on the size and type of sensor. According to several experts, a quality device should maintain the accuracy rating with a margin of error of at least +/- .01% at 0.08% BAC. Also, they have to be approved and certified by DOT as qualifying for alcohol screening.
BACtrack S80, BACtrack Mobile Smartphone, BACtrack C6 Keychain
Xtend Fuel Cell Sensor Technology
Breath-testing devices with fuel cell sensors are extremely accurate. They are made with the same technology that is used by law enforcement for roadside alcohol testing. These types of devices have become affordable and their price has come down. For this reason, they have become more popular. They are designed to deliver the most precise measurement of your blood alcohol count.
BACtrack S80, BACtrack Mobile Smartphone
DOT/NHTSA APPROVED & FDA 510(k) CLEARED – The BACtrack S80 was designed to meet the rigorous standards of expert alcohol screeners, from roadside law enforcement to hospital and treatment professionals. Designated by the U.S. Dept. of Transportation & National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as an approved breath alcohol screening device, the S80 has also been cleared by the FDA for personal use, making it the top choice of safety-conscious individuals as a portable home breathalyzer.
DOT/NHTSA approved
Currently, you can find breathalyzers that were designed to meet strict standards of law enforcement specialists. Manufactured by the U.S. Dept. of Transportation & National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, some models were also been approved by the FDA for personal use. And so it becomes an approved breath alcohol screening device an important option for safety-conscious people.
BACtrack S80, AlcoMate Premium AL7000
Number of Mouthpieces
While most models are equipped with 3 mouthpieces, there are also some models that come with multiple plastic pieces. Most of them are made of hygienic plastic. They are washable, reusable and easily removable. They are made for friends and family who want to use the same breathalyzer. It is advisable to change the mouthpieces for hygienic reasons.
The calibration of a breath-testing device isn’t a complicated process but it should be done by an engineer. The softer inside the device should be properly adjusted in order to take accurate BAC readings. In order to ensure great performance and excellent results, all breath-testing devices must be calibrated periodically. However, there some of the most advanced models do not require periodic calibration.
BACtrack S80, BACtrack Mobile Smartphone, BACtrack C6 Keychain
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
1What is the difference between a professional and a personal breath-testing device?
The professional breathalyzers are more accurate and provide more benefits than the personal models. Although, both models are designed to meet the standards of FDA 510(k) cleared devices, the ones used by police are designed with electrochemical fuel cell technology and infrared spectrophotometer technology for increased accuracy.
2If you are under treatment, does the medication affect the results of the test?
Theoretically, advanced models will not show a false positive for someone who is under medical treatment, but there are cases where the semiconductor models have shown a false-positive result.
3What does %BAC mean?
BAC is an abbreviation for Blood Alcohol Content or Blood Alcohol Concentration. It represents the concentration of alcohol in your blood.
4 Are breathalyzer mouthpieces for single use?
Breathalyzer mouthpieces are made of hygienic plastic. This allows you to remove, wash, sanitize and reuse them.
5 Do they give false positives results?
Acetone and vinegar can lead to false blood alcohol concentration and cause false-positive results on breathalyzers. Also, too much perfume or breath freshening sprays can affect the accuracy of results.
6 Do breathalyzers require calibration?
To maintain them accurate much time, all breathalyzers have to be re-calibrated once every 6 months.
7 Is there any difference between fuel cell and semi-conductor sensors?
In spite of their high price, the fuel cell sensors are much more accurate than semi-conductor sensors that can provide false-positive results on substances other than alcohol. More than that, with regular maintenance and annual calibration, the fuel cell sensors will last for many years. The semi-conductor sensors require strict and complicated to execute calibration.
8 Does mouthwash affect the results?
Since most breath sprays contain a concentration of alcohol, the results tend to be affected by this aspect.
9 What purpose PRISM technology serve?
Breathalyzer equipped with PRISM technology allows you to replace the existing and inaccurate sensor that didn’t pass the calibration with a perfectly new one. However, only a few models are equipped with this technology.
10 How many drinks is 0.08% alcohol?
It depends on what you drink. For example, if you are a beer drinker, four beers are enough for reaching a 0.08% BAC. On the other hand liquids with higher concentrations of alcohol will lead you much faster to this percentage.
Conclusion
Measuring blood alcohol content, breathalyzers are perfect for quick and accurate alcohol detection. They feature a compact design, so you can easily find them a place in your bag or car.
Best ModelBACtrack S80
The devices selected here are designed for personal and/or professional use and they are extremely simple to use. BACtrack S80 is approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation, so its accuracy is not questionable. It provides up to 1500 tests. As compared to Oasser T5 that comes with a warming time of 25 seconds, our first model will warm-up in 10-20 seconds, with a blowing time of 5 seconds. It will provide the results in 3 seconds. It is equipped with 6 mouthpieces, which is great as you will be able to share it with your family.
AlcoMate Premium AL7000 is also nice and accurate. It is also approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation. However, it provides fewer tests, up to 300. As compared to most of its competitors that have a faster warming time, this version by AlcoMate warms up in about 20 seconds. With a blowing time of 5.5 seconds and a response time of 3 seconds, this tends to be one of the most accurate models available in the current market. Also, it comes equipped with 5 mouthpieces, so don’t worry about sharing it with your family.
For less money, you can go with BACtrack C6 Keychain. This one is suitable only for personal use. Unlike the previous models, it features Bluetooth connectivity, so you can access the results on your mobile phone. It works with 1 AAA battery that lasts up to 1500 tests. What makes it extremely accurate is its platinum fuel cell sensor. It takes up to 10 seconds to warm-up and 2 seconds to provide accurate results. As compared to the previous models, it has 3 mouthpieces only.
Best Personal Breathalyzer for Car Oasser T5 Oasser T5 is a good breathalyzer to keep in your car at all times. It is small, compact and extremely accurate. After a warming-up time of 25 sec. and a blowing time of 5 sec., the breathalyzer provides you with accurate results in just 3 sec. The readings are displayed on a large digital LCD screen with a bi-color backlight. As compared to other similar products, this alcohol tester can be shared with family and friends as it comes with 4 mouthpieces. The mouthpieces are made of hygienic plastic that can be easily washed and disinfected. It features a semi-conductor sensor for increased accuracy. Also, it is capable of storing the last 10 readings which is a major perk as other models won’t let you store the readings.
After reviewing more than 20 models, we finally conclude that Pro-Tec Professional Grade Breathalyzer is our favorite tester. The fuel cell sensor police grade technology makes it one of the most accurate and precise breathalyzer available for sale, these days. It has an accuracy of +/- 0.005%. As compared to Oasser T5 that can easily store up to 10 readings, Pro-Tec Professional Grade Breathalyzer can memorize 5 tests only. The tests will be displayed on its LCD backlit. It takes 15 sec. to warm-up and 60 sec. to display the results.
