Comparing options
Open electricity market: fixed price or tariff for 2027?
Open Electricity Market choices before the January 2027 tariff: fixed price, discount or SP tariff, a worked example and the auto-renewal rules since June 2026.
The reading room
Questions before the checkout.
Practical guides to comparing products, planning a useful trial and making a purchase decision with fewer unknowns.
Trying things out
Mobility scooter Singapore: rules to check before you buy
Mobility scooter rules in Singapore since June 2026: who needs a Certificate of Medical Need, registered models, the 6km/h limit and a size check to make.
Comparing options
Parental controls on a child's phone: what IMDA's test found
Parental controls on a child's phone: what IMDA's 24 October app store test found, what each store offers and an eight-step checklist to set it up.
After the purchase
Singtel down? What to do in an outage, after the S$1m fine
Singtel down? Check whether it is your phone, get back online and keep a record. What IMDA's S$1m fine and the S$5 to S$10 rebates mean for the next outage.
After the purchase
OBU installation: cost and checks before 1 January 2027
OBU installation is compulsory from 1 January 2027. What it costs after the free window, how to book, and what changes for missed ERP charges and used cars.
Comparing options
Dehumidifier Singapore: running cost and checks before you buy
No energy label and no SAFETY Mark of its own: how to cost a dehumidifier in Singapore at the Q4 tariff, weigh air-con dry mode and test a damp room first.
After the purchase
Adopt a cat in Singapore: licence, microchip and home limits
Since 1 September 2026 every pet cat in Singapore needs a licence and a microchip. Check HDB and condo limits, the course and costs before you adopt.
Comparing options
Energy label Singapore: NEA two-tier plan for fans and washers
NEA plans a two-tier energy label and rules for washing machines, fans and dishwashers by 2028. What it means for buying now, and how to comment by 9 November.
After the purchase
Power bank Singapore: flight limit, Wh check and recycling
Flying from Singapore with power banks? The two-per-person limit since 15 April 2026, how to turn mAh into Wh, and where to recycle the ones you leave behind.
Comparing options
Clothes dryer Singapore: ticks, running costs and vouchers
Buying a clothes dryer in Singapore? What 2 to 5 ticks mean per load, a worked 8 kg cost comparison, and when Climate Vouchers can pay for a 5-tick model.
After the purchase
Gym membership in Singapore: how to limit what you prepay
After the True Fitness closure: how much a prepaid gym package puts at risk, how members claim from the liquidators and what to check before you sign.
Comparing options
Electricity tariff Singapore Q4 2026: appliance running costs
Electricity tariff in Singapore, October to December 2026: 31.16 cents per kWh with GST (SP Group). Cost an aircon, fridge or TV at that rate and two others.
Trying things out
Eco-friendly claims in Singapore: what to ask a shop
Eco-friendly claims in Singapore: CCS’s five principles and NEA’s energy label, turned into questions for eight showroom claims such as “best in class”.
Comparing options
Minimum energy performance standards Singapore: tick floors
Singapore’s minimum energy performance standards: 4 ticks for single-split air-cons and 3 for fridges since April 2025. Floors by appliance, with a TV example.
After the purchase
Repair or replace an appliance in Singapore: a decision rule
Repair or replace an appliance in Singapore: check the warranty, divide the quote by a new unit’s price, add the energy-label gap. CCS and NEA’s 10–30% band.
Comparing options
SIM-only plans in Singapore: how to compare the real cost
How to compare SIM-only plans in Singapore: total the months you will keep one, find the break-even month and check the exit charge IMDA says should fall.
Trying things out
Air conditioner size for Singapore rooms: rule and 7-day check
NEA’s rule for air conditioner size in a Singapore room is floor area in m² ÷ 5 = kW. Worked 12 m² and 20 m² examples, a worksheet and a seven-day fit log.
After the purchase
Do Not Call Registry Singapore: shop texts after you buy
Which shop texts and WhatsApp messages Singapore’s Do Not Call Registry rules allow after you buy, how to withdraw consent or register, and what 21 days mean.
After the purchase
Cybersecurity Labelling Scheme Singapore: routers and cameras
The Cybersecurity Labelling Scheme in Singapore: routers sold here must meet Level 1, cameras are voluntary so far. What MDDI says, plus our day-one checklist.
After the purchase
Trade in an old phone or laptop in Singapore, or recycle it
Trade in an old phone in Singapore? Compare credit with a private sale, wipe and record the device, or recycle it via NEA’s retailer, bin and depot routes.
Trying things out
Buy a phone or router overseas: IMDA rules for Singapore
IMDA needs no registration for a phone or router you import for personal use, but compliance is yours. What to check before you buy overseas, route by route.
Trying things out
Free trial in Singapore: test how to cancel before you sign up
Test a free trial’s cancel route before you give card details: a three-date ledger, a step-count test and what CCS says about subscription traps in Singapore.
Comparing options
Renovation quotation comparison in Singapore: a worksheet
A renovation quotation comparison for Singapore homes: score two quotes on CCS’s five areas, put GST on one basis (illustrative S$16,500 + 9% = S$17,985).
Comparing options
GST on subscriptions in Singapore: apps, streaming, software
IRAS says Singapore consumers pay 9% GST on apps, streaming and software from registered overseas providers. How to check a charge and compare plans.
Comparing options
GST relief for Singapore travellers: S$500 or S$100 limit
IRAS allows up to S$500 of GST relief after 48 hours or more abroad and S$100 if less. An illustrative S$2,400 laptop would owe S$171.00 or S$207.00.
After the purchase
NRIC collection in Singapore retail: what shops may ask
PDPC’s retail examples use a mobile number or partial NRIC, not your full NRIC, at sign-up. Counter scripts and the 31 December 2026 NRIC password deadline.
Comparing options
Water heater Singapore: what the energy label tells you
Water heater Singapore guide: how NEA’s 1 to 5 ticks map to efficiency, what the label’s S$ cost assumes, and a payback test using NEA’s S$115 figure.
After the purchase
Bee Cheng Hiang data breach: what customers should do next
PDPC says 95,364 Bee Cheng Hiang members' email addresses were shown to other recipients in April 2026. What happened, a card leak elsewhere, and what to do.
Comparing options
Mobile Access for Seniors: S$5.10 plan and phones from S$20
IMDA's plan options from 9 October 2026: who qualifies, the SIMBA and Singtel plans, six phones priced S$20 to S$110, and what two years will cost.
Trying things out
Smart glasses in Singapore: the rules to know before you buy
No recording-light rule yet, but the PDPA and criminal law apply. What MDDI told Parliament in 2026, a buyer's checklist, and where to try AI glasses.
Comparing options
Early termination charges: telco rules before you recontract
IMDA caps telco contracts at 24 months and says exit charges must fall monthly. Work out the most you could pay to leave, and what to ask about instalments.
After the purchase
Donate clothes in Singapore: where they go and what to choose
Most donated textiles are resold overseas, the minister said in September 2026. NEA's routes to donate, sell, swap or repair clothes, and what not to do.
Trying things out
Fake countdowns and stock counts: three CCS cases, May 2026
CCS said in May 2026 that three online retailers used fake visitor counts, checkout timers and false discounts. Here is how each worked and what to check.
Trying things out
Six checkout tricks CCS names, and a check for each
CCS’s dark patterns guidance names six tactics, from fake reviews to hidden costs at checkout. Use this six-point check before you pay online.
Trying things out
DNA Brands refund scheme: how to claim by 30 November 2026
Pressured into buying at a DNA Brands beauty outlet since 2023? CASE takes refund claims until 30 November 2026. Who qualifies, the S$38.15 fee and proof.
Trying things out
Mattress Singapore: how to test one during a sleep trial
A mattress sleep trial in Singapore is the seller’s own policy, as far as CCS’s pages show. What to question, a dated trial calendar and a morning log.
Comparing options
ScamShield Helpline and online shopping: checks before you pay
ScamShield Helpline: 1799, 24/7, says the government notice on CCS’s site. What CCS and CASE advise before you pay an online seller, and who to contact after.
Comparing options
Fake reviews in Singapore: what CCS found and how to check
Fake reviews in Singapore: 45 businesses admitted buying them, CCS said on 30 September 2026, and it now names them. What it found, and five checks for ratings.
After the purchase
How to file a small claim in Singapore: steps and evidence
How a consumer files at the Small Claims Tribunals: the CJTS steps, serving the claim within 7 days, the consultation, evidence to bring and enforcing an order.
Comparing options
Air purifier Singapore: choose by CADR and room size
Buying an air purifier in Singapore for haze? NEA now says a smoke CADR of at least 5 times the room’s volume in m³, in m³/h. Examples and seller questions.
Comparing options
GST on overseas online purchases: checkout, delivery, refunds
A registered seller charges GST at checkout on items of S$400 or less by air or post; otherwise GST is paid at delivery or not at all. Worked totals, refunds.
Comparing options
Unit pricing Singapore: pilot dates and comparing pack sizes
Unit pricing in Singapore is a CCS and CASE supermarket pilot expanding from 1 October 2026. See who takes part, the 40 product types and a per-100 g method.
After the purchase
BCRS 10-cent deposit: how to get your Return Right refund
Since 1 October regulated drink cans and bottles carry a 10-cent BCRS deposit. What is covered, why machines reject cans, and what to do when a refund fails.
Comparing options
Telco complaints Singapore: IMDA figures for Apr to Jun 2026
IMDA's latest complaint rates, hotline waits and fix times for Singapore telcos, April to June 2026, and how to use them before you sign or recontract.
After the purchase
E-waste recycling in Singapore: new secure drop-off for phones
A new trial lets you drop old phones, tablets and laptops at about 2,000 SPX and Pick points for free, with a data destruction certificate. How it fits.
Comparing options
SG Alert and 2G-off rules: what to check on a new phone
IMDA phone rules: SG Alert must override Do Not Disturb since April, and 2G must be off by default from 31 December 2026. What to check before buying.
Comparing options
N95 mask in Singapore haze: collecting one and buying your own
N95 masks distributed to vulnerable Singaporeans since 14 October 2026: who qualifies, when NEA says a mask helps, and how to check one you buy.
Comparing options
How to compare moving company quotes
Build one inventory and access brief, then compare moving quotes and damage terms. Includes a Singapore comparison and questions to ask.
Trying things out
How to buy a second-hand phone in Singapore
Test the exact handset, check account locks and written warranty terms, and compare total risk before paying a used-phone seller. Test before paying.
After the purchase
How to compare aircon servicing quotes
Clarify unit count, scope, chemicals, exclusions and follow-up before booking aircon service. Includes a Singapore comparison and questions to ask.
After the purchase
What to check in an appliance-installation quote
What to check in an appliance-installation quote: A worked example and practical questions for comparing written scope, cost and terms in Singapore.
After the purchase
How to compare appliance-repair quotes in Singapore
Ask for diagnostic, labour, parts and return-visit costs on the same fault before choosing a repair or replacement route. Get written terms.
After the purchase
How to switch broadband without surprise fees
How to switch broadband without surprise fees: A worked example and practical questions for comparing written scope, cost and terms in Singapore.
Comparing options
How to compare fibre broadband plans in Singapore
Separate weak Wi-Fi from a line problem, then compare written 24-month totals, equipment, promotion changes and early-exit terms. Include exit fees.
Comparing options
Buy-now-pay-later: calculate the full cost
Buy-now-pay-later: calculate the full cost: A worked example and practical questions for comparing written scope, cost and terms in Singapore.
After the purchase
How to book end-of-tenancy cleaning
Write a room-by-room scope, access plan and rework terms before comparing cleaning quotes. Includes a Singapore comparison and questions to ask.
Comparing options
How to compare energy-efficient fridges
How to compare energy-efficient fridges: A worked example and practical questions for comparing written scope, cost and terms in Singapore.
Comparing options
Is an extended warranty worth paying for in Singapore?
Map overlap with existing cover, read exclusions and use a clearly fictional break-even test before accepting an add-on at checkout.
Comparing options
How to compare home-cleaning service quotes
Send the same room-by-room scope to two cleaners, compare complete hourly and fixed totals, and record rework and access terms. Compare scope.
Comparing options
How to compare home-insurance quotes
How to compare home-insurance quotes: A worked example and practical questions for comparing written scope, cost and terms in Singapore.
Comparing options
Do you need a new home router?
Do you need a new home router: A worked example and practical questions for comparing written scope, cost and terms in Singapore before committing.
Comparing options
How to compare home security cameras
How to compare home security cameras: A worked example and practical questions for comparing written scope, cost and terms in Singapore.
After the purchase
How to compare laptop-repair quotes
How to compare laptop-repair quotes: A worked example and practical questions for comparing written scope, cost and terms in Singapore.
Comparing options
How to read marketplace return terms
How to read marketplace return terms: A worked example and practical questions for comparing written scope, cost and terms in Singapore.
After the purchase
What customer data should an online store ask for?
What customer data should an online store ask for: A worked example and practical questions for comparing written scope, cost and terms in Singapore.
Trying things out
How to buy a refurbished laptop
Check specifications, battery, software, return terms and seller evidence before purchase. Includes a Singapore comparison and questions to ask.
After the purchase
How to read a household repair warranty
How to read a household repair warranty: A worked example and practical questions for comparing written scope, cost and terms in Singapore.
Trying things out
How to compare robot vacuums for a real home
How to compare robot vacuums for a real home: A worked example and practical questions for comparing written scope, cost and terms in Singapore.
Comparing options
How to choose self-storage in Singapore
Compare storage by usable space, access, security, insurance and total contract cost. Includes a Singapore comparison and questions to ask.
Trying things out
How to test a sofa before buying
How to test a sofa before buying: A worked example and practical questions for comparing written scope, cost and terms in Singapore.
Trying things out
How to buy a used camera
How to buy a used camera: A worked example and practical questions for comparing written scope, cost and terms in Singapore before committing.
Comparing options
How to compare water-filter claims and costs
How to compare water-filter claims and costs: A worked example and practical questions for comparing written scope, cost and terms in Singapore.
Comparing options
Climate Vouchers 2026: shortlist an appliance before you redeem
Eligible households have up to S$400 to spend by end-2027, now including induction stoves and 5-tick dryers. Shortlist by need, not by the sale banner.
After the purchase
Lemon Law in Singapore: an action plan for a faulty purchase
A defect found within six months of delivery is presumed to date from delivery. How to request repair, when to go to CASE and when small claims apply.
Trying things out
Home trials and return windows: a first-week test plan
A return window only lowers risk if you use it. Read the terms before paying, write three tests and decide in the first week, with a fictional worked example.
Comparing options
Read the energy label: compare air-con and fridge running costs
Ticks show efficiency; kWh shows consumption. Rescale NEA’s energy label to your own hours and tariff, with an illustrative example and July 2026 listing rules.
Comparing options
Year-end sales 2026: compare the total price, not the discount
Compare the final payable total, not the headline discount, using CCCS’s price transparency guidelines, a pre-sale price log and an illustrative example.
Comparing options
AI tool pricing: compare quotes on a typical and a busy month
Per seat, usage, flat or hybrid? Price your own quiet, typical and busy month, with an illustrative SGD example, and check what you keep if you leave.
Trying things out
Buying second-hand electronics: a 30-minute hand-over test
A hand-over test script for used phones, laptops and small appliances: what to bring, what to check, what to record and when to walk away.
Trying things out
AI assistant trial plan: two weeks before you pay annually
Test your own tasks, a failure case and what happens with the laptop shut, then practise cancelling, before an AI assistant trial turns into an annual plan.
After the purchase
Before checkout: save the details you would need if the order went wrong
The useful final check is not another review. It is a clear record of the seller, exact item, total cost and promises attached to the order.
Comparing options
A better product shortlist starts with three non-negotiables
Turn specifications into a useful decision by describing the task, testing the awkward details and comparing the full setup.
Trying things out
Before you book an Apple Vision Pro demo in Singapore
A showroom session can answer useful questions—if you bring a task, separate impressions from evidence, and leave room to decide against the purchase.