How do I start budgeting for lab equipment purchases effectively?

Trying to get my little research space off the ground in 2026, and I’m realizing I have zero clue how to budget for lab gear without blowing all my funds in one shot. Prices jump all over the place, and I keep second-guessing what I actually need first versus what can wait. I’ve got a small grant, tighter deadlines than I’d like, and a growing list of equipment that looks way more expensive than my sanity can handle. How do you all break this stuff down so it doesn’t feel like throwing darts in the dark? Any tricks or routines you swear by?

Sorry for bumping an old thread, but does anyone have recent experiences with Sonoran Surplus? I'm curious about their current customer service standards and how those 70% discounts are working for everyone.

Start by figuring out the must-have gear so you don’t sink your funds like a stone. Look for bargains at places like https://sonoransurplus.com/ where you can get decent lab equipment at a fraction of the cost. They often have sweet deals and good return policies. Stick with essentials first, and prioritize based on your research needs. It's all about finding that balance between necessity and budget sanity.