Best Breathalyzers in the UK

Review & Comparison, Last Update February 11, 2024
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious crime and if you don't want to get in trouble, you should use an alcohol tester. We have picked the 5 best breathalysers for you. ...Read more ...Read less
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PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Range and Accuracy
Sensor and Battery
Usability
Warranty
 
PROS

The Backlit "Twin" Blow Tube Receptor allows you to take measurements even in poor light. The Temperature Alerts will inform you if an ambient temperature can affect the accuracy of the readings.

CONS

You will have to pay for an annual recalibration from AlcoSense. 

OUR VERDICT

This professional alcohol detector from AlcoSense boasts highly accurate measurements. Its sensitive sensor reacts only to alcohol vapour, excluding false readings and delivering reliable results. 

detailed parameters
Range and Accuracy

From 0.000 to 2.00‰ BAC

Sensor and Battery

Up to 300 tests on a single battery, Recalibration after 12 months, Powered by 3 x ААА batteries

Usability

LCD screen, Backlit mouthpiece receiver, Don't Drive alert when close to limit, Temperature alerts, Re-calibration reminder, 24 tests memory, USB port for updates & improvements, 5 x mouthpieces, 3 x AAA batteries 

Warranty

1 year

PROS

Compact and innovative, this professional quality breathalyser by BACtrack is equipped with a miniature air pump designed to activate at the end of each breath sample. The data is easy to monitor on the backlit LCD screen.

CONS

Its plastic housing could be sturdier.

OUR VERDICT

The BACtrack S80 comes with 6 individually wrapped mouthpieces. You can use the unit for testing yourself, your family, and your friends wherever you go. Accurate and reliable, this breathalyser is trusted by hospitals and clinics.

detailed parameters
Range and Accuracy

From 0.000 to 4.00‰ BAC, accuracy is +/- 0.010% BAC

Sensor and Battery

Up to 1500 tests on a single battery, Up to 200 tests before recalibration

Usability

LCD screen,6 x plastic mouthpieces, Hard-shell carrying case, 2 x AA batteries

Warranty

1 year

PROS

Measuring 110 mm high, 21 mm deep, and 46 mm wide, this device easily fits most pockets. The white frame combined with the black screen makes this breathalyser appear especially modern and even somewhat elegant.

CONS

The setup procedure is somewhat convoluted. 

OUR VERDICT

The AlcoSense Lite 2 makes sure that you don't get behind the wheel while intoxicated. Though fairly affordable, this breathalyser is as accurate and reliable as they come. Also, the screen is huge.

detailed parameters
Range and Accuracy

From 0.000 to 2.00‰ BAC

Sensor and Battery

Semiconductor (19 square mm) sensor, Up to 300 tests on a single battery, Recalibration after 12 months of use, Powered by 3 x AAA batteries

Usability

LCD screen 28-mm diagonal, Alert when close to limit (adjustable - any UK/Irish/Scottish limit), Recalibration reminder, 3 x AAA batteries, 6 x blow tubes included

Warranty

1 year

PROS

To go with the breathalyser, the people behind this set also send you 10 BPA-free mouth tips and a travel case. Using the case, you can store and transport the mouth tips without worrying about hygiene. 

CONS

The LCD screen is small. 

OUR VERDICT

The BLO-UK Alcohol Breathalyser is one of the more compact and easy-to-use models today. Plus, with its electronic valve technology, the model minimises false readings, keeping the test results always accurate.

detailed parameters
Range and Accuracy

From 0.000 to 2.00‰ BAC

Sensor and Battery

Super-sensitive semiconductor sensor system, Powered by 2 x AA batteries

Usability

LCD screen with colour-coded results, Alert when close to limit, 10 x BPA-free mouth tips, Storage pouch

Warranty

Amazon's 30-day return policy

PROS

The YFFU portable alcohol tester can measure the alcohol concentration in your exhaled breath. Equipped with an ultra-sensitive sensor system, it will determine the alcohol content in seconds. The unit has a large LCD screen.

CONS

The BAC range could be bigger.

OUR VERDICT

This compact device will be appreciated by professional drivers. It comes with a USB charger, allowing you to use the unit anywhere you need. Utilizing non-contact blowing, it can be recommended for anyone who cares about their health and safety.

detailed parameters
Range and Accuracy

From 0.00 to 1.30‰ BAC

Sensor and Battery

Ultra-sensitive semiconductor sensor system, Built-in 200 mAH battery

Usability

LED screen, Non-contact blowing, Portable design, Blow detection, Keychain, USB charging cable, Storage pouch

Warranty

Amazon's 30-day return policy

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AlcoSense Excel

Stylish and Effective

The AlcoSense Excel alcohol breath test kit identifies the amount of breath you exhale (it shouldn't be less than 1 litre) and takes a reading only after that to ensure accurate readings. In order to deliver even more precise results, the device fine-tunes the readings in accordance with the ambient temperature. So, no matter where you are, in sunny Spain or in snowy Norway, this tester will show the most accurate alcohol readings possible.

The full graphical intuitive interface gives clear and easy to understand measurements so that everyone can use the appliance effortlessly. The snow-white housing makes this alcohol breath tester look modern and elegant. It is also pretty compact, so if you are going to keep it in the car's glove compartment, the device will not take up much room there. In addition, there is a special slide mechanism which will protect the blow tube hole and prevent dirt from entering.

Review of AlcoSense Excel Fuel Cell Breathalyzer Alcohol Tester Breathalyser

Forewarned Is Forearmed

The AlcoSense Excel will warn you if you are over the drink drive limit or close to it. All you need to do is set the needed limit from zero to 1.00‰ BAC (0.43mg/L) according to your local law. Since the appliance can be used anywhere in the world, it is a great feature if you travel a lot. Using the table in the manual, adjust the breath and blood alcohol readings, the drink drive limit, and blood-breath ratio, and go ahead to visit new countries!

A useful tip:

You can drive in these countries after drinking

  • one and a half bottle of beer, or 300 ml of wine, or 75 ml of vodka - Germany;
  • two and a half bottle of beer, or 500 ml of wine, or 125 ml of vodka - Great Britain;
  • one and a half bottle of beer, or 300 ml of wine, or 75 ml of vodka - Finland;
  • one and a half bottle of beer, or 300 ml of wine, or 75 ml of vodka - Spain.

However, remember that this information is approximate and it is better to take a test before driving.

The manufacturer has thoughtfully fitted this alcohol breath tester with a USB port. It gives you the ability to upgrade the software and try other improvements the company offers for their products.

The appliance is able to store up to 24 test results. It is a great feature if you would like to compare the readings for some reason. And as for the number of tests, you can perform up to 300 tests on a single charge. Taking all this into account, we can say that the AlcoSense Excel Fuel Cell Breathalyser is perfect both for personal and professional use.

AlcoSense Excel Fuel Cell Breathalyzer Alcohol Tester Breathalyser in the use

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £99.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B01MFCPD9D

 

BACtrack S80

Police-Grade Accuracy

If you are looking for the device that will provide the most accurate BAC results, opt for the BACtrack S80 breathalyser. That's the most reliable breath tester, no wonder BACtrack breathalysers are used by the police and medical associations alike. Utilizing the platinum-based Xtend Fuel Cell Sensor, the unit measures alcohol in your breath from 0.000 to 0.400% BAC, while the accuracy is +/- 0.010% BAC. Believe it or not, the breathalyser also uses a miniature air pump that grabs more breath air for the most accurate results.

Though accurate and innovative, this model is pretty basic, and you don't need to connect it to any gadgets—the breathalyser has its own LCD screen where all the information is displayed. The device is equally good for individual and professional use, but there are only 6 plastic mouthpieces included in the box. If you need to test the alcohol levels of other people, you might need to buy an additional set of mouthpieces.

This BACtrack S80 boasts long-term reliability against other similar testers. The time spans between recalibrations are pretty large—up to 200 tests. The device shows an accurate alcohol level within several seconds. The battery can last up to 1500 tests, however, in case of heavy use, you might need to change the battery more often.

Review of BACtrack S80 Professional Breathalyzer

User-Friendly Design

As for the power source, this alcohol tester runs on 2xAA batteries, which come with the purchase, so you won't need to buy them additionally. The unit has a pretty intuitive operation, but make sure to carefully follow the instructions. First of all, insert the provided batteries. After you press the start button, it will take about 10 seconds for the unit to prepare for testing your breath sample. Please, blow steadily and for at least 5 seconds when the device is ready (the countdown reaches zero). After that, your estimated BAC will appear on the screen, if the sample was sufficient, of course.

To put it in a nutshell, the BACtrack S80 professional breathalyser will allow you to get accurate and reliable results time after time. This innovative device uses a special miniature air pump to enhance the accuracy of each measurement. The purchase includes 6 individually wrapped replaceable mouthpieces, so you can use the breathalyser for your own, your family, and your friends' needs.

BACtrack S80 Professional Breathalyzer in the use

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price £149.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B0026IBZSK

 

AlcoSense Lite 2

Accurate and Reliable

Generally speaking, there are affordable breathalysers and then there are quality breathalysers. These two categories seldom overlap. The AlcoSense Lite 2 is an excellent exception to this rule though. As far as we're concerned, the price makes more than enough sense considering how good this device is across the board.

To start things off, the product's semi-conductor sensor delivers high accuracy and reliability levels, arguably too high for an entry-level item. The readings will be clearly displayed on the screen to one decimal place (e.g. 0.2‰BAC). You'll always be able to make sense of these readings because the 28-millimetre LCD screen makes them more than noticeable. When you're near or over the set drink-drive limit, the "don't drive symbol will be displayed, telling you that you should probably avoid driving in this state.

Of course, different places have different restrictions. That's not an issue here. You can flick the switch and easily change the alert limits to any of the three limits in place in the United Kingdom (including Scotland) and Ireland. In other words, you won't have to send back this device or re-calibrate to change the limit.

Having said that, all breathalysers require occasional calibration, don't trust the ones that claim otherwise. To maintain its accuracy, this device will remind you to re-calibrate the alcohol breath tester after 300 tests or 12 months, so you won't have to do that all too often.

Review of AlcoSense Lite 2 Breathalyzer & Alcohol Tester for UK

As Compact as They Get

As you would imagine, the "light" in the product's name comes from its slim, pocket-sized profile. Measuring 110 millimetres high, 21 millimetres deep, and 46 millimetres wide and weighing less than 150 grams (including the batteries), this device can be discreetly carried in any pocket/handbag. Plus, its white housing and the black screen create an excellent balance, making this tiny unit look modern and elegant.

Sure, the product has its flaws. The setup procedure is somewhat convoluted. Though the device is more or less streamlined, you probably won't be able to figure things out especially quickly, so don't worry about losing some time initially. On the bright side, the product comes supplied with six blow tubes, so you won't have to purchase replacement tubes for, hopefully, quite some time.

In conclusion, the AlcoSense Lite 2 cuts no corners. Despite the affordable price tag, the device is precise, accurate, and reliable. Also, again, this breathalyser is as compact as they come.

AlcoSense Lite 2 Breathalyzer & Alcohol Tester for UK in the use

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £44.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B07RZTHPQR

 

BLO (BLO01B)

Colour-Coded Results

The BLO-UK Alcohol Breathalyser appears almost futuristic, which is not necessarily the most critical breathalysers' aspect but we won't complain when the device looks good as long as its primary objective is not compromised. Needless to say, the primary objective of these breath testers is delivering fast and accurate test results, which the subject model is quite good at. But, back to the appearance part, this device has a sleek, glossy, all-white finish that presents a more expensive front than you would presume based on its price tag. The tube is easy to pull out and push back in. The single button that the model comes equipped with makes controls pretty easy as well.

The breathalyser's display is where things get a little dicey though. On the one hand, the screen provides colour-coded test results, so you can tell what's going on and whether or not you should get behind the steering wheel simply by 'studying' the numbers. On the other hand, as convenient as it is, the screen is also very small and, from time to time, you will need the exact numbers. And, because the screen is not very large, the numbers on it are also not that huge, so you'll have to stare at them up close and personal, so to speak.

On the bright side, the semiconductor sensor system that is inside this device is extra-sensitive, delivering accurate results without you smothering the test tube or wasting more time than necessary. As it is usually the case (unless we're discussing low-end breathalysers), the model can detect alcohol levels between 0.000 and 2.00‰ BAC, ranging from nonexistent to trace amounts to absurd levels.

Review of BLO (BLO01B) Alcohol Breathalyser and Portable Breath Tester

10 BPA-Free Mouth Tips Included

Aside from colour-coding the results, the model will also issue an automatic alarm sound when you exceed 0.05‰ BAC. The limit is not adjustable but they're usually pretty much the same across the British Isles, so this should not be a problem.

What should also not be a problem is the 10 BPA-free mouth tips and the storage pouch that come with the kit. As you would imagine, the storage pouch will let you store and transport these tips without losing them (which is easy to do as they are quite small), whilst the tip themselves will make sure you always have one at hand for a long time without purchasing them separately.

Bottom line, when there's a chance you might have a drink or two but will have to drive regardless sometime later, you won't go wrong taking the BLO-UK Alcohol Breathalyser with you.

BLO (BLO01B) Alcohol Breathalyser and Portable Breath Tester in the use

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £39.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B086RXK25B

 

YFFU Portable

Fast and Accurate Measuring

Designed to ensure drinking and driving safety, this portable alcohol tester combines ergonomics and precision. Unlike conventional testers that use mouthpieces or blow tubes, this unit measures the alcohol concentration in the breath you exhale. Hence, it is more sanitary and safer to use compared to the former ones. This functional device can be used up to 300 times per hour.

The appliance will ensure accurate test results thanks to its ultra-sensitive semiconductor sensor system. Moreover, you will obtain the results in just a few seconds (just keep blowing evenly during 3-5 seconds) to make the decision on whether it is safe to drive. This user-friendly alcohol tester breathalyser has a large backlit LCD screen allowing you to clearly see the measurement result.

The unit has a 0.00-0.13% BAC (0.1-1.3g/l) testing range and it is fitted with 3 indicator lights allowing you to see at once if it is safe to drive. For example, if the value is lower than 0.00% BAC or 0.0g/l, the green light will appear. If it is higher than 0.01% BAC or 0.1g/l yet lower than 0.08% BAC or 0.8g/l, the yellow light will shine. In case the alcohol content is higher than 0.08% BAC or 0.8g/l, the red light will appear indicating drunk driving risk.

Review of YFFU Portable Alcohol Tester Breathalyzer

Portable and Rechargeable

We would also like to add that the item has a well-thought-out design. The alco tester is equipped with a 200mAH battery and comes with a USB charging cable. When on the road, you can connect it to your PC, mobile battery, or any other USB device for quick and easy charging, no replacement batteries are needed. After the result is shown, the device will switch off automatically within 10 seconds to save the battery life.

In addition to the breathalyser and USB cable, the purchase includes a keychain. The keychain is attached to the accessory allowing you to connect it to your car key so that it will always be at hand when needed. Boasting a compact design, the YFFU alcohol tester is easy to carry in your pocket or bag.

To wrap it all up, this portable rechargeable breathalyser will ensure safe and hygienic alcohol concentration measuring. A high-quality semiconductor sensor system will ensure accurate results that are easy to read on the large LCD display. The unit will make a fantastic present for car owners. 

YFFU Portable Alcohol Tester Breathalyzer in the use
Last updated price £17.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B09LCS3G96

 

What Is a Breathylyzer?

A breathalyser is a device which measures the level of alcohol in the body. They are different in mode of operation: some use platinum fuel cell sensors, and others are based on semiconductors. If you think you do not need a car breathalyser you are mistaken - you need to know the alcohol level in your body when you drive after drinking some alcohol. Keep in mind that driving under the influence (or DUI) is a very serious crime and you are sure to avoid it. Moreover, people under the influence of alcohol are more abstracted which is extremely dangerous on the road. In order to prevent accidents and not crash your own or somebody else's car, you should be absolutely focused on the driving process and, of course, control the level of alcohol in your system.

If you are a driver, you might also be interested in car cameras, whereas those who often travel or feel uncertain about driving in unknown locations might want to read our review of car GPS trackers.

What Features to Compare

When you are about to choose a car breathalyser you do not need to know too much. The Internet is full of different breathalyser reviews but most of them are overloaded with technical details and are difficult to understand. That is why we have done our best to make our alcohol breath test review crystal clear and informative. There are several basic features that will help you select the best device.

Range and Accuracy

The first one is range and accuracy. No need to say you must be sure the alcohol level does not exceed an allowed limit (it depends on the country you live in). The range is measured in % BAC and the best breathalyzers ensure the accuracy from 0,000% BAC while less precise devices start from 0,00% BAC. Having said that, sometimes these devices let you choose between different units, including %BAC, ‰BAC, mg/l, and mg/100ml. When that's the case, you're able to select the units that make the most sense to you. Of course, no breathalyser can be faultless, so you need to check the accuracy too.

Sensor and Batteries

The next important features are the sensor and batteries. Every device requires batteries (different types) and the time it remains active is different. A lot depends on how often you take measurements - if you do it every day, then no matter how good a battery is - you will not be able to use a breathalyser for a year. Also, every sensor has to be re-calibrated from time to time, otherwise, the device will not be accurate enough. Some models need re-calibration every 200 breathalyser tests. More often than not though, these devices are able to provide ~300 accurate tests before you should re-calibrate them.

Usability

The last feature to consider is usability. Needless to say, your chosen alcohol breath test kit should be easy to use and simple to configure. The best devices work via special breathalyser apps available for Android and/or iOS devices (smartphone or tablet, for example). These breathalyser apps will also count the time you can drive (if your alcohol level is too high), advise you how much you should drink, and so on.

Sometimes, these devices come supplied with interchangeable mouthpieces. As you would imagine, these mouthpieces let you share the breathalyser with friends and family, which is nice sometimes when you're hanging out and have to figure out who's driving you all home this time.

Other times, these devices use blow tubes rather than mouthpieces. Generally speaking, the difference between these tubes and 'pieces is that the former last longer. They're also usually more expensive though.

FAQ:

Q: What is a professional breathalyzer? 

A: A standard breathalyzer is a technical device designed for quantitative or qualitative measurement of the concentration of ethanol in a person's breath or blood through exhaled air. As a rule, its roughness is not standardized and it is not metrologically calibrated. A professional breathalyzer is a similar device, but it has a specified roughness and metrological calibration.

Q: What are the main differences of alcohol testers?

A: Breathalyzers are distinguished by:

- type: chemical, electrochemical, spiral, and electronic;

- function: professional and personal;

- type of sensor: electrochemical and semiconductive.

Q: How often should a breathalyser be recalibrated?

A: First of all, you should know that only professional breathalyzers can be recalibrated. The frequency of this procedure is indicated in the description of the appliance. Most models of alcohol testers require recalibration once a year.

Q: How does a breathalyzer work?

A: Depending on the model, a tester has an inlet or a mouthpiece where you should blow. The breathing-out time varies from 2 to 5 seconds. Within a few seconds after that, the device sensor will process the received data, determine how much alcohol is contained in the breath, and show the results on the display.

Q: What is a breathalyser sensor?

A: The sensor is a sensitive detector installed inside the device. A sensor contains a special reacting substance. This element comes into contact with vapours of ethyl alcohol and determines its volume in the exhaled air. Simple testers have semiconductive sensors, while more professional models are fitted with electrochemical ones. The semiconductive sensors are less accurate and they might not work if the temperature drops below 0 °C.

Q: How often should I charge a breathalyzer?

A: There is no need to charge a device, it works on batteries. Just do not forget to replace them in time. The majority of breathalyzers have "battery low indicators", so it won't be a problem.

Q: How many times a day can I use the breathalyzer?

A: It is recommended to use a personal breathalyzer up to 5 times a day, while professional breathalyzers can be used up to 300 times. The sensor of each device is designed for a certain number of uses (from 300 to 1500 blows). Then, it should be replaced or recalibrated. Simple testers need to "rest" for about 20 seconds after blowing, while professional breathalyzers can be used without breaks between blows.

Sources:

1. Breathalyzer, Wikipedia. October 20, 2017.

2. How Does A Breathalyzer Test Work? Forbes. October 13, 2016.

3. Craig Freudenrich How Breathalyzers Work, HowStuffWorks.

4. How to Beat a Breathalyzer, wikiHow.

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Publish Date: 2017-11-02 13:02:34