Spending and Saving

How to Buy Tech on the Cheap

For years, I covered tech. But it’s still not the same as knowing how to shop smartly for my next laptop (I can’t wean myself off of the pricier Macs) or figure out what to do about my ancient TV that pulled broadcasts out of the air via rabbit ears.

CNET has a nice package on shopping for tech on a budget that I’m finding useful and maybe you will, too. Their pieces don’t just list what to buy, but help you to understand the products and trends around them. The point is to shop smarter so that you spend your money wisely on products that will serve all your needs, and will last. Some highlights:

Laptops — Try a Netbook. If your computing needs are low, or even basic (web browsing, office doc work, and not too much need for heavy-duty graphics or HD video), Netbooks offer a great package for very little money. Mainly equipped with Intel Atom processors and running Windows XP, they’re not so great a multitasking, but they’ll do the work that most computers handled five years ago with ease…

The rest of the piece helps you understand the trends in lighter laptops, processors, and how to get a deal.

Cell phones — Get only what you need. Sure that Apple iPhone 3G is sexy, and sure that Palm Pre is all the rage. But will you actually use all the features on those phones? If the answer is no, then resist the urge to jump on the hype bandwagon. If all you want a cell phone for is making calls, a basic cell phone will do just fine…

More tips in this piece on how to buy a cheaper refurbished phone; bundling packages; and making the most of minutes.

GPS and car stereo – Don’t be afraid to look at the outgoing models. In most cases, the newest of the new GPS devices only offer incremental advantages over the models they replace. Meanwhile, the cost of the outgoing models often drops drastically as retailers attempt to clear out their stock to make room for the new. If the difference in feature set is worth the difference in price, you could rake in big savings…

Learn more about installation, security and what you need to know about MSRP.

Monitors – Go small. The smaller your monitor’s screen size, the less work it takes to illuminate. Thus, the less expensive it is. Simple math, really. Obviously, you’ll buy per your needs, but if funds are an issue, go as small as you can stand. I recommend bottoming out at 17 inches, however…

The author also offers insights on monitor features and helps you shop around for the best price.

Every piece in this package is written by an expert in their field, and other topics include camcorders, printers, point-and-shoot cameras, video games, MP3 players, TVs and several more products.

As for me, I may still just ditch the TV but at least now I know how to get a placement for a discount.

Tags: budgets, shopping, spending, tech