SMART ACHAT · FULL TRANSCRIPT
7 mistakes to avoid when shopping online
By S. Dahani · Founder & Publication Director
The full text of the Smart Achat video, reorganised for easy reading on the site.
Quick Take
Before you click “buy”
Think you have found a great deal online? A struck-through price, a 40% discount, hundreds of positive reviews and a message saying only two items are left all seem to say: “Buy now!” Yet this is exactly the moment to take time to think.
Mistake no. 1: looking only at the displayed price
A product at 90 euros is not necessarily cheaper than one at 100 euros. You need to work out the total cost: delivery charges, essential accessories, warranty and any additional fees. Before buying, ask yourself how much the product will really cost once it arrives at your door. That is the amount to compare.
Mistake no. 2: automatically trusting big promotions
“30% off”, “50% off” or “flash sale” grab attention immediately. But a large discount does not prove the offer is good value. What matters is the price at which the same reference is actually sold elsewhere. So search for the exact reference at several sellers.
Mistake no. 3: not comparing several sellers
When you find the product you are looking for, do not buy it straight away. Copy its name and exact reference, then compare the final price, delivery, the seller’s reputation, the warranty and returns. A few minutes of comparison can make a significant difference.
Mistake no. 4: looking only at the star rating
A rating of 4.8 out of 5 is interesting, but it is not enough. Look at how many people have left a review and read both the positive comments and the recent negative criticism. Look for recurring problems: battery, fragility, dimensions or after-sales service. Detailed reviews often tell you more than the overall score.
Mistake no. 5: not checking the exact reference
Two devices can look identical while being different. A phone, a computer or a TV can come with several memory or storage capacities, or different accessories. Make sure you are comparing exactly the same reference and the same configuration.
Mistake no. 6: forgetting the warranty and return conditions
Saving 20 euros is not worthwhile if returning the product then becomes complicated or expensive. Check the length of the warranty, what it covers, the return period, the costs and the procedure. A slightly more expensive seller offering better service may be the best choice.
Mistake no. 7: buying under pressure
Messages such as “Only two left” or “Offer valid for 12 more minutes” can create a sense of urgency. When we fear missing a deal, we compare less. The harder a site pushes you to decide quickly, the more you should check. For a significant purchase, close the page for a few minutes, compare, think, then come back if the product is still the best choice.
The seven rules to remember
Look at the total price. Do not be impressed by a big discount alone. Compare several sellers and really analyse the reviews. Check the exact reference, the warranty and the return conditions. Above all, do not decide under the pressure of urgency. A few minutes of checking can save you from a bad deal. Welcome to Smart Achat: buy better, spend less.