As Diwali approaches, the excitement of new beginnings and the temptation of the latest gadgets fill the air. Our special issue showcases the 100 best gadgets to buy this festive season, helping you navigate the myriad of options. As someone whose job thrives when you splurge on tech, you’d think I’d be urging you to buy everything in sight. But here’s a twist: this time, I’m suggesting we all pause and think before we make a purchase. It might seem unusual, but stay with me and you’d know why.
In previous years, I’ve eagerly upgraded my devices during festive sales, enticed by flashy discounts and the allure of new features. However, I’ve noticed that these “Diwali offers” aren’t always the best deals. For instance, when I was looking to upgrade my microwave oven earlier this year in May, the price offered then was a good 15% lower than the “Diwali dhamaka deal” being advertised now. It seems that sometimes prices are inflated during festive seasons to make discounts appear more attractive. This experience taught me not to get lured by every discount and to check price histories whenever possible.
One practical step is to take advantage of buyback or trade-in programs. While it might seem tempting to hold onto old devices in hopes of getting a better deal later, they often lose value the longer they stay unused. For example, I’ve been sitting on a very old gaming desktop PC, convincing myself that one day I would rebuild it. That day has never arrived, and now the parts are no longer functional. I could have given it to someone who might have used it, instead of letting it gather dust for years. Eventually, devices become obsolete, and disposing of them irresponsibly adds to the e-waste problem. Buyback offers provide a convenient and responsible way to dispose of old gadgets, ensuring they’re recycled or refurbished appropriately. This Diwali, as you consider purchasing from our top 100 gadget recommendations, I encourage you to utilize these programs.
It’s also worth reassessing whether an upgrade is truly necessary. Festive deals and marketing campaigns can create a sense of urgency for the latest models, but perhaps our current devices still meet our needs. Upgrading out of necessity rather than novelty helps reduce unnecessary consumption and the resulting e-waste. By being mindful of our actual requirements, we can make more sustainable choices.
“The bottom line is to shop smart: buy what you need, not just what’s offered at a seemingly great discount”
It’s also beneficial to compare online and offline prices. I’ve seen offline retailers not only match the best online offers but also include additional goodies. By shopping around, you might find better deals than simply jumping at the first discount you see. The bottom line is to shop smart: buy what you need, not just what’s offered at a seemingly great discount.
My drawers are now a collection of gadgets that seemed essential at the time but ended up unused. This accumulation doesn’t just clutter my space; it contributes to the growing problem of electronic waste. E-waste is a significant environmental concern, with millions of tons generated globally each year. Old gadgets contain hazardous materials that can harm the environment if not disposed of properly. By hoarding unused devices, we’re inadvertently adding to this issue.
Another meaningful option is to donate functional gadgets to those who need them. Many schools, non-profit organizations, and individuals could greatly benefit from technology we no longer use. Donating devices can help bridge the digital divide, offering others access to resources that enhance education and connectivity. Researching products thoroughly ensures we select devices that truly meet our needs and offer longevity. Investing in high-quality gadgets rather than multiple lower-quality items is more economical and environmentally friendly in the long run. Setting a budget and sticking to it can prevent overspending driven by impulse rather than necessity.
This Diwali, I’m committing to responsible tech consumption. By not purchasing new gadgets until I’ve responsibly managed my old ones, I’ve become more mindful of my habits and their broader impact. Sharing this journey, I hope to inspire you to reflect on your purchasing decisions during the festive season.
Which gadget did you buy this Diwali? Share your Diwali shopping haul with us! Send me your top deal grab at soham@digit.in and you could be featured as one of Digit’s top deal hunters in the next issue!
