Electronics Return Policies in 2026: Best Buy, Apple, Amazon, Costco & 7 More Compared

Electronics are the most complicated product category to return. A $1,200 laptop, a $999 iPhone, a $2,000 TV — these are purchases where a few days' difference in return window or a 15% restocking fee can cost you hundreds of dollars.

The landscape is also shifting fast. Best Buy now gives 60-day returns to paid members. Microsoft Store offers 60 days to everyone. Costco gives 90 days with zero fees. But Apple still gives you just 14 days. Samsung charges a 5% restocking fee even on phones you return in perfect condition. And if you open a GPU box at Newegg, expect to lose 15% of your money.

We compared the electronics return policies from 10 major retailers — covering return windows, restocking fees, opened item rules, membership benefits, and the specific traps that catch people off guard.

The Complete Comparison Table

Return Policy Generosity Rankings

Scores account for return window length, restocking fees, opened item acceptance, return shipping cost, phone-specific rules, and membership requirement. Costco wins because its 90-day window applies to all electronics with zero fees. Microsoft Store is the surprising runner-up with 60 days and zero fees.

Individual Store Breakdowns

Costco

Costco— 90 days for all electronics

Costco has the best electronics return policy of any major retailer, full stop. You get 90 days to return any electronics purchase — TVs, computers, tablets, cameras, smartphones, projectors, smart watches, and major appliances — with zero restocking fees and no requirement for original packaging in most cases.

The 90-day window is consistent across all electronics categories. There are no shorter windows for phones vs. TVs vs. laptops. After the 90-day window, Costco still offers free technical support through its Concierge Services and extended warranty options.

What counts as electronics at Costco: Televisions, projectors, computers, tablets, cameras, camcorders, smart watches, drones, cell phones, MP3 players, major appliances (refrigerators, ranges, washers, dryers, dishwashers, microwaves), and water heaters.

Refund method: Refund to original payment method. Cash purchases over $1,000 may be issued as a check. Costco Shop Card refunds are immediate.

Costco membership required: Yes, but the $65/year membership effectively pays for itself with electronics returns alone when you consider the 90-day window vs. 14-15 days elsewhere.

Microsoft Store

Microsoft Store— 60 days, zero fees

Microsoft Store quietly has one of the most generous electronics return policies in the industry. You get 60 days to return any physical product — Surface devices, Xbox consoles, accessories, and packaged software — with zero restocking fees and free return shipping.

The 60-day window applies to everyone, not just paid members. Microsoft also offers a 60-day low price promise: if they lower the price within 60 days of your purchase, they refund the difference. That's double Best Buy's 15-day standard window.

Opened items: Yes, accepted within the 60-day window in like-new condition with all original packaging and accessories.

Digital purchases: Games, apps, and subscriptions from the Microsoft Store / Xbox Store are generally non-refundable once downloaded or used, with exceptions on a case-by-case basis through Xbox Support.

Where to buy: Microsoft Store online or Microsoft Experience Centers. Products bought at Best Buy, Amazon, etc. follow that retailer's return policy, not Microsoft's.

Best Buy

Best Buy— 15 days standard / 60 days paid members

Best Buy is the largest dedicated electronics retailer in the US, and its return policy is a tale of two tiers. Standard customers get just 15 days. But My Best Buy Plus ($49.99/year) or My Best Buy Total ($179.99/year) members get 60 days on most products.

The catch: activatable devices (cell phones, cellular tablets, mobile hotspots, cellular wearables) are limited to 14 days regardless of membership tier. The only exception is Verizon devices, which get 30 days for all customers.

Opened items: Accepted in like-new condition with all original packaging, accessories, and parts. Devices must be de-linked from accounts before return.

Proof of purchase: Receipt, packing slip, or Best Buy account lookup. Valid photo ID required. Best Buy uses The Retail Equation to track return frequency — too many returns may result in a denial.

Amazon

Amazon— 30 days, free returns everywhere

Amazon's electronics return policy is straightforward for most purchases: 30 days from delivery, no restocking fees, free returns. But the details matter, especially for high-value electronics.

Apple products purchased on Amazon have a 14-day return window (same as the Apple Store). Cell phones (when activated) are limited to 14 days. Unactivated phones get the standard 30 days. Some electronics categories may have 15-day return windows depending on the seller and product type.

Opened electronics: Generally accepted within the return window. Items must be in original condition with all accessories. Amazon reserves the right to charge a restocking fee for returns that are not in original condition, though this is rare for standard returns.

Third-party sellers: Electronics sold by Amazon.com follow Amazon's policy. Electronics sold by third-party Marketplace sellers follow that seller's return policy, which may be more restrictive. Always check the "Sold by" and return policy on the product page.

Computers: Amazon's standard 30-day window applies to most laptops and desktops. However, customized or configured-to-order systems may have different terms.

Target

Target— 30 days electronics / 14 days Apple & phones

Target's electronics return policy splits into two tiers: 30 days for most electronics and entertainment items, but only 14 days for Apple products, Beats products, and mobile phones (unlocked or prepaid).

Target RedCard benefit: Target Circle Card (formerly RedCard) holders get an extra 30 days on top of the standard return window for most items. This means electronics purchases could effectively get 60 days — competitive with Best Buy's paid membership.

Opened electronics: Accepted within the return window, but items must be in sellable condition. Target's policy states that "items that are opened, damaged, or do not have a receipt may be denied."

Receipt alternatives: Target can look up purchases using your credit card, Target Circle account, or gift receipt. However, electronics returns without proof of purchase are more likely to be denied.

Walmart

Walmart— 30 days / 14 days phones / 15 days computers

Walmart's electronics return policy is moderately generous but has more category-specific exceptions than most retailers. The standard window is 30 days for most electronics, but there are important shorter windows:

• Postpaid cell phones: 14 days
• Computers, laptops, tablets: 15 days
• Prepaid phones / unlocked phones: 14 days
• Air conditioners, generators: 30 days
• Drones: 30 days

Opened electronics: Walmart accepts returns on most opened electronics within the return window. However, items must include all original packaging, accessories, and manuals. Walmart may refuse returns on electronics showing signs of excessive use or damage.

Marketplace sellers: Electronics sold by Walmart Marketplace sellers follow the individual seller's return policy, which may have shorter windows or restocking fees. Check the seller's policy before buying.

Refund method: Refunds go to the original payment method. Credit card refunds take 3-5 business days. Debit card refunds may take up to 10 business days.

Samsung Direct

Samsung— 15 days, 5% restocking on mobile devices

Samsung's direct return policy is one of the most restrictive among major electronics brands. The standard return window is 15 days for phones, tablets, computers, watches, buds, and headsets. And unlike most retailers, Samsung charges a 5% restocking fee on returns that are not due to damage or defects — even if the device is in perfect condition.

For home appliances, TVs, audio, and displays, Samsung charges a 15% collection and restocking fee for change-of-mind returns. On a $2,000 TV, that's a $300 fee.

Damage reporting window: You must report damaged or defective items within 5 days of delivery. If you discover a screen defect on day 6, you fall outside the damage window and are subject to the standard 15-day return with restocking fees.

Trade-in complications: If you used Samsung's trade-in program and then return your new device, you will not get your trade-in device back. Samsung keeps both the trade-in credit and your old device. The full trade-in discount will be charged back to your payment method.

Return shipping: Samsung provides a free prepaid FedEx return label. Returns must be in original packaging with all accessories.

Apple Store

Apple— 14 days, no restocking fee

Apple has the shortest standard return window of any major electronics retailer at just 14 days. There are no membership programs that extend this window. There are no exceptions for Mac vs. iPhone vs. iPad. Everything is 14 days.

The one advantage: Apple charges no restocking fees on any product, including opened and used items, as long as they're returned in the original packaging with all accessories within the 14-day window.

Opened items: Apple accepts returns on opened and even lightly used items within 14 days. iPhones must be factory reset. Mac computers must have all personal data erased. Apple Watch bands can be returned if not damaged.

Where you bought matters: This 14-day policy only applies to purchases from Apple.com or Apple Stores. If you bought an iPhone at Best Buy, it follows Best Buy's policy. If you bought a MacBook at Costco, it follows Costco's policy (90 days). Buying Apple products at Costco is one of the best strategies for maximizing your return window.

Newegg

Newegg— 30 days (Hassle-Free) or 15-30 days standard, 15% restocking

Newegg has two distinct return tiers, and which one applies makes a massive difference.

30-Day Hassle-Free Returns: Products with the blue "30-Day Hassle-Free Returns" badge on the product page get 30 days, zero restocking fees, and free return shipping. This is Newegg's best return option and applies to many popular items.

Standard Returns: Products without the Hassle-Free badge follow Newegg's standard policy, which is 15-30 days depending on the product category. The critical difference: a 15% restocking fee applies to opened items in specific categories including hard drives, motherboards, graphics cards (GPUs), projectors, and TVs.

RMA required: All Newegg returns require an RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) number. Return labels are valid for 14 days — the item must be received by Newegg within that window after the label is generated.

Marketplace sellers: Newegg has a significant marketplace with third-party sellers. These sellers set their own return policies, which can range from generous to essentially non-existent. Always check the seller's individual return policy on the product page.

B&H Photo

B&H Photo— 30 days most electronics, varies by category

B&H Photo is a major player in cameras, video equipment, and professional electronics. Their return policy is 30 days for most items but varies by category:

• Computers, laptops, tablets, drones: 30 days
• Cell phones: 14 days (activated) / 30 days (unactivated)
• Cameras and lenses: 30 days (in original condition)
• Opened software, memory cards, recordable media: Generally non-returnable
• TVs 37" and larger: May require freight return at customer's expense

Restocking fees: B&H may charge restocking fees up to 15% on items returned opened or without original packaging. Fees vary by product category and condition.

Superior customer service: B&H is consistently rated highly for customer service and return processing speed. They process most refunds within 2-3 business days of receiving the return.

Restocking Fee Showdown: What You Actually Pay

The restocking fee difference between retailers can be hundreds of dollars on the same product. A $1,000 drone returned opened costs you $150 at Best Buy, $150 at Newegg, but $0 at Costco.

The "Where Should I Buy It?" Decision Guide

Smartphones

Best option: Costco (90 days) — Longest window by far, zero fees. Must be a member. Factory reset required.

Runner-up: Best Buy Plus/Total (14 days, $45 fee) — Despite the paid membership giving 60 days on most items, phones are capped at 14 days everywhere. Best Buy's $45 flat fee is less painful than Samsung's percentage-based fee on premium phones.

Avoid: Samsung Direct — 15 days with 5% restocking. On a $1,299 Galaxy S26 Ultra, that's $65 in fees.

Laptops & Computers

Best option: Microsoft Store (60 days) — If you're buying a Surface, 60 days with zero fees is unmatched.

Runner-up: Costco (90 days) — Any brand, 90 days, zero fees. Best overall if you're a member.

Avoid: Apple Store (14 days) — The shortest window of any major retailer for MacBooks. Buy Apple products at Costco for 90-day returns instead.

GPUs & Computer Components

Best option: Newegg with Hassle-Free badge (30 days, $0 fees) — If the product has the blue badge, it's the best deal.

Runner-up: Best Buy Plus/Total (60 days, 15% opened) — Longer window but pricey if opened. Unopened returns are free.

Avoid: Newegg Standard (15% opened) — The 15% restocking on opened GPUs, motherboards, and hard drives is expensive.

TVs & Projectors

Best option: Costco (90 days) — 90 days to evaluate a TV with zero risk. Costco Concierge provides post-purchase tech support.

Runner-up: Best Buy Plus/Total (60 days) — 60 days to test, but projectors have 15% restocking if opened.

Avoid: Samsung Direct — 15% collection and restocking fee on TVs. On a $2,500 Samsung OLED, that's $375.

Gaming Consoles & VR

Best option: Microsoft Store (60 days for Xbox) — 60 days, zero fees, free shipping. Only for Xbox consoles bought directly from Microsoft.

Runner-up: Best Buy Plus/Total (60 days, $0 fees) — No restocking fees on gaming consoles or VR headsets. The 60-day window gives plenty of time to test.

Avoid: Standard Best Buy (15 days) — The free tier only gives 15 days.

Cameras & Drones

Best option: Costco (90 days, $0) — Zero fees, long window, no questions asked. B&H Photo is the runner-up for professional gear.

Avoid: Best Buy (15% restocking) — A $1,500 Sony camera returned opened costs $225 in fees. Buy cameras at Costco when possible.

7 Strategies to Maximize Electronics Returns

1. Buy Apple products at Costco, not the Apple Store

The Apple Store gives you 14 days. Costco gives you 90 days — on the exact same iPhone, iPad, or MacBook. The only catch is you need a Costco membership ($65/year). If you're buying a $1,000+ Apple product, the membership pays for itself with the return window alone.

2. Get Best Buy Plus before buying electronics

At $49.99/year, My Best Buy Plus quadruples your return window from 15 to 60 days on most electronics. If you're buying a single item over $300, the membership is worth it for the extended return window. The break-even: a $55 drone restocking fee (15% of $370) costs more than the membership.

3. Use your credit card's purchase protection

Many Visa Signature, Mastercard World, and American Express cards offer extended return protection that adds 60-90 days beyond the store's return window. File a claim with your credit card company if the store won't accept a return. This is especially valuable for Apple products with their 14-day window.

4. Check for the Hassle-Free badge on Newegg

Newegg's standard policy charges 15% restocking on opened GPUs, motherboards, and hard drives. The "30-Day Hassle-Free Returns" badge eliminates all fees and provides free return shipping. Look for the blue badge on the product page before buying.

5. Don't activate phones unless you're keeping them

At Amazon and Target, activated phones get only 14 days for returns. Unactivated phones get the full 30-day window. If you're testing a new phone, don't insert your SIM card or activate it on a carrier until you're sure you're keeping it.

6. Return in-store whenever possible

In-store returns are processed faster (same-day refund at Costco, immediate at Apple) and eliminate shipping risk. For expensive electronics, the peace of mind of handing the item to a person — and getting a receipt confirming the return — is worth the trip.

7. Factory reset before returning

Most retailers require that you factory reset phones, tablets, and computers before returning them. This includes:

• Signing out of iCloud/Google/Samsung accounts
• Removing screen locks
• Wiping all personal data
• Returning the device to its initial setup screen

Failing to factory reset can delay your refund or result in a denial.

Membership Programs Worth It for Electronics Returns

Common Electronics Return Traps

"Like-new condition" is subjective

Best Buy, Samsung, and Apple all require electronics to be in "like-new" condition. This means:

• No scratches, dents, or scuffs
• All original packaging included
• All accessories and manuals present
• Serial numbers must match
• Device must be de-linked from accounts

Retailers have been known to reject returns for minor cosmetic issues. If your item arrives with a scratch, document it with photos immediately and contact the retailer before the return window closes.

Activated software can trigger restocking fees

Samsung explicitly charges higher restocking fees on Galaxy Books that have software installed. Apple considers a Mac "opened" once it's been set up. If you're testing a computer, ask about the retailer's specific policy on software activation before buying.

Third-party marketplace items follow different rules

Amazon Marketplace, Walmart Marketplace, and Newegg Marketplace sellers set their own return policies. An electronics item sold by a third party on Amazon may have a 7-day return window with 20% restocking — completely different from Amazon's own 30-day policy. Always check the "Sold by" line.

Prepaid return labels expire

Newegg return labels expire after 14 days. Best Buy and Apple return labels generally expire after 14-30 days depending on the policy. If you wait too long to ship a return after getting the label, you may be outside the return window by the time the package arrives.

The Retail Equation tracks you

Best Buy, Home Depot, and other retailers use The Retail Equation (now Appriss) to track return frequency. If you make too many returns in a short period — even legitimate ones — you may be flagged and denied future returns without a warning. If you shop frequently at Best Buy, pace your returns.

FAQ

Can I return an opened laptop to Best Buy?

Yes, within the return window (15 days standard, 60 days for Plus/Total members). Opened laptops must be in like-new condition with all original packaging and accessories. Most laptops do not have a restocking fee, but computer components like GPUs, RAM, and SSDs do (15%).

What happens if I return a phone to Samsung after activating it?

You can return it within 15 days. Samsung will charge a 5% restocking fee if the return is not due to damage or defect. The phone must be factory reset, with all accounts removed, in like-new physical condition. If you used a trade-in, you will lose the trade-in credit.

Does Costco accept returns on opened electronics?

Yes. Costco accepts returns on opened electronics within 90 days. Items should be in as-close-to-original condition as possible with packaging and accessories, but Costco is known for being lenient. Apple products must be factory reset and unlocked.

Can I return an Apple product to Best Buy if I bought it at the Apple Store?

No. Each retailer only accepts returns for items purchased from them. Apple Store purchases must be returned to Apple. Best Buy purchases go to Best Buy. However, Best Buy does sell Apple products, and those follow Best Buy's return policy (not Apple's).

Does Amazon charge restocking fees on electronics?

Generally no. Amazon does not charge restocking fees on most electronics returns within the 30-day window, even if opened. Exceptions exist for items returned in damaged condition or missing accessories. Third-party sellers may have different policies.

Which store has the longest return window for electronics?

Costco at 90 days for all electronics, followed by Microsoft Store at 60 days. Best Buy Plus/Total members also get 60 days but with restocking fees on certain categories. The shortest is Apple Store at 14 days.

All return policy information was last verified on March 31, 2026. Retailer policies may change — always check the official policy page before making a purchase decision.