The IT Bear's Buzz Buy Review: Bosch EasyPump - Your Tyre Pressure Pal?
Let's be honest, who enjoys using the air pump at the service station? You pull up, the machine is inevitably wedged in an awkward spot, it's probably covered in grime, and half the time the gauge is broken or you're left guessing if it's even working. You end up driving away wondering if your tyres are better or worse off. Plus, there's the golden rule of tyre pressure: you should always check them when they're cold for an accurate reading. Driving to the servo heats them up, the air expands, and the reading you get is wrong anyway!
Maintaining correct tyre pressure isn't just a chore; it's crucial for your safety on the road and for your wallet. Under-inflated tyres wear out faster, affect your car's handling, and can increase your fuel consumption by up to 3%. With today's petrol prices, that could easily be over $75-$100 wasted each year, just on fuel!
For ages, The IT Bear has been on the hunt for a better way. And I think I've found it: the Bosch EasyPump.
What is it?
The Bosch EasyPump is a compact, rechargeable, cordless air compressor that looks a bit like an oversized electric screwdriver. It's small enough to live in your glovebox or boot, ready for action whenever you need it. You can grab one in NZ from places like Mitre 10.
The Good Stuff
After putting this little gadget through its paces, here's what I love:
So Simple to Use: The digital screen is bright and clear. You use the '+' and '-' buttons to set your desired pressure (in PSI, BAR, or kPa), hit the 'start' button, and it does the rest.
Auto-Stop is a Game Changer: The pump automatically stops once it reaches the pressure you've set. No more guesswork or constantly checking.
Compact and Convenient: It charges via USB-C, just like your phone, and a single charge has been enough for me to top up all four car tyres and a couple of bike tyres. Note that while it comes with the cable, it doesn't include a USB power adaptor, so you'll need to use one you already have.
On-board Storage: It comes with a few adaptors (for bike valves, balls, and inflatables) that cleverly store away in the handle.
Built-in Light: A small LED light near the hose connection is surprisingly handy for finding the valve in a dark garage or at night.
The Not-So-Good Stuff
No gadget is perfect. Online reviews and my own testing show a couple of quirks:
It's Not a Speed Demon: If you're inflating a car tyre from completely flat, be prepared to wait a few minutes. It's designed more for topping up, which it does perfectly.
Small Pump, Small Battery: Because the unit is so compact, the battery isn't huge. If you have multiple tyres that are very low, you might not get all four done on a single charge. This is why it's ideal for regular top-ups, not major re-inflations.
The Screw-on Connector: The hose has a screw-on connector for car valves. It works, but it can be a bit fiddly, and you always lose a little puff of air as you're unscrewing it, which feels counter-intuitive when you're aiming for precision.
A Quick Reminder on Tyre Care
Experts recommend you check your tyre pressure at least once a month and always before a long road trip. The most important thing is to check them when they are cold. This means checking them first thing in the morning, or after your car has been parked for at least three hours. This gives you the most accurate pressure reading.
The IT Bear's Essential Pro-Tip!
That last point about the screw-on connector was a real niggle for me. But thankfully, there's a simple, cheap fix that turns this good gadget into a great one: a quick-release adaptor. You can find these at most hardware or auto-parts stores, or online like this quick-connect air chuck from Amazon.
You screw this little brass fitting onto the end of the Bosch hose once, and from then on, you can simply clamp it onto your tyre valve in a split second. No screwing, no fiddling, and virtually no air loss when you disconnect. It saves time and ensures the pressure you set is the pressure you get. It's a must-have upgrade!
The Verdict: Is it a Buzz Buy?
Absolutely. With the small addition of a quick-release adaptor, the Bosch EasyPump is a certified IT Bear Buzz Buy.
It takes the hassle and guesswork out of a critical part of car maintenance. It's perfect for anyone who wants to ensure their tyres are safe and efficient without the faff of a service station. It's for the tech-lover who appreciates a smart tool that just works, and for the everyday driver who wants peace of mind.
Finding the right gadget and the little accessories that perfect it is exactly what we do. If you're tired of wasting time and money on tech that doesn't quite hit the mark, check out The IT Bear's Buzz Buy service. We do the research, testing, and tweaking to find the perfect appliance or gadget that fits your exact needs and budget. Let us find your next Buzz Buy!
Find out more at www.theitbear.nz/services.