Wirecutter

A digital display is more precise than analog, but the pros we interviewed all use analog gauges.

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The Accutire MS-4021 Digital wasn't the nicest looking gauge in the test, but it gets the job done right more often than any other model we tested. Its ergonomic shape places the driving force of your thumb in line with the tire valve for a consistently accurate reading. The rubber-coated handle is pleasant to the touch and comfortable for a range of hand sizes. The display freezes on your pressure reading, so you don't have to scramble to get a good look at it. The Accutire is accurate to 0.5 PSI, and you can calibrate it at any time. It even works at a lower temperature than most digital gauges, operating from 14 to 122-degrees Fahrenheit. 
The digital display is a reasonable size, but it can still be hard on the eyes. You usually have to pull it away from the tire and angle the rose-colored LCD toward you to read it. Cycling through unit options is also tricky. You have to press and hold the "wake up" button below the valve for several seconds. The Accutire is very lightweight, but this makes it seem cheap. And, when it dies, the three alkaline LR44 1.5V coin batteries are a bit of a pain to switch out. Still, this is our favorite gauge in the review and the best option for most folks' glove boxes. 

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The favorite gauge of all the tire professionals we interviewed.

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Tire Pressure Gauge Buying Guide

The JACO ElitePro is one of the most accurate tire gauges in our tests. We liked its sturdy feel and how easy it was to get a good seal on the tire valve. The 360-degree swivel chuck is deeper than the similar Rhino option, holding the tire valve in place and making it easier to get an accurate reading on the first try. Dial-style gauges also have a few advantages. One is a bleeder valve that shows you how much air you are releasing as you go, and the JACO performs this task well thanks to its secure seal. Another advantage is that these battery-free gauges aren't as affected by cold weather as digital options. The JACO can also glow in the dark for easy night-time readings.
The JACO is well-made, and the "leak-proof" rubber air hose seems durable, as do the brass chuck and connection points. But, while the spiky rubber helps guard this model, dial gauges are less durable by nature. That's worrisome since this gauge is one of the pricier options. The long hose is also bulky, making this a less practical choice for a glove box. If you're looking for an accurate gauge that doesn't require batteries to store in your car, toolbox, or garage, we recommend this one.  

The JACO ElitePro 100 PSI is one of the most accurate tire gauges in our test. We liked its sturdy feel and how easy it was to get a good seal on the tire valve. The 360-degree swivel chuck is deeper than the similar Rhino option, holding the tire valve in place and making it easier to get an accurate reading on the first try. Dial-style gauges also have a few advantages. One is a bleeder valve that shows you how much air you are releasing as you go, and the JACO performs this task well thanks to its secure seal. Another advantage is that these battery-free gauges aren't as affected by cold weather as digital options. The JACO can also glow in the dark for easy night-time readings.
The JACO is well-made, and the "leak-proof" rubber air hose seems durable, as do the brass chuck and connection points. But, while the spiky rubber helps guard this model, dial gauges are less durable by nature. That's worrisome since this gauge is one of the pricier options. The long hose is also bulky, making this a less practical choice for a glove box. If you're looking for an accurate gauge that doesn't require batteries to store in your car, toolbox, or garage, we recommend this one.  

We will probably always keep one of these classic stick gauges in the car as a backup. The Milton S-921 is sturdier than most and made in the USA from plated brass. The main argument for these analog gauges is that they're nearly impossible to break, and their small size lets them slip into even the most overstuffed glove box. With only one moving part and no batteries to drain or freeze in low temperatures, this gauge will work under almost all circumstances. It also has a built-in deflator tab on the back of the gauge, though it won't let you set a specific amount of air to release.
On the downside, stick gauges aren't exact, and the Milton doesn't escape this universal problem. This gauge was consistently one PSI higher than all other gauges tested. In an emergency, it can give you some idea of what is going on with your tires, but it isn't the tool to nail an exact tire pressure. On the positive side, it offers fool-proof operation at a bargain price and a compact size that fits most space restrictions.

We will probably always keep one of these classic stick gauges in the car as a backup. The Milton S-921 Pencil Gauge is sturdier than most and made in the USA from plated brass. What these analog gauges have going for them is that they're nearly impossible to break, and their small size lets them slip into even the most overstuffed glove box. With only one moving part and no batteries to drain or freeze in low temperatures, this gauge will work under almost all circumstances. It also has a built-in deflator tab on the back of the gauge, though it won't let you set a specific amount of air to release.
On the downside, stick gauges aren't exact, and the Milton doesn't escape this universal problem. This gauge was consistently one PSI higher than all other gauges tested. In an emergency, it can give you some idea of what is going on with your tires, but it isn't the tool to nail an exact tire pressure. On the positive side, it offers fool-proof operation at a bargain price and a compact size that fits most space restrictions.

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This is the favored tire gauge of all the professionals we interviewed.

Tire Pressure Gauge Comparison