Electronics: Newer, Faster, Better
When it comes to electronics, newer, faster, and better models
of everything from computer processors to cellular phones appear
at least every six months. The evolution of technology means
manufacturers are incorporating more features and more power
into virtually every type of consumer electronics. When you're
in the market for consumer electronics - whether for yourself or
as a gift idea for someone else - the question becomes, do you
need to buy the latest and greatest?
As an example, let's take a look at digital cameras. Virtually
everyone is making the switch - if they haven't already - from
film to digital. Seven mega-pixel digital cameras are
everywhere, and single lens reflex digital cameras are poised to
dramatically drop in price within the next twelve months. With
the dozens, if not hundreds, of models from which to choose,
does it make sense to buy a top of the line digital camera?
Not necessarily. The type of digital camera you need depends on
how you're planning to use it. If you primarily use a camera on
vacations or while traveling, the most important feature might
be the weight of the camera. The ultra-thin, lightweight digital
cameras now on the market may not have all of the features of
their heavier counterparts, but they're perfect to stick in your
shirt pocket and pull out at a moment's notice.
If you take most of your pictures outdoors, an LCD screen with
backlighting - and a viewfinder - might be the most important
feature for your needs. There's nothing more frustrating than
not being able to see what you're shooting. On the other hand,
if you primarily use your camera indoors, a red-eye reduction
feature is a must-have. If you want to use your camera at your
child's soccer games, a digital camera that allows you to take
short movies might be perfect for you.
You also need to consider how you'll be using the camera when it
comes to selecting the appropriate picture resolution. Most
people don't really need a seven mega-pixel camera; and you
definitely don't need one if all you're going to do with the
pictures is view them on your computer monitor or post them
online.
Unlike jewelry, where more is almost always better, consumer
electronics don't need to have every single feature in order to
be useful. Let's face it: most of us only use a fraction of the
power and features in our computers and software. So, when we're
buying consumer electronics, it's important to think through
which features we'll use and which are extras that add to the
price but not the value.