Affordable Tech: The Rise of Budget & Second-Hand Devices
Published 13 October 2025
Charlotte Rickards
A growing segment of budget-conscious tech consumers is keeping their smartphones, tablets and computers for longer, resisting frequent upgrade cycles. They’re questioning the hype cycle for new devices, embracing modular technology and buying refurbished products. This longevity-focused approach challenges tech brands built on novelty and rapid replacement, forcing the industry to rethink pricing strategies and product durability.
The Shifting Tech-Value Equation
New Models for Affordable Repair & Ownership
Services & Stores for Wallet-Friendly Devices
Between “boring” annual smartphone launches and ongoing cost-of-living pressures, consumers are becoming ever more cost-conscious about their tech purchases. However, this budget awareness doesn’t mean they’re forgoing new tech entirely. Instead, purchases are becoming less frequent or are more likely to be made second-hand.
Between “boring” annual smartphone launches and ongoing cost-of-living pressures, consumers are becoming ever more cost-conscious about their tech purchases. However, this budget awareness doesn’t mean they’re forgoing new tech entirely. Instead, purchases are becoming less frequent or are more likely to be made second-hand.
Demand is growing for easily upgradable and repairable hardware and software – it’s cheaper to update than to buy new. From modular laptops to software subscriptions promising exclusive services, consumers increasingly see themselves as custodians of their tech rather than just owners. Meanwhile, spread-out costs let them budget for incremental upgrades with less financial stress.
Consumers want new ways to buy and maintain their digital tools without breaking the bank. Some brands are lengthening warranties and increasing covered repairs, helping people keep their devices in working condition for longer. Others are expanding retail operations to make affordable used tech easier to access for diverse devices and regions.
Affordable Tech: The Rise of Budget & Second-Hand Devices
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