Tire pressure gauges

The Accutire MS-4004B is part of the tire pressure gauge test program at Consumer Reports. In our lab tests, tire pressure gauge models like the MS-4004B are rated on multiple criteria, such as those listed below.

Type:

Stick-type pressure gauges resemble a ballpoint pen are simple and compact, and don't need batteries. Pressure is read off of a sliding scale proportional to the air pressure.

Digital gauges have an electronic LCD readout, like a pocket calculator's. That makes them easier to read than the scale on a stick-type gauge. Some digital readouts light up. That's handy for checking pressure in low-light conditions.

Dial gauges, the other main type, have an analog dial like a clock face. Most are easy to read but those with an extension hose take two hands to operate. Some come with an extension hose, and they are often more feature-laden than pocket-sized gauges with a bleeder valve and dual-scale dial.

Accuracy:

Accuracy is based on a comparison of each model against a known calibrated master gauge at various pressures, and at cold, room, and hot temperatures. Cold and hot temperatures simulated storing the gauge in a car in winter and summer temperatures.

Ease of use:

Ease of use is primarily an assessment of pressure readability and how easy is it to take a pressure reading on an inflated tire.