Well no offense was intended. (In my view) Some BIFL items are designed to save money, and some are designed to be purchased that last a lifetime, practical or not. We all treat ourselves occasionally, and while income largely determines what those treats look like, the intent is the same.

A lot of people buy a new (inexpensive) stereo every few years to keep up with current technology. A lot of people buy inexpensive Bluetooth speakers, and replace them every couple of years when the internal battery dies and can’t be replaced. Assuming I keep and use this for 50 years (not unreasonable), was the cost really that high? I don’t believe so.

I try to buy things I’m going to keep where possible. I have t-shirts I bought in high school (30 years ago) that I still wear, holes and all. I have a blender I bought 20 years ago that I’ll have forever. And the last time I bought underwear was in 2008 at Target (no holes, no need to replace!), and my kitchen cutlery is a set my grandmother got free when she opened a bank account in the 1940s.

And while a $2000 car might fit your budget better than a $30,000 car, that $2000 car is still likely out of reach for a lot of people, and might be seen as a flex. Meanwhile, some dude with a boat is going to look at my McIntosh and scoff since it didn’t cost six figures and require five figure annual maintenance.

Again, if my post offended you, I apologize, that wasn’t the intent, nor was a “flex”. I just thought that in the disposable world of consumer electronics, something with staying power was appropriate. Money and toys don’t buy happiness, and some of my best memories are from when I was earning $6/hr and living with 4 roommates. Hopefully you understand my perspective and I genuinely hope you enjoy the rest of your day.