Gadget lovers guide to getting it cheap

How to buy your gadgets cheap

26 March 2010 342 views No Comment

Are you a gadget lover? I know I am. Before parting with your hard earned money, it is always good to do the research. This way you may be able to make some saving by choosing the right stuff at the right price. This article will be based for Singaporeans or foreigners trying to make a purchase here.

Computers and Accessories

I scout places online to check prices of items. Sometimes I ask my friends around to check if they know of any sales. Remember that electronics items depreciates quickly and would not be of great resale value. Make a wise decision and only get the configuration you deem necessary.

If you are a DIY person, you might want to look at the following places for prices to compare and make some decisions(these places are for rough guidance, not necessary for actual purchases):

Hardware Zone
– Find price lists that are available for some of the outlets in Sim Lim Square
VR-Zone
Potter House
Video Pro

I usually build my own PC and make my purchases at Sim Lim Square. I would usually make purchases after checking the prices from the above links.

Camera

I am a photography hobbyist and enthusiast. I am particular about getting my cameras and I always get them new. For lenses and such, I don’t mind getting them second hand as they rarely depreciate too much. I normally make enquiries first before making my purchases. Of course you will need to know what kind of camera you need and what purpose will it serve you.

For example, are you a serious hobbyist? If yes, you most likely will be looking for good DSLR. For a casual shooter most likely your budget determines what kind of camera you need to get.

These are shops that I call or email to get their quotations. Mind that some of them would got you without gst.

IT Shows and Fairs

In Singapore, every quarter we have this huge IT fair all vendors and manufacturers gather in one place to sell off their items a steal. I feel in most cases are to clear their old stock before new models are released. Of course you are getting great value with extra freebies thrown in.

If you can wait to make a purchase then you should go to these mass sales to get your moneys worth. Again I would like to reiterate to do some research and checking on what you want and need before the purchase. You might end up bursting your budget thinking that you are getting something at a great deal.

Some dates:

IT Show – Usually in March

PC Show – Usually in June

Comex Show – usually in Sept

SITEX – in November

Final Words

I very much prefer looking at a gadget and testing before purchasing it. I don’t mind purchasing online but nothing feels better than holding it in your hands and testing.

I have made a few purchases online like buying computer parts and camera lens(just once) and they were delivered in one piece and worked great. But if anything happens the trouble of packaging it and returning it via mail is just too cumbersome.

What do you have to say? Are there any other methods or online stores that you look at before purchasing. Leave a comment.