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When It's Best To Pay Top Dollar Or Buy Cheap

Link: ConsumerReports.org

(KDKA) Sometimes it's worth spending top dollar for a product, while other times it's better to go as cheap as possible.

Now, experts have a list of ten products for each category.

We all want beautiful skin, but Consumer Reports says it is not worth it to pay big bucks for creams and cleansers.

Consumer Reports say the cheaper stuff at the drug store can be just as effective as the pricier products at the department store.

Experts also say consumers should be careful about spending too much on cookware.

Consumer Reports tests found many of the lower-priced pots and pans were among the best at basic cooking. Some are as low as $50 for a nine piece set.

Meanwhile, it's also important not to throw away money on expensive paper towels. That's because, unless you're going to rinse and re-use them, the cheaper paper towel is just as good.

But then, when it comes to golf, the smallest change in your swing, stance or grip can make a big difference. So what about buying a better golf ball?

"I guess the pros can tell you I get better spin with this or that ball but I can't even spin a golf ball so I don't know," said Jim McCarthy, of Pittsburgh.

Consumer Reports test found the most expensive golf balls are most accurate. But if you're an average player then an expensive ball is not going to fix all the other problems.

Experts say consumers can pay $13 to $25 for a dozen balls that perform very well for average players. And the $40 and $50 balls are only worth it for excellent players.

Consumer Reports says they also did some tests on lawnmowers and cordless drills and found that some of the cheaper models can be just as good as the more expensive ones.

But experts say consumers really do get what they pay for with some products including everyday make-up.

"Cheaper lipsticks have a lot of wax in them because it's a cheap ingredient, but it affects the color pigment," said make-up artist, Lori Geiger.

The department store make-up will last longer, both on the skin and in the packaging.

Also, experts say the pricier foundation gives more coverage and the better eye shadows and blush are milled differently so they won't crumble.

When it comes to paint, Consumer Reports says test found low quality paints don't perform as well.

And when you're buying a bike, Consumer Reports says it's important to go to an actual bike shop, not Wal-Mart or Toys-R-Us where they are under $200 and are one-size fits all.

Bikes at Trek Pittsburgh start at $130 for kids, and $279 for adults, plus they all have lifetime guarantees.

Consumer Reports also says do not buy the absolutely cheapest mattress. However, that doesn't necessarily mean the more expensive the mattress the better one.

They say they found that anything but the cheapest mattresses were fine and were really dependent on what's comfortable for each individual.

Experts add that the best thing to do when buying any product is check the testers' ratings.

More:  ConsumerReports.org

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