How does the best blood pressure monitor Beurer BM55 perform? Detailed review here!

Description

Unpacking and First Impressions

As someone who needs to regularly monitor blood pressure, I’ve tried a fair share of devices over the years. The Beurer BM55 caught my attention due to its sleek design and the promise of ease of use with its extra-large backlit display. Unboxing it, I immediately noticed the thoughtful inclusions: the monitor, a universal cuff, four AA batteries, and a storage case. It felt lightweight yet sturdy, and the LCD backlit screen looked modern, almost futuristic compared to older models I’ve used.

The instructions were straightforward, and setting it up was a breeze. I managed to get it working within minutes, which was a refreshing change from some overly complicated monitors. My cousin, who occasionally borrows my health gadgets, also found it intuitive to use without needing me to guide them.

Daily Use and Features

Using the device daily has been a mostly positive experience. The cuff, which fits upper arm circumferences from 22 to 42 cm, is comfortable and easy to adjust. I often use it on my left arm, but my partner, who prefers their right arm, found the positioning of the inflation tube a bit awkward. It’s a minor gripe, but it’s worth mentioning for right-handed users.

One of my favorite features is the patented resting indicator. It tells you if your arm is in the correct position, which is great for ensuring accurate readings. In the mornings, when I’m still groggy, this feature has been a lifesaver. The machine also averages morning and evening readings, which gives a more comprehensive view of blood pressure trends. This is especially useful for someone like my father, whose readings tend to fluctuate throughout the day.

Additionally, the color-coded risk indicator simplifies interpreting results. My mother, who isn’t particularly tech-savvy, could easily understand her readings without having to Google what the numbers meant. The device can store up to 120 readings for two users, which works perfectly for households with multiple people needing regular monitoring.

Pros

• Accurate and Reliable: The readings consistently matched those from my doctor’s office.
• User-Friendly Design: The one-touch operation and large backlit display make it simple to use, even for older adults.
• Arrhythmia Detection: This feature beeps when an irregular heartbeat is detected, offering peace of mind.
• Comfortable Cuff: The universal cuff is soft and adjusts easily to various arm sizes.
• Memory Storage: Keeps data for two users, making it ideal for sharing.

Cons

• Lack of Bluetooth Connectivity: It doesn’t sync with my phone, which would’ve been handy for tracking trends over time.
• Inflation Tube Length: The tube feels slightly short for right-arm users, leading to a bit of a tug during use.
• Cuff Durability: While it’s comfortable, I noticed that fastening it tightly enough for larger arms might require extra effort.
• Speed of Deflation: The cuff deflates slightly slower than other devices I’ve tried, which can be a tad annoying during busy mornings.
• Portability: Despite the storage case, the device feels more suited for home use than travel.

Comparison to Competitors

Having owned Omron and A&D monitors in the past, the Beurer BM55 stands out for its simplified usability and modern design. While Omron devices often boast Bluetooth connectivity, they tend to sacrifice simplicity for advanced features. The BM55, on the other hand, feels less intimidating for daily users who don’t want to fiddle with smartphone apps.

Compared to budget-friendly options, the BM55’s accuracy and build quality are superior. However, the absence of Bluetooth might push tech enthusiasts toward pricier competitors like Withings or iHealth, which integrate seamlessly with apps. Where the BM55 truly excels is in its intuitive design, making it a fantastic choice for older users or those new to blood pressure monitoring.

Cost Analysis and Value for Money

In terms of value, the Beurer BM55 sits in a comfortable middle ground. It’s not the cheapest on the market, but it offers features that justify its price point. The inclusion of batteries and a storage case adds convenience, and the accuracy rivals that of more expensive models.

For those who prioritize ease of use and reliability over advanced connectivity, it’s a worthwhile investment. Families or couples will particularly appreciate the dual-user memory function, which maximizes the device’s utility without requiring separate devices. While it lacks some bells and whistles, the BM55 delivers where it matters most: dependable performance and user-friendly operation.

Additional information