Tech buying advice

Headphones

• Style first: over-ear for comfort and noise cancelling on long journeys, in-ear for portability and exercise.
• Noise cancelling: performance varies a lot between models, so independent reviews are more useful than spec sheets.
• Battery: quoted battery life is usually measured with noise cancelling off. Expect less with it on.
• Codecs: if you use an Android phone, check support for higher-quality Bluetooth codecs. iPhone users gain little from them.

Price tip: previous-generation models from major brands are often heavily discounted after a successor launches, and the difference in sound can be small.

TVs

• Size: measure your space and viewing distance before comparing models.
• Panel: OLED for contrast and darker rooms. LED, QLED and Mini LED for bright rooms and lower prices.
• Gaming: for recent consoles, look for HDMI 2.1, 120Hz and VRR.
• Model codes: similar names are reused across years, so check the exact model code when comparing prices.

When is the best time to buy a TV in the UK? →

Laptops

• Memory: 16GB RAM is a sensible minimum for most people buying today. Many laptops can't be upgraded later.
• Storage: 512GB SSD gives room to grow. 256GB fills up quickly.
• Screen: brightness and resolution matter more than size for everyday comfort.
• Configurations: the same model name can come with very different specs. Compare like with like.

Phones

• Unlocked vs contract: buying unlocked with a SIM-only plan is often cheaper overall. Work out the total cost over the contract.
• Storage: each storage size is a different product with a different price, so compare the exact version.
• Updates: check how many years of software and security updates the manufacturer promises.
• Timing: prices on current models often fall once the next generation is announced.

Smartwatches

• Compatibility: some watches only work fully with one phone platform. Check before you buy.
• Battery: ranges from about a day to over a week, depending on screen and features.
• Fitness: built-in GPS matters if you run or cycle without your phone.
• Size and connectivity: case size and LTE versions change the price, so compare the same variant.