We can improve our off-road driving performance by using the best inclinometers. This improves driving safety and helps with speed control.
The six best off-road inclinometers include the following.
- Rugged Ridge Inclinometer
- Autool Digital Inclinometer
- Lufi Off-Road Inclinometer
- Allsor Smart Digital Inclinometer
- Sun Company Navigat'r 6 Inclinometer
- Mr. Cartool Digital Inclinometer
These devices will measure angles and slopes on off-road terrain. This is essential when adventuring through off-road trails and other rugged conditions. Luckily, we have found inclinometers that make this easier and safer. Keep reading to find the best products.
Key Takeaways
- The three best off-road inclinometer devices are the Rugged Ridge Inclinometer, Autool Digital Inclinometer, and Lufi Off-Road Inclinometer.
- We recommend using an off-road inclinometer because it increases driving safety, adds a nice design to the inside of the vehicle, and helps us to monitor land conditions better.
- The Allsor Smart Digital Inclinometer, Sun Company Navigat'r 6 Inclinometer, and Mr. Cartool Digital Inclinometer are also reliable options.
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6 Best Off-Road Inclinometers
Inclinometers are a must-have for off-roading enthusiasts and 4x4 drivers. We prefer to use these devices with a large digital display to make reading and predicting conditions easier.
They will also measure incline or decline angles. This can allow us to determine the safest approach angle when tackling challenging terrain. Knowing the angle of ascent or descent can help you remain safe while pushing the limits on some of nature’s most rugged terrain.
We’ll take a look at some of the best options available today. Our goal is to help readers make an informed purchasing decision.
1. Rugged Ridge Inclinometer
The Rugged Ridge Inclinometer is the perfect accessory for our rig. This handy device helps measure a vehicle's angle of climb or descent, ensuring that you get the most out of your off-roading experience.
This gadget has easily readable gradients along its edge, with measurements ranging from 0° up to 60° in both directions. This allows us to gauge every aspect of the ride accurately. The compact size makes it easy to store and transport. It can be brought on any outdoor excursion.
This device also features a Pitch and Roll dial. This makes it easy to read and adjust. It's also universal with excellent reading for off-camber and inclines or declines. It's also waterproof and dustproof, providing all-weather protection for long-lasting performance.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Durable with fast readings
- Pitch and Roll dial is user friendly
- Provides a wide range of measurements
Cons
- The mounting hardware could provide better durability
2. Autool Digital Inclinometer
The Autool Digital Inclinometer is an invaluable tool for measuring the angle of any surface. This compact and easy-to-use device can help you accurately assess angles and slopes quickly and easily while on the move.
This device offers accuracy up to 0.1° with fast readings and multiple angles that can be auto-calibrated whenever needed. It also has a low profile design so it fits into tight spots and comes with an adjustable handle for convenient one-handed use when necessary.
The display is clear and easy to read, even in low light conditions, while its rugged construction ensures long lasting durability under all types of weather or usage conditions. There is a 3-1 alarm system too.
This feature can show the angle pitch and title angles clearly. When they change or speed gets too high on a specific angle, it alerts the driver to slow down or make an adjustment. It’s one of the great safety tools worth using.
Pros
- Three year warranty
- HD LCD display with high resolution readings and a light sensor
- Integrated GPS module
- 3 in 1 alarm system
- Muli-functional with a compass, speedometer, etc.
Cons
- I don’t like that the tilt is in 5 degree increments
- Brightness settings are difficult to adjust
3. Lufi Off-Road Inclinometer
The Lufi Off-Road Inclinometer offers superior accuracy with its tilt sensors and ultra precise measurement capabilities. This allows users to get a clear picture of how steep hills are, as well as other obstacles that could be encountered on your off-roading trips.
The inclinometer also features an indicator light, helping you easily identify when your vehicle is at dangerous inclines or declines. Plus, it can work with old cars because of the various features and readings it’s capable of.
With its large digital display, this inclinometer gives you quick access to real time measurements no matter where we go. Not only does it provide vital information about terrain changes but its built in barometric pressure adjustment ensures accurate readings even in changing weather conditions.
Pros
- Reliable construction with easy to use mounting hardware
- Advanced technology for accurate readings
- Intuitive design to make off-roading easier
Cons
- May require extra training to use correctly
4. Allsor Smart Digital Inclinometer
The Allsor Smart Digital Inclinometer offers users accurate readings with a range between inclinometer range is ‑40° ‑ +40°. It also has real-time monitoring for various vehicle issues, like battery voltage.
The device provides easy to read figures straight away via its LCD screen which makes it ideal for anyone ranging from beginners to experienced drivers who want quick information from their environment without wasting time guessing or stretching strings across objects.
This digital inclinometer is designed to help us measure the slopes and angles of our off-road driving trails and obstacles. It features a highly sensitive accelerometer that can detect every bump, dip, and angle on any terrain.
The accurate measurements make it easier than ever for drivers. I've never had an issue when using this product and highly recommend it for quick readings and solid durability.
Pros
- Rechargeable, internal battery
- Waterproof IP67 rating
- Accurate measurements keep you safe on the trail
- Compact size makes it easy to bring anywhere
Cons
- The alarm alerts feature is consistent
5. Sun Company Navigat'r 6 Inclinometer
The Sun Company Navigat'r 6 Inclinometer has a unique design and it's much more advanced than the average option. I would only recommend using this in a larger off-road SUV or truck.
It includes three rings which indicate different levels of tilt when used on uneven ground. The red ring indicates 20° tilt from horizontal, while yellow reads 40°, and green measures a full 60° from horizontal.
There is also an LCD display on the instrument's face that shows digital readings of slope angles up to 90° . Additionally, this ultra-lightweight device can easily slip into your pocket without taking up too much space or adding extra weight to your kit during outdoor trips.
Overall, it has six total functions. It can work as an altimeter, barometer, ball compass, dial thermometer, LED light, and signal mirror. The high price tag is worth these advanced features.
Pros
- Accurate measurements with adjustable bubble vial technology
- Robust construction
- Highly reliable and easy to use
Cons
- Expensive compared to other inclinometers available on the market
6. Mr. Cartool Digital Inclinometer
The Mr. Cartool Digital Inclinometer combines advanced technology with easy to use features. This gives users precision measurements throughout their off-roading journey.
I loved how well this device measured angles of approach, side slopes and departure angles. It's easily one of the best tools on the market. This handy device makes off-roading safety easier and more accurate than ever before.
What really sets this digital inclinometer apart from other similar products are its special features like auto calibration compensation. This guarantees accuracy when measuring angles at all times.
It also has eight functions, a safety alarm, three adjustable dials, and a GPS module. The high-precision GPS signal was impressive because it can monitor the driving conditions in real time.
Pros
- Bright LED display for reading measurements in low light conditions
- Three preset readings for different applications
- Eight different measuring functions
Cons
- Can be difficult to set up correctly for inexperienced users
What's The Difference?: Inclinometer vs. Clinometer
A clinometer and an inclinometer both measure angles of inclination, but they are definitely not the same thing. The main difference between a clinometer and an inclinometer is the type of measurements they are used for.
A clinometer is a tool that measures vertical angles such as slopes, heights, steepness of ascents/descents, and azimuths. It typically consists of two arms attached to handles with a spirit level in between them which acts as the reference point for measuring levels of inclination.
An inclinometer is designed for measuring static angles, such as the tilt of surfaces and objects in various directions. It comprises an X-axis pointing from left to right & Y axis pointing from front to back on either side.
Each tool can be used similarly by off-road drivers. They can get hooked up and mounted on the vehicle to display the current angle incline of the terrain.
So while they may be slightly different for off-road driving purposes, they work the same.
How To Use An Off-Road Inclinometer
Follow these steps to use an off-road inclinometer. It’s a simple and easy device to use, but it must be properly set up to get the best and most accurate results.
Step One: Install & Mount The Device
First, we need to install and mount the device inside the vehicle. Park on a flat surface when doing this to properly stabilize the inclinometer. It can get a better reading this way.
Mount the inclinometer onto the vehicle using mounting hardware, ensuring it is securely affixed in place for optimal readings and safety. This may require drilling holes depending on where it gets mounted.
Depending on the device, it should include screws or some form of adhesive for mounting on the dashboard area.
Step Two: Read & Review The Instructions
Always take time to read and review the instructions for an inclinometer device. They all have something unique - whether it is installation instructions or settings adjustments.
This will also make installing the device easier. For example, some inclinometers are multi-purpose devices with altimeter, compass, and barometer readings too.
Step Three: Test The Readings
Check the angles indicated by the off-road inclinometer at intervals throughout the ride in order to measure changes in elevation as they occur. This is the best way to test the readings in real time.
We can also make note of readings taken from stationary positions such as parked vehicles. This will help you get an idea of the current terrain before setting off on a journey and allow you to better plan ahead accordingly.
Step Four: Hit The Off-Road Trails
Once we feel like the inclinometer is working the way it should, we can finally head off adventuring on the trails with more confidence.
Do Off-Road Inclinometer Apps Work Well?
It’s important to differentiate a traditional inclinometer tool and an off-road device. They are much different in the way they function, but the goal is the same. To provide a proper reading of the terrain, slope, altitude, etc.
And with the advancement of mobile devices, we also can access inclinometer apps like this one. However, I was not impressed with the results while using it.
I found it to be inaccurate and unreliable. The data was incorrect and I was not getting proper readings fast enough while driving. It’s much easier to install one inside the vehicle because it works faster with more accuracy.