A practical framework for deciding whether a gadget is worth buying: cost per use, total cost of ownership, alternatives, reviews, repairability and update periods, plus your consumer rights if it disappoints.
Whether it's a robot vacuum, smart watch or new laptop, the question is the same: is it worth the money for you? This framework helps you decide without relying on marketing or hype.
1. Start with the problem
Write down what you want the gadget to do, in one sentence. "I want to stop missing deliveries" is a clearer goal than "I want a smart doorbell". It makes it easier to compare options, including cheaper ones.
2. Work out the cost per use
Divide the price by how many times you'll realistically use it over its life. A £300 laptop used daily for four years costs about 20p a day. A £150 gadget used twice works out at £75 a use. Be honest about how often you'll use it once the novelty wears off.
3. Add up the total cost of ownership
- subscriptions and cloud storage;
- consumables, such as filters, ink, bags or replacement heads;
- accessories you'll need, such as cases, chargers or hubs;
- energy use, for always-on or high-power devices;
- repairs and batteries.
Some devices are cheap upfront but expensive to run.
4. Check the alternatives
- Could a device you already own do this, perhaps with an app?
- Would last year's model, or a refurbished one, do the job for less?
- Could you borrow, rent or try it first?
- Is there a simpler, non-smart version?
5. Read the right reviews
Look for independent reviews that test products over time and compare them with rivals. Be wary of reviews that only repeat specifications, and of very short star-rating reviews. Check whether reviewers received the product free or earn commission; reputable sites disclose this.
6. Check longevity
- Security updates: UK law now requires makers of connectable products to state the minimum period they'll provide security updates. A shorter period means a shorter useful life.
- Repairability: can the battery be replaced? Are spare parts available?
- Dependence on the cloud: if the company's servers shut down, will the device still work?
7. Know your rights
Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, goods must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose and as described. You have 30 days to reject faulty goods for a full refund. After that, you're entitled to a repair or replacement, and if that fails, a refund or price reduction. For most online purchases, you also have 14 days to cancel after delivery under the Consumer Contracts Regulations, even if nothing's wrong. Paying by credit card for items over £100 gives extra protection under section 75.
8. Think about extended warranties
Extended warranties often duplicate your legal rights and existing cover, such as home insurance or a packaged bank account. Consider them only if the cost of repair would be high and the warranty is good value. You usually have time to decide after purchase.
9. Sleep on it
For anything over about £100, wait 48 hours. Sales and countdown timers create urgency, but genuine deals come round regularly. Check price history if you can.
A quick scorecard
| Question | Yes/No |
|---|---|
| Solves a real problem I have | |
| Cost per use is reasonable | |
| No essential subscription, or I'm happy to pay it | |
| Cheaper alternatives considered | |
| Independent reviews positive | |
| Security update period suits how long I'll keep it |
Frequently asked questions
Is buying refurbished worth it?
Often, from reputable sellers with a warranty. You have the same legal rights when buying from a business.
Should I buy at launch?
Prices usually fall within months, and early issues get fixed by updates.
Sources and further reading
- legislation.gov.uk: Consumer Rights Act 2015
- Citizens Advice: Faulty goods
- GOV.UK: The UK Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure (PSTI) regime
Facts checked on 20 October 2026. Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it.