AlcoMate AccuCell Wired Review

Breathalyzers Tested and Rated

By Robert Capps

You’re drunk. How drunk? Hard to say, since you’re drunk and all. A handheld breathalyzer can help. We got trashed and compared four over-the-counter testers with the California Highway Patrol’s gear to find out which one is the best drinking buddy.

1. AlcoMate AccuCell AL-9000

 
In our tests, not even the next-best AlcoMate Premium AL-7000 could match the wicked consistency of the AlcoMate AccuCell AL-9000. Granted, it reads about 0.01 higher than the police units — but it’s always 0.01 higher.

Thank the fuel-cell sensor — the same tech used in police models — which turns your boozy breath into electrical current that can be precisely measured. We’re guessing that AlcoMate calibrates the device a tad high to keep users on the sober side of legal — probably a good idea when your customers are the kind of people who buy personal breathalyzers.

WIRED Most reliable of the bunch. Audible click tells you when to stop blowing. Small and light. Quick startup. Optional USB kit ($50) lets you download readings to your PC to plot drunkenness over time.

AlcoTester.com Sale Price: $289.99

"Editor's Pick- Rated 9 out of 10- Nearly Flawless, Buy It Now."