We’ve all been there before. You’re scrolling through Instagram or Facebook and discover your next must have product. Whether it’s a piece of jewelry or a trendy dress, you’re sure to find one that looks just like it at a lesser cost. The price difference usually isn’t a few dollar difference, but can be as much as a 50% discount to the original. This brings the age old question – is it worth buying brand names? Is there a difference between products? We break it down for you below.

Quality

Nine times out of ten, a brand name product is also equipped with high quality that translates into the price. This means that they are using top of the line materials to manufacture the end product. For example, a dress off the runway will be made with imported fabric that requires special dry cleaning and care. You can find the same silhouette at a fast fashion house the next week, however chances are after a few washes the wear and tear will be visible. The better quality product, the longer the longevity is with it.

Importance To You

When deciding to splurge on brand names and opting out of generic, it really comes down to the importance of it in your eyes. What is important to you when it comes to shopping? This part is a personal choice of the shopper. Are you purchasing a trendy top that you don’t mind wearing a few times? These are questions you need to consider if you’re on the fence about your purchase. It also factors down to if you care about what brand you’re using.

Does the name tag matter to you or are you just looking for a high quality product? Many brand names also give back to the community with their earnings that leaves the consumer happy to contribute. For example, buying Samoas cookies from Girl Scouts directly helps support the organization. You’re also able to purchase the same tasting cookie at your local grocery store for a few dollars less. In some cases, especially with foods, one can sometimes differentiate the taste and flavor of the original. In that case – and when it comes down to a dollar difference, go with what you enjoy most.

Branding

One thing brand names have established is the genius branding and marketing behind them. Branding is one of the most important parts of selling a product and without even noticing, it evokes emotion. When you’re buying a brand name you know what to expect – from the buying experience to the actual product itself.

Tried and True

Let’s face it – brand names are what they are for a reason. Whether they have been an established brand for decades long or have a genius marketing campaign, they have our trust. They have proved themselves to us in their products and branding and we know what to expect. This is especially true for brands that are named what they are. For example, a large percentage of the country refers to jeans only as “Levi’s” or stud earrings as “Swarovski”. When buying these brand names you have a certain expectation that goes along with it.

The Difference

At the end of the day, there are a few key differences from the brand names and the generic (or knock-off). If you’re on the fence from purchasing, consider its consumability. Is this a product that will last some time or will it be useless in an hour? The price difference is an obviously very important factor as well. Although you might buy something that is 50% the price of the brand name, will you have to purchase another one because the quality is not up to part?

Some products naturally lose value over time, however there are examples that show they increase their value as time goes on as well. The purchase of a GMT Master II by Rolex is roughly $10,000 and has been that price for years. With shipping delays and labor shortages, you could sell the same watch for $14,000 because of its limited availability.

Next time you’re unsure, consider all these factors before making a decision. At the end of the day, you know what you’re expecting out of your purchase, so ultimately there is no wrong choice. Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!