Usability over Brand, from Apple to CdrKing
Do I need it? How often will I use it? Will I benefit from its features? Is it a wise purchase? Does it have positive reviews? These are the questions I usually ask whenever I buy an electronic gadget. I do not focus on the brand or the country where it is made because I believe each brand has its own advantages. Instead, I try to maximize those advantages by making sure I have answers to all my questions before making a purchase.
For example, the gadgets on my desk, as shown in the photo, come from different brands rather than a single manufacturer.
Let’s start with my Apple Mac mini. I find it quite expensive at $599, but I really need it for iPhone app development. It also has a Boot Camp feature that allows me to run other operating systems, such as Windows 7. In addition, I enjoy using applications like GarageBand and iMovie, which I consider to be among the best audio and video editing software. I would like to thank my sister, Agnes, for giving this to me as a gift.
To pair with my Mac mini, I chose the Philips 192EL LED monitor. It is $26 cheaper than Samsung LED monitors and is compatible with both Windows 7 and macOS.
Since the new Mac mini does not have an optical drive, the Samsung SE-S084D external DVD writer, priced at around $50, would be a good choice. Aside from being designed by Toshiba-Samsung Storage Technology, it is slim and easy to carry, especially when used with my MacBook Air.
To reduce cable clutter and save desk space, a wireless keyboard and mouse are necessary. The Microsoft Wireless Desktop 3000 (Version 2), priced at about $35, is a good option. It provides comfortable hand support and is compatible with macOS. Of course, a mouse pad from CDR-King is also a practical purchase since it is affordable and helps improve wrist comfort.
Since I started using these gadgets, I have not encountered any problems. Thus, I believe that when buying gadgets, one should not focus on the question, “Which brand should I buy?” but instead ask, “How often will I use this gadget?”
