How it works
The tool multiplies your impulse buys by their cost over the years you choose. It also shows what the same monthly amount might grow to if it were invested at the yearly rate you type.
Spent = buys per month × average cost × months
Illustration = monthly amount × ((1 + monthly rate)months − 1) ÷ monthly rate
Read the investment number carefully
It is a picture, not a forecast. Investments can lose money, and the rate you type is only an example. Some purchases are worth it. The point is to see how small, repeated spending adds up.
Questions
What counts as an impulse buy?
Something you bought without planning to, and did not need. A planned purchase does not count.
Is this financial advice?
No. It is arithmetic for reflection. It does not predict your investment returns.
Is my information saved?
No. It is calculated in your browser. The copy link button only builds a web address with your numbers, so you can send it to a friend.
Not sure? Give it 48 hours.
Freeze the item you are tempted to buy. It is free, needs no account, and everything stays on your device.
Freeze it for 48 hours