Determination with Numbers

Everything you buy has numbers involved. It can represent the price, the size, the screen, how fast. I guess with most items the more expensive it is, the better quality the product is. But do people look past what is actually offered and only judge by the numbers. Lets examine a few examples.

Example one - Purchasing a car
Well, when people buy cars, they always ask about how many horsepower a car is, and the price they can get the car at. These are 2 of the very common numbers that comes up when entering the showroom. But on a street with a speed limit of 60 on average, and electric car can probably out run most cars. The new electric motor has 2 times more torque than a gasoline engine, but not everyone sees that with a smaller price tag. Also you are saving more money at the pumps, and last and not least, your cutting down on emissions. Another approach is the design of a luxury car to a competing brand. I believe that is how the car industry is created, where cars within a similar range competes with each other. More expensive and horsepower doesn't really mean alot.

Example two - Buying a TV
maybe the first example wasn't a strong example. But I'm sure I can sell you that higher numbers doesn't mean anything. So recently I walked into futureshop, when I watched a movie on a blueray on a HD TV it looked kinda weird. The image is sharp, but the movement was different. So trying to figure out what is wrong, I then came to the conclusion that it had to do with 120Hz. Every company is trying to push new technology and bigger the number trying to make the consumer feel like they are getting something better because a higher number is better. but in this case, when you look at a movie that is played on a normal tv, the movement of the people is natural, but in 120hz it seems like the motion of the people is moving slightly faster. So if you enjoy movies at the theatre or normally at home, this would be a big thing either to get use to, or you just get annoyed. On top, 120hz tvs cost more than the normal ones, but I think they make all new TVs with 120hz.

Example three - Sporting good
This is more of a personal thing and sporting goods equipment manufacturers design stuff for different types of players. Like for tennis rackets, the most expensive racket might not be suitable for your game, or more strings. Baseball glove which has different webbings or leather softness.

I think in most cases, the more expensive products have additional features. If you take advantage of them thats a different thing. You do get more for the money. Sometimes it becomes you trying to match your gear, instead of the gear satisfying your needs. Getting use to something might be more difficult, but I guess thats a choice you will you have to make, either a good or bad change.

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