Smart Money has an article about ten things not to buy in 2010. It lists some outdated technologies such as DVDs, CDs, newspapers and energy inefficient appliances. DVDs are cheaper than Blu-ray discs and Blu-ray players can play DVDs so you they can still be useful although it is true they are no longer the best. Another item that should not have been on the do not buy list is an external hard drive. These are still useful devices and some of the newest ones make it very easy to back up your PC. The article suggests that online backup services might be better.
External hard drives are one option, but an up-and-coming alternative might be simpler and save you another transition down the road. Online backup services, like Carbonite.com or Mozy.com, allow users to back up data over the Internet.
These services are more expensive than purchasing an external hard drive, which typically starts at around $70. At Carbonite.com, a one-year subscription starts at $54.95, and at Mozy.com monthly subscription costs total $54.45 for a year.
You are completely trusting the online storage service when you let them back up your date. Many consumers might feel more secure with an external hard drive. There is nothing wrong with buying one.
Gas-guzzling cars are also on Smart Money's don't buy list for 2010. They might be on to something here as oil prices soared 78% last year and gas prices will be climbing this summer.
