With technology advancement and the need to produce and stream content, there has been an influx of smart gadgets in the market. We now have different brands, devices, and operating systems, making it overwhelming to make the right choice. As a Video blogger, there are many qualities in which you need to check for the device you are buying. These factors determine your purchasing power, especially if you need the product for a specified purpose. So, what do you consider when choosing such devices? Here are seven tips to guide you.
1. How durable is it?
As a vlogger, you will need something that will last longer, just like your vlogging career. You require something durable that can stand the test of time and give you value for your money. This situation means you need to research and get reviews on the products you are looking for to understand their durability. In order to find your smartwatch that guarantees durability, you should check out some review articles and online customer reviews beforehand. Buying something that won’t last long will either affect your business or get you at a loss in the long run. A durable item will be priced a bit higher, but it’s worth the price. It’s better to get something long-lasting at a higher price than buying it cheaper and regret it later.
2. What are the smart functions and their value?
As a blogger, you need to get value from the smart function of the gadget you plan to purchase. It will help if you look for gadgets that will fit those specific functions you require. If you stream videos directly to your fans, go for that particular streaming Device instead of getting an alternative that will require the use of several gadgets. It’s recommended to avoid gadgets that come with tones of smart functions, as sometimes they end up messing their functioning. Go for products that are easy to operate and will enhance your life, other than those you’ll require to adapt to them.
3. Can the product work without the smart function?
Being a vlogger requires smart gadgets that thoroughly work when needed. But to be on the safe side, you need to consider devices that have an option to function without the intelligent function. For example, if you are getting a smart camera, you might want to go to areas with no internet or streaming capabilities. Your camera should work with such a function and maybe stream the content later after you get the internet. Products that are limited to smart functions only may create inconvenience when you visit areas or doing something that doesn’t require the smart feature. It would be best to get a gadget that can get switched from operating smart to regular use.
4. Does it require a subscription, or is it a one-time purchase?
Most advanced smart gadgets come with software that requires a subscription to get upgraded. In the case of subscriptions, you have to be paying for it once it expires or every month. If you are taking vlogging as a business, you need to understand that subscriptions will increase your operating expenses and reduce your profit margin. It is advisable to go for a one-purchase product that won’t create additional costs for your business. It is better to buy something expensive with your capital than buying it cheaper and then incurring monthly expenses, which sometimes escalates. If you don’t require the advanced services, why not purchase the ordinary smart gadget and save on costs?
5. Will you be saving money?
A smart gadget should enable you to save money in the long run. With increased business costs and the rising cost of living, many people find ways to save money. Your smart gadget should enable you to save on energy costs, must have all the technologies, thus no need to buy different devices, and it should create value for your money. Any gadget that increases your monthly expenses is not worth buying, no matter its purpose. A good example is purchasing a smart camera. The camera should use less energy and should have long-lasting battery and streaming features, which will reduce your electricity bills while working more efficiently. Before paying for that product, check on its money-saving capabilities and other conveniences. If it doesn’t add any value to your blogging business, look for a better alternative.
6. Is it easy to Install and Maintain? What are the after-sales services?
Many people end up buying smart gadgets and fail to use them in the long run simply because they are expensive or difficult to maintain, or they stopped functioning due to factory error, and there is no warranty for the same. Your new smart gadget should be easy to install and connect and should not incur extra costs in maintaining it. If it’s a product that will require regular updates and customer support, check their availability and reliability. It would be best if you didn’t fail to use a product because it could not connect or update, or when customer care is unreachable. Please don’t get a product that will require technicians now and then for its maintenance.
7. What’s the price?
I guess that’s where most people look into when trying to find a product of their choice. Price determines the buying decision of any product. Most of the smart gadgets are very expensive to purchase. But you need to ask yourself if it’s worth buying at the set price. You need to check on its Price and its features and see if it’s worth buying or it is better to go for the cheaper models. Compare the expensive gadget features with the more affordable models and see if its features warrant the price increase. Get a product that matches its price with the added features.
Price gets determined by the brand, hardware features, software features, retailer margins, customer service costs, transport, etc. Don’t buy something because of the brand name or just because it’s popular. You can also check on the reviews to determine its performance and reliability.
When choosing a smart device, you can also consider its operation and if it fits with other devices and software. It would help if you even looked at why you’re buying the product to avoid wasting money on something you can forgo. If you take these tips seriously, you will get a device that will improve your vlogging practice, thus getting value for your money.