<\/span><\/h3>\nOn simple items like hand tools or certain appliances, one manufacturer model number is the same across all retailers.<\/p>\n
You can quickly get an apples-to-apples comparison by checking for the exact same model number online or at another store.<\/p>\n
However, large chain retailers often work directly with the manufacturers to make sure that there is a retailer-specific model number.<\/p>\n
They do this to avoid competing with deals offered by other retailers, for the same item.<\/p>\n
For example, let’s say that Wal-Store and Arrowmart are two large, competing chains.\u00a0 Wal-Store is offering a toaster oven, model TO-341, for $30.\u00a0 You try to look this up online, only to find that no one except Wal-Store sells a model TO-341.<\/p>\n
You look at Arrowmart, and they sell model TO-352, for $50.<\/p>\n
Doing a little more research, you find that everyone except Wal-Store and Arrowmart offer a TO-320 series.<\/p>\n
Which one is better?<\/p>\n
Often, the last digit is tied to the specific configuration or exterior – in this case, it’s probably the color.\u00a0 Perhaps 341, 351, and 321 (3×1) all indicate white, 3×2 indicates black, 3×3 indicates red, and maybe 3×7 is stainless.<\/p>\n
In this example, the Wal-Store and Arrowmart both have deals with the manufacturer to supply a chain-specific model of the same appliance.<\/p>\n
34x models all go to Wal-Store, while 35x models go to Arrowmart, and everyone else sells 32x models.<\/p>\n
In this example, you would compare a TO-341 to a TO-351 at Arrowmart, or a TO-321 sold anywhere else.<\/p>\n
It takes a lot of time and research to figure out the manufacturer’s model numbers, but it’s the only way to know if you’re comparing apples to apples.<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
<\/span>Compare Specs<\/span><\/h3>\nEspecially for personal electronics, you need to carefully compare specs.<\/p>\n
Something as simple as a cordless drill might have very few specifications (specs):<\/p>\n