How to Choose a Breathalyzer

Once you’ve learned a breathalyzer is a valuable purchase to ensure personal safety and the safety of others, how do choose which model will meet your needs?

We’ve simplified the process of selecting a breathalyzer by categorizing all models into one of two categories: Personal Breathalyzers, which use semiconductor oxide sensors, and Professional Breathalyzers, such as the BACtrack S80 Pro, BACtrack S75 Pro, and BACtrack Element, which use fuel cell sensors.

Which Breathalyzer Model is Right for Me?

If you are interested in getting the highest level of accuracy in your readings, our recommendation is to spend the extra money on a Professional level breathalyzer, such as the BACtrack S80 Pro, BACtrack S75 Pro, and BACtrack Element, that uses fuel cell sensor technology. These breathalyzers offer the same advanced technology used by law enforcement for preliminary screenings for a fraction of what they have previously cost. Law enforcement, substance abuse centers, clinics and businesses typically purchase these models, although they are often purchased for individual use too.

If you are more concerned with alcohol detection, the presence of alcohol versus the precise measurement of %BAC, a semiconductor oxide unit is likely satisfactory for your needs. These models are often used for self-testing or testing friends and family. The quality of these breathalyzers is far above novelty grade breathalyzers and they are both affordable and accurate.

Read our Frequently Asked Questions to learn more about the differences between Professional and Personal breathalyzers, and see our product detail pages with more information and customer reviews.

If you currently have a breathalyzer and would like to upgrade, check out the Breathalyzer.net Trade-In and Save Program to see how you can get a generous discount on a new BACtrack breathalyzer with fuel cell sensor technology.


Feel free to call or email as well – our contact information is at the top of every page and we’re here to help you anytime!


BACtrack® Breathalyzer Series Comparison Chart
PROFESSIONAL SERIES     CONSUMER SERIES     KEYCHAIN
    BACtrack S80 BACtrack S75 BACtrack Element BACtrack B70 BACtrack S50 BACtrack S30
Model BACtrack S80 Pro BACtrack S75 Pro BACtrack Element BACtrack B70 BACtrack S50 BACtrack S30 BACtrack Keychain
 Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price  $249.99  $199.99  $169.99  $99.99  $79.99  $69.99  $39.99/ea.
  Breathalyzer.net Price  $149.99  $129.99  $129.95  $ 79.99  $59.99 $49.99 $29.99/ea.
Sensor  Technology Xtend™ ElectroChemical Fuel Cell Sensor Xtend™ ElectroChemical Fuel Cell Sensor Xtend™ ElectroChemical Fuel Cell Sensor BluFire Technology Advanced Semiconductor Advanced MicroCheck™ Technology Advanced Semiconductor Technology
Key Features Police-grade fuel cell sensor with internal pump system.  The most accurate fuel cell sensor breathalyzer from BACtrack. Police-grade fuel cell sensor with internal pump system, and a unique front-facing mouthpiece for ease of use. The smallest and most affordable police-grade fuel cell sensor with internal pump system.  Easy testing by exhaling into the dual flow breath chamber, so mouthpieces are not necessary.  Compact size and sleek design. Rugged design, included ruby-red LED for low light situations; affordable price. Very small size; affordable price. Keychain ring, miniature size and low cost.
Appropriate Users Law Enforcement, Corrections, DOT Alcohol Screening, Military, Hospitals, Clinics, Businesses, Schools, Personal Use Law Enforcement, Corrections, DOT Alcohol Screening, Military, Hospitals, Clinics, Businesses, Schools, Personal Use Law Enforcement, Corrections, DOT Alcohol Screening, Military, Hospitals, Clinics, Businesses, Schools, Personal Use Personal Use Personal Use Personal Use Personal Use
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Automatic Internal Breath Pump Yes Yes Yes No No No No
Number of Decimal Places Displayed in Test Result Three (0.000 %BAC) Three (0.000 %BAC) Three (0.000 %BAC) Two (0.00 %BAC) Two (0.00 %BAC) Two (0.00 %BAC) Two (0.00 %BAC). 
Dimensions 2.3 x 4.8 x 0.8 inches 2.3 x 4.8 x 1.0 inches 2.0 x 4.75 x 0.75 inches 4.25 x 1.63 x 0.81 inches 2.3 x 4.5 x 1.0 inches 1.33 x 4.05 x 0.98 inches 1.45 x 0.55 x 2.44 inches
Weight 4.8 oz (136g) 4.4 oz (125g) 4.4 oz (119g) 1.4 oz (39.7g) 3.88 oz (110g) 1.87 oz (53g) 2.0 oz (5.7 g)
Number of Mouthpieces Included 6 6 5 Not Applicable 6 2 3
Power Source 2 AA Batteries, included 2 AA Batteries, included 2 AAA Batteries,  included 2 AA Batteries,  not included 2 AA Batteries,  included 2 AAA Batteries,  included 1 AAA Battery, included
Warranty Full One-year Warranty Full One-year Warranty Full One-year Warranty Full One-year Warranty Full One-year Warranty Full One-year Warranty Full One-year Warranty.