Whether you’re hunting for a new smartphone, a gaming console, or a laptop, electronics can often come with hefty price tags. Fortunately, there are plenty of legitimate places—both online and offline—where savvy shoppers can score great deals on electronics without compromising quality.
This guide breaks down the best places to buy cheap electronics, from trusted retailers to hidden gem websites and brick-and-mortar stores.
1. Amazon Warehouse Deals
Amazon isn’t just for new products. Amazon Warehouse offers huge discounts on open-box, used, and refurbished electronics.
Why shop here:
- Items are inspected, tested, and guaranteed by Amazon.
- You’ll find everything from TVs to gaming consoles, smartphones, and headphones.
- Comes with Amazon’s return policy and customer support.
Pro Tip: Use Amazon Renewed for certified refurbished electronics backed by a 90-day or 1-year Amazon Renewed Guarantee.
2. Best Buy Outlet and Open Box
Best Buy’s Outlet section—both online and in select stores—offers impressive deals on open-box, clearance, and refurbished electronics.
Benefits:
- Open-box items often come in near-new condition but at discounted prices.
- Certified refurbished products come with warranties.
- Check Best Buy Deal of the Day and Clearance sections regularly.
Bonus: Best Buy members can sometimes get early access to special outlet sales.
3. Newegg
Newegg is a tech-lover’s paradise, especially for PC components, laptops, and accessories. It’s known for competitive pricing, daily deals, and open-box sales.
Highlights:
- Extensive refurbished section with deep discounts.
- Newegg Flash Deals feature limited-time offers on electronics.
- Great for building custom PCs affordably.
Tip: Always check the seller ratings on Newegg Marketplace if you’re buying from third-party sellers.
4. Walmart Rollbacks & Marketplace
Walmart is a great spot for finding cheap electronics through:
- Rollbacks (temporary price reductions).
- Refurbished Deals on laptops, TVs, and tablets.
- Marketplace sellers offering steep discounts.
Benefits:
- Free in-store returns.
- Regular sales during events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Back-to-School.
5. eBay
eBay remains a treasure trove for affordable electronics—both new and used.
Ways to save:
- Auction listings: Bid and potentially score items below retail.
- Buy It Now: Sellers often list new or refurbished electronics at lower prices.
- Certified Refurbished Program: Offers refurbished items with warranties from top brands like Apple, Samsung, and Bose.
Warning: Stick to top-rated sellers to avoid scams.
6. Micro Center
Micro Center is known for aggressive in-store deals, especially on PC components, laptops, and peripherals.
Why shop here:
- Some of the cheapest deals on gaming PCs and monitors.
- Exclusive in-store-only deals (sometimes cheaper than online).
- Open-box and clearance sections can offer surprising finds.
Tip: Check their daily specials page online before visiting.
7. B&H Photo Video
Though originally known for photography gear, B&H Photo Video offers competitive prices on a wide range of electronics, including laptops, smart home gadgets, and audio equipment.
Perks:
- Frequent sales and discounts on high-end tech.
- No sales tax outside NY and NJ.
- Deals of the day and special clearance events.
8. Swappa
Swappa is a highly trusted peer-to-peer marketplace for used electronics, focusing mainly on smartphones, tablets, laptops, and gaming consoles.
Why it’s safe:
- All devices are verified by Swappa before listings go live.
- Direct communication with sellers.
- Often cheaper than buying refurbished from retailers.
9. OfferUp, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist
Local buy-and-sell apps and sites like OfferUp, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist can yield cheap electronics if you’re willing to do a bit of digging.
Advantages:
- No shipping fees.
- Room for negotiation.
- Can find near-new items at massive discounts from people upgrading their devices.
Caution: Meet in public places and inspect items carefully before handing over money.
10. AliExpress and Gearbest (For International Shoppers)
If you’re comfortable buying direct from overseas sellers, AliExpress and Gearbest offer low prices on electronics and accessories.
Pros:
- Super cheap prices, especially on accessories, gadgets, and smart devices.
- Global shipping options.
Cons:
- Longer shipping times.
- Warranty claims can be tricky.
Bonus Tips to Save Even More on Electronics
✔️ Look for Seasonal Sales
The best times to score deals on electronics include:
- Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
- Back-to-School season.
- Amazon Prime Day.
- End-of-year clearance sales.
✔️ Use Cashback Sites and Browser Extensions
Tools like Rakuten, Honey, and Capital One Shopping can help you earn cashback or apply coupon codes automatically.
✔️ Check Refurbished Direct from Brands
Many brands like Apple, Samsung, Dell, and HP offer official refurbished stores with warranties.
✔️ Price Match Policies
Retailers like Best Buy, Target, and Walmart offer price matching—always check their policies to potentially get a better deal.
Conclusion
Scoring cheap electronics doesn’t mean sacrificing quality if you know where to look. From trusted giants like Amazon Warehouse and Best Buy Outlet to peer-to-peer platforms like Swappa and Facebook Marketplace, these options can help you stretch your tech budget further.
Always double-check return policies, warranties, and seller ratings, especially when buying used or refurbished devices.
With a little patience and research, your next gadget could cost far less than you think.