Stocking Up on Tech Accessories Before It’s Too Late

I confess, I’m a bit of a tech hoarder. Gadgets accumulate, each with its own purpose (or potential purpose). Yet, ironically, I’m remarkably lax about accumulating tech accessories. Cables, dongles, those organizational bits and bobs – I tend to purchase them only when I absolutely need them. My reasoning? They’re always available online, just a click away.

But that convenient reality might be shifting. The landscape of international trade, particularly with China, is undergoing significant changes. Even with evolving tariff policies, shipping delays and reduced availability have become increasingly noticeable in the past month. Basic economics dictate that dwindling supply translates to escalating prices.

So, I’m taking a proactive stance. I’m biting the bullet and finally stocking up on a few essential, small-scale items – the very things that friends frequently lament not having on hand. The chances are high that you might benefit from acquiring some of these, too.

Anker: The Cable Cavalry

It’s a constant in my life: the perpetual need for more USB-C cables. Perhaps my recent rescue of a neglected e-reader and an abandoned phone has exacerbated the situation. Regardless, a pack of two Anker USB-C cables for under $10 seems like a prudent investment.

Beyond the USB realm, I recently embarked on a networking gear reorganization project at home. Longer Ethernet cables would greatly simplify the task. While I’m at it, why not upgrade to faster cabling? A 50-foot CAT 6 cable comes in at $28, but if I’m willing to forego a degree of future-proofing, a CAT 5e variant can be had for a mere $10. The latter seems like a reasonable compromise for now.

And, of course, the perennial need for HDMI cables. At least one cheap but reliable $9 six-foot HDMI cable is essential. It’s going into the virtual cart.

The Mighty Zip Tie

Interestingly, a significant portion of zip ties are manufactured in the United States. However, the potential reliance of these factories on imported materials and components makes me cautious. So, this is another "buy now" item. A pack or two of zip ties occupies minimal space and requires a negligible financial outlay ($4 each).

I already possess a substantial stash of Velcro ties. However, I strategically reserve my gigantic roll primarily for PC building projects and other endeavors where cable adjustability and re-configurability are paramount. Spreading my Velcro tie wealth indiscriminately would quickly deplete my reserves. (Even at $10 for 100, they are preeeecciouuusss to me.)

Zip ties, on the other hand, offer superior versatility around the house. In the tech sphere, I employ them to tidy up cabling at my desk, behind my PC, and along the rear of my entertainment center. But their utility extends far beyond technology. They prove invaluable for supporting plants, organizing craft supplies, and securing unstable elements of (cheap) furniture.

Far too often, I find myself frustrated by a broken twist-tie while stubbornly refusing to sacrifice one of my precious Velcro ties. The answer is clear: zip ties. Stocking up will provide an abundance of readily available solutions.

USB Extender Dongles: Port Preservation

In theory, USB ports are engineered to withstand numerous cable insertions and removals. In practice, however, their lifespan can be surprisingly short. (Rest in peace to the charging port on my old laptop after an unfortunate cable-tripping incident.)

Therefore, whenever feasible, I proactively acquire USB extender dongles for USB ports that I anticipate using frequently. I’ve been utilizing a few older USB 2.0 models that I already owned, but I’ve recently started integrating gear that necessitates USB 3.0. Hence, an upgrade is in order. And, for good measure, I’m purchasing two of these dongles. At a mere $8 apiece, it’s a worthwhile insurance policy.

Adapters: Versatility in Connectivity

I possess a reasonable collection of HDMI cables. (At least, I should – they’re scattered throughout my home, making immediate retrieval unreliable. Hence the aforementioned need to purchase more.)

However, my inventory of specialized display cables, such as HDMI to mini-DisplayPort and HDMI to micro-HDMI, is limited. While I use these cables infrequently, they prove indispensable for providing tech support or extending the operational life of older hardware.

Instead of acquiring more of these specialty cables, I’m opting for adapters. (I’m initiating the process with a $10 HDMI to mini-DP adapter.) Employing a standard HDMI cable in conjunction with an adapter offers greater flexibility, particularly in situations where a longer cable is required than the specialty one I own.

This proactive approach to accessory procurement is driven by a desire to mitigate potential disruptions and price increases stemming from evolving international trade dynamics. By stocking up on these small but essential items, I aim to maintain a well-equipped tech environment and avoid future frustrations. It’s a small investment that promises to yield significant peace of mind. Furthermore it allows me to continue hoarding tech devices without creating more problems.