Rating of the best barometers for 2022

A barometer is a device that measures atmospheric pressure. Its invention happened quite a long time ago, but it is still used in our time. Atmospheric pressure has a significant impact on human health. Some simply do not notice this, while others, on the contrary, may experience headaches and general malaise. Thus, this device should become necessary for a certain group of people, and when the barometer starts to show pressure higher than 750 millimeters of mercury, it is better for especially sensitive people not to leave their homes.

The practical purpose of barometers: pressure and weather

Animals and people can practically not feel the severity of atmospheric pressure, because it is balanced by the pressure in their blood. However, with a decrease/increase in blood pressure, a person may feel unwell, which means that he begins to experience either the pressure of the atmosphere or the pressure of his own blood. The atmospheric pressure itself is not a constant value, because cyclones can be created in the atmosphere - vortices, inside which the pressure can be reduced to 560 millimeters of mercury, or vice versa, be increased to 860 millimeters of mercury. Anticyclones and cyclones are constantly moving around the planet, influencing the well-being of people and determining the change in weather phenomena. A low pressure cyclone is able to attract moisture and bring cloudy weather with rain and snowfall. An anticyclone with high pressure, on the contrary, displaces moisture vapor from its zone and brings with it clear and dry weather. With the help of a barometer, it is possible to measure pressure and predict weather changes.

Having your own barometer, even not an avid fisherman (for whom this device is a 100% necessity), you can find out about weather changes in advance.It can be objected that in our time it is not difficult to find out the weather forecast from reports of weather centers on radio, television or from the Internet. However, there are times when it is easier to use your own device, which is properly adjusted, and get more accurate data from it.

Design features of barometers

By themselves, the measuring instruments in question do not have large dimensions and they will freely fit both in a large country house and in a small studio apartment. Most of the standard models are round, but in today's world, other profiles may also take place. The original models, using a mercury column as a detector, are practically not used today, because they still have an indirect danger. If the instrument is subjected to strong mechanical stress, the mercury bulb may break and the mercury may leak out. The safest are mechanical and other non-liquid samples that do not pose any danger to humans and the environment. The measurement error of such devices is small.

Operating principle

The operation of a barometer is based on the reflection of fluctuations in atmospheric pressure, which are identified by a special detector. Thus, fluid models operate on the basis of hydrostatic principles and are made in the form of communicating vessels. In a cup device, the indicator comes from the height of the column, counted from the cup to the required mark, called the upper meniscus. The siphon device has a tube with a plugged long end. The cup-siphon version is characterized by the presence of two tubes, one of which is open, and the second is supplemented by a cup and closed.

Key parameters of barometers

The following characteristics of the instruments under consideration will be important and should be taken into account when choosing a model:

• Production quality - build quality plays an important role, so the device must have a solid body and not make extraneous sounds during operation.
• Adjustment Screw Position - This screw should be located behind the back of the instrument and is ideally positioned as close to the test port as possible. If the screw is, on the contrary, at a great distance, then you will not have to wait for proper work from the device.
• Bellows dimensions - the accuracy and correctness of the measurements given will depend on its size.
• Clarity of dial designations - the numbers on the dials should be easy to read, have a fairly large size. At the same time, the glass covering the dial should not glare and visually distort the indicators;
• Moisture resistance - this parameter will be especially relevant if you plan to use a barometer in out-of-town trips, for example, fishing. If moisture gets inside the device, then it can not only give incorrect readings, but simply stop functioning.
• Resistance to mechanical stress - this characteristic is especially important for wrist or pocket options, because they, having a small size, very poorly withstand various accidental blows.
• List of options - this indicator is more related to multifunctional watches or digital weather stations. Such devices can produce several different data in one sitting, so several of their options can be configured to display permanently.
• Backlight function - this parameter will be relevant when you plan to use the device frequently at night, for example, on night fishing.
• The trident of the mechanism - it is located in the very center of the scale with numbers. If the arrow is set at around 750 millimeters, then the remaining elements of the trident should occupy a parallel position. This provision states that the device is configured correctly and its performance can be trusted.
• The presence of a hygrometer and a thermometer - some multifunctional variations of barometers can have not only a mercury scale, but also special divisions that correspond to the weather condition (for example, “cloudy” or “clear”). Modern examples may even have a separate scale with a bite indicator for fishermen.
• The possibility of verification and calibration - any device, whether digital or analog, will always require initial adjustment and verification. Such actions should be carried out by checking the data of the local hydrometeorological station. Adjustment is carried out by means of an adjusting screw located on the back of the case.

Modern types of barometers

Today, three main types of devices under consideration are widely used, which differ in the principle of their work:

1. Mercury - they include a vertically mounted glass tube with a scale applied to it. The upper end of the tube is sealed, and the other end is placed in a small bowl of mercury. Such models can be found in physics lessons at school. Barometers that have a similar structure, but use water as the measurement medium, are less accurate.
2. Aneroids - they are a small metal box (aneroid capsule), do not contain any liquids, are made of an alloy of copper and beryllium.The flask is tightly closed, and a change in atmospheric pressure outside the flask causes the internal spring to contract or expand, which moves the hands of the dial.
3. Electronic - the most modern type of device used by both professional meteorologists and ordinary amateurs. The principle of their operation is based on a working sensitive element that monitors changes in air pressure.

Difficulties of choice

Naturally, for domestic needs there is no need to purchase a professional device. It costs a lot of money, but such models are more focused on functionality than aesthetic appearance. However, for any device, the main parameter will be its accuracy. This factor will not always depend on the price of the product, and for domestic needs, a model from the budget segment will suffice. It is worth remembering that for a simple layman there is no need to know about the smallest fluctuations in pressure - only meteorologists need such accuracy. It will be enough to evaluate the average indicators per day, i.e. by calculating the arithmetic mean of the values ​​for the morning, afternoon and evening.

Indicators can be measured in traditional millimeters of mercury and in hectopascals. It all depends on the desire of the owner, i.e. what units are more convenient for him. If we are talking about purchasing a model as a gift, then here it is necessary to correlate the measuring capabilities with the general aesthetic appearance. There may be some cost difference between portable and indoor appliances.

Separately, it is worth evaluating the additional optionality. It can be provided by both analogue and digital devices, the latter being considered more convenient and the former more traditional. Additionally, you need to evaluate the build quality and the popularity of the manufacturer's brand, its reputation.Also not unimportant will be the method of installation, dimensions and total weight.

Installation

Due to the fact that the atmospheric pressure indoors and outdoors are practically the same, and their difference is far from significant, it may seem that the device can be placed anywhere. However, it is not. If the device is placed in places with permanent humidity, then a high error can be provoked. A similar error may occur if the device is installed near sources of powerful heat. The easiest way is to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for installation in order to be able to obtain the most accurate values.

Adjustment

Initially, any barometer is sold in transportable condition, preventing damage. When you turn it on for the first time, you need to correctly set the readings by adjusting the device. In cases where the discrepancies with the data of the local hydrometeorological station exceed 8 millimeters of mercury, additional calibration of the device will be required.

IMPORTANT! If the values ​​are less than the threshold of 8 millimeters, then such a discrepancy is the norm, and the difference may be influenced by the specifics of the local nature or the height of the building.

Adjustment is made using a screwdriver, the width of the slot of which should not exceed the width of the adjusting screw. The specific position and location of the screw may vary. Rotate it in the direction closest to the pointing arrow. All actions must be carried out carefully and without undue effort. In addition to the proper orientation of the arrow itself, you should make sure that the device does not change its values ​​​​when tilted. As a rule, a one-time competent setting will allow the device to work without additional adjustment for several years.

Features of use

If an electronic barometer is used, it will not work with pre-installed batteries (batteries) in continuous mode. Usually, these are cheap batteries, designed more for test mode and do not hold a charge well. Regarding suitable batteries, the manufacturer should give clear recommendations in the instruction manual, which will also spell out how often the barograph needs to be calibrated and the necessary steps to perform this procedure. Separately, it is worth noting that a device with extended functionality will require more power sources than simple samples.

IMPORTANT! Household barometers can work perfectly and efficiently, giving fairly accurate readings in the range from 700 to 800 millimeters of mercury, when located no higher than 300 meters above sea level.

On average, daily changes in pressure levels occur at 10 am and 10 pm - then peak rates are reached. The minimum figures are reached at 4 pm and 4 am. If this rule is not observed, then large-scale meteorological changes are coming.

If the barometer is being used while driving (whether traveling, fishing, or hunting), then the altitude correction should always be used. Pressure, starting from 765 millimeters of mercury, allows us to talk about cloudless and dry weather. This probability increases with increasing pressure. On the contrary, a decrease in pressure will indicate that the imminent appearance of sedimentary phenomena is possible. If the pressure rises quickly and falls just as quickly, then this indicates extreme instability of weather conditions, which in practice means a struggle between cold and warm air masses.

The desired ambient temperature at which the barometer should be used should be between +18 and +22 degrees Celsius, with relative humidity between 20 and 40 percent. Only under these conditions is it possible to achieve the most accurate readings of the device.

Rating of the best barometers for 2022

Budget segment

3rd place: "RST 05774"

An inexpensive and antique-styled barometer in its design, not only showing atmospheric pressure, but also capable of issuing a general weather forecast - a cloudy or sunny day ahead, as well as the likelihood of precipitation or storms. The case of the device is made of polished acrylic, the protective glass of the dial is decorated with rhinestones. It is characterized by the maximum accuracy for its segment. The recommended cost for retail chains is 1970 rubles.

• Stylish design under the beginning of the 20th century;
• Ease of use;
• Can successfully fit into any interior.

• Requires a clear and accurate initial calibration.

2nd place: "BRIG + BM91121"

This non-liquid barometer looks very expensive, and its body is made of solid beech. Available in a variety of colors ranging from dark to light. The body is complemented by decorative carvings and brass inserts. It also has special metal plates for dedicatory engraving. The design uses high-quality measuring mechanisms that give readings in two units - hectopascals and millimeters of mercury. Great option for an anniversary gift. The recommended cost for retail chains is 2700 rubles.

• Double system of an output of results of measurements;
• High-precision measuring mechanisms;
• Stylish design.

• Not detected.

1st place: "UTES BTKSN-8"

This liquid-free bimetallic barograph shows not only the value of atmospheric pressure, but also room temperature. The case itself is made of natural wood, there is a large and comfortable dial with large numbers that are easy to read even from a long distance. All metal elements are made of brass and have an anti-corrosion coating, so a little moisture cannot harm them. The recommended cost for retail chains is 2900 rubles.

• High measurement accuracy;
• Anti-corrosion coating available;
• Stylish design;
• Adequate price.

• Not detected.

Middle price segment

3rd place: "La Crosse WS68Z5"

This device belongs to the group of serious digital devices equipped with a thermal and hydraulic sensor, and in fact is a home weather station. Able to display pressure, internal and external temperature, humidity, date and time, moon phase. It is possible to record and save data in ROM for the past day. Power is possible both from a standard electrical network and from a simple AA battery. The device is characterized by high-quality assembly, all information on the display is reflected in a systematic way and is intuitively configured. It has a high level of noise immunity. The recommended cost for retail chains is 3500 rubles.

• Automatic time synchronization;
• Lots of displayed information;
• Sensitive sensor.

• There is no night illumination.

2nd place: Oregon Scientific BAR208HG

Another representative of the group of digital barographs, capable of predicting the main weather indicators for 12 hours in advance. It has the ability to connect other sensors than those that come with the kit, which will reduce the overall error of all readings. It has an informative screen that can be removed from the transmitting sensors by 30 meters. In addition to the main indicators, it is able to predict drought, storms, fogs and frosts. The device can independently memorize the lowest and highest readings and build long-term forecasts based on them. The lunar calendar, clock and alarm clock for this unit are a matter of course. The recommended cost for retail chains is 3600 rubles.

• Multifunctionality;
• Low energy consumption;
• Ability to improve accuracy.

• Short backlight time - only 5 seconds.

1st place: "Tomas Stern 2058"

Another representative of the category of gift models. The country of origin is Germany, it can give readings in millimeters of mercury and hectopascals. The body is made of solid wood, and the internal measuring mechanism is particularly accurate. With proper initial calibration, re-tuning may not be necessary for several years. If the height above sea level is exceeded by more than 300 meters, a refinement will be required. The recommended cost for retail chains is 4100 rubles.

• Accurate measurement mechanism;
• Rugged housing;
• Reliable performance.

• May require additional calibration in some cases.

Premium class

3rd place: "BRIG + M-73 with clock"

An extremely functional and stylish model that combines a thermometer, clock and barograph. The case is made of natural wood, carefully polished and decorated with carvings. The model is stylized antique and will perfectly fit into any classic interior. The measuring mechanism will require only an initial competent calibration, after which it can work for years without additional settings. Measurement accuracy is guaranteed. The recommended price for retail chains is 6400 rubles.

• Accurate measuring mechanism;
• Classic versatility;
• Stylish design.

• Overcharge.

2nd place: "Dalvey 00632"

Extremely expensive, but very high quality and stylish barometer model for personal use. The case is made of stainless steel and decorated with natural leather in some places. Can be placed on a bedside table or can be used as a camping fishing tool. An improved Swiss-made mechanism is responsible for the special accuracy of the readings. The recommended cost for retail chains is 9300 rubles.

• High-quality case;
• Can be used both at home and on the go
• Famous Swiss precision.

• Overpriced.

1st place: "Kweller S-8200"

This model can be called a professional home weather station. Communication with remote sensors can be maintained both by wire and be wireless (stable reception is provided at a distance of 100 meters). Work is possible not only from the battery, but also from the network. The device differs in high-quality assembly and the shock-resistant case.The external gust vane can withstand wind speeds of up to 50 meters per second, and the external rain gauges are water-resistant. The measuring panel, which controls the level of solar activity, has a high protection against ultraviolet radiation. The base unit has an informative device that shows the current general weather dynamics in one part, and separate readings for each atmospheric parameter in the other part (about 10 values ​​in total). The device remembers the entire history of the received readings, starting from the first switch on. There is integration with a computer mediocre own software "Prostaya Pogoda +". The manufacturer has set an extended warranty for the device at 2 years. The recommended cost for retail chains is 11,200 rubles.

• Adequate price for great functionality;
• Ability to connect to a PC;
• Simple use;
• Wireless reading.

• Not detected.

Instead of an epilogue

An analysis of the market of the devices in question allows us to clearly divide it into professional samples and samples that have a decorative purpose. Moreover, the latter can cost even more than the former, despite their analog device. The whole point lies in the material of the case - style and design are primarily important for it, when, on the contrary, a model that has more functionality and uses digital mechanics is enclosed in a plastic case.