(ThyBlackMan.com) Keeping up with the latest tech can be an expensive hobby; even just making sure you have the basics can be expensive alone nevermind trying to get the latest models of everything. But in this day and age, it’s essential to stay connected, and up to date with what’s going on with technology otherwise you could get left behind. But how can you do this while still keeping your costs down? Can you be both digitally savvy and shop-savvy? From getting a SMARTY SIM only deal for your phone and keeping costs down there or even selling your tech to save money, there are so many ways to do it and here are just a few:
Keep An Eye Out For Discounts
So, you’ve decided you want to buy something? Don’t rush out to the shop and buy the first one you see. Get online and see if there are any deals on the product you want, are there any discount codes for where you want to buy it from? Are there any holidays coming up where 
shops will have sales on? There’s usually some way you can get what you want for cheaper than full price, and it’s worth holding out for so, do some research and be patient if there’s nothing just yet. Don’t be in a rush, keep your eyes peeled, and as soon as it comes around, you can snap it up.
Check Out Refurbished Products
Refurbished laptops, phones and other devices can be just as good as brand new but a lot cheaper. Remember, they have been through the testing and made sure they are up to the standards originally, so there’s nothing wrong with them. You can get refurbished products directly from the manufacturer, or there are some reputable dealers who you can get them from. Make sure you do your homework, shop around and check before you buy anything that it has the ‘factory certified’ label.
Non-Brands Can Be Just As Good
It’s easy to fall into the trap of just spending money on the brand name that you know and trust, but don’t fall into that trap. There are plenty of other useful products by names you might not know yet or even home brands. Research before you spend a tonne of money on something that you can get for much cheaper but the same quality. Read reviews from other people who have bought the different products before and shop around to see the differences. Just because it has a name doesn’t mean it’s any better in quality.
Say No To The Extras
When it comes to purchasing a big and expensive item, there are always extras such as extended warranty added on. Do you need it? Think about when you have had to use it in the past whether you had it or not? For most people, it’s a waste of time and money, so don’t bother with it. With the other extras offered to you, think carefully about whether you need them or not. In your experience have they been worth it? Are the things that you can purchase after if you change your mind?
Staff Writer; Calvin James