Are you sure you are not overpaying when buying electronic gadgets like mp3 players, smartphones and laptops? Gadgets have become quite affordable in recent years. However, there are still tactics sellers use to sneak in a couple of hundred dollars extra in the price tag. If you want to make sure you are paying the right price, keep the following in mind when buying a gadget:
Compare Prices
You see a 50 percent off deal for a gadget on one site. That’s great right? Maybe not. You must always compare prices between different sites before buying a gadget. It’s always possible that some other merchant is selling the same item for a far cheaper price. Also, do not easily fall for sales claims on sites. The discounted rates are calculated based on previous prices listed on the site, not the cheapest price you can get for the product in the market. So, do spend some time to browse price comparison charts. Your wallet will thank you later.
Choose Unbranded Products or Little Known Brands
Here’s the dirty secret about all branded products: the consumer always has to pay extra for the brand. Just because a product carries the name of a famous brand, that does not make the product to be of higher quality than others. You can buy a number of great gadgets at budget prices unbranded. There are also relatively unknown brands that sell products comparable to big-name brands. For example, MSI is a budget range but quality brand for gaming laptops that can be compared to more popular Alienware laptops. In fact, some of the best gaming laptops under $1000 are made by MSI. So, do not hesitate to choose products from little known brands. Read the customer reviews and compare specs before you buy to make sure you end up with a top-notch product.
Don’t Buy Recently Released Gadgets
There are several disadvantages to buying a gadget as soon as the product is released. Mainly, you will have to pay a premium price just for the newness. Secondly, recently released products may contain glitches or flaws that later releases fix. So, you can save money and end up with a better product by waiting. Don’t buy into the hype or give into the social pressure to run off and buy a gadget the moment it is released. Wait until the prices go down and save your money.
Choose Refurbished
In case you really don’t want to pay the full price for a gadget, consider buying the product refurbished. Refurbished items are used items that the manufacturer has restored to function as new. They often cost about half of the retail price. Refurbished gadgets come with the same features, accessories, quality assurance and warranties extended to the new versions. The downside is that not every gadget is available in refurbished versions. If the option is available, it is definitely worth considering.
Gadgets are only a solid investment if you buy a durable, good quality product. You don’t have to pay luxury prices for these qualities. Seriously consider the suggestions given above to cut back on the amount you have to pay to buy any gadget you need.