The global economy is crapping out as we speak. Unemployment is still an issue. And whether you're in a financial pinch or not, you should spend wisely right now. Here are 6 tools to help cut costs:
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Belkin Conserve Smart Power Strip
Your living room gadgets live secret lives as vampires. After they finish charging, or after you turn them off, they keep sucking power. This costs money. But you don't have to unplug your gadgets every single time. Instead, stick them in a power strip that shuts off when your TV does. Your power bill will love you.$15
Samsung Nexus S (with Google Wallet)
Sometime in the very near future, Google Wallet will go live with its magical contactless payment system, which uses . With it will come Google Deals, which will let you know about cheap buys in the surrounding area and will let you save a coupon to your phone. In order to take full advantage of the system, you'll need a proper android phone. The Nexus S is that phone. $200
Hulu
You still can't completely replace cable with internet TV offerings. But for being free, services like Hulu come damn close. Network shows, cable shows, and major studio films are all offered. It's better than nothing. Free
Philips LED Lightbulbs
LED bulbs last longer and use as much as 75% less power than their incandescent counterparts. And the light emitted from these efficient bulbs is nearly identical. Sure they cost more up front, but over a period of 10 years, a single LED bulb could potentially save around a hundred bucks. $40
Google Voice
It may seem batshit insane to cancel your cellphone service in 2011, but if you really need to scale back your expenses, it's very possible to get by on Google Voice. Anywhere you have a web browser and an internet connection, you can place and receive calls and texts. Google also manages your voicemail inbox and lets you know when you have missed calls. Free (for now)Free (for now)
Earth Massage Low Flow Shower Head
Water conservation is a very easy way to save money on your monthly utility bill. Just by installing a low flow shower head, which streams water at a rate of 1.5 gallons per minute, you can save as much as $75 a year on your shower bill. Every penny counts, right?$7