18 Ways to Save Money on Tech and Gadgets
You don't have to be a tech expert to start saving money with the gadgets and services you already use.
Many people overpay for things they could do more efficiently, or for devices they don't need, simply because they're unaware of smarter options. Whether you're managing a home office, cutting back on monthly bills, or getting more out of your smartphone, a little tech know-how can go a long way.
Here are 18 simple, effective ways to use technology to keep more money in your pocket.
1. Replace Cable Boxes with Streaming Devices
Avoid the monthly rental fee by using a Roku, Fire TV, or Apple TV stick. You can still watch live TV by downloading your cable company's app.
2. Cut the Cord Altogether
If you mainly watch Netflix, YouTube, or Hulu, you might not need cable at all. Services like Sling or YouTube TV are often half the price and more flexible.
3. Fix a Printer with a Cable Instead of Buying a New One
If your wireless printer won't connect, try using a USB or Ethernet cable. It's an easy fix that often works instantly.
4. Share Subscription Plans
Streaming and software services often let you share with family. One subscription can cover multiple users legally, such as Netflix, Microsoft 365, or Apple Music.
5. Stop Renting a Modem
Internet providers charge a monthly fee to rent equipment. Buy your modem and router once, and it pays for itself in less than a year.
6. Use Free Alternatives to Paid Software
Use free versions of Microsoft Word, Google Docs, Canva, or built-in apps like Notes for Apple users, or Adobe's free scanning app for smartphones.
7. Turn an Old Smartphone into a Security Camera
Install a free app like Alfred, and your spare phone can monitor your front door or living room — no new hardware needed.
8. Reduce Mobile Data Use
Limit your mobile data usage by watching videos over Wi-Fi, disabling background data, and using offline maps or music downloads.
9. Scan Documents with Your Phone
Apps like Adobe Scan or your phone's Notes app can scan paperwork to PDF — no fax machine, scanner, or print shop required.
10. Cancel Subscriptions You Forgot About
Free budgeting apps like Rocket Money or Mint help you spot and cancel auto-renewing charges hiding in your bank account.
11. Make Free Calls with WiFi
Use WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Zoom over WiFi to skip minutes and roaming charges — beneficial for international calls.
12. Keep Devices Updated to Avoid Replacing Them
Running updates keeps your phone or laptop safe and fast, and saves you from needing to buy a new one sooner than necessary.
13. Buy Refurbished Electronics
Certified refurbished technology can look and work like new, often costing 20–40% less, and still includes a warranty.
14. Use Smart Plugs or Timers
Set electronics to turn off automatically with a smart plug or timer to stop wasting energy on devices you're not using.
15. Print Less by Going Digital
Sign forms, save receipts, and show tickets on your phone. It saves paper, ink, and unnecessary trips to the printer.
16. Use a Free Password Manager
Free tools like Bitwarden or built-in browser password savers keep your accounts secure — no need to pay or reset passwords constantly.
17. Let Your Browser Find Discounts Automatically
Install extensions like Honey or Rakuten to check for coupons and find better prices while shopping online.
18. Learn Tech Tricks for Free
Before hiring tech help, check YouTube, your library, or community classes — many tutorials and how-to guides are free and easy to follow.
And One More
You can use a free Google website to compare and track prices for flights with email alerts for price reductions and a chart that shows when prices are higher or lower.
Wrap-Up
Technology doesn't have to cost a lot —when used wisely, it can save you money month after month. With just a few minor changes and a little curiosity, you can avoid hidden fees, make your devices last longer, and use free tools instead of paid ones.
You don't have to be a tech expert — just a little more informed.
Websites You Can Use:
Streaming Devices & Services:
- Apple TV – apple.com/apple-tv-4k
- Roku – roku.com
- Google Chromecast – google.com/chromecast
- Amazon Firestick – amazon.com
Over the air Antenna - https://amzn.to/3IaaHyS
Email and Productivity Apps:
- Gmail – gmail.com
- Yahoo! Mail – mail.yahoo.com
- Hotmail / Outlook – outlook.com
- Google Docs – docs.google.com
- Microsoft Word – office.com
- Canva – canva.com
- Libby (ebooks & audiobooks) – meet.libbyapp.com
International Roaming and Calling
- Airalo eSIM https://www.airalo.com/
Anti-Virus and App Stores:
- Microsoft Defender Antivirus – microsoft.com/en-us/windows/comprehensive-security
- Microsoft App Store – microsoft.com/store
- Apple App Store – accessible on Apple devices
Subscriptions and Services:
- Netflix – netflix.com
- Microsoft 365 – microsoft.com/microsoft-365
- Duolingo – duolingo.com
- Apple iCloud – iCloud.com
- Spotify – spotify.com
- Apple Music – music.apple.com
Refurbished
- Apple Certified Refurbished – apple.com/shop/refurbished
- Amazon Renewed – https://www.amazon.com/Certified-Refurbished
- Best Buy Outlet (Refurbished & Clearance) – https://www.bestbuy.com
- Dell Refurbished – dellrefurbished.com
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