Cheap gear that's better than expensive gear

[Alan]

I got a $25 headlamp from Amazon that's brighter and lasts longer than the $80 name brand one I had before. Sometimes you don't need to spend a fortune. What cheap gear do you use that works better than the expensive stuff?

 

[Shots_fired]

I have a $20 thermos that keeps coffee hotter than any “premium” $60 one I tried, sometimes cheap wins.

 

[RogerPa]

Over the years I’ve kinda developed the “buy once-cry once” attitude. It’s especially true with optics. There are certainly deals to be had, but top quality glass seldom lets me down.