How do I recognize technical tricks and not waste money on nonsense
Have you ever bought a piece of equipment that you barely use? Or worse, multiple devices doing the same thing? I learned this the hard way, with several purchases that seemed exciting but ended up gathering dust in a drawer.
Now I make a conscious effort to separate the technology I would actually use from the flashy gimmicks that are ultimately a waste of money.
1 I rarely buy first generation editions
One of my biggest rules is that I almost never buy a first generation product. Brands usually market them as groundbreaking and it’s tempting to jump in early. But I’ve found that first generation 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 display 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 refined product and I don’t pay to be a test subject for new brand ideas.
2 I check independent reviews
I always check reviews from independent sources before I buy anything. Brand websites and social media pages are full of flashy photos and glowing reviews, but independent reviews provide a more grounded perspective.
Independent reviews often cover aspects that brands might overlook, such as compatibility issues, ease of use, or product performance over time. With these insights, I can better determine whether the technology is worthwhile or just clever marketing wrapped in a shiny package. Also, make sure I check reviews from more than one source to know if the product review is trustworthy.
3 I’m comparing it to what I already have
When I’m interested in a new gadget, I ask myself, “What does it do that my current devices can’t do?” It’s easy to be drawn in by the promise of a new feature, but the upgrade probably isn’t worth it if it doesn’t actually improve my experience or solve a real problem.
Take smart 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 a waste of money. In most cases, sticking with what I have is easier on my wallet and keeps me from cluttering my home with unnecessary technology.
4 I 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 that it might be more of a novelty than a necessity. You ask, “When would I actually use it?” it helps me avoid buying technology that looks cool but isn’t practical for my lifestyle.
An example that comes to mind is portable projectors. They are marketed as portable mini cinemas, so you can easily imagine outdoor movie nights or spontaneous streaming anywhere. But realistically, I’d probably only use it once or twice a year, if that. So it doesn’t make sense to spend a few hundred dollars on it when I could just use the TV or laptop for those occasional movie nights.
5 I check parts availability and return policies
Another major consideration for me is parts availability, especially for more complex or premium technologies. Some gadgets may look and work great at first, but if they require special parts that aren’t easily replaced, a small problem can turn into a big expense.
I learned this on an older smartphone. When the screen suddenly stopped working, I found out that there were no replacements available for my particular model. Instead of a simple and cheap repair, I was left with an unusable device. Now, whenever I’m looking at something like a smartphone, laptop, or even a smartwatch, I check to see if common components like screens or batteries are readily available and affordable.
Brands that don’t make parts available may also have limited repair options, meaning I would have to rely on them for any repair – and at whatever price point they decide. I always check the return policy before I click the “buy” button. A solid return window can be a lifesaver, especially with technology that may look or sound great online but doesn’t live up to expectations in person.
Having a clear return policy is like a safety net – it gives me the confidence to try new things without the fear of being stuck with something that doesn’t work.
6 I check the customer service response time
Customer service may not be the flashiest part of a purchase, but when it comes to technology, it can make or break the experience. Before making a purchase, I try to understand how helpful 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 after the purchase.
If my thermostat or Wi-Fi-connected smart speaker breaks, 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.