I'm sure people here are already aware that you can get many free TV stations with an over-the-air antenna, but I was surprised to find that a very cheap, old-fashioned looking antenna worked great in finding 127 digital channels on a TV (without cable, wifi, Roku, etc).

Also, for those in the U.S., I've seen many free TVs on Craiglist and Facebook Marketplace.

ETA: I got it at a Dollar King store, here it is on their website (for .44 cents more than I found it in-store): https://dollar-king.net/indoor-antenna.html

https://preview.redd.it/q0lsh8otcgpd1.jpg?width=960&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=87278ff2829fe7992996e1969af708791e3aed99

https://preview.redd.it/pabhp8otcgpd1.jpg?width=1280&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a7fed24bc74b95f9d5cada1bfd28e584efbcde65

My grandfather in law has motion sensor lights in every room in his home. He got me some for my apartment back in the day, and man oh man. I felt like a KING every time I walked in and the lights just popped on. My energy bill was also noticably smaller. Still not sure why they changed to walled sized bills... Also, as an eco conscious human, I was glad to be saving energy. Finally, I found it to be more hygienic and less stressful when not having to worry about touching lights when cooking or whatever. Still swear by automated illumination to this day. What are some things in your home that both save you money and make you feel fancy?

I’m tired of paying for so many different streaming services so my son can watch movies he likes.

The final straw for me was: The bee movie was free on Roku tv for weeks and my son liked it and I thought it was cute. Then all of a sudden it’s $3.99 to rent with the option to buy…? Same with the Lorax-it was free then it was not free now it’s on a different streaming service. I’m over it.

I’m going to buy a dvd player and start picking up cheap kids movies for a few bucks from yard sales and second hand stores and he’ll be able to watch what he wants, when he wants and I’ll only pay for it once!

I’ve been seeing a ton of videos on tiktok from the user Bradley on a Budget. He unplugs his electronics after every single use. Does anyone else do this? Does the cost reduction really outweigh all the effort? Please let me know if you actually do this!

I refuse to use a cheap cell phone or have cheap electronics. However, I save money by only buying refurbished items.

My current phone is a Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 that I use on prepaid with a carrier called MobileX. It uses Verizon's towers and I get unlimited talk/text/30 GB of high-speed data for $24.88. I bought my phone in like-new condition for $700 on Amazon as an unlocked device.

Been following this sub for a while. I haven't seen anyone mention this, so I'd just like to leave a little tip. Support for Windows 10 ends next year, but you don't have to replace your computer!

If you are currently running Windows 10 or even below, or you have an older computer collecting dust somewhere, you can install Linux on it 100% for free, and almost every program on Linux is available for free too. There are lots of versions of Linux, commonly called "distros", and the worst part is figuring out which one to use.

These days, installing and using Linux is very easy. For a total beginner, I recommend Linux Mint. Any machine that can run Win 10 will run Mint just fine. In fact, it will run better. The user interface has almost no learning curve coming from Windows. If your machine is older, I recommend antiX. It's a little less intuitive, but will run on almost any machine. Both distros are well maintained, and well supported on forums. See DistroWatch for more alternatives.

The biggest difference is that a lot of common programs in Windows may not be available in Linux. Microsoft Office, for example. If you want to be frugal, it's great though if you don't want to subscribe to Office: Linux has an alternative called Libre Office that is fully compatible. Web browsers are often available across operating systems: Chrome and Firefox are both available, as well as more alternatives.

There are free programs for editing pictures (GIMP), video editors (OpenShot etc), and many others. I suggest checking out the free website AlternativeTo for recommendations.

If you have teenagers in the house, they are probably concerned about gaming. This is not my field of specialty, but I understand it's still a way to go, but advances are being made. Steam, for example, has Linux support.

Installing Linux on you Win 10 machine is much safer than continuing to use Win 10 once support stops in 2025. It's much much safer than using older Windows versions!

And even old Macs can run Linux. Macs older than around 10 years won't receive Mac OS updates, so Linux is a great alternative even there.

To install Linux, you need to pick a distro, and you need a USB of at least 8 gigs. Go to the website of the distro, and download an ISO. You will need a special program to write it to your USB. Rufus and Balena Etcher are two free and popular options. You can then boot the distro from the USB and test Linux on your machine, before you decide to install it to your hard drive. (Remember to back up your data!)

It will take time to adjust. And since it's free and non-commercial, you will have to spend some time figuring out things. If you're willing to do that, it's a great alternative.

Oh, and lastly: In Linux, there is in fact a special way of installing the operating system that maybe will appeal to some members of this sub. It's called: Frugal installation!

EDIT: Thanks for all the comments. I wanted to clarify a couple points.

1.) Frugality. Some people argue that there really isn't that much of a saving in using Linux. My post was really about what happens when Win 10 ends support sometime next year. Your alternatives then are: a) If your computer can't run Win 11, you can pay for extended security updates. For individual users, that amounts to USD 30, but will only cover a year form what I know. After that, you're out in the cold again. b) If you don't want to pay for updates, you will have to discard the computer. Running unsupported poses a serious security risk. c) You can install Linux totally for free, and continue using your computer for many years. An entry level laptop costs about USD 300 (and will have a short life span). If you don't find any savings in that, see point 2.

2.) Usability. People here have different experiences with trying to use Linux. Some disagree with me, and say that it's too much hassle and too much time. Some people argue that they depend on Windows programs. That is fair enough - one size doesn't fit all. In my view and in my experience, the bar isn't really that high. But you have to be willing to try at least. I would be quite happy to have your discarded Win 10 computers donated to me. Or even better, donate them to someone who really needs them, and can take the hassle of making use of them. Just don't take your old computer to the landfill.

I love him, he’s generous and 9/10 puts an amazing amount of thought into gifts. I think he’s freaked out that I’m older and live alone and I guess the watch can tell him if I’ve died? 😂. I just don’t need this amount of technology and I’m even unsure if my VERY old Apple phone is even updated enough to use with the watch. And again, I’m grateful just frugal.

So at places like Amazon and Walmart you can buy normal AA and AAA batteries for pretty cheap these days. But the rechargeable versions have also come down in price and it may be cheaper to use those because you can keep recharging them.

I guess you would also have to factor the cost of constantly recharging the batteries too? And I guess they only have "X" amount of recharge cycles before they degrade in quality and not hold as much charge.

Anyone have experience in this?

Thanks

I have a 2019 Dell XPS 15 and it's slowed down and at times has started at times to crash for certain sites. Still, altogether the laptop is fine. I go online, I play old NES, SNES, Sega games, do some work. Altogether it's good so I don't plan on getting a new one. The new laptops & new phones also seem like there's nothing all that new to them. The only thing I had to do was get a new battery for my laptop because it started dying in about 2 hrs. Now it's back to avg of 6-7 hrs per charge. How long have you kept your laptops? When did you decide it was time to get a new one? Thanks in advance! Really grateful for a community like this one.

I received a video camera, emf reader, uv flash light, pepper spray and a Polaroid camera…O”I asked for a new work tote and smartwatch. I’m not going to use the gifts he gave me and I feel like they are a waste of money. I would rather have nothing than feel obligated to use the presents to indulge him. What should I do?

Smartphones are expensive - but so are cars, and property. More and more it is becoming clear that the majority of people need a reliable smartphone to get through day to day life. For those of us that choose to be frugal about our purchasing decisions, it can feel like our choice of phone needs to be an exception to the rule. After all, an increased price tag must mean the phone will last longer and not cost as much in the long-term. Right?

I'll leave that question up to the critics. In my experience though, price does not always mean quality. And in fact, in many cases it can mean you're paying for features you do not need. That is waste, and we're not about that life.

With that spiel out of the way, let me introduce you to my king of frugal smartphone picks, the **OnePlus6T**.

https://preview.redd.it/komsthequvbe1.jpg?width=1500&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=907efde8a9713ef5f5671a855982885f85128f09

I bought this phone a month after it first came out in December of 2018, and after using it as my daily driver for the past 6 years, let me tell you, this phone rocks. For just $500AUD at the time, it was certainly a budget choice, and not something I expected to be using to this very day.

While its durability has stood the test of time, of course there has to be some drawbacks. But its those very drawbacks that inspired to me to write this post. When picking a frugal choice for a smartphone, the 6T has taught me that it isn't about the features you need that should dictate your choice, but about the choices you DONT need. In the case of the 6T, at the time I had very little care for the quality of speakers, and camera on the phone. I am not a selfie guy, and whenever I'm listening to my phone, its through a pair of earphones. Hell, if I could buy a flagship quality phone without speakers at a discount, I'd likely go for it.

Smartphones can do many things, and sometimes all the bells and whistles can be overwhelming to consumers. But if you have the time and means, I cannot recommend enough going through the following list, and picking out a few things that just maybe, you don't really need the best of:

• Speakers - Not needed if you use headphones
• Display - Many people won't notice the difference between 100 and 144hz
• Main Camera - Do you take photos often? Is the 4k/60fps quality needed?
• Selfie Camera - See above, but regarding selfies.
• Haptic Motor - I personally really like good haptic feedback, you may disagree.
• Headphone Jack - Wireless earphones? I do.
• Processor - The main culprit of overpaying. You don't need to pay for a good processor if you don't game or use editing software.

Now, I'm not really much of a "tech guy". Phone specs mean something to me but I don't know the line up of existing and past models. I can only tell you what I've experienced with my trusty 6T. But hopefully this strategy of breaking down the product into consumable slices will help you and others judge your next purchase, and choose accordingly.

TL;DR - Smartphones are complex technology sandwiches. And you can very often save money if you shop around and pick one that just has the features you need.

I’m participating in a White Elephant gift exchange, and the budget is set at $20 or less. I’m looking for fun, creative, or universally appealing gift ideas that would work for anyone. Any suggestions for gifts (available on amazon) that could be a hit with everyone? Thanks in advance!

I am trying to lower my cell phone bill. I have heard a lot about different towers. I use Verizon, and a few companies use Verizon towers. Why are they cheaper then? I don’t really get it. I’m trying to save money where I can.

Before the hottest time of the day like before 3PM then off by 6PM? I try to cool things more 11PM-2AM for a longer morning cool.

What would be better upgrading my computer or getting a new one? I have a 2018 Lenovo L380 yoga. No issues except for running hot if many programs or a game are running. I'm not sure whether to get a new fan and add ram, or to buy a new computer? Especially, since my computer is working fine.

It feels stupid buying a 1000 to 1800 dollar computer versus 100 to 200 dollars in ram and fan improvements. But, what if those same 1500 dollar computers go up to 2500 even for the on sale price next yeat? At the same time, should I even get a new computer at all, or just stay with my current computer for life?

My other options were the Lenovo X1 carbon, Thinkpad T or P series, Dell XPS, or a Dell gaming laptop. I mainly use my laptop for youtube videos, some powershell/python programming practice, and light gaming: cities skylines, Hearts of Iron, Tropico, and some 2000s games.

I've been thinking of upgrading my iPad Pro 2018 for a few weeks now, to a 2022 one but I really struggle making this decision. I'm a graphic designer and Illustrator, so I do use the iPad, it ain't a media device. The 2018 iPad still works great although the battery kinda sucks. (That's not an issue because I hardly go out with my iPad.) The only reason I feel like I HAVE to upgrade is because I'm afraid the more I wait, the less money I will get for my iPad when selling it, or worse, I risk losing the Apple support and it gets no more updates, and its price will drop badly. So... I don't feel like I NEED the upgrade, I feel like I want to do it to future-proof. Buying a brand new iPad pro is something I'd never do, the prices just don't make sense to me. But when I put on paper selling my 208 and buying a 2022, that's only $280 that I'd have to pay (Eastern European pricing for second hand ipads), which sounds great, but then I wonder if maybe $280 could be better invested...

What's the smartest thing to do in this situation?

The iphones I am using now and used to use:

• 1, I am useing iphone x now, 256g, and i only use less than 128g.
• 2, i used to use iphone12 mini before, 128g, and i was over the storage usually many times.

So, it is okay for me to use small screem, maybe 128g, and buy the icloud.

The iphones I am thinking now: iphone X/XS/XMAX, 11, 12, because I don't think I need more founctions like the lately iphones.

My concerning are:

• 1, the eSIM and physical SIM card. It seems like the esim is a trend now, and the lately iphones' designs are abandoning the physical sim card's room more and more.
• The batteries. the old iphones' batteries are dead faster than new iphones.
• Safe and locked or unlocked risk. it is difficult to buy a safe old iphone( I guess...?)

Why I want to buy old iphones:

• I don't want to chasing the trend that everyone likes new things.
• I like the old camera style
• I don't need too many new functions.

Why I need to change my phone:

I lost my 12mini in the sea, i guess it is in some sharks' stomach. Anyway, it is a long story... Then, my uncle gives his old iphone which is the one i am using to me. i don't want to take his benifit, so i will return to him.

I am wondering if anyone can give me some advise, like how and where buy a safe and good deal old iphones, what i should be carful. Also, for the batteries, which old generation is worth to buy now?

We are planning to cancel our shared premium Spotify account this year (amongst other monthly streaming things) to cut down costs. (Cancelling 3 streaming subscriptions and a big online newspaper will save us ~$900/yr. Sweet.) I know we haven't always streamed music like we do now and I'm actually excited to just listen to the albums we own now etc and be intentional about occasionally buying a new one. But do you have any other music streaming/listening hacks that you have enjoyed without paying a subscription fee? Not sure how annoying the ads will be on Spotify now but I'm sure we will get used to it or just listen to things we own.

The market is oversaturated with temu and resellers. I'd like to cut through the fluff and find the reliable brands that might also be cheaper than the big names like Anker etc

Title says it all basically. How can I reduce my time on screen? I feel like that I need to be more concentrated on other acrivities such as quality time...but in the end i finish on my cell.

Please share your ideas or any strategy you use. I currently waste arounf 2 h a day on smartphone!!!

For the love of God don't cheap out on your electronics. This charging adapter which my grandparents bought at below 10bucks for their ipad just blew up on my hand when i plugged it in a socket. Was damn shocked at the loud pop when it exploded, at first i wasn't sure on what had happened, what i can recall on that moment was hearing a loud pop radiated from my hand and a buzz of numbness from two of my fingers when it exploded, i only realised the damage when i pulled my hands out in confusion to inspect and bam, the brick blew up on my hand which left some black lines on my point and middle finger.

So to anyone who is in need of a charging brick, don't buy anything that is below the average of what a original adapter from a phone/computer manufacturer charges. Stay away to shady products that claims to have fast charging capabilities and mention their "Compliancy" to safety protocols. They are cheap for a reason so please be wary to avoid hazards. (Yes i am fine but certainly shaken by it.)

I moved into a new place recently and have been dreading the big grocery bills of buying all the occasionals like cooking oil, soy sauce, dish soap, etc etc.

The other day while unpacking stuff, I needed batteries for a remote. I smugly remembered that I'd recently charged up some AAs, so I found them and I was good to go.

Why it felt like a win is that I bought those batteries like 6 years ago. They've been used and recharged dozens of times and still last way longer than off the shelf disposable batteries. And I think I paid like $50 for a kit of 30 something mixed batteries. I've also saved a ton of material waste!

Buy rechargeable batteries!

There is a free kindle app that lets you read kindle books without the expense of buying a kindle reader.

I have been shopping for a new phone since my old one broke and I have been using an old 2017 motorolla which has been.... Interesting. But I am not sure if it is better to go for an older phone that will run out of security updates in 1-2 years or if I should just get a new cheap phone from either Motorolla or Samsung that will last me years (4 years of OS and 5 for security on Samsung and 2 maybe 3 years of security for Motorolla). Both companies have phones for about $230 (A25 and the Moto Power 2024). I am not sure what to go for and I was wondering if people with more knowledge and experience could help me out.

Also I don't do a whole lot of heavy tasks like gaming, I might download mistplay and 1 game at a time but that's about the most that I would end up doing on it.

I'm in the market for a new printer and laser seems to be the cheapest way to go. I see some are cartridge free, but I think it's even possible to refill a cartridge with some 3rd party ink refill. I kind of need color, but I'm open to the black and white models too.