Since I was a kid, I could never resist the allure of a sparkly new gadget - from laptops to smartphones to games consoles, I love the thrill of exploring new software or setting up a brand new device. I like to keep up with the latest trends in tech & gaming, with a keen interest in how UX/UI & design transforms the user experience, and I’ve even started learning to code so I can build my own websites in the not-too-distant future.
It never fails to amaze me how tech keeps up with the fast pace of modern life, and the power it has to change our lives for the better. In the short space between now and the popularisation of computers, we’ve come an incredibly long way. Most smartphones now have more computing power than NASA used to get to the Moon. Just imagine what we’ll come up with next!
My Top Tech Saving Tip
Good tech will last you a while, so it’s worth investing in a decent model, but tech purchases can be seriously expensive. I’ve got two years’ experience in tech start-ups & the user research industry under my belt, which means I understand how technology is used by consumers and businesses, how it develops, and what new features mean for users in real terms, whether that’s apps, devices, subscriptions or software.
My experience taught me a lot about device requirements and how rigorous testing standards are for refurbished devices, which is why my number one tech-related saving tip is to buy refurbished. Refurbed gadgets are a fantastic but often overlooked way of bringing those hefty price tags right down without compromising on functionality. You won’t miss being a step or two behind the cutting edge - in fact, you’ll be surprised how little of the latest features you’ll need to get everything done - and you’ll even help promote more sustainable practice across the world’s fastest-growing industry.
What’s the best saving I’ve made?
My current smartphone is a refurbished OnePlus 5T (equivalent to a Samsung Galaxy S7) that I bought for £240 back in 2019, and it’s still holding up alright three years later. I’ve also recently picked up some second-hand games that’ve made fine additions to my collection, including the 2016 Destroy All Humans! remake for £10 and a copy of Bethesda’s steampunk stealth game Dishonored for just £1!
My Favourite Retailers
I’m a big fan of GAME for the sense of community they create with their brand, as well as the exclusive pre-order rewards they like to offer their customers. Buying digital codes often works out cheaper (shout out to CDKeys), but I still love having a physical copy of a long-awaited release in my hands, especially if it comes with collectables or artwork, so I often find myself going back to GAME for the really exciting titles.
For both music & gaming nerds, Zavvi’s selection of records, clothing and merchandise is fantastic. I’m especially fond of their David Bowie & Black Sabbath tees, their LEGO selection, and the various prints & posters they sell, which I tend to browse around payday in case there’s any deals on potential new desk accessories.
I’m also a fan of setting up camp in the great outdoors, so I have high praise for the comfy clothes and camping equipment over at The North Face, as well as their championing of sustainable business practices. My plan is to get a few hiking and camping trips in before summer ends, so I’ll be picking up the last few bits of gear from their stores, and as the weather cools down, you can also expect to see me in a new fleece or two that I’ve bagged in the sales.
