Get More Value: Top Ways to Maximize Your Bang for the Buck

GE G3WP Waterproof Camera

If you’re planning a winter escape to warm sands and surf, the GE G3WP is worth considering—especially at its budget-friendly price. This is GE’s first camera rated waterproof to 10 feet. It offers 12.2 megapixels, 4x optical zoom and a 2.7-inch LCD that adjusts automatically to ambient light for better viewing in bright or dim conditions. The camera includes Auto Scene Detection to identify the scene and optimize exposure for clearer, more vibrant photos, and Pan-Capture Panorama, which lets you sweep across a scene while the camera automatically captures overlapping frames and stitches them into a single panoramic image. Price: $199.


PowerGenix Rechargeable AA NiZn Batteries

If you want high-performing batteries with a smaller environmental footprint, PowerGenix NiZn rechargeable AAs deliver a strong option. These cells produce performance comparable to single-use primary batteries, offering about a 30 percent improvement over many conventional AA rechargeables. The NiZn chemistry is also highly recyclable and the batteries are certified for collection and recycling through the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation’s network of drop-off locations across North America. Pack includes four batteries and a charger. Price: $34.99.


Hitachi SimpleTOUGH USB 2.0 Portable Drive

The Hitachi SimpleTOUGH is built for users who need a rugged portable drive. Designed to withstand travel and rough handling, it’s water- and shock-resistant, survives a 10-foot drop and can endure the weight of a one-ton vehicle in extreme situations. The drive features an integrated USB cable so you won’t misplace it, an ergonomic shape for easy carrying and a topside LED that shows power status. TrueTrack Technology adds protection for data when the drive is jostled. Available capacities: 250GB for $99.99 and 500GB for $149.99.


Virgin Mobile Broadband2Go

Virgin Mobile’s Broadband2Go is a prepaid portable Wi‑Fi device designed for users who prefer flexibility without long-term contracts. After buying the device, you choose a prepaid data plan based on how much browsing or streaming you expect to do. For example, a $20 plan provides 250MB of access—roughly equivalent to 12 hours of standard web browsing. Plans range from $10 to $60, each valid for a limited period after activation. Device price: $99.99 (plus the chosen plan fee).