6 Ways to Get the Latest Tech Gadgets for Less

In today’s world, tech is a necessity. We rely on it for everything from working to entertainment. But getting your hands on the latest releases can come with a hefty price tag. Buying electronics at a discounted rate is essential for some people who otherwise cannot afford these items.

Shopping for second-hand and marked-down tech gadgets can be intimidating. Plus, scammers and sketchy websites can complicate the process. To make the search easy on you, we compiled a list of six tried and true ways of getting the latest tech for less.

1. Search Pawn Shops

Pawn shops are businesses that offer collateral-based loans while also selling second-hand items. Some 40% of pawn shop items are electronics, and you can find many different big-ticket tech items from, televisions to phones, at lower prices. You can also sell your used devices to a pawnbroker and receive cash back that can go directly towards paying for an upgraded device.

Shoppers can also pawn their old electronics. Some tips for pawning your phone or tablet to get the most money include keeping it in good condition and having all the accessories and packaging when it comes time to part with it. Pawning may not be the first option you think of when looking for new electronics, but these shops can be a great resource for saving money.

2. Check Out eBay

eBay’s claim to fame is being an e-commerce platform that offers an auction format. You can find postings from both professional sellers and ordinary people looking to make some extra money off their old devices.

On eBay’s site, there’s a dedicated section specifically for deals where shoppers can find all kinds of marked-down tech products. Everything from laptops to earbuds can be found on this page. Companies such as Microsoft have eBay stores where they post and sell returned and refurbished products.

Just be wary of scams and brand impersonation when searching eBay for tech deals. Shop any certified refurbished products with a warranty to further protect yourself against underhanded dealings.

3. Shop Open-Box Deals

An open-box item refers to a product with packaging that has been opened. This is typically the case with items that were purchased and opened but later returned to the store. Sometimes these deals are on products that were used as floor models in-store as well.

You can find an open-box deal for nearly any tech gadget. These items often come with a 20% markdown in pricing. Reduced items are typically examined by a professional and expected to function perfectly. This means you are saving money and getting a like-new product. Major retailers that sell open-box electronics include:

• BestBuy
• Walmart
• Amazon

Products that fit into the open-box category are usually sold online rather than in-store. However, you can ask retailers if they have any open-box items while shopping in-person as well!

4. Check Out Amazon Warehouse & Amazon Renewed

You are probably familiar with Amazon, but did you know Amazon Warehouse sells used and open-box products? Product categories include:

• Computers and tablets
• Amazon devices
• Unlocked cellphones
• Digital cameras
• Video games
• Televisions

You can search all types of electronics and find active offers on used devices. Since Amazon is a reputable site with efficient customer service, you can feel confident you are getting a good deal. Shoppers can also compare new devices with discounted ones directly on the Amazon site.

Consumers are also able to find refurbished, like-new products on Amazon Renewed. These tech items have been thoroughly examined and tested. Buyers can expect devices to look and work like-new. Plus, products in this section come with the Amazon Renewed Guarantee so you can feel confident when placing your order.

5. Shop Refurbished

We mentioned refurbished products previously. This term refers to items that have been pre-owned or used but are inspected and tested to ensure they function properly before selling. They typically work and look like brand-new devices. Popular refurbished tech sellers include:

• Walmart
• Apple
• eBay
• Amazon Renewed
• Back Market
• BestBuy
• Target

It’s best to shop for refurbished items from major manufacturers like Apple or Microsoft since they have processes in place to ensure products being sold are high-quality. Buying refurbished tech is a win-win for the environment and your wallet since used devices are not being tossed into a landfill and you’re paying less!

6. Seek Out Trade-in Programs

If you are searching for tech gadgets for a discounted price, consider a trade-in program. You can trade a device for cash, store credit, or even upgrades. Popular sites that offer reputable trade-in programs include:

• Apple: Shoppers can trade used Apple devices and receive store credit towards another Apple product.
• Gazelle: Gazelle offers shoppers cash or Amazon credit to trade in old electronics.
• Decluttr: If you’re interested in receiving cash instead of store credit for your electronics, consider Decluttr.

Money from trade-ins can be used towards purchasing newer products. Selling old electronics is a great way to save up for a brand-new release or upgrade. It also beats letting that old laptop or iPhone sit around collecting dust!

Do Your Research and Read the Fine Print

No matter what route you take when searching for the latest tech at discounted rates, it’s important to read the fine print. This means thoroughly going over listings and asking questions about return policies and warranties. Seek out the product’s history and whether it has any issues you should be aware of before checking out.

While you search for the latest tech gadgets for less, keep this list in mind and enjoy great savings!