Frequently Asked Questions

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

Last updated: September 3, 2026

Are the prices accurate?

They are estimates. Each result uses a stored reference price, multiplied by a fixed used-condition factor when applicable. This is not a live offer. Always confirm the current price at the linked store before buying.

Can I compare retailer prices?

We do not retrieve retailer-specific live prices. Open the retailer section to visit each store's search results and compare model, condition, accessories and shipping. The former calculated “lowest price” label has been removed to avoid confusing an estimate with a real offer.

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

The finder uses A/AB/B/C with reference-price factors of 0.80/0.74/0.66/0.55. No grade uses 0.72; multiple grades use the lowest factor. These are estimates, not standardized retailer condition grades or live offers. Verify condition, faults, warranty and price with the seller.

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.