1. Find products that match your needs and budget

I'm looking to buy [product type] for [intended use]. My maximum budget is [$X]. My top three priorities are [priorities]. Recommend five options, explain the pros and cons of each, identify the best value for money, and tell me which features aren't worth paying extra for. Use current sources where possible and link to the evidence.

1. Compare products before deciding which one to buy

Compare [Product A] and [Product B] for my needs: [describe how I'll use them]. Build a side-by-side comparison of performance, durability, ease of use, warranty, running costs, and price. Highlight the meaningful differences, flag any trade-offs, and recommend one based on my priorities. Verify specifications against manufacturer sources.

1. Research customer reviews to identify recurring problems

Research customer feedback for [product]. Find recurring positive and negative themes across independent reviews and customer discussions. Pay particular attention to durability, reliability, misleading product descriptions, customer service, and problems that emerge over time. Separate verified findings from anecdotal reports, cite the original sources, and tell me what I should investigate before buying.

1. Find cheaper alternatives that offer similar features

I'm considering buying [product] for [$X]. Find five cheaper alternatives that offer the most important features I need: [list features]. Explain what I'd gain and lose with each option, flag any compromises in quality or reliability, and identify the least expensive option you'd confidently recommend. Check current prices and link to reliable sources.

1. Calculate how much a product will actually cost over time

Calculate the estimated total cost of owning [product] for three years. Include the purchase price, essential accessories, subscriptions, maintenance, consumables, replacement parts, and likely energy costs where relevant. Compare it with [alternative product] and show the assumptions behind each estimate. Identify any recurring fees or hidden costs I should check before purchasing.

1. Use this prompt to decide whether you actually need the product

I'm thinking about buying [product] for [$X] because [reason]. Act as a skeptical but fair purchasing adviser. Ask me up to five questions to establish whether I really need it. Then evaluate whether I should buy it, wait 30 days, buy a cheaper alternative, repair or reuse something I already own, or skip it entirely. Consider how often I'll use it, what problem it solves, and the opportunity cost of spending the money. Don't automatically encourage me to buy.