Temu, a popular Chinese shopping app, offers millions of products at drastically reduced prices, tempting budget-conscious shoppers with deals like $29 running shoes and $14 smart watches. But are these bargain deals worth it? NBC’s Vicky Nguyen and her team decided to find out.
They selected a variety of popular items from Temu, including running shoes, electronics, and household gadgets, to assess their quality, performance, and overall value compared to similar items from other retailers. The running shoes, priced at $29, had appealing aesthetics and were comfortable for casual wear. However, when tested for running, they fell short in durability and support.
Budget shopping on Temu evaluated
The $14 smart watch featured several functionalities, including fitness tracking and notifications. While it performed well enough for basic tasks, its accuracy and build quality did not match those of higher-end models.
Household gadgets, such as kitchen tools and accessories, were functional and relatively well-built. However, some electronic gadgets faced issues with longevity and reliability. Nguyen and her team concluded that while Temu offers some satisfactory deals, particularly for non-essential or novelty items, shoppers should temper their expectations regarding durability and advanced features for more critical items like electronics and footwear.
As with any bargain shopping platform, some products may provide incredible value, while others may fall short of the mark. It is essential for consumers to read reviews and consider their specific needs before making a purchase on Temu.
