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Apple vs Samsung Return Policy

Side-by-side comparison of return policys, conditions, and refund methods.·Last updated: 2026-10-12

Quick Summary

Apple offers a 14 calendar days from the date of receipt. return window, while Samsung offers 15 Days. Apple requires a receipt, and Samsung requires a receipt. See the full breakdown below.

Return Conditions

Apple

  • Product must be in its original condition.
  • All included parts, accessories, and packaging must be returned.
  • Loss and theft security features must be disabled, or Apple may refuse the return or exchange.

Samsung

  • Item must be purchased directly from Samsung.com or the Shop Samsung app
  • Product must be new or like‑new with all original accessories, manuals and packaging
  • Return must be requested within the 15‑day return window shown on My Orders

Exceptions & Restrictions

Apple

  • Opened software with a printed license.
  • Electronic software downloads.
  • Software upgrades.
  • Apple Gift Cards (includes previous generation Apple Store Gift Cards and App Store and iTunes Gift Cards).
  • Apple Developer products.
  • Products purchased through other retailers must be returned to those retailers.
  • Returns only accepted in the country where purchased.
  • Engraved items can be returned for a refund but generally not exchanged in-store.
  • Custom-configured Macs cannot be exchanged in-store.
  • ZEISS Optical Inserts - Prescription may not be returned to an Apple Store location.

Samsung

  • Items purchased from other retailers or resellers
  • Open‑box or used items
  • Digital software and accessories not sold by Samsung.com
  • Products missing accessories or with packaging damage not caused by Samsung
  • Items marked as final sale on the website

Refund Methods

Apple

  • Original payment method.
  • Apple Gift Card for returns with a gift receipt or Apple Account balance (if unable to refund to account).
  • Mail a refund check for cash or cash equivalent over $750.

Samsung

  • Refund to the original payment method
  • Shipping, installation and service fees are non‑refundable
  • A 5 % restocking fee may be applied unless the item is defective

Online / Mail Returns

Apple

  • Returns can be initiated online.

Samsung

  • Start the return via the My Orders page and contact Order Support for a return label

In-Store Returns

Apple

  • Online orders can be returned to any U.S. Apple Store, where the refund is processed at that time.

Samsung

  • Return in‑store purchases to the same Samsung Experience Store within 15 days; refund issued within up to 10 business days

Gift Returns

Apple

  • Returns with a gift receipt will be offered an Apple Gift Card.

Samsung

Not available

Damaged or Defective Items

Apple

Not available

Samsung

  • Report damaged or defective items within 5 days of delivery (or 2 days after installation) to be eligible for return

Additional Notes

Apple

  • To return ten or more of the same product, you must return to the Apple Store where purchased.
  • Returning an iPhone or iPad may not automatically cancel your wireless service; you remain responsible for your carrier agreement and fees.
  • Returned products may require inspection; approved refunds or exchanges are issued within 10 business days.

Samsung

  • Returns are only accepted for Samsung‑direct purchases; other retailers follow their own policies
  • If a return is requested, you have an additional 15 days to ship the product back after the request is approved