A personal breathalyzer is a good assistant for self-monitoring, and will allow the responsible owner not to drive while there is still alcohol vapor in the exhaled air.
Having your own breathalyzer is an ideal way to avoid drunk driving charges. Simply blow into the device and you will know whether you are ready to travel or whether it is better to call a taxi.
In the language of professionals, a breathalyzer is called an analyzer for the concentration of ethanol vapor in exhaled air. Here's what you should pay attention to when choosing a device:
- the ability to switch the display from mg/l to ppm and vice versa;
- presence of regular batteries and power supply;
- the ability to replace the funnel with a mouthpiece from the kit.
Types of breathalyzers
Let us note right away: if a breathalyzer, no matter how much it costs, is not certified as a medical device and is not approved as a measurement tool, its readings have the same force for the court and the traffic police as “measurements” with comic applications on a smartphone. Therefore, breathalyzers for personal use that do not have certification can only be used as a safety net before leaving, but certainly not used in disputes.
With semiconductor sensors . The smallest group. The sensor itself is a porous substance. When a person blows air through it, it absorbs alcohol molecules. The volume of the sensor changes, and the degree of intoxication is determined. The main disadvantage of such breathalyzers is that the sensors absorb not only alcohol molecules, but also other substances that are similar in structure.
With electrochemical sensors . Very common. They work quickly, are selective towards ethanol and are almost independent of the ambient temperature. Inside is an electrochemical cell with platinum electrodes, which determine the amount of exhaled ethanol.
With infrared sensors . They have high measurement accuracy. Absorb IR radiation from ethyl alcohol vapor. Such devices have absolute selectivity to ethanol, but the readings are highly dependent on environmental parameters. The disadvantages include the long analysis time
Therefore, the best choice is a breathalyzer with an electrochemical sensor . Such sensors have a long service life (the catalyst in the measuring cell is not consumed over time), and the selectivity is high; they have good accuracy without the need for particularly frequent calibrations. Such sensors are now used both in certified equipment and in fairly affordable household models.
How to choose a breathalyzer
When choosing a breathalyzer, you need to pay attention to the following parameters of the device:
- The presence of a mouthpiece. Such devices show more accurate results.
- The electrochemical tester will last longer than semiconductor models.
- Additional functions. Different models can display time, air temperature, etc.
- Error. In expensive models it is less, and, accordingly, the result is more accurate.
In conclusion, it should be noted that a breathalyzer is a useful device for motorists that allows you to measure blood alcohol content. It is used by medical workers and traffic police officers when testing for alcohol. To avoid serious punishment for driving while intoxicated (yesterday's "exhaust" is enough), many drivers also prefer to have such a device with them.
To buy a high-quality device for adequate money, carefully study the technical characteristics and operating conditions (temperature and humidity). The price does not always reflect the quality of breathalyzers - among budget models there are good options, including on Aliexpress.
What to look for when choosing
It's time to figure out how to choose a breathalyzer for personal use. We recommend paying attention to the following characteristics:
- The preparation time for the device - the shorter it is, the faster the check will be.
- Response time - how quickly the device produces results.
- Measuring range.
- Allowable error.
- Operating temperature - this indicator is especially important for residents of northern regions.
- The number of tests per battery charge varies from 200 to 500 for different models.
- warranty .
- Blowing method – with/without mouthpiece.
- indicator .
- Availability of and self-cleaning systems
The main 4 parameters that people focus on in order to buy the right device: purpose, frequency of use, cost and degree of difficulty of maintenance.
Purpose
There are professional and personal models of analyzers. Certified models are purchased for enterprises. The information obtained on these devices is official evidence of the presence or absence of alcohol intoxication in a person. Professional type devices are also called breathalyzers.
Most personal devices are not certified. The measurement error is significantly greater than that of professional-grade devices. This device is only suitable for personal control.
Frequency of application
If the model is cheap, then experts recommend using it 1-2 times a week. At the same time, a professional device can easily withstand hundreds of samples throughout the day.
Price category
The accuracy of measurement and the cost of the device are directly proportional. It is advisable to buy products from well-known manufacturing companies. It costs more, but reliability is guaranteed. This is much more reliable than low-quality Chinese no name fakes.
Service maintenance
Even with a long working life, the sensor of the measuring device fails. Therefore, it is important to know whether there is a service center in your (or nearest) city that will allow you to replace the sensor. You should also consider the possibility of ordering components through the online store.
In addition, the following factors influence the choice:
- type of sensor. Professional models are usually equipped with electrochemical and spectrophotochemical sensitive elements. Personal class modifications are most often equipped with semiconductor sensors;
- air intake method. It can be carried out using a mouthpiece or without contact. Contact devices are more expensive, but they are more accurate;
- additional functionality. The breathalyzer may include a number of useful options: clock, thermometer, alarm clock, flashlight, stopwatch;
- units and measurement range. Devices that display information in various units of measurement (mg/l, %VAC, ppm) are convenient. As a rule, the device displays ethanol concentration from 0 to 5 mg/l;
- sizes, design. There can be no clear recipe here. It all depends on individual preferences.
Rating of the TOP 15 best breathalyzers of 2020-2021
Place | Name | Price |
TOP 4 best breathalyzers for personal use by price/quality for 2021 | ||
1 | Inspector AT750 | Find out the price |
2 | Inspector AT850 | Find out the price |
3 | Inspector AT550 | Find out the price |
4 | Infracar AT-101 | Find out the price |
TOP 4 best semi-professional breathalyzers | ||
1 | ALCOSCAN AL-1100 | Find out the price |
2 | DRIVESAFE II | Find out the price |
3 | Dingo E-010 | Find out the price |
4 | Dingo SCREEN | Find out the price |
TOP 4 best professional breathalyzers | ||
1 | AlcoHunter Professional + | Find out the price |
2 | META STSI 01 | Find out the price |
3 | AlcoHunter Professional X | Find out the price |
4 | Breathalyzer Mark V | Find out the price |
TOP 3 best inexpensive breathalyzers | ||
1 | Inspector AT500 | Find out the price |
2 | Inspector AT100 | Find out the price |
3 | Delta AT-550 | Find out the price |
Inexpensive breathalyzers
The cost of breathalyzers is influenced by a number of factors. The main ones are: sensor type, quality of materials and intended service life. Devices with a semiconductor sensor cost an order of magnitude less than devices with an electrochemical version. Inexpensive devices are usually designed for a small number of measurements per day and are intended for personal use.
Delta AT-300
Personal breathalyzer Delta AT-300. The device has compact dimensions of 10.3 by 6.5 and 2.7 cm, made of black plastic. Operates on three AAA batteries. By design, the model has a mouthpiece with five replaceable silicone tips included. The blood alcohol level measurement range is from 0 to 1.99 ppm. Operating the device is simple and intuitive. The testing process is started using a button on the case. The warm-up time will take up to 20 seconds, the blowing duration will be 5-9 seconds and the result delivery time will be up to 5 seconds. When you press the same button, the device recalculates the result into different units (mg/l in air or ppm in blood). The advantages of the model include an LCD display with a clearly visible indication. Additionally, there is a blue backlight for use in the dark. There is a sound indication. It is worth noting the practical operating temperature range from -10 to +50 °C. Users note the reliability of the device, the readings of which are accurate enough for personal testing. The product is small-sized and lightweight, easy to use.
Advantages
- Effective personal testing
- Result in two units of measurement
- Informative display
- Display with blue backlight and large numbers
- Operating temperature range
- Replaceable mouthpiece covers
- Compact dimensions, design
Flaws
- Results for self-control only
- No batteries included
- Loud, harsh sound
Inspector AT100
The manufacturer specializes in the production of automotive gadgets, paying special attention to the balance of quality, functionality and cost of its products. The AT 100 breathalyzer is equipped with a semiconductor sensor with the ability to measure blood alcohol from 0 to 4 ppm, with an error of 0.1. Air intake is carried out using a mouthpiece, which eliminates the influence of external conditions on the result. It takes up to 20 seconds to prepare the device for operation, the measurement time is 5 seconds, at a temperature of 10 - 40°C above zero. Information with the result is transmitted to a 2-digit LED screen and is accompanied by a sound signal. The device runs on one AAA battery, which is included. Accurate operation of the device is ensured by additional functions such as exhalation control, self-diagnosis and self-cleaning of the sensor. Users note the ergonomic design of the model (breathalyzer-keychain), compact dimensions of 6.2 by 3.7 and 1.5 cm, and quality of workmanship. A good service life of the device before calibration is considered to be 12 months or 300 measurements.
Advantages
- Price-quality ratio
- Measuring range
- Fast measurement process, accuracy
- Economical battery consumption
- Exhalation control, self-diagnosis and self-cleaning functions
- Design, compact size
- 3 mouthpieces and battery included
Flaws
- Use for self-monitoring only
- 2 digit display
- Operates from +10 °C
Ritmix RAT-310
Compact semiconductor breathalyzer for personal use. The keychain model with a durable body runs on two AAA batteries and is equipped with five replaceable mouthpieces. Equipped with a visual indication, prompts for the further algorithm of actions necessary for the user appear on the screen. The display backlight makes using the device convenient in poor lighting. Measurement range from 0 to 1.9 ppm, with a measurement step of 0.1. It takes only 10 seconds to prepare for measurement and give readings. The measurement error does not exceed 10%, this is a good indicator for personal devices. The device is capable of operating at temperatures from +5 to +40 degrees. According to user reviews, it has proven to be reliable and corresponds to the intended period of use.
Advantages
- Compact
- Comfortable
- Heats up quickly and gives results
- Accurate
- Easy to use
- Replacement mouthpieces included
- Price
Flaws
- No batteries included
- Self-control only
KOTO BAT001
Compact device KOTO BAT001, which determines the amount of alcohol in the blood in 5 seconds. The device has a two-color indication and a sound signal; the power supply is enough for 300 measurements.
Advantages
- compact
- autonomous operation
- fast measurement result
- Replacement mouthpieces included
Flaws
not intended for use at low temperatures
Alco Stop AT 109
Semiconductor breathalyzer that measures up to 1.9 ppm. Functional - the first measurement can be taken in 20 seconds. Battery operated.
Advantages
- auto shutdown
- sound indication
- low battery indicator
- compact dimensions
Flaws
- blowing without a mouthpiece
- error up to 10%
The best professional breathalyzers
Professional breathalyzers are highly productive; their technical capabilities allow several hundred measurements to be taken daily. The type of sensor can be semiconductor, electrochemical, or photometric. All of them have the highest level of measurement accuracy. Designed for use in enterprises, medical institutions, and traffic police control systems. Testimony from professional breathalyzers is accepted as evidence in court.
We invite you to consider the best models in this category, costing from 6,200 to 42,000 rubles.
5 Alcoscan AL-1100
In fifth position among professional breathalyzers is the model of the Korean brand ALCOSCAN AL-1100.
The device has a certificate of state medical certification. Designed for rapid detection of very low concentrations of alcohol in exhaled air. Can be used in enterprises to check a large number of people. The design of the device is semiconductor, indicator type, without a mouthpiece. A highly sensitive sensor transmits the test result using a color display. Green color - ZERO alcohol content from 0 to 0.2 ppm, test passed. Yellow - LOW 0.2 - 0.5 ppm, red - HIGH from 0.5 ppm and above.
The advantages of the analyzer include simple and highly automated control, and the presence of intuitive visual and sound indications. It does not require turning off between tests and is capable of taking up to 15 measurements per minute. Power is provided by a rechargeable battery with a charge life of up to five hours.
Users find this model reliable. They note the high-quality assembly, practical silver body, compact size, and convenient storage case.
Pros:
- Accurate and reliable, determines minimum doses of alcohol.
- Availability of medical registration.
- Fast preparation and testing.
- Display system.
- Long-term operation without recharging.
- Temperature range from 0 to +50°C.
- Power adapters 220 and 12 V.
- Storage case.
Minuses:
- Calibration every three months.
- Price.
Alcoscan AL-1100
4 Dingo E-010
A popular model, suitable for group or individual use, has a medical device registration.
Dingo E-010 is equipped with a blowing control system and supports a self-diagnosis function. The accuracy and reliability of the device is ensured by a high-quality electrochemical sensor. The range of instrument readings is up to 4 ppm, with a scale resolution of 0.01. Operates at temperatures from 0 to +40 degrees. Power is provided by two rechargeable batteries or AAA batteries.
Despite its compact size (10.6 by 5 cm), the device has high performance. Preparation time for testing is about a minute, blowing time is 4 seconds, displaying indicators on the screen within 2 seconds.
The breathalyzer is designed for 40 measurements per day and requires calibration every thousand measurements. For convenience, it is equipped with a test count counter.
The peculiarity of Dingo E-010 is the possibility of measurements with a mouthpiece and a non-contact method. In the second case, the indicators will be less accurate. The model has an output for connecting to a PC and special software.
Pros:
- Accuracy.
- Reliability.
- Rapidity.
- Certification.
- Ease of use.
- Measurement counter.
- Blowing control.
- Self-diagnosis.
- PC output.
Minuses:
- No memory function.
- Not applicable in the field of state metrological control.
Dingo E-010
3 Dingo E-200
In third place is the portable model of the Dingo E-200 brand.
It can be used both for self-control and for checking other persons. The analyzer has the status of a medical measuring device. When printing the test results on a printer, it is suitable for official examination in medical institutions and the traffic police. The device with a wear-resistant electrochemical sensor is equipped with a wide range of functionality. Works with disposable replacement mouthpieces, with or without a funnel mouthpiece. The testing process is automated and fast. The measurement result is transmitted to a full-text graphic display. Accompanied by clear audio and visual indication. Indication range from 0 to 2 mg/l.
The device remembers up to 500 last measurements. Has a slot for an SD card, a port for a printer and connection to a PC. The breathalyzer is available in basic or advanced configurations.
A special feature of the model is a replaceable sensor unit, which can be replaced after 2 years. The device also features an increased service life of 5 years, with calibration after approximately 12 months.
Pros:
- For self-control and use in the professional field.
- Accurate, fast measurement results.
- Wear-resistant electrochemical sensor.
- Wide functionality.
- Port for connecting to a printer, to a PC, SD card slot.
- Replaceable sensor unit.
- Increased service life, warranty period.
- Equipment.
Minuses:
- High price.
- Work at temperatures from +10°C.
Dingo E-200
2 AlcoHunter Professional X
The next model in the rating corresponds to the level of performance of professional breathalyzers and is distinguished by high accuracy and maximum sensitivity.
The device is compact in size, weighing about 120 grams. AlcoHunter Professional X determines blood alcohol content in ultra-low doses, from 0.01 ppm. Equipped with a comprehensive system of protection against measurement fraud and procedural errors. Adapted to difficult weather conditions, allows measurements at air temperatures from -10 to +40 degrees and air humidity up to 85%.
The device is equipped with a color LCD display with a clear, user-friendly interface.
Replaceable mouthpieces are used for sampling. The batteries are powered by two removable batteries or 3A batteries. For initial preparation for operation, the breathalyzer requires about three minutes, for subsequent measurements about a minute. Up to 1000 thousand measurements are provided before calibrating the sensor.
Pros:
- High precision sensor.
- Sensitivity.
- Convenient display.
- Number of measurements before calibration.
- Anti-fraud system.
- Operating temperature range.
Minuses:
- Exhalation time for sample collection is up to 10 seconds.
AlcoHunter Professional X
1 Meta traffic police 01
The leader in the ranking of professional breathalyzers is the domestic model Meta 01. The device has an optimal ratio of cost, quality, and functional characteristics.
The device was originally designed for use by traffic police services and has the appropriate certification for use for professional purposes.
The device is designed for daily use with a large number of measurements. Has an autonomous power source with a minimum continuous operating interval of 8 hours. Equipped with a sensitive semiconductor sensor, it has high measurement accuracy. Reading range from 0 to 3 ppm.
The breathalyzer operates in temperature conditions from 1 to 40 degrees above zero, humidity up to 80%. The measurements are accompanied by audio and visual indications displayed on a large, high-quality display.
The model has functions for monitoring the alcohol content in the ambient air and exhalation control, ensuring the correctness of measurements.
Pros:
- Increased measurement accuracy.
- Reliability.
- Easy to use.
- Powerful autonomous power supply.
- Exhalation control.
- Determination of alcohol vapor in the environment.
- Durable material.
- Price.
Minuses:
- In case of downtime, it requires a run.
Meta traffic police 01
Decoding the device readings
Promille (‰) is a thousandth of a percent. This unit is used in laboratories to determine the degree of intoxication.
A few simple examples will help you understand what your device shows:
- 0.5 liters of vodka contain 200 ml of pure alcohol, which corresponds to 2.5 ‰ in a man’s body; a bottle of beer, a quarter liter, will show 0.16‰ on the measuring device;
- a drink with a strength of up to 12% with a volume of 0.7 l will show 0.12‰.
How many ppm of alcohol is legal for drivers in 2021?
The answer to the question of how much ppm of alcohol is permissible for drivers in 2021 lies in the law, which came into force in 2013 and introduced permissible levels of 0.16‰ when exhaled or 0.3‰ in the blood.
How long will it take for a breathalyzer to not show alcohol?
No less important is the question of how long the breathalyzer will not show alcohol. Due to the fact that alcohol does not disappear for a long time, it is advisable for motorists to know the time frame for removing alcohol from the body.
The table shows the approximate periods of elimination of 200 grams of alcohol:
Alcohol/person's weight | 60 kg | 90kg |
Beer 6% | 2 hours 37 minutes | 1 hour 34 minutes |
Champagne 11% | 4 hours 47 minutes | 2 hours 52 minutes |
Liqueur 30% | 13 h 03 min | 7 hours 50 minutes |
Vodka 40% | 17 hours 24 minutes | 10 hours 26 minutes |
TOP 4 best semi-professional breathalyzers
Semi-professional breathalyzers are also suitable for home use. They can be had, for example, by those whose work involves driving a car, but you need to understand that such devices are much more expensive.
ALCOSCAN AL-1100
Among analogues, this device can be called budget . Its weight is 180 g, externally it
quite large, but cute.
For ease of use, a lanyard is attached to the case for wearing on the wrist.
In the central zone there is a testing area, below it there are three light indicators that display the level of alcohol vapor in the exhaled air.
Due to the semiconductor measurement system, the device can also react to other compounds, such as ketones.
The device takes 120 seconds to prepare for the first test, but for subsequent tests it takes only 10.
Very fast blowing (2 sec.) and the number of measurements per day (up to 50) are the main advantages of the breathalyzer. It is also easy to use even without reading the instructions.
Specifications:
- sensor: semiconductor;
- mouthpiece: no;
- preparation time for measurement: 10-120 s.;
- blowing time: 2 s.;
- operating temperature: 0 - 50 °C.
pros
- fast blowing;
- minimum break between adjacent measurements;
- high accuracy;
- sound and light indication.
Minuses
- no mouthpiece;
- semiconductor sensor.
DRIVESAFE II
Breathalyzer with 5% accuracy, easy to use and short intervals between measurements.
The device is miniature and lightweight, runs on two AA batteries, and quickly “recharges” for repeated testing.
The device operates in the range of 0 - 9.99 ppm and allows up to 50 measurements per day.
Test results are reported in light and visual formats. There is also an auto shut-off and battery charge indicator.
Specifications:
- sensor: electrochemical;
- mouthpiece: yes;
- preparation time for measurement: 30-60 s.;
- blowing time: 5 s.;
- operating temperature: 0 - 50 °C.
pros
- high accuracy;
- measurements in ppm and mg/l;
- fast blowing;
- stock up to 50 measurements per day.
Minuses
- high price.
Dingo E-010
A reliable, small-format device with an interesting design, ease of control and use.
On the central panel at the top there is a large display that displays test results and indications that the device is ready for measurements (for example, Wait).
The breathalyzer is charged using 2 AAA batteries . After turning on, you need to wait 60 seconds to start measuring. It only takes 4 seconds to blow through.
Up to 40 measurements can be taken per day.
The advantages of the device are a wide measurement range (0 - 4 ppm), sound and light indication, as well as the ability to connect to a smartphone or computer using a USB cable.
Specifications:
- sensor: electrochemical;
- mouthpiece: yes;
- preparation time for measurement: 60 s.;
- blowing time: 4 s.;
- operating temperature: 0 - 40 °C.
pros
- accuracy of measurements;
- unusual design;
- ease of management and use;
- ability to connect to a smartphone or PC;
- light weight.
Minuses
- underestimates the indicators.
Dingo SCREEN
A modern compact breathalyzer based on an electrochemical sensor with a highly sensitive sensor, according to the manufacturer.
The device is equipped with a multicolor color indicator: the test result depends on the color of the indication.
In addition to light sensors, there is a power button and a window for exhaling air. After switching on, it takes 2 minutes to prepare, after which the device is ready for operation indicator will light up.
Blowing lasts only 2 seconds, and a repeat test can be carried out after 20 seconds.
Among the additional functions, the device only has a battery charge indicator.
Specifications:
- sensor: electrochemical;
- mouthpiece: no;
- preparation time for measurement: 2-120 s.;
- blowing time: 2 s.;
- operating temperature: 0 - 50 °C.
pros
- easy to operate;
- minimum blowing time;
- a short break between adjacent measurements;
- long battery charge.
Minuses
- does not turn off by itself.
The best personal breathalyzers
A breathalyzer is an electronic device that can be used to determine the alcohol content in a person’s body based on the air they exhale. This testing method does not require the collection of biological fluids or other tests, which makes testing very simple and fast.
The peculiarity of personal testers is that you can constantly carry them with you in order to monitor your own condition at any time. In most cases, they are required by car enthusiasts, who are sometimes forced to get behind the wheel after celebrating various celebrations. The breathalyzer will make a decision about whether you should get behind the wheel now or whether you need to wait a while.
Typically, such models are compact in size and have a nice design. This allows you to use it practically anywhere and at any time. The fact that he will be with you all the time will not be a hindrance. But a person can be sure that he will drive completely sober and will not pose a threat to pedestrians, and also that the police will have no reason to find fault with his condition and issue a considerable fine.
Delta AT-300
According to customer reviews, this portable breathalyzer is a very good driver’s assistant when he is faced with the question of getting behind the wheel after a holiday. His readings are trustworthy simply because a semiconductor sensor is responsible for their accuracy. Its warming up takes only 20 seconds, and the received information is displayed on a liquid crystal display with a backlight function.
A breathalyzer is recommended for those who do not need very high accuracy, but want to control their own condition before getting behind the wheel.
Advantages:
- semiconductor sensor;
- low cost;
- self-diagnosis;
- relatively small error;
- presence of a display.
Flaws:
- relatively long warm-up time.
Infracar AT-101
This excellent personal breathalyzer is used to measure the concentration of alcohol vapor in a person's exhaled air. The received data is stored in the device's memory, which allows you to create a database and sort information by date, time or value. Has one of the best price-quality ratios.
One of the most important features of the device is the ability to calculate the time it takes for the detected amount of ethanol to be eliminated from the body. Simultaneously with the amount of alcohol, the time required for its complete removal from the body will be displayed on the screen. Therefore, it is the best of the inexpensive breathalyzers. It will be an excellent choice for those who want to receive more information than cheaper models can provide.
Advantages:
- low error;
- accuracy of readings;
- ease of use;
- good price;
- 10 seconds to prepare for work;
- good set.
Flaws:
- ready until next test 45 seconds.
SITITEK PRO2
This electronic breathalyzer is a representative of those devices that are sold at an affordable price. Its main difference from other representatives of this price category is the presence of two displays. One of them displays information about the test results, and the second displays other related information. The result is displayed simultaneously in two units of measurement. This breathalyzer is inexpensive but also quite accurate, which can be a deciding factor for some.
The absence of a mouthpiece during testing allows you to speed up testing and use the device at any convenient time. The auto shut-off feature helps save battery power. An audible alarm will make testing in poor lighting easier.
Advantages:
- non-contact type of testing;
- compact dimensions;
- ease of use;
- instant readiness for work;
- built-in alarm clock, stopwatch, clock and thermometer.
Flaws:
- the number of tests per day is no more than 5;
- small measurement range.
Airline ALK-D-02
This device is one of the most inexpensive breathalyzers in the rating. It is intended exclusively for individual use. Measuring the alcohol content in exhaled air is non-contact, and the data is displayed on the built-in LCD screen. Recommended for those who do not need greater measurement accuracy, but simply need information about whether there is alcohol in the blood.
Advantages:
- compact dimensions;
- can be used as a flashlight;
- low price.
Flaws:
- low measurement accuracy.
Operating principle of a home breathalyzer
The operating principle of a home breath alcohol meter depends on the type of sensor device that is built into the device. This may be a semiconductor or electrochemical sensor.
In the first case, alcohol molecules are retained on the sensor . They change its conductivity, and the signal on the display is displayed taking into account the number of these same molecules.
More accurate electrochemical alcohol meters act differently: a special catalyst reacts to alcohol vapor, converting the measurement result into a digital signal.