Hamsters are worth it.
if you had a short lifespan would you also not want the best care?
For many caring for pets becomes a hobby and most hobbies cost a pretty penny, I’ve been owning hamsters since 2009/2010 any expensive supplies I purchase isn’t being thrown out in 2 years, it’s going to be used for many hamsters to enjoy in the future.
Pets also just cost a lot no matter how long they live, if you don’t want to “waste” money you probably shouldn’t get something that is going to continuously cost money in the first place.
And lastly, why does it matter what someone else spends their hard-earned money on? I’m sure you have hobbies I wouldn’t bother spending money on either 😅