With the impending hike in the Goods & Services Tax (GST) in Singapore next year, local residents may wish to splurge on big-ticket items this month. While consumer tech goods are not as expensive as property, cars, or luxury goods, they can still burn a hole in your pocket. But bear in mind that most gadgets — besides your smartphone — aren't exactly necessities. So if you do have the cash to spare, here are five big-ticket gadgets to consider — before their prices go up.
Alienware 34 Curved QD-OLED Gaming Monitor
If you're a PC gamer, indulge a little, and spring for the Alienware 34 Curved QD-OLED Gaming Monitor. This huge curved display offers spectacular visuals, thanks to the use of Samsung's Quantum Dot OLED technology, which has higher peak brightness and deeper, more vibrant colours than older OLED panels. In addition, the Alienware runs at up to 175Hz refresh rate, and has Nvidia's G-Sync feature for tear-free visuals. The one big downside: It's not 4K. But that's not an issue for many gamers. In short, the Alienware is definitely one of the best PC gaming monitors you can buy now.
Canon EOS R7
Have you always wanted to pick up photography as a hobby? It's not as expensive as you'd think. The Canon EOS R7, for example, is around S$2,000 (body only), and comes with features to help newbie photogs, such as an auto-leveller, subject detection for people, animals, and vehicles, as well as great autofocus. This mirrorless camera is also small, lightweight, and takes excellent shots. In short, the R7 is a great choice for novices, while its lightweight build makes it ideal to bring on holidays.
LG C2 OLED evo 4K TV
An OLED TV is the biggest upgrade you can get for your TV viewing experience. Aside from having inky true blacks that are unmatched by other current TV display technology, OLED TVs also have excellent viewing angles, have low input lag (suitable for gaming), and the panels are so thin that certain models can be mounted like a painting. I highly recommend the LG C2, which looks great, comes with gaming features, and is reasonably priced for an OLED TV.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 5G
Unless you're maxing out the Apple iPhone 14 Max Pro, there are few smartphones as pricey as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 5G. But I would argue that even Apple's most expensive phone isn't as game-changing. The Galaxy Z Fold 4 simply opens up more possibilities, thanks to its foldable 7.6-inch display, and software optimisations that lets you multi-task with greater ease and convenience. You can also use it with a S Pen stylus (with special tips), though you can't stow the pen in the phone.
Sony HT-A9 Home Theatre System
With streaming services offering more HDR and Dolby Atmos content, it makes sense to upgrade your home theatre setup for a more immersive, cinematic experience. You can start with the Sony HT-A9 Home Theatre System, which makes everything easier with wireless speakers that adapt to the acoustics of your living room. At its best, the A9 produces an all-encompassing dome of sound that really makes Dolby Atmos content come alive. However, I did encounter some interference in my testing that can affect the experience. Your mileage may vary depending on where you place these speakers. Alternatively, a Sonos Beam and Sub Mini setup is cheaper, but good, too.
Any purchase you make through our links may generate a commission. It supports our work, but does not dictate our editorial reviews. See our FAQ here.
