Librarian Phil's Tech Tips
January 15th
Electronics Are Getting Expensive
 
Prices for computers and many electronics are increasing.  Some of this has to do tariffs, but from what I can tell the biggest culprit is AI.  As companies are rushing to be at the top of the AI game they are buying up as much memory and processors as possible to build up their super computers.  This rush is leading to raising rates for consumers.  I am sure prices will eventually drop, but who knows when that is going to happen.  With that said you can still get some great deals if you don't mind a bit of risk.  Here is my quick guide to what to look for when buying used.
  • If you are looking for a laptop try to purchase a business model.  While they may not be as aesthetically pleasing, they are built tougher and tend to last longer than consumer models.  Also they are often extremely cheap on eBay as organizations retire hundreds or thousands of units as once.  My personal favorite is the Lenovo Thinkpad, but Dell Latitudes and Hp Elitebooks are great buys too.
  • When looking for a desktop buying Dell Optiplex business models are also a great value.
  • Used Cellphones can be tricky because the previous owner may have left their data on the phone or may have forgot to unlock it for you.  To get some better buyer protection many traditional stores like Walmart, BestBuy, Microcenter, Amazon, etc. have refurbished units guaranteed to work and usually come with a short warranty.
  • Other electronics like TVs, wireless modems, keyboards, speakers, etc. can typically be found very affordably on Craigslist or Facebook market place.  Just make sure to test the item before paying for it, meet in a public location and always bring someone with you if you can.
 
Until Next Time,
Librarian Phil Schneider
pschneider@gailborden.info
847-608-5226
Gail Borden Public Library District

Main Library - 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin, IL 60120 - 847-742-2411
Rakow Branch - 2751 W. Bowes Rd., Elgin, IL 60124 - 847-531-7271
South Elgin Branch - 127 S. Mclean Blvd., South Elgin, IL 60177 - 847-931-2090
http://www.gailborden.info/
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