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In today's digital age, gadgets like smartphones, earbuds, smartwatches, power banks have become a necessity for everyone. But just as the demand for original products has increased, the market has been flooded with fake gadgets. These fake gadgets look exactly like the original ones, but neither their performance is good nor is there any guarantee.
If you are going to buy a gadget from online or offline market, then you should be very cautious. In this blog we will tell you how you can identify fake gadgets and avoid getting cheated.
What are fake gadgets?
Fake gadgets are electronic devices that are a copy of a branded product. Their name, logo, packaging and design are copied exactly to make them look original.
Example: Fake AirPods instead of Apple AirPods Pro which look exactly like the same but the price is much less and the quality is very poor.
What are the disadvantages of buying fake gadgets?
Poor performance – breaks down quickly
There is no warranty
Can damage your device (e.g. fake chargers can cause the phone to explode)
Your money is wasted
Risk of data theft (some fake gadgets contain malware)
Ways to identify fake gadgets before buying them
1. Be careful with the price
If you are getting a gadget at a very cheap price, then understand that there is something wrong with it.
Example: If a mobile worth ₹20,000 is available for ₹6,000, then it may be fake.
2. Check the packaging and box carefully
Fake gadgets often have typing mistakes, pale colours and poor printing in their packaging.
Branded products have strong and professional packaging.
3. Check the brand logo and name
In fake gadgets, the brand name is slightly changed.
Example: “SAMSANG” is written instead of “SAMSUNG”.
4. Check the serial number and barcode of the product
Every original gadget has a unique serial number.
It can be verified by entering it on the brand's website.
If the number is missing or is not showing on the website, then the product is fake.
5. Ask for a bill and warranty card
When buying any genuine gadget, you should get a GST bill and warranty card.
If the shopkeeper refuses to give the bill, then the product may be fake.
6. Check online reviews and ratings
If you are buying from an online shopping site, then definitely read the reviews and ratings of the product.
Fake products often have negative reviews, such as "Low quality", "Not original", "No sound quality" etc.
7. Compare with the official website of the brand.
Go to the brand's website and check the photos and features of the same model.
There is definitely some difference in details in fake gadgets.
8. Pay attention to the weight and build quality
Fake devices are often very light and made of plastic.
The finishing and build quality of real gadgets is strong and smooth.
9. Missing or extra features
Some fake devices have features that the original ones don’t have.
Example: A fake smartwatch says “5-day battery backup” while the original one only has 2 days.
10. Identify by sound and screen quality
The sound in gadgets like earphones, headphones, speakers clearly differentiates between real and fake.
Similarly, the brightness and touch response of the screen in mobile or smartwatch is also different.
How to avoid fake gadgets?
Always buy from the official website or an authorized dealer
Buy only from trusted sellers on online marketplaces
Choose the Cash on Delivery option so that you can check first
Record a video while unboxing – may be required for returns
Do not get tempted by cheap offers or schemes
Which gadgets are found fake the most?
Mobile chargers and cables
Bluetooth Headphones & Earbuds
Smartwatch
Power Bank
Copy of mobile phone (China made)
memory cards and pen drives
Camera and Laptop Battery
Fake copies of big brands like Apple and Samsung
How to buy original and safe gadgets instead of buying fake ones?
Use big platforms like Flipkart, Amazon, Croma, Reliance Digital
Buy the product by visiting the official website of the brand
When buying from a local shop, make sure to take the bill, warranty card and GST number
Avoid deep discount websites whose names you have not heard before
Conclusion: Be alert and be a smart consumer
In 2025, the number of fake gadgets has increased a lot, but with a little information and caution, you can avoid them. Always check the original brand, beware of cheap deals and shop only from trusted places. If you accidentally buy a fake gadget even once, not only will your money be wasted, but your device may also get damaged.
So next time before buying any gadget remember this blog – and protect yourself and your money from fake products.
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