Buying a new gadget online can be a very confusing process. There are so many to choose from and equally as many platforms to use. From Jumia, Kilimall to so many other platforms that you can use, narrowing down the one you want can save you time and money in some cases. It can be overwhelming to choose the right gadget and platform. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of shopping for gadgets online with a step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Determine What You Need
The first step in shopping for gadgets online is to determine what you need. Do you need a new phone, laptop, or camera? What features are important to you? What is your budget?
Once you have a clear idea of what you need, you can start researching different brands and models to find the one that best fits your requirements.
Step 2: Research the Product and the Seller
Before making any purchases online, it’s essential to do your research. Read reviews of the product you’re interested in to get a better understanding of its quality and performance. We do have a number of reviews that you can check out here.
It’s also important to research the seller. Check their reputation by reading reviews from previous customers. Make sure that the seller is trustworthy and has a good track record of delivering quality products on time. With platforms like Jumia, it may be difficult to know the specific retailer who is selling the product. Read reviews to determine if they are genuine or not. As for independent sellers who have their own sites, check Google and even Facebook reviews for feedback from those who have interacted with them.
Step 3: Compare Prices
Once you’ve identified the product and seller you want to purchase from, compare prices from different online retailers to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Some popular online retailers in Kenya include Jumia, Kilimall, and Masoko. Keep in mind that most retailers who list their products on Jumia and Kilimall also have their own platforms (websites, social media pages) and may sell the same products at slightly lower prices.
Step 4: Check for Discounts
Many online retailers offer discounts that can save you money on your purchase. Before making your purchase, be sure to check if there are any available discounts. Most retailers will also have discounts and offers during the holidays.
Step 5: Check Shipping and Delivery Options
Before finalizing your purchase, check the shipping and delivery options. Make sure that the seller offers delivery to your location, and check the estimated delivery time and rate. It’s also important to check the shipping fees and whether the seller offers free shipping. Some sellers may offer free shipping if you meet a minimum purchase threshold. For most sellers, the minimum that qualifies for free shipping is Ksh 5,000.
While at it, also check if they accept payment on delivery, this is recommended as there is no risk to you at all. There are some sellers who offer payment on delivery across the country while others limit that to Nairobi only.
Step 6: Check the Return Policy
Finally, before making your purchase, check the seller’s return policy. Make sure that they offer a reasonable return policy in case the product is damaged or does not meet your expectations. The last thing you would want is to have a defective product that you cannot return.
Read: Jumia Forced to Take Responsibility for Defective Products Sold on Its Platform
