How to maintain your geek status during a recession
If you're anything like me, it's extremely difficult to stay away from shiny fun gadgets. But with the current state of the economy, it's even more difficult to justify spending the cash to take them home. I found a few economy-friendly gadgets while perusing the Internet so I added a few of my own ideas so you could still get your geek fix without breaking open your piggy bank.
Nintendo DS
- You can take the DS everywhere without worrying about gathering up cords, controls and protective travel gear.
- Lots of games are available! Most games that are released for the Wii, PS3 & Xbox are now coming to the DS. Speaking of games, they’re about $20 less than most video games.
- You save money on the DS alone! It costs way less than most video game consoles out there.
GameStop has a huge selection of new and used games at fantastic prices. Save money by trading your old video games. I’ve done it a few times and I’m surprised by how much dough I leave the store with.
Netbooks
If you don’t want to spend hundreds or thousands on a Mac or PC, why not give a Netbook a try?
- You can check emails, do some word processing, watch movies & listen to music.
- You won’t break your back carrying around a bigger notebook. (3lbs average)
Smartphones
- The phone itself isn’t too bad. An 8G is only $199. – If you budget correctly, you can get a pretty decent phone bill, too. It will take some self control on your part, but I think you can do it. Just tell mom that you’ll have to cut short your weekly phone call. She’ll be so proud of you for saving money she won’t even notice that you only sent a text message.
I love companies like iBuyPhones. They’re so simple and really convenient. We all have an old cell phone lying around. With technology the way it is it isn’t even officially old yet. All you have to do is find your phone on the site and they’ll show you how much money you can get for it.
They pay for the shipping and your phone! If the phone truly is old, they’ll recycle it for you free of charge.
Books
No, they’re not a gadget, but I refuse to promote the Kindle. I love books. I love the way they feel and smell. I love writing on, highlighting or folding the pages. Don’t take the small things away from me! A library card is definitely a recession-approved gadget!
Flip Mino
- They’re significantly cheaper than standard camcorders.
- They’re small and easy to travel with.
- Tres convenient! You take the video, plug it into your USB port and download!
- Not only does it clean your floors, but it doubles as transportation/entertainment for your pets.
- I recently made the switch from Blockbuster to Netflix because of the cost. I was paying double at Blockbuster just so I could return my movies in the store. I know I can’t do that with Netflix, but I do get access to their online movies. I can watch a new release from the comfort of my bed instead of waiting for it to come in the mail.
iPod Touch
- It’s an iPod, gaming console, music player and GPS all in one.
- Access to App Store allows you to download and install all sorts of fun, productive and educational applications.
Bargain Bins
They’re in every store. Most of the time they’re full of rejects, but every once in a while you’ll find a gem! Sometimes you’ll be surprised and find a great movie you’ve forgotten about or a new video game. Check one out the next time you’re in Target or Wal-Mart.
Xbox 360 Arcade
- Starts at $199
- You get a gaming console, media center & Netflix viewer all in one package.
Apple offers great deals on refurbished computers. They’re all tested and come with a 1-year warranty.
Guides We Think You'll Like
About The Author
Chicago
Jennifer is a 20-something blogger from Chicago. She loves being challenged, which is why you can usually find her sharing her love for all things geek here at Guidespot, maintaining two of her own blogs & and organizing meetups for Chicago bloggers. As if that weren't enough, she is also the C...
Explore
Categories In This Guide
Discussions