Ryan Boot saved a penalty from Omari Patrick after Kyle McFadzean was punished for a foul and the hosts made the visitors pay just before half-time when Tom Naylor headed in James Berry’s inviting cross.
But Sam Finley equalised on 53 minutes, applying a first-time finish from inside the area, which was Tranmere’s first goal in six matches.
Naylor went close with two more headers late on but the Spireites did not do enough to deserve all three points against a Tranmere side who had lost nine of their previous 10 games.
The result means Chesterfield stay seventh in League Two.
Here are our player ratings from the game...
1. Ryan Boot 8
Ryan Boot Got down low to tip around the post from Brough and then saved Patrick's penalty, diving to his left to parry away. Took the pressure off with catches from corners. Finley's equaliser was the first he has conceded in three-and-a-half matches but there was nothing he could do about it. Photo: Tina Jenner
2. Sam Curtis 5
Sam Curtis 5 One inviting cross deserved a finish. On the end of a nasty head injury towards the end of the first-half but was okay to continue. Got caught narrow for the equaliser, allowing the cross to come in. Photo: Submitted
3. Kyle McFadzean 5
Kyle McFadzean 5 Gave away a penalty in the first-half but Boot got him out of trouble. Had been booked and came off at the break. Photo: Brian Eyre
4. Sil Swinkels 6
Sil Swinkels 6 Anticipated first contacts well, some slight hesitancy in other moments. Took no chances with his clearances in the wind in the second 45. Photo: Brian Eyre