Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsThe “$20 Digital Boost Gauge” is a do-it-yourself Arduino project, not a ready-made gauge—and its title does not establish a current $20 build cost. The 2021 project pages list the core components and link to schematics and code, but do not provide a dated, itemized budget or enough sensor specifications to confirm that any substitute part will work.
What the $20 Digital Boost Gauge is
Automotive hobbyist daytona959 published the project on Arduino Project Hub on September 12, 2021, with a related Hackster.io page dated September 14, 2021. Both describe a DIY digital boost gauge built around an Arduino Nano, a pressure sensor, an OLED screen and a voltage regulator. It is a project to reproduce from its documentation, not a named commercial gauge model. (Arduino Project Hub; Hackster.io)
Parts listed for the project
| Component | What the project pages specify | What to verify before substituting |
|---|---|---|
| Arduino Nano | Arduino Project Hub lists an Arduino Nano; Hackster specifies an Arduino Nano ATmega328P. | Check the board against the project’s schematic and code. |
| Boost pressure sensor | Listed as a boost pressure sensor; exact model, pressure range, output type and interface are not stated in the visible component lists. | Match the sensor’s measurement range, electrical output and pressure connection to the project’s documentation and code. A generic boost sensor is not established as a drop-in replacement. |
| OLED display module | 1.3-inch OLED display module. | Confirm the interface, voltage and pinout against the schematic and code. |
| LM2596 regulator | LM2596 power supply voltage regulator. | Confirm that its input/output behavior fits the project’s wiring. |
The component names are not a fully specified purchasing list: in particular, the sensor’s exact model and electrical details are not identified in the visible listings. The source pages do not establish compatibility for arbitrary boards or replacement modules.
Where to find schematics and code
The Arduino Project Hub page references downloadable files and breadboard and assembled schematics. Hackster labels the build intermediate, provides a code section and says full instructions are available. It also says the project accompanies a YouTube series with more assembly and coding detail. Use those project materials as the authority for wiring and implementation rather than inferring connections from the component names alone.
#1 Best Overall
- Crystal-Clear LED Display for Day & Night: Features a bright 2-1/16" red LED display offering exceptional visibility in all lighting conditions, especially crucial for nighttime driving, with clear readings for both boost (0-35 PSI) and vacuum (-30 to 0 inHg)
- Enhanced Safety with Programmable Alarm: Allows users to set custom warning thresholds (via the intuitive WARN/PEAK buttons) for boost or vacuum levels, providing an immediate visual alert to prevent potential engine damage from over-boost or excessive vacuum
- Easy to Install: Comes ready-to-install with the essential electronic pressure sensor, pre-wired power harness, mounting bracket, and hardware, ensuring a straightforward setup for enthusiasts following the included instructions.Perfect for cars and trucks etc
- Dual-Function Precision Monitoring: Provides accurate, real-time readings of both turbo/supercharger boost pressure and engine vacuum levels, eliminating the need for separate gauges and offering comprehensive engine performance insights
- Rugged Design Built for Automotive Use: Engineered specifically for 12V/24V DC vehicle electrical systems with a durable ABS plastic housing (52mm / 2-1/16" diameter), ensuring reliable performance and longevity in the demanding automotive environment
- Arduino Project Hub: project page, downloadable files and schematics
- Hackster.io: project instructions, schematic references and code section
Does the complete build still cost $20?
That is not established by the available project pages. “$20” appears in the title, but the pages do not show an itemized bill of materials, a currency basis, component prices and their date, or which hardware the figure includes. Treat the amount as historical title framing, not a current total-cost promise; parts pricing and availability can change.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to know before building
The project pages describe the parts and documentation but do not establish accuracy, response time, reliability or compatibility across vehicles. They also do not provide enough sensor detail in the visible component lists to prescribe a replacement or vehicle installation. Consult the complete project documentation and vehicle-specific information before choosing parts or making any automotive connections.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Boost Gauge is Designed to Monitor Boost Pressure & Vacuum Compression Levels of Your Car's Turbo or Supercharged Engine
- Boost Readings from 0 to 35 PSI & Vacuum Readings from -30 to 0 inHg - 2-1/16" (52mm) Gauge with Red LED Digital Display
- Easily display at night:Our Turbo Boost Gauge is highly visible with a RED Light,easy viewing at all angles during any lighting conditions,practically and safely when driving at night
- Includes Boost Sensor and Power Harness and Installation Instructions
- One Year Limited Warranty For Non-Human Factor Damage & Free Lifetime Technical Support.
Rank #4
- Easy Installation: Comes with Power Wire and installation instructions, make the install process quick and easy
- Backlight：Boost gauge with a blue backlight, easy to view from all angles when driving at night or any lighting condition
- Compatibility: Our Boost gauge is used for 12V cars
- Range：Boost Gauge reads from -30 to 30psi
- Package Include：1 X Digital LED Boost Gauge;1 X New Boost Sensor;1 X Sensor Cable;1 X Gauge Cable;1 X English installation instruction. if you have any questions, please contact us, we will be within 24 hours for you to answer
Rank #3
- GlowShift 10 Color Digital Series 45 PSI Boost/Vacuum Gauge is Designed to Monitor Boost Pressure & Vacuum Compression Levels of Your Car's Turbo or Supercharged Engine
- Boost Readings from 0 to 45 PSI & Vacuum Readings from -30 to 0 inHg - 2-1/16" (52mm) Diameter Gauge with a Black Face, Ultra-Bright Digital LED Display, Tinted Lens, Matte Black Trim Ring & Aluminum Housing
- Quick-Glance & Easy to Read Digital Display with 10 Selectable Solid Color Modes & 2 Color Cycle Modes - Self-Calibration at Startup Ensures that the Gauge is Performing Optimally
- Includes Electronic Pressure Sensor, 9' Sensor Harness, 2' Power Harness, 6' Clear Vacuum Line, 1/8" T-Fitting, Air Filter, Gauge Visor, Mounting Bracket, Mounting Bracket Hardware & Step-By-Step Instructions that Help Walk You Through the Installation Process
- Established Since 2004, GlowShift Has Always Been Committed to Customer Satisfaction by Offering a One-Year Limited Warranty, Free Lifetime Technical Support & 30 Day No Hassle Returns with Each Purchase
Rank #2
- GlowShift Tinted 7 Color Series 30 PSI Mechanical Boost/Vacuum Gauge is Designed to Monitor Boost Pressure & Vacuum Compression Levels of Your Car's Turbo or Supercharged Engine
- Mechanical Boost Readings from 0 to 30 PSI & Vacuum Readings from -30 to 0 inHg - 2-1/16" (52mm) Diameter Gauge with a Black Dial, Illuminated Red Needle, Tinted Lens, Matte Black Trim Ring & Aluminum Housing
- 7 Solid Color Modes & 2 Color Cycle Modes Allow You to Match Your Factory Dashboard Lights or Add a Custom Style to the Interior of Your Vehicle - Colors Include Blue, Red, Green, Teal, Purple, White & Yellow - Connecting the Dimmer Wire to the Headlight Switch Reduces Brightness of the Gauge by 30% When the Headlights are On
- Includes 6' Silicone Hose, 1/8" T-Fitting, 2 Hose Clamps, 2' Power Wire, Gauge Visor, Mounting Bracket, Mounting Bracket Hardware & Step-By-Step Instructions that Help Walk You Through the Installation Process
- Established Since 2004, GlowShift Has Always Been Committed to Customer Satisfaction by Offering a One-Year Limited Warranty, Free Lifetime Technical Support & 30 Day No Hassle Returns with Each Purchase
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
