Beware of cheaper goods... mostly

Jon Bentley reminds us that what often appears to be a bargain may not be – but there are a few exceptions to this rule

- Jon Bentley

Buy cheap, buy twice. It's an old adage that's still relevant today, and one that often runs through my mind when I'm buying things. A seductively cheap product has obvious economic appeal but there are disadvantages down the line which outweigh the upfront saving. Short life, poor performance, woeful after-sales service, expensive maintenance or nonexistent spare parts are all pitfalls awaiting the avid bargain hunter.

The classic example is the alluringly cheap printer which consumes expensive replacement cartridges that last no time at all. When you realise the horrific printing costs you immediately replace the machine with a refillable ink tank model, or at least one with cheaper, longer lasting cartridges.