LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Holiday tech deals can be tempting, but consumer experts warn that deeply discounted gadgets may be knockoffs that don’t work as promised.

Look-alike wireless earbuds and tablets often sell for a fraction of the price of name-brand products. While the savings may seem appealing, many shoppers report problems such as poor sound quality, devices that won’t hold a charge, or products that stop working shortly after purchase.

Safety is also a concern. Independent testing has found that many non-brand-name chargers fail to meet basic standards, with some flagged as potential fire risks. Counterfeit chargers are especially common online and may even display fake brand logos.

Experts recommend buying electronics from authorized retailers and choosing certified third-party accessories to reduce the risk of buying counterfeit products.

Not all off-brand items are bad — just be sure you know what you’re buying so a “deal” doesn’t turn into a holiday disappointment.

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