Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about how Gear Match works. For the full story behind the finder, see About Gear Match.

Last updated: July 4, 2026

Are the prices accurate?

They are estimates. Each price is a reference price multiplied by per-store tendency factors (plus a used-condition factor when you pick one), not a live stock price. Always confirm the current price at the linked store before buying.

How is the “lowest price” badge decided?

It marks the lowest of our per-store estimates. The real cheapest store changes with sales and timing — treat the badge as a starting point for comparison.

What do the used-condition grades (S/A/B/C) mean?

A standardized version of the condition grades used by major second-hand dealers: roughly S = like new, A = excellent, B = normal wear, C = heavy wear or issues. Picking a grade adjusts both the price estimates and the budget filter. Exact grading and warranties vary by store, so read each store’s description.

Does Gear Match use affiliate links?

No. Store links are plain search links without tracking parameters. We earn nothing from your purchases, wherever you buy — which is exactly why we have no reason to push one store over another. The site is funded by ads instead.

Why do I sometimes get no results within my budget?

The budget filter is strict. If nothing matches your conditions within budget, we say so honestly instead of padding the list. Try raising the budget slightly, widening the used-condition grades, or dropping a priority.

Why isn’t the brand-new model that was just announced showing up?

Unreleased products are excluded by design — recommending something you cannot buy yet is not useful. Products are added after release, once their data is verified.

Why do some products show no photo?

We only use Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons images with clear licensing. If no suitable image exists, you see a camera-icon placeholder. We prefer an honest placeholder over the wrong product’s photo.

How often is the data updated?

Side data such as images is maintained by an automated daily job; products and ratings are reviewed and added continuously. Spotted an error? Please tell us via GitHub Issues.

How is the “recommended” order decided?

By score: six performance axes (image quality, portability, low light, video, stabilization, value), structural subject matching (focal lengths, apertures) and your selected priorities. Ads and payments never influence ranking — details in About Gear Match.

Which regions and languages are supported?

13 regions (Japan, US, UK, Germany, South Korea, France, Italy, Spain, Australia, Canada, China, Taiwan, Singapore) and 8 languages (Japanese, English, Korean, Simplified & Traditional Chinese, Spanish, French, German). Currency display and store links follow your region.

Does it work on a phone?

Yes — the finder is optimized for phones, tablets and desktops. No app install, no account.

Is my data stored or sent anywhere?

The finder logic runs entirely in your browser; your answers are never sent to or stored on a server. For cookies, ads and analytics, see the Privacy Policy in the footer of the main page.

Will I see ads?

Ad slots exist to cover running costs (you may see placeholders while ad review is in progress). Ads never affect the recommendation scoring.

Where do I report mistakes or request features?

On the GitHub repository’s Issues page. Data errors, awkward translations, usability gripes — everything is welcome.