Photo by alvy

Most of you reading this must surely remember an older, simpler age. That was a time that mobile phones were massive bricks the size of a shoe, or how a computer disk was a flat square of plastic that could bend like a paper plate. We’ve gone through leaps and bounds since then. Some of the ideas previously only seen on Star Trek – face-to-face video conferencing, mobile telephones, and touch-screen technology – now all exist in real life. They make our lives worlds more convenient. They let us do things, such as take photos and share them with friends, with just a few button clicks.

Yet these things aren’t cheap. It’s been about a week since Apple announced the upcoming iPad, which starts at a price of $499. Everywhere, people still haven’t stopped debating on whether or not it’s worth it. Other companies are talking about their own answers to the machine, eliciting their own levels of interest and curiosity. Yet, all of this arguably raises more important questions: “Do I have to buy them?,” “Are they worth it?,” and “Where can I get them cheap?”

Gadgets cost money, and sometimes that money is better spent on other things. Savvy budgeting and forward planning can go a long way to getting what you want. To help you gadget hunters out there, look through these questions to help you discern your next big purchase.

What is your life like?
Accept certain truths: If you live in a tough neighborhood where violent crimes are not unheard of, do not contemplate too hard on that flat-screen TV or new computer. The same goes if your income can’t support any additional costs you might need to cover, too. For instance, if you’re not really into mobile Internet services, you don’t need a new Wi-Fi-ready e-book reader.

How important is it for you?
‘If it’s inconvenient, it’s impractical,’ was a comment elicited regarding upgrading devices. It works two ways: If spending for the latest, greatest thing burns holes too big in your pocket, don’t buy. But if your current gizmos are broken, or they handicap you severely at work, (like a computer more than 10 years old), think about buying new ones, or finding improved versions of them.

Do you need the brand name?
It goes without saying that you are sure to find cheaper alternatives that can supposedly do what one of those big-ticket items from the big electronics companies can. This is especially true a few months or years down the road, when the smaller firms come up with their own lineups of like-minded gadgets. Bear in mind, though: Some items may be more expensive, but you might like having the warranty, or the build quality that things from established companies offer.

Do you want to field-test it out, or are you buying online?
Online shopping is on the rise, and it gives you a shot at snagging the newest things right away. You can also conveniently pay for them with a prepaid MasterCard, easily and conveniently. However, there are some people who prefer to actually try it out, and see how it works with them. Decide if you need to actually feel it in your hands, so you can see how it goes for you.

Think these questions over. We’ll be back with more topics on saving money soon!