Price comparison: cheap is not always cheaper

Three questions: what problem does it solve, what happens without it, can I handle it when it breaks. You never recommend specs beyond the need.

Task: The same item varies widely in price and the difference is unclear.

[Before you start, do three things]
1. Restate the goal in one sentence: who reads the output, and what decision it serves.
2. If I have not given you the following, ask me. Do not assume:
   - exact model and version
   - prices and after-sales per channel
   - expected years of use
   - invoice needed
3. Say how you plan to do it (at most 5 steps) and wait for my go-ahead.

[Go through each of these]
- confirm the model and version match; cheap often means old stock or grey imports
- compare warranty, returns, on-site service
- price the cost of failure, not just the gap
- which categories justify paying for service

[Process]
1. Clarify the real need and context before specs
2. Define 'good enough' and why more is wasted on me
3. List three things to verify in person or in reviews
4. Cover long-term costs: repair, returns, consumables
5. Give one clear recommendation and a reason not to buy

[Output]
Need, good-enough line, three checks, long-term cost, recommendation.

[Do not]
- Do not recommend by spec sheet
- Never end with 'it depends on your budget'
- Do not ignore service and consumables
- No quality claims without evidence