Around 30 people die from drunk-driving-related accidents every day. While drunk driving deaths have decreased over the past few years, there are still more than 10,000 lives lost as a result of drunk driving accidents each and every year.
Now, don’t get me wrong – people can enjoy an alcoholic drink if they want to, that’s not the issue. The issue here is that no one should be driving if they have alcohol in their bloodstream, full stop.
Even if the deaths don’t deter you, there are plenty of other reasons not to drive when over the legal limit. DUIs, jail time, and your own safety and peace of mind are just a few.
But, how do you know when you’ve had too much?
This is where a personal testing device can help. These devices can measure your blood alcohol level in next to no time and are a great way to ensure that you don’t get behind the wheel after having one too many drinks.
In this post, we aim to help you find the best fit for you by introducing you to the best breathalyzers on the market and providing all the info you need to choose the most suitable option for your needs.
Quick Links to Our Top Recommendations for Best Breathalyzer
- BACtrack S80 Breathalyzer
- Very easy to use, portable, and offers police-grade accuracy. What more could you want?
- BACtrack Trace Breathalyzer
- Small, compact, lightweight, easy to use, and DOT- and NHTSA-compliant.
- AlcoMate Premium AL7000 Professional Breathalyzer
- Approved by the Department of Transportation approved for use by law enforcement agencies – need we say more?
- BACtrack Mobile Smartphone Breathalyzer
- Syncs directly with your smartphone via bluetooth and displays a chart of your BAC on the associated app.
- AlcoHAWK Slim Digital Breathalyzer Alcohol Detector
- Reliable, a cinch to use, and the most portable option on our list.
- BACtrack C6 Keychain Breathalyzer
- Calculates your BAC with professional accuracy and also uses an app to track your blood alcohol levels that will notify you when you’ll be back to 0.0.
- Oasser Rechargeable Breathalyzer Alcohol Tester
- A great unit for its accuracy and added features.
- BEAUDENS Breathalyzer
- Affordable and comes with multiple mouthpieces so each member of your party crew can test their BAC before deciding who will be the designated driver.
Note: Clicking the above links will take you to further information, current prices and customer reviews on Amazon.
Best Breathalyzers – Our Best Recommendations for You
There are so many different breath testers out there to choose from, that it can feel quite difficult to find the right one for you.
There’s no need to go to square one and do your own research, though, as that’s what we’re here for!
In this section, we run the rule over some of the best breathalyzers on the market today. For help choosing, scroll down to the buying advice below.
BACtrack S80 Breathalyzer
The BACtrack S80 is a very popular model with a lot to help tip the scales in its favor.
For starters, it has police-grade accuracy and has even been tested against infrared spectrometer devices. It has come out on par with them, usually matching their accuracy.
It’s also been approved by the FDA and DOT, which is a great indication of its quality.
It’s incredibly easy to operate — all it needs is a single button push, and you’re ready to go. There’s also an easy-to-read LCD display that gives you clear and concise feedback.
Last but certainly not least, you get additional mouthpieces to use in the package. This will save you from having to buy extras up front.
Specs and Features
- Police-grade accuracy.
- FDA and DOT approved.
- One-button operation.
- Easy-to-read display.
- Additional mouthpieces included.
What We Like
- Compact.
- Extended sensor life.
- Reliable.
What We Don’t Like
- Can sometimes fail recalibration.
- Not the most durable breathalyzer out there, as some users complain about failure after 200 uses.
Summary
Overall, this is a very clean, hygienic, and accurate device, which makes it one of the best portable breathalyzers on the market.
It does sometimes have some calibration issues, and occasionally fails after 200 reads, but BACtrack thankfully has great customer service to keep its customers content.
If you ever come across any of these uncommon issues, you can talk to the manufacturing company, and chances are that you’ll be able to get this model replaced or refunded if need be.
To learn more about this device, take a look at it by clicking this link:
BACtrack Trace Breathalyzer
This Trace breath device is also a very high-quality device, trusted in hospitals, clinics, and by law enforcement.
The sensor technology is accurate up to three decimal places, which is pretty impressive.
It’s small and portable as well, and is backed up with a one-year warranty. This says a lot about how confident the manufacturer is about its quality, and means it’s easy to replace if you were to have any issues with it during this time frame.
This easy-to-operate device runs on AAA batteries.
Also, because it has a quick warm-up time, this means you won’t be sitting around for 20 minutes waiting for it to be ready before you can get an accurate reading. On the contrary, it’s ready to use in just a few moments.
Specs and Features
- Rates up to 0.400 percent BAC.
- Runs on AAA batteries.
- Platinum fuel cell sensors.
- One-year warranty.
- Extremely accurate.
What We Like
- DOT and NHTSA compliant.
- Small in size.
- Quick warm-up time.
What We Don’t Like
- Some users report FLO errors.
- The plastic housing isn’t exactly the best quality.
Summary
Another great product from BACtrack, this breathalyzer has a lot to offer.
It’s small, compact, lightweight, easy to use, and is used in a professional setting regularly. The one-year warranty is also something to keep in mind, just in case you need to use it.
Thankfully, it’s also DOT and NHTSA compliant. This ensures you’re using a quality and accurate breathalyzer that leaves you safe as long as you’re operating it as intended.
If you think this device might be a good fit for you, take a closer look at it here:
AlcoMate Premium AL7000 Professional Breathalyzer
The Department of Transportation approved this one for law enforcement because of its high quality and accuracy. Even the US coast guard approves of it, which says a lot!
Its sensor panel is easy to replace should the need arise, and – unlike many other breathalyzers on the market today – it’s also easily calibrated.
The special PRISM technology this breathalyzer is manufactured with ensures that recalibration issues aren’t a problem.
Should you need to have them with you, additional mouthpieces are available for purchase separately.
Specs and Features
- PRISM technology.
- Easy to replace sensor.
- LCD results.
- 1-year warranty.
- One-button operation.
What We Like
- No calibration issues.
- You can buy additional mouthpieces as needed.
- The sensor module is easy to replace.
What We Don’t Like
- Customer service isn’t the absolute best out there, at least not on par with that of BACtrack.
- Can sometimes be inaccurate.
Summary
This breathalyzer has a unique addition to it, being that you can replace the sensor if the need arises. So, if your sensor isn’t reading properly, you won’t have to spend money on a whole new device altogether just because of this issue.
There are no calibration issues with this product and the one-year warranty certainly doesn’t hurt.
Overall, this is a quality device that very few people have problems with.
If this breath device sounds like it might be the right option for you, find out more about it here:
BACtrack Mobile Smartphone Breathalyzer
One of the things we love about this breathalyzer is that it syncs directly with your smartphone via bluetooth. On the associated app, you can see a chart of your BAC as you use it.
It’s compatible with iPhones and even works with the Apple Watch. As for Android users, there used to be connectivity issues in the past with these devices, but nowadays – you can sync this breathalyzer with your Android smartphones and use it on there just fine.
A unique feature of this product is that it can accurately estimate when your BAC will return to 0.0. This means that you’ll know to a very exact point when it’s safe to drive and when it’s not.
It’s very quick and easy to use, and even comes with a 1-year warranty to back your investment up in case something were to go wrong.
This unit has a very sleek and stylish design as well.
Specs and Features
- BAC goes to your cell phone.
- Quick and accurate.
- The app can track your BAC over time.
- Estimates when your BAC will return to 0.0.
- 1-year warranty.
- Compatible with Apple and Android devices.
What We Like
- Lovely app and many useful features.
- The estimate of BAC reduction.
- Sleek design.
What We Don’t Like
- Can sometimes face connectivity issues, but they’re rare.
Summary
Overall, the BACtrack mobile smartphone breathalyzer is an excellent device, and you won’t be paying an arm and a leg for it.
Sure, it might not be the cheapest option on this list, but it’s excellent value for money considering what you’re getting in a product like this. It also has a 1-year warranty.
This is one of the few models on the list that actually estimates when you’ll return to 0.0 BAC. The BAC goes right to your phone, letting you see the results on your own screen.
The app itself can be a little glitchy at times, but once it’s functioning properly (which is normally the case), it works very well.
To learn more about this unit, check it out at this link:
AlcoHAWK Slim Digital Breathalyzer
The AlcoHAWK is an incredibly thin device that can slip right into your pocket.
So, if having a small breathalyzer that’s super portable and barely takes any space wherever you store it is high on your list of priorities, this could be just the right product for you.
Don’t rule out how precise it is just because it’s a small unit, though. As a matter of fact, it has a very simple one-button operation and a semiconductor sensor, ensuring maximum accuracy.
The fitted mouthpiece is a wonderful addition, helping you keep out any air that could potentially contaminate your breath sample.
It’s easy to read, and the pressure monitoring system ensures you get as much of an accurate reading as possible.
Specs and Features
- Simple, one-button operation.
- Semiconductor sensor.
- Slim and lightweight.
- Small and portable.
- Backlit with a two-digit readout.
- Electronic airflow sensor.
What We Like
- Fitted mouthpieces.
- Easy to read.
- Pressure monitoring.
What We Don’t Like
- The sensor can sometimes error out.
Summary
The AlcoHAWK Slim is a great breath device that’s easy to read, with fitted mouthpieces and a very portable design.
Despite occasional complaints of a sensor error, this is a rarity and – overall – it’s a reliable device.
The simple one-button function makes it easy to get a reading, the electronic airflow sensor ensures the highest level of accuracy, and the backlit display helps you see your reading in even the darkest of settings.
Check out this link if it sounds like this breathalyzer might be right for you:
BACtrack C6 Keychain Breathalyzer
The Bactrack C6 is a clever device. It’s keychain-sized, making it one of the easiest – if not the easiest out there – to carry around.
Also, and because of its key chain design, it’s a great reminder to check your BAC before you try to drive.
It can calculate your BAC with professional accuracy. Like other BACtrack units we’ve discussed so far, it uses an app to track your blood alcohol levels, and it will notify you when you’ll be back to 0.0.
The app even helps you to call an Uber to make sure you don’t drive while intoxicated – how about that for encouragement? Not that you should need any encouragement to stay safe, anyways!
You can deliver your results to either the device itself or to your phone – it all depends on your personal preference and what works best for you.
Again, we can’t stress enough about how keeping it with your keys is a great way to remind you to check your BAC before starting your car.
Specs and Features
- Has a smartphone app.
- Runs on AAA batteries.
- Compact keyring size.
- Platinum fuel cell sensor.
What We Like
- The compact size.
- Pro-grade accuracy.
- Great reminder whenever you use your keys.
- You can hail an Uber from the app.
What We Don’t Like
- Can occasionally be inaccurate.
- The plastic keyring can break if you’re not too careful with it.
Summary
This tiny keyring sized breathalyzer can be a great device to keep with your keys. That way, you’ll always be reminded that you need to use it before trying to get behind the steering wheel.
It’s compact in size and quite accurate. It even has the ability to connect to an app to give you a slew of other useful information as well.
This breathalyzer also calculates when you’ll return to a 0.0 BAC and tracks your BAC on the app. You can even reach out to get an Uber on the app if you shouldn’t be driving yourself.
This takes one more step out of the equation for you, and helps you get home safe and make good decisions without having to think twice about it.
If this product is winning you over, click this link to take a closer look and learn more about it:
Oasser Rechargeable Breathalyzer
The Oasser is a rechargeable breathalyzer. This makes it a great device for those that don’t want to change the battery every so often.
It comes with four mouthpieces right out of the box, which is a handy addition.
The product sounds an alarm and also flashes to alert you when you’re over the legal limit of 0.08%. This is a great added safety mechanism — if it sounds, there’s no question about it, you have no business being behind that steering wheel.
It’s compact and lightweight as well, making it a great tool to pop into your pocket before you go out.
Specs and Features
- Comes with 4 mouthpieces.
- Rechargeable.
- An alarm sounds when you’re over 0.08% BAC.
- Semiconductor technology
- Small and lightweight.
- The memory function allows for recall.
What We Like
- Comes with rechargeable batteries.
- Memory function.
- The alarm makes it very clear once you’re over the limit.
What We Don’t Like
- Occasionally has charging issues.
Summary
This is a great unit for its accuracy and added features – a prime one being that it’s rechargeable and doesn’t need battery replacements all that often.
The memory function lets you check to see your BAC from the last several times you used the device, in case you’d like to keep a record somewhere of all the times you’ve checked.
The alarm flashes and warns you when you’re over the limit, which is a not-so-common addition to a breathalyzer.
Take a look at the following link if you think this breath device might be right for you:
Professional Alcohol Detector Breath Tester
This portable breathalyzer is a small alcohol tester, but it certainly packs a punch with a sound alarm and power-saving design.
It even functions in warmer temperatures and has a triple beep verification system. That system lets you know when you can stop blowing into the device, and you won’t have to figure it out on your own (like you have to do with other personal breathalyzers).
You can change the unit of measurement from mg/L to g/L with just the press of a button. It’s also quick to use – working within only seconds of turning it on.
Another great feature is its power-saving capabilities. It will show when the battery is running low, and has an automatic shut-off feature.
It uses AA batteries, which are easy to replace when needed.
Specs and Features
- Sound alarm.
- Portable.
- Power-saving design.
- Quick response time.
- Functions in a wide range of temperatures.
What We Like
- A triple beep verifies that the reading is complete.
- You can change the unit of measurement.
- Power-saving design.
What We Don’t Like
- Some reports of inconsistencies, and having to take measurements a few times to rule out faulty readings.
Summary
This alcohol breathalyzer is a great addition to any night out – assuming you want to get back home in one piece, of course.
It has a very useful alarm system, is fairly accurate, and allows you to use it after only 5 seconds.
It functions in a wide range of temperatures and even has a triple beep system that lets you know it has finished the reading. That paired with a power-saving design makes for a great device, and lands it a spot on our best breathalyzer list.
To find out more about this product, click this link to take a closer look here:
What Exactly Is a Breathalyzer?
A breathalyzer is a small electronic device that directly measures how much alcohol you’ve consumed. By measuring your breath alcohol content, it can measure quite accurately if you’ve had too much to drink.
While these will not give back as accurate results as actual blood tests that determine your alcohol levels, they can give a good indication, nonetheless.
That’s because there is a direct connection between how much alcohol is on your breath and your blood alcohol content.
So, in short, breathalyzers make it very easy to estimate how much alcohol is in a person’s system at any given time, and with no hassle whatsoever.
How Do Breathalyzers Work?
When you exhale, the alcohol in your blood turns into vapors that leave the body with every breath.
When you blow into the mouthpiece of a breath alcohol tester, the next step depends on what kind of device is being used. Overall, the breathalyzer detects your blood alcohol content. (BAC).
These gadgets oxidize the alcohol on a person’s breath and produce an electrical current based on that reading. The more alcohol detected, the stronger the current.
This is then directly translated to your BAC and is shown on the screen of the device. The specific method of doing this depends on the type of unit being used.
What Different Types of Breathalyzers Are There?
As we’ve mentioned, there are various kinds of breathalyzers you can choose from for personal use, and each one works slightly differently than the other.
Semiconductor Oxide Sensor
This kind of detector is a relatively new design and is quite affordable.
This is one of the best breathalyzers and uses semiconductor technology to give accurate BAC readings, which makes this model much less expensive to create and distribute.
These devices are common for at home or for personal use. This type isn’t likely one you’ll see out in the field on a regular basis.
They’re reliable, and even though they’re not meant for heavy usage, they still make for great tools.
Infrared Spectrometer
The most common place to run into this device is in a police station. This is arguably the most accurate breathalyzer type out there, since it works by identifying molecules.
Ethanol is measured, and that measurement will tell if you’re over the limit.
Given their bulky size, infrared light spectrometer breathalyzers aren’t generally sold for personal use.
Fuel Cell Breathalyzer
Fuel cell breathalyzers are commonly used by officers when stopping vehicles on the highway. These breathalyzers deliver accurate readings and are used in various different settings.
You can also find them in substance abuse centers and other businesses. This device uses an electrochemical process to detect BAC as you breathe out.
Your breath goes through the fuel cell and the platinum there oxidizes any alcohol that’s present. Then, it produces acetic acids, along with protons and electrons.
Those electrons move through a wire away from the platinum electrodes, which reveals your BAC. As always, the stronger the current, the higher the volume of alcohol.
What Are the Benefits of Having Your Own Breathalyzer?
Having your own breathalyzer at hand to use whenever needed definitely has its perks, and it’s one of the recommended things to keep in your car.
With your own breathalyzer, you can have fun while staying safe (and ensuring everyone around you at the time stays safe as well). It can keep you and your friends out of trouble, and it can even save lives.
On top of all of that, they’re very affordable!
Peace of Mind
The last thing you want to worry about when you’re having a good time is if you can drive yourself back home.
Your own breathalyzer gives you the peace of mind you need, and leaves no room for any questions. You’ll be able to tell right away if you can get behind the wheel or should call a cab instead.
Keeps You Out of Jail
These little devices display clearly when you’re above the legal limit. This, in turn, lets you know if you’re alright to get behind the wheel.
As long as you abide by the breathalyzer’s reading, you’ll keep out of jail.
If you back down when the devices tell you to do so, you’ll protect yourself and others. You will also avoid being cited for a DUI, because you won’t be driving under the influence.
The penalties for driving while intoxicated include hefty fines and jail time – and of course, if you injure or kill someone while driving drunk, this could land you a life sentence.
They’re Cost-Effective
A DUI can cost thousands of dollars even after the initial fine, and that’s if you didn’t hurt anyone.
In many states, DUI’s can cost you your license, and you could even lose your job. Other states require you have a breathalyzer ignition device installed in your car.
It can even cost you your ability to get some jobs again in the future, in addition to fines and jail time you’ll also have to deal with.
So, compared to the costs associated with a DUI, buying a personal breathalyzer just makes complete sense.
Save Lives
We’ve mentioned this a few times, but it is worth repeating.
Drunk driving is a huge cause of fatalities, and most people who are convicted will tell you that they didn’t think they were really all that drunk at the time.
Breathalyzers help you make a responsible decision, and this is precisely why advocacy groups such as MADD (mothers against drunk drivers) support the use of these devices.
Saves You Time
In addition to all the other reasons not to drive drunk, a DUI can also cost you time.
As we’ve said, you will usually lose your license and the DUI goes on your record. Then you end up having to spend time in traffic school.
When a DUI is on your record, it stays there for many years — in some states, it stays there for up to a decade.
So, a simple device like a breathalyzer can save you from years of hassles.
Are There Any Downsides to Using a Breathalyzer?
There are absolutely no pitfalls whatsoever to using a personal breathalyzer device.
A breath test is a very easy, safe and simple test to perform. Using your own personal device has never led to serious harm or injury, as long as you’re using it as intended.
What Should I Look for in a Breathalyzer?
You should now have a good understanding of how these devices work, and what the benefits associated with using them are.
Before you make a purchase, though, there are a few more things you should think about and take into consideration.
Government Approval
A number of government bodies recommend specific breathalyzer devices.
Look for one that’s approved by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, or the Department of Transportation. Some devices are also approved by the US Coast Guard.
When a device is used or approved by these agencies, this helps reassure you that you’re getting a quality product.
Size
Another aspect you should take into account is how portable each device is.
Thankfully, there are plenty of personal devices on the market nowadays that can fit right into your pocket. If it’s not small enough to keep on you, or at least in your vehicle, then it most likely won’t be convenient.
Reliability and Accuracy
Do your homework when choosing a breathalyzer, and only buy a device that is reliable.
You want a device that will turn on and work whenever you need it to, but at the same time, you need to be confident that it’s accurate.
As we mentioned, these devices will almost never be as accurate as an actual blood test. However, there are many devices that will give a very close indication of the alcohol level in your blood.
Calibration
Most personal breath devices will come pre-calibrated. This means that when you take it out of the package, it should be ready to use.
However, it’s important to note that many of these devices will need to be recalibrated after some time. Pay attention to the information that comes with your device, so you know it’ll be ready to use when you need it.
Ease of Use
Personal breath devices are incredibly easy to use.
Most devices created for personal consumption only have one button, and some even have a warning signal such as three beeps that let you know when it has the reading ready for you to check.
This is very important because you don’t want to have to fumble with the device when you need to get an accurate reading as quickly as possible.
Remember that your senses may be impaired at the time you are using it, so the simpler it is to operate, the more likely you’ll take it out and let it do its work.
Disposable Mouthpieces
Disposable mouthpieces are quite common with personal breathalyzers. Some come with these included, while others offer additional pieces for separate purchase.
Since people breathe directly onto them, disposable mouthpieces help keep things hygienic.
If you’ve tested your friend and find out that they’re not safe to drive after a night that involved considerable drinking, you can just change mouthpieces and test yourself or someone else who is eligible to drive safely.
Battery
Battery life should be another aspect you take into account when choosing a personal breath device. If it gets drained after each and every use, it might not be so convenient to use after all.
Smartphone Compatibility
Personal breath devices sometimes come with a smartphone app.
These apps can track your BAC over time, help you call an Uber whenever you need a ride, and warn the people around you when your BAC is over the legal limit.
These apps help you and your friends know when to call it quits for your own good, and when to call a cab.
Conclusion
There are so many reasons not to drive when you’re intoxicated, but most important of all is your safety, your passengers’ safety, and that of anyone else who happens to be on the road near you at the time.
To help you decide if you’re too drunk to get behind that steering wheel yourself, you should invest in a personal breathalyzer.
Overall, our favorite device is the BACtrack S80 Breathalyzer. We love its compact design, and the fact that it’s made for both personal and professional use. With FDA and DOT approval, additional mouthpieces and more, there is very little left to look for in a personal breath device.
If you have any thoughts to share with us or other readers, or if you have any questions we didn’t answer in the article, feel free to leave a comment below!
Product image credits: © Amazon.com
