'低档' (dī dàng) is an adjective meaning 'low-end' or 'inferior', typically describing products, services, or qualities that are cheap, basic, or of noticeably lower quality compared to standard or premium alternatives. The first character 低 (dī) means 'low', and the second 档 (dàng) originally refers to 'grade', 'level', or 'category'—together they literally mean 'low grade/level'. It carries a neutral-to-slightly-negative connotation, often implying lack of refinement, durability, or sophistication.

This term is commonly used in consumer contexts—such as electronics, clothing, restaurants, or housing—to signal affordability but also potential compromises in materials, design, or performance. While not inherently insulting, it’s generally avoided in formal praise and rarely used self-referentially without irony. It contrasts with 高档 (gāo dàng, 'high-end') and 中档 (zhōng dàng, 'mid-range'), forming a common triad for quality grading in Chinese commerce and daily speech.