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Step 1
Got to have the latest electronic gadget but it’s only available online? Before you type in your credit card number, here are a few things you should know when shopping online for electronics to ensure you get the most bang for your buck.
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Step 2
What do you Want – It seems like an obvious question but surprisingly many consumers fail to nail the answer down before they willingly spend hundreds of dollars on a new camera or MP3 player. Asking yourself this question will allow you to cut your research time in half and determine which “bells and whistles” you can do without. For example, if you’re purchasing a digital camera, decide if you will primarily be using it to keep digital images or print and frame the photos. Figuring this out will help you determine whether you need 12.3 mega-pixels or if 9 will suffice.
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Step 3
How Much do You Want to Spend – Budget is often the determining factor for many when it comes to purchasing electronics. Determine the maximum amount you’re willing to spend and stick to products that fall below that number. If you’re able to find the perfect model for much less, great!
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Step 4
What Brand do you Want – If you are loyal to a certain brand, target and refine your search using just that brand name. However, if brands don’t matter, make sure you research expert and consumer reviews of each product you are considering before making a purchase.
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Step 5
How Much is Shipping – These days, it seems like shipping costs can be just as much as the product itself! Many online retailers charge shipping based on weight or total cost of the merchandise so make sure you know how much you’ll be spending on shipping before you commit to the purchase.
