|
We've
discussed features, prices, and recommended specific digital cameras
the past few weeks. Now that you're armed with all of that knowledge,
where should you actually purchase your digital camera?
The
answer somewhat depends on how you like to shop, how easy you'll
learn to use the camera, and what's most important to you, i.e.
lowest price vs. immediate gratification vs. best service, return
policy, etc.
As
you know from reading or watching the news recently, in-store retail
sales were not as rosy this past holiday season as expected, but
on-line sales (revenue and quality of service) were up significantly
over 1999. It's obvious that many people are now more comfortable
making certain types of purchases on the Web today than they were
a year or two ago. And the buying experience is more friendly and
reliable as well. With all that in mind, here are some places to
get a good deal on a digital camera. Below are suggestions whether
you prefer "Clicks" or "Mortar" shopping.
In store:
Digital
cameras have become a very popular consumer electronics product
and all major electronics and office supply stores now carry these
items. If you have a Best Buy, Circuit City, CompUSA, Office Depot,
Staples, etc. nearby, you'll likely find at least 8 or 10 models
from which to choose. You can also find digital cameras at many
camera / photography specialty stores, especially in larger chains
such as Ritz Camera and Wolf Camera.
Typically
you'll pay a little more for digital cameras in the retail stores
than you will from the online outlets, but there are two upsides
that may offset a higher price. Many of you will need 10 minutes
of face to face instruction of the camera features to properly use
it, and this is the best place to acquire this knowledge and actually
get your hands on it before you buy it. You'll also likely get immediate
delivery so you can use it today! Camera stores in particular tend
to carry other accessories that you may want (high capacity memory
cards, memory card readers, camera bags, lenses, rechargeable batteries,
etc.). For the benefit of all this one-on-one attention, you'll
probably pay no more than an extra $10 to $50 for a typical digital
camera vs. purchasing it from a discount on-line source.
On-line sources:
There
are myriad on-line stores and sources for electronic items, we'll
list a few where we've heard more positive than negative stories.
Look for close out specials or free shipping if you visit these
sites.
Buy.com
http://www.buy.com
This site is actually owned and managed by a large, well established
electronics distribution company, and we've found them to have excellent
prices and accurate delivery information. This site is easy to search
by manufacturer, price or keywords.
CameraWorld
http://www.cameraworld.com
Guess what these folks sell? They tend to have several specials
shown on their homepage, but you can search through their catalog
of all available models. They do a good job displaying full features
and consumer reviews on many models.
DigitalCameraStore
http://www.digitalcamerastore.com
Another place where you can guess what they sell. You'll find much
the same selection here as on CameraWorld.com, but there is no real
searching method, you just choose a category or manufacturer and
get everthing in that section. Some of you may find this simpler
and easier to find your selection if you already know what you want.
eBay
http://www.ebay.com
If your Pez dispenser collection is complete, visit eBay to
buy a digital camera in an auction (or sell your old camera!). While
there are many auction sites, eBay is by far the most popular and
best known. Many items are auctioned by companies that are trying
to unload excess inventory, so you can get a good deal here on new
equipment. If you haven't used an auction site before, you'll want
to learn the rules and procedures to accomplish what you want safely
and successfully.
A
note to consider. Digital cameras are much like PCs and cell phones.
There is a huge proliferation of makes and models, and manufacturers
are constantly introducing new models and discontinuing current
models. While you'd probably like to get the latest top of the line
model for a bargain price, it's probably not going to happen. Your
best bet is to review your needs, decide which features you must
have (resolution level, wide angle lens, built in flash, brand,
warranty, etc.) and then shop with an open mind. Chances are a recently
discontinued model may have everything you need AND SAVE YOU $100
or more compared with a brand new model with a few extra bells and
whistles.
|
