Smart Shopping for Today’s Gadgets – 7 Worthy Buys

We all like to think of ourselves as smart shoppers.  We take great pains shopping around for the good buys.  But what is a good buy anyway?  In this time where everything is passed off as the best thing that can be on the shelf, it can be a challenge to figure it out, especially when you’re talking about gadgets.

Here are some gadgets that can be worth every penny in the long run, because they basically save you a lot more money using them.

• Change some of your incandescent and CFLs to TCP LED A19 – 60 Watt Equivalent Soft White Light Bulb

There is much differing opinion if is worth it, but why choose LED over the incandescent or CFL light bulbs? 

• A LED bulb use less wattage, so they are more energy-efficient and last much longer. On the average, LED lights use 75% less energy and can last 25 times longer than the incandescent type.

• That also means it is actually brighter than other types of the same wattage.

One of the arguments against using LEDs is the comparatively higher price, though it has considerably dropped over the past few years.  A great tip is to choose well which you replace: change those that you use more often, like the main lighting for the living room, kitchen or bedroom.  Just imagine how much effort you can save changing those bulbs over the next few years, and you’ll save some on your energy bill as well by using this types of gadgets.

• Get good rechargeable batteries like Panasonic B Eneloop Ni-MH Rechargeable Batteries

Yes, there are still some electronic gizmos that need standard batteries.  Think, “Dad, my train is out of batteries!”  You might also have some sturdy old models you still use, like flashlights, cameras, radios, MP3 players, and so on.  So it might be a good idea to get a good set of rechargeable AA’s or AAA’s for long term use.

And Panasonic Eneloop Rechargeable Batteries is just your thing.  A handy pack of these would do the trick:

They don’t leak and can even be used in colder weather.  It would be cheaper in the long run and it is environment friendly as well, instead of using Alkaline throw-away-batteries.  It can be recharged up to 2,100 times and has a low self-discharge which means it can last up to 7 years and still retain up to 70% of its full charge capacity.  You can easily imagine it will last even longer than the gadget you’re powering up!

• Get a smart cooling and heating upgrade with The Nest’s new Learning Thermostat (3rd Generation)

Think saving energy the “futuristic” way.  Google-owned The Nest has come up with the 3^rd generation for the Learning Thermostat.  Aside from its redesigned slimmer body, here some of things it offers:

• Its larger display, better resolution and latest far-field sensor makes it easy to see the time and temperature details, even at a distance of 20 feet away.

• Its built-in sensors monitor movements in the area and adjust temperature accordingly. It even has an app to change the settings and check your location in the house.
• The price tag might seem too much at over $240, but the cost savings would be evident in about two years time for the average user, just because this handy gadget helps you manage your energy usage.

• Another way to conserve energy is with Simple Touch Auto Shut-Off Multi Setting Safety Outlet

It might seem too simple, but we sure can use an energy conserving outlet for those times that we fall asleep charging every gadget you own.  Or when you have to leave your house for long periods of time and it seems you’ve forgotten to unplug or turn off something. 

You can set the timer to 1, 2, 4 or 8 hours and it will cut the power to whatever is plugged into it.  Those small savings can make a difference to your monthly utility bills.  One drawback though, is that you can only use if for gadgets that use up to a maximum of 1,000 watts.

• Now let’s talk about using VoIP The Ooma Telo Free Home Phone Service

If you’re not too pleased being forced to get the “triple play” option of cable TV, broadband internet and landline, consider the benefits of a third party VoIP provider like Ooma.  Or maybe you’d just want to avail of its better hardware and service, cheaper options, and flexible features.

• The basic plan is good enough for regular users and it is free, you’d just have to pay monthly local taxes. You’ll get the usual toll-free nationwide calling, call waiting, caller ID.  But for Wi-Fi you’d need to buy an additional dongle.

• If you choose the premium plan for more features, it is still a lot cheaper than traditional landline. You have additional features, including voice mail via email, call screening and forwarding.

• As for sound quality, it is far better than traditional landlines. With its transmission technology “PureVoice,” it is very clear and no dropped calls, provided you have a strong broadband connection. 

It all depends on the user’s’ needs and existing conditions, like considering what other broadband and cable providers one has.  Or if you prefer to just settle for smartphones.  But given the right conditions, you’d be able to get back your investment in a few months.

Now let’s have a look at the other services in your service provider’s triple package.  Yes, you don’t have to accept the fact that you just need to pay each and every month for these services.

• Forget about renting, get your own cable modem, try Arris SURFboard SB6141 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem

This is one investment you can see the difference in just about a year, unless you’re looking at switching to DSL or fiber which needs a different set of hardware.   Overlook the steep $90 tag and you’ll see how fast your return is compared to the monthly fee you have to shell out to your Internet Service Provider.  They’re compatible with most ISPs and chances are, you’ll even get faster speeds, at a maximum of 343Mbps download and 131Mbps upload.   So give it a go, set it up, surrender your rented modem and free yourself from those monthly extras with the help of this types of gadgets.

• While you’re at it, you might want to consider Monoprice Large Paper Thin HDTV Antenna as well

A lot of people have already cut their cable cord, so to speak.  But who wouldn’t want to watch your favourite reality show or sports game live? Some would go for DIY HDTV Antenna, but for those who don’t trust their handyman skills, go for a good product that will be worth the money. 

Sure, there are a lot of other HD antennas out there in the market.  But you’ll find this with a very good reception of 35 mile range.  So instead of paying monthly subscriptions to your provider, just pay for it upfront at less than $19 and you’ll have your fix of your favourite local cable shows in Full HD. 

Just point it in the direction of the nearest tower for the best reception.  You might not get as much channels as you would like, though.  But you sure would save a lot on monthly expenses by using gadgets like this.