Save money on new technology? Read this guide for ideas
Getting a new piece of tech can be pretty exciting. It’s most probably going to change your life in a big (or small) way, and the possibilities can seem endless. However, buying a new TV, laptop, dvd player, DVDs , phone or MP3 player can be pretty costly. The recession has meant that we have less disposable income than we used to so buying tech may be on the back burner for some people. But how can we indulge in our love of tech without upsetting our bank balances? Read this guide, brought to you by moneysupermarket.com to help you get that new gadget for less…
Compare Tech Online
Before buying any kind of new technology, whether it is something expensive or not, always compare prices online so you’re making sure you get the best price. One common misconception is that a new TV or DVD Player will be the same price across the board, but this is definitely not the case. Some retailers, whether it is online or offline will have special launch prices for new releases or will be giving away a free gift to ensure that you buy it from them. Alternatively a retailer could be stocking the product at a lower price consistently throughout the year to compete with other stores. Never just buy from the first shop you come across- you could save yourself a fortune.
Use Vouchers
Another great tip for spending money on tech is to use money off vouchers. The vouchers market has grown massively during the course of the recession, so the preconception that vouchers can only be used for fashion and eating out has been blown out of the window. Many of the major tech retailers now offer discounts to their customers as the market is very buoyant and competitive. By offering discounts off products this will ensure that customers come back to the store more than once. Always do a search for a voucher for the product or retailer before making a purchase. Moneysupermarket’s voucher channel has a wide range of these.
Wait for January/Summer Sales
For a tech addict, waiting for a sale to come around simply will not do. For those with a little patience, waiting for the January sales or the summer sales could save you a packet. These times are when people have the least disposable income, what with Christmas and a summer holiday hitting everyone’s bank balances hard. Retailers are also getting in their new seasonal stock for spring/summer and autumn/winter, so need to get rid of any stock piles that they have.
Read Reviews
If you’re unsure of a product, before parting with your cash always read what other people think of it- consumer reviews may highlight some flaws in the product. Be aware that other people may buy things for other usages that you do, so what might not work for someone else may work perfectly for you. Read a few reviews on the same product and this will give you a general feel about how well the product is performing in its target market. You could read about a feature that may not be suitable for what you need, meaning that you can look for a different product that has all of the necessary requirements.
Consider Alternatives
Keep an open mind when buying tech. You may be a fan of a certain manufacturer and stay loyal to them, but what if another company brings out something that is just as good, but a lot cheaper? Always do research into the market and see what other companies have to offer. It may save you a lot of money by considering a product that is from a less well known company. Don’t part with your cash unless you’re sure that the product is for you.
