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...
9. Armando Dobra 6
Armando Dobra 6 Had a good chance in the box immediately after Tranmere's saved penalty but he didn't connect with it and forced a parried save in first-half added-time. Got into other dangerous positions but didn't make the most of them. Photo: Brian Eyre
10. James Berry 7
James Berry 6 Grabbed a terrific assist with an inviting cross which was nodded in by Naylor. Kept plugging away but it was a frustrating second-half and he was withdrawn on 75. Photo: Brian Eyre
11. Lee Bonis 6
Lee Bonis 6 Pressed and harried and caused some panic in the Tranmere ranks but not much of a sniff in front of goal. Off on 85. Photo: Tina Jenner
12. Janoi Donacien 6
Janoi Donacien 6 Replaced McFadzean at half-time. Swept up nicely and was a leader. Photo: Annabel Lee-Ellis