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Have you ever bought tech you barely use? Or worse, multiple devices that do the same thing? I learned this the hard way, thanks to a couple of purchases that seemed exciting but ended up gathering dust in a drawer.
Now, I make a conscious effort to separate tech I’d actually use from flashy gimmicks that end up being a waste of money.
1I Rarely Buy First-Gen Releases
One of my biggest rules is that I almost never buy a first-generation product. Brands usually market them as groundbreaking, and jumping in early is tempting. But I’ve found that first-gen releases often come with bugs, missing features, or design flaws that make them incredibly inferior to later-generation models.
A good example is the original Samsung Galaxy Fold. When it first launched, its foldable screen was marketed as the future of smartphones. However, early adopters quickly discovered issues with screen durability and hinge reliability, which Samsung addressed in later models.
Waiting for the second or third generation means I get a more polished product and avoid paying to be a test subject for the brand’s new ideas.
2I Check Independent Reviews
Before I buy anything, I always check reviews from independent sources. Brand websites and social media pages are full of flashy photos and glowing testimonials, but independent reviews give a more grounded perspective.
Independent reviews often cover aspects that brands might gloss over, such as compatibility issues, ease of use, or how a product performs over time. With these insights, I can better determine if the tech is worth it or just clever marketing wrapped in shiny packaging. I also make sure to check reviews from more than one source toknow whether a product’s review is trustworthy.
3I Compare It to What I Already Have
When a new gadget catches my eye, I ask myself, “What does this do that my current devices can’t?” It’s easy to get pulled in by the promise of a new feature, but it’s probably not worth the upgrade if it doesn’t genuinely enhance my experience or solve a real problem.
Takesmart home devices, for example. It’s tempting to replace older gadgets with “smarter” versions, but if the difference in functionality isn’t significant, it’s often just money wasted. In most cases, sticking with what I have is easier on my wallet and keeps me from cluttering my home with unnecessary tech.
4I Ask Myself, “When Would I Actually Use This?”
Sometimes, a product sounds fun or convenient, but when I think about how it would fit into my daily routine, I realize it might be more novelty than necessity. Asking, “When would I actually use this?” helps me avoid buying tech that seems cool but isn’t practical for my lifestyle.
An example that comes to mind isportable projectors. They’re marketed as portable mini cinemas, making it easy to imagine outdoor movie nights or spontaneous streaming anywhere. But realistically, I’d probably only use one once or twice a year, if that. So, spending a few hundred dollars on it doesn’t make sense when I could just use my TV or laptop for those occasional movie nights.
5I Check Parts Availability and Return Policy
Another major consideration for me is parts availability, especially with more complex or premium tech. Some gadgets may look and work great initially, but if they require special parts that aren’t easily replaceable, a minor issue could turn into a major expense down the line.
I learned this with an older smartphone. When the screen suddenly stopped working, I discovered replacements weren’t available for my specific model. Instead of a simple, inexpensive fix, I was left with an unusable device. Now, whenever I’m eyeing something like a smartphone, laptop, or even smartwatches, I check if common parts like screens or batteries are readily available and affordable.
Brands that don’t make parts accessible may also have limited repair options, meaning I’d have to rely on them for any fixes—and at whatever cost they decide. I always check the return policy before I hit the “buy” button. A solid return window can be a lifesaver, especially with tech that might look or sound great online but doesn’t meet in-person expectations.
Having a clear return policy is like a safety net—it gives me the confidence to try new things without worrying about being stuck with something that doesn’t work.
6I Check the Customer Service Response Time
Customer service may not be the flashiest part of a purchase, but when it comes to tech, it can make or break the experience. Before buying, I try to understand how responsive and helpful a brand’s customer support is by reading reviews or even reaching out with a question. This gives me a good idea of what to expect if I need help post-purchase.
If my Wi-Fi-connected thermostat or smart speaker glitches, I want to know that support is just a quick call or chat away. A slow or unresponsive customer service team is a red flag because it usually signals that the brand may not be fully invested in the long-term user experience.
