Gadgets Now Bureau 22 Jul, 2022, 05:10PM IST

India is finally set to get 5G network this year. With 5G auctions scheduled for the end of the month, it is likely that telecom companies will roll out the 5G by the end of the year. So make sure that you buy a 5G-enabled phone. There are several models available under Rs 25,000 now.

ACs primary purpose is to keep your home cool. Focus on your requirement: tonnage, window or split and energy efficiency. ACs also come with various smart features with companion apps and Google Assistant support as well. These are good-to-have features, but remember that they have nothing to do with cooling.

Make sure there are connectivity ports like HDMI, USB ports, 3.5mm audio jack and other AV ports along with Bluetooth.

It is nice to have those big-screen TVs. They give cinema fear. But remember for a comfortable viewing experience you need a minimum viewing distance of 4 feet. For TV sizes between 40-inch and 48-inch, the recommended viewing distance is 7 feet. If you are planning to buy a 55-inch or 65-inch LED TV, then ensure your room can accommodate a minimum viewing distance of 9 feet. If you have a small room, it is always recommended to get a Full HD 1080p TV. While 720p HD ready models could be a decent choice for those who are heavily dependent on set-top boxes. For users watching movies or playing games, a 1080p-HD resolution is a must.

The higher the contrast ratio, the better display when it comes to showing colours and other image details.

Most budget TVs come with average speakers. While the picture quality may please you, the audio may not. So, it makes sense to buy a sound bar along with large TVs or at least invest in a decent 2.1 channel speaker.

While many shoppers may go for split AC models, this doesn’t mean that window AC models are obsolete or cooling is less efficient. Windows ACs cost less, offer a compact solution and also attract lesser servicing costs. If your room has a spare window or the facility to accommodate a window AC then buying one makes sense. Also, if you stay in a rented accommodation, a window AC is a more practical choice as it is easier to install and disassemble

Don't forget to include the installation costs. This is not included with most purchases. If you already have an existing place to put a Window AC, then the installation costs may not be much, but if you have to make provisions to integrate a window AC then installation costs will be higher. On the other hand, installation costs of split AC models are standardised. But do note the distance between indoor and outdoor units of the split AC as the cost of connecting pipes needs to be considered as brands only provide a certain length for free which varies from model to model. As far as servicing costs are concerned, split AC models have higher servicing costs usually than window AC models.

Inverter ACs regulate the speed of the motor to adjust temperature while fixed speed ACs start and stop the condenser. Starting and stopping the condenser to regular temperature every time draws more power, so inverter AC models are claimed to run on lesser power which translates to lesser bills. But remember, the costs of servicing and repairing an inverter AC model is way higher than the regular fixed speed models. So, if you are on a tight budget, buying a non-inverter AC is perfectly fine. As far as electricity bills are concerned, if you use the AC judiciously, it may make little difference.

Depending on the size of your family, determine the size of fridge you need. This should also depend on the space available in your room.

Make sure that you opt for a frost free, auto-clean refrigerator as you won't have to remove ice periodically. Any fridge above 250 Litres is frost free.

Check the compressor warranty, make sure you buy a fridge that comes with at least 5-years warranty on the compressor.

Be sure about the available space in your house while choosing a top-load or side-door washing machine. Usually, top-load washing machines are sleek and take less space compared to side-door options. However, they are less flexible in operations. Like you cannot put clothes in between.

If you live in a rented apartment or you have to relocate the washing machine quite often then an automatic washing machine can be a hassle as it needs a fixed water supply source and drainage to work properly. Semi-automatic models are lighter and easier to carry around.

A budget washing machine can be tough on your clothes due to rough washing techniques. So, always opt for machines that offer different modes for washing different types of fabrics and clothes.