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Before You Buy
Before You Buy is a free web app that helps you check a price before you check out. Type what you are looking for, or take a photo of it, and the app shows what major retailers charge, along with comparable items priced above and below so you can see what a little more or a little less gets you.
What it does
- Search by description or photo. Describe the item in plain words, or snap a picture in a store.
- Compare retailers. See where the item is sold and jump straight to each store to confirm the current price.
- See what is above and below. Comparable options at higher and lower prices, so you can judge value rather than just price.
- Get a plain verdict. Add your budget, must-haves and deal-breakers, and the app gives a buy, consider or skip verdict with reasons. Commissions never affect the verdict.
- Wait for the right price. Put an item on a wait list with a target price and get a reminder when it is time to decide again.
Who it is for
Anyone who wants to avoid overpaying: holiday gift shoppers, people furnishing a home, and anyone who has bought something and then found it cheaper the next day.
How it is paid for
Before You Buy is free. When you click through to a retailer and make a purchase, Vilasi, Inc. may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Retailers do not pay to be ranked, and the app shows prices from several stores. When an item from Shop Vilasi, our own store, appears, it is labeled as ours. Read our affiliate disclosure and the Before You Buy privacy policy.
Try it
For buying advice, see our guide to comparing prices and our gift guides by budget.
Contact
Questions or feedback: robert@vilasi.co.