Choosing the Right Breathalyzer for Personal Use: C6 vs S80

Maintaining control over your blood alcohol content (BAC) isn’t just for professionals—it’s essential for anyone who drives, works, or lives with responsibility. Breathalyzers help you make informed, safe decisions.

LTS Team

7/2/20251 min read

Why Self‑Monitoring Matters

Maintaining control over your blood alcohol content (BAC) isn’t just for professionals—it’s essential for anyone who drives, works, or lives with responsibility. Breathalyzers help you make informed, safe decisions.

1. BACtrack C6 Keychain Breathalyzer

A portable, app-connected breathalyzer using professional-grade BluFire fuel-cell sensor technology. Compact like a pack of gum, it connects to your phone and estimates “ZeroLine” time—telling you when your BAC will reach zero .

“Works like a charm — very accurate and very portable!” bestbuy.com

✓ Ideal for: quick checks before driving, social outings, weekend plans.


🔗 Buy BACtrack C6 Keychain Breathalyzer

2. BACtrack S80 Professional Breathalyzer

A larger standalone unit with police-grade Xtend fuel-cell sensor, DOT/NHTSA and FDA 510(k) approvals. Wirecutter named it the #1 most accurate personal breathalyzer after rigorous testing with law enforcement-grade devices .

“Police-grade accuracy… easy one-touch operation.”

✓ Ideal for: employers, legal professionals, high-stakes monitoring.


🔗 Buy BACtrack S80 Professional Breathalyzer

3. How to Choose Which One Suits You

Choose C6 if you want…

  • Keychain portability and smartphone integration

  • Quick, reliable readings on the go

  • Budget-friendly, under $80

Choose S80 if you need…

  • Law-grade accuracy for compliance or work

  • A standalone device with LCD display

  • Certifications for DOT/NHTSA/FDA benchmarks

4. FAQs About Breathalyzer Use

Do these devices need recalibration?
Both units require recalibration for accuracy. The S80 should be serviced every 6–12 months or after ~200 uses , while the C6 follows manufacturer guidelines.

Are they legal for workplace use?
Yes, the S80’s DOT/NHTSA approval makes it suitable for official screenings. The C6 is best for personal use or informal checks.

What about warm-up time?
The C6 heats up in just ~5 seconds; the S80 takes around 10–15 seconds—but accuracy benefits from this wait .

5. Final Takeaway

  • Need maximum accuracy and legal validity? Choose the S80.

  • Looking for portability and convenience? Go with the C6.

Both support responsible alcohol use and align perfectly with Lab Testing Solutions’ ethos of empowering informed, safe decisions.