8 things lower-middle-class families spend money on in tech that wealthy families would never consider - Silicon Canals

"After growing up in a working-class household and now moving in different circles in London, I've noticed something fascinating: the tech spending habits of lower-middle-class families and wealthy ones are worlds apart. And I'm not just talking about the amount they spend. It's what they choose to spend on that reveals so much about how different economic classes approach technology."

"Walk into any electronics store with a wealthy person, and watch them politely decline every extended warranty offer. Now watch a lower-middle-class family make the same purchase. Nine times out of ten, they'll add that warranty. Why the difference? Wealthy families understand that most electronics either fail immediately (covered by standard warranty) or last well beyond the extended warranty period. They also have the financial cushion to replace things if needed."

Wealthier households tend to buy technology that saves time and creates experiences, such as automation and voice-activated systems. Lower-middle-class families frequently purchase gadgets that signal status or promise protection, like extended warranties, even when those purchases deliver little real value. Financial cushions let wealthier buyers decline add-ons and replace items without worry, while limited budgets make warranties feel like essential insurance. Sales tactics exploit fears of unaffordable replacements. These differences reflect distinct risk calculations, priorities, and consumption motives across socioeconomic groups, shaping divergent tech portfolios focused on utility versus perceived safety and status.

Read at Silicon Canals