These days, it’s beyond easy to shell out $2,000 for a new computer. Same with a smartphone, which can cost anywhere from $150 to $300 (service not included). Sure, technology can be super convenient. But you’ve gotta keep sight of the difference between your tech needs and your tech wants, and be honest with yourself about what you can afford.
If it is time to invest in new technology, keep costs in check with these 8 tips:
1. Get tech that’ll last you at the best price possible—think quality and value; stay away from frills.
2. Know your needs and shop to meet them instead of going after what’s hot right now.
3. Upgrades are golden. If your storage is too small or your system’s too slow, don’t get a brand new system—upgrade instead.
4. Do your homework. Finding the best system up front can save you on hidden tech “restocking fees” charged by many stores.
5. Beware buying used. With the relatively short life of products and the cost of repair, buying new can save you cash in the long run.
6. Consider free shareware or Open Source software instead of dropping hundreds on new software suites.
7. Go pre-configured instead of getting a built-to-order PC. You can always add more features later.
8. Watch for deals and track prices for a while to score the best price out there.
Just like any other purchase, buying tech is about knowing what you really need and being honest about what you can afford. If you have computer lab access or your old PC is running fine, why not pay down debt or sock away savings instead?
For more advice on smart budgeting, click here.
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