Think you know all there is to know about buying gadgets and paying the best price for technology? Ummmm...maybe you should check this list to see if you're really in the know.
1. Speed is What You Need
If you're like most of us, you'll probably base your computer purchase on the system's processor speed. Not so fast! PC World advises that you probably won't notice the difference between a Core i5 CPU that's 2.3GHz and one at 2.5GHz. Instead, look at the number of cores in the processor. A dual-core system is OK for everyday - streaming movies, social media - but a quad-core CPU will offer more horsepower for HD video editing or playing the latest PC games.
2. Newer is Better
I have plenty of friends who are "early adopters." They like being the first on the block with the latest tech. Being the first isn't always best. Not only are you acting as a guinea pig for the company, which will roll out a better version of the product a few months after you bought it, but you're also cheating yourself out of the countless bargains by being one of the first customers in line.
3. 3D HDTVs are Crazy Expensive
True. A couple of years ago 3D HDTVs cost about $2,000. Today, 3D technology is no longer a premium feature and brand-name 55" 3D TVs are now retailing for around $800. If you've been holding off on 3D because of the price, relax. The days of ultra-expensive 3D TVs are history.
4. November is the Best Time to Shop
Everybody knows about the deals on "Black Friday." Sure, November sees the deepest discounts on many electronics, but the discounts are traditionally for cheaper, off-brand items. Brand-name TVs and high-end laptops, for instance, see better deals in the months after Black Friday. The week leading up to the Super Bowl is a great time to shop for TVs. August is a good time to go computer shopping.
5. New Gadgets Deliver the Advertised Storage Capacity
Laptops, smartphones and tablets come pre-loaded with so much software that it really reduces their advertised storage capacities. The lost storage space is usually negligible, but beware. Buy a Microsoft Surface Tablet and you could wind up with 50% less storage space than what's advertised.
6. There's No Way to Save on Ink Cartridges
Buying brand-name ink cartridges can cost a bundle. Instead, purchase refurbished ink cartridges or do-it-yourself kits. The change in print quality is barely noticeable for everyday purposes.
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Prepare your own Mexican quick fix with this Chipotle-inspired bowl. Carbs are moderated by filling the bowl with beans, extra veggies and chicken. No need for rice, since the beans count as carbs.
Tips:
If you love tomatoes, increase the quantity to 1/2 cup, but note that the carbohydrates will also increase.
If preparing this recipe for one person, cut all of the ingredients in half. Or simply prepare the full recipe up to the end of step 2 and store leftover chicken and vegetable-bean mixture in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave on High for 1 to 2 minutes, or until heated through, and continue with step 3.
Health Bite: The iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper and zinc in black beans help to keep bones strong and healthy.
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