Technolog

Need a new phone? New laptops for the kids? Maybe a monitor or extras for your PC or laptop? We’re always looking for ways to save, but sometimes when it comes to tech we tend to pay top dollar when we don’t need to. All you need is a little know-how. Follow these expert tips and tricks to save.

CONSIDER A REFURBISHED DEVICE

Refurbished technology is a great option when you don’t have the cash to splash out on the latest big-brand devices. Do your research on who are the best resellers and read reviews. You can often get desktop PCS and laptops that do everything you need them to do at around 25 per cent less. There are ex-government refurbished computers for sale, for example. And some big names like Dell have their own “Reconditioned and Overstocked” outlet.

GET IT FIXED

Think you need to replace your phone because the screen is cracked? Spilt water on your computer and it’s stopped turning on? It’s always best to find out if it can be fixed before you go out shopping for a replacement. Sometimes the price of fixing the device is surprisingly inexpensive, as the experts know how to deal with these common mishaps. Go online for free advice first, and be sure to talk to your device supplier – it could still be under warranty.

RESEARCH ALL THE BRANDS

Sure, we can be lured by the big brands offering all the bells and whistles, but ask yourself what you or the person you are buying the device for will be using it for. If it’s for internet and Facetime family calls, for example, there are good substitutes to the pro computers that