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AF-35C vs Lifeloc FC10: which breathalyser is right for you?
We only sell two breathalysers: the Alcofind AF-35C and the Lifeloc FC10. Both use a fuel cell sensor, both are certified to AS 3547, and both give readings you can rely on. So which one should you buy?
The short answer: the AF-35C is for personal use, and the FC10 is for frequent or shared use. Here’s the longer one.
Side by side
| Alcofind AF-35C | Lifeloc FC10 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $199 | $1,265 |
| Best for | Everyday personal checks before you drive | Frequent testing and shared use |
| Sensor | Electrochemical fuel cell | Police-grade fuel cell |
| Testing modes | Active (blow through mouthpiece) | Active + passive (no mouthpiece needed) |
| Time to result | Under 30 seconds | Under 15 seconds |
| Certification | AS 3547 | AS 3547 |
| Build | Compact, pocket-sized | Waterproof, shockproof case |
| Expected lifespan | 2+ years | 10+ years |
| Calibration | Every 12 months or 500 tests | Every 12 months |
| Warranty | 12 months | 12 months |
| Shipping | Free NZ-wide | Free NZ-wide |
What they have in common
Both devices use a fuel cell sensor, the same type of technology used in police breathalysers. Fuel cells react specifically to alcohol, so things like acetone on your breath won’t throw the reading off the way they can with a cheap semiconductor device. (We explain the difference in fuel cell vs semiconductor breathalysers.)
Both are also certified to AS 3547, the Australian Standard for breath alcohol testing devices, and both can be recalibrated through our calibration service with free freight both ways.
The Alcofind AF-35C: for personal use
The AF-35C is the one most people need. It’s small enough to live in a glovebox, bag or jacket pocket, it gives you a result in under 30 seconds, and at $199 it costs less than a single drink driving infringement.
Choose the AF-35C if:
- You want to check yourself before driving after a night out, or the morning after
- It’s for you, or you and your partner
- You’ll use it a few times a week at most
The Lifeloc FC10: for frequent or shared use
The Lifeloc FC10 is a professional instrument. It’s faster (under 15 seconds), it’s built into a waterproof, shockproof case, and it’s designed to last more than 10 years of regular testing.
It also has a passive testing mode, which screens for alcohol without a mouthpiece. That makes it quick and hygienic to test several people in a row.
Choose the FC10 if:
- Several people will share the device
- You test often and want a device you’ll never need to replace
- You simply want the best available
Which costs less over time?
The AF-35C costs much less up front. The FC10 is built to last five times as long, so if you test frequently or need a device for a group, its cost spread over its lifetime narrows the gap considerably. Both need calibrating about once a year to stay accurate.
Still not sure?
If you’re buying for yourself, start with the AF-35C. If you’re buying for a business, or you know you’ll be testing a lot, go straight to the FC10. And if you’d like to talk it through, get in touch — we’re happy to help.
Readings from any breathalyser are a guide. If in doubt, don’t drive.