The I.T. Guy:

Sometimes pre-owned gadgets are the way to go.

WHATEVER year you’re reading this, the new iPhone is awesome. It always is. Same with the new Samsung Galaxy, and Bose’s new noisecancelling headphones. But right now, just as we’ve entered a new decade, the improvements between versions are becoming less obvious. In the case of the iPhone 11, the cameras are a big advancement. But for the majority of us customers, the previous model will serve us just as well as the new one.

That’s why, when I need something such as a phone or laptop, I almost never buy it new. You should do the same.

I’m not talking about going on eBay for used tech. Even if you know what to look for and what prices are fair, the time cost of doing all the quality control yourself is almost never worth the savings. I’m talking about the sections of manufacturers’ sites specifically dedicated to not-new products. Apple’s is called Certified Refurbished. Nintendo’s is just

Refurbished. Bose has an Outlet. Samsung sells its used products as Certified Pre-Owned. The goods in these shops are maintained and guaranteed. On the odd occasion, the products were never even once taken out of their packaging. And whether or not they’ve been handled, the hardware has been scrupulously inspected and tested to make sure it works, sometimes more so than new products. They also come with a warranty.

But, look. I get it. New and well-marketed stuff feels better. Years back, my nephew wanted Beats headphones, and none of my arguments, based on years of product testing and reviewing, was enough to convince him that a pair of Sony MDR-7506s were the better value. And gifting someone a phone that comes in a box that says ‘Pre-owned’ feels off. Even I bought a Nintendo Switch Lite the day it went on sale because I just … couldn’t stand waiting to try it.

All good. Buy something refurbished for yourself, and spend the savings on the gift, or something new you want right away. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to get back to my search for a used Tesla Model 3.