Not everyone thinks it is safe to buy electronics online, and there are others who feel popular, member-based warehouse stores like Costco offer the best deals. Costco is popular for its bulk food items; however, they do house a gigantic electronics department too. This zone is well stocked with gadgets that range from your favorite video game consoles and activity trackers to televisions, headphones, and even laptops! The low-hanging price tags are another factor that makes shopping for gadgets tempting. However, is purchasing Costco laptops a good idea?

Let’s review a few of the pros and cons involved when shopping for a laptop at this major retailer.

A limited selection
Do you know how Costco keeps their prices so low? They limit the number of items they sell. In doing this, they gain larger bulk discounts from manufacturers of all those Costco laptops you love.

Shopping at Costco’s online store offers you a wider selection—five times that of walk-in stores. The funny part is, many items sitting on the shelves of the physical stores cannot be purchased online! So check in both places before picking your Costco laptops.

Variable pricing
Most consumers automatically assume that since it’s Costco, it’ll be cheaper. While it is true for the most part, this may not always be the case. It all depends on the product category you’re looking for. For instance, an entry-level tablet at Costco may cost the same or less elsewhere. Desktops models showcased on Costco’s online store are priced the same as that of the manufacturer’s. Budget items like low-cost Costco laptops have a very thin margin, which makes it difficult for the manufacturer to offer much of a discount to Costco and subsequently their members. Just make sure you do your research before purchasing a laptop from Costco.

Amazing return policy
Costco follows a very lenient return policy. All electronics, including laptops, may be returned within 90 days of purchase for a full refund that includes shipping charges. This applies to online orders that are returned to retail stores. This is one of the primary reasons why people purchase gadgets from Costco. This policy allows you to test out your notebook, check whether it works for you, and return it if it doesn’t.

You should take base your decision to buy a laptop from Costco in the category it falls in. The best thing about buying from this retailer is the extended warranty, free tech support, and return policy. If shopping for gadgets is not your strong point, go to Costco. If you’re a gadget freak, try other retailers.