This is a simple guide for getting the best price on computer parts and consumer electronics.
- Make a habit of continuously visiting the websites listed below and try to keep from buying an item at the first advertised bargain. Do this for about 1-2 months; this will accustom you to the types of items they usually have listed and the prices they are listed at. This way you'll know if you're getting a good deal.
- Read the comments and forums on Slickdeals. The feedback from users will usually confirm a truly "slickdeal".
- Research product reviews on Google to see if a product is actually worth buying.
- When a product goes on sale for the 2nd or 3rd time, and all the research points to buying it... go for it!
Tips
- Dell products are always on sale. So if you're looking at a Dell computer, keep track of what computers go on sale until you find one you actually need.
- Rebates take a long time to come in.
- Remember "Cheap is not always Good" and some brands like Gateway and Compaq offer you a low budget cost, but a high cost on hassles.
- Acer offers you a great product too, with a low price guaranteed.
- If is a laptop you need to buy, nothing gives you better performance for the price than Toshiba, in other words is the best option for Laptops.
- Get accustomed to the terms: i.e. YMMV= Your mileage may vary, B&M = Brick and Mortar (meaning at the store only), PM = price match, BB= Best Buy, OD= Office Depot, BYOKAD (Bring Your Own Keyboard And Mouse)
- If you live near/in Portland, OR; consider FreeGeek, or their thrift store.
- Try online stores such as Newegg.com, Geeks.com, or other online stores. The prices there are usually much cheaper than in physical stores.
- If you really want a great computer with only what you need or simply the best you can get, just Do It Your Self, is not as cheap as it could be but as an IT let me tell you, it could be your best option.
