Comprehensive security assessment and trust analysis
Best Buy
Performance Overview
Better than 12% of retailers in this category
Detailed Trust Score Breakdown
Our comprehensive evaluation across 6 key criteria that matter most to online shoppers
Trust Score Breakdown
SSL certificates, payment security, data protection measures
Response time, support quality, problem resolution effectiveness
Shipping reliability, tracking availability, packaging quality
Return process ease, timeframes, refund handling
Website usability, mobile compatibility, checkout process
Company information visibility, contact accessibility, terms clarity
How We Calculate Trust Scores
Each component is weighted based on its importance to consumer safety and satisfaction.
How We Calculate Trust Scores
Our trust scores are based on comprehensive evaluation across 6 key criteria: Security & Privacy (25%), Customer Service (20%), Shipping & Delivery (20%), Return Policy (15%), User Experience (10%), and Transparency (10%). Each component is independently verified and weighted based on consumer safety importance.
Learn about our scoring methodologyPros & Cons at a Glance
What stands out about Best Buy
Pros
- Geek Squad expert technical support for installation, setup, and repairs
- Price matching guarantee against major competitors
- Extended return windows for My Best Buy Plus/Total members (30-60 days)
- Same-day pickup available with real-time inventory tracking
- Knowledgeable in-store staff for product consultations
- Open box discounts for like-new products at significant savings
- Installation services available for appliances and home theater
Cons
- Only 15-day return window for non-members (shorter than competitors)
- Restocking fees apply to some categories
- Aggressive extended warranty upselling can feel pushy
- Limited product selection outside electronics category
- Membership fees required for best benefits
Is Best Buy Right for You?
Find out if this retailer matches your shopping needs
Best For
- Tech buyers needing expert advice and support
- Customers wanting in-person consultations before purchase
- Shoppers seeking installation and setup services
- Deal hunters willing to consider open box items
- Members who shop electronics frequently
Not Ideal For
- Casual buyers not needing expert support
- Shoppers who prefer longer return windows without membership fees
- Customers avoiding upselling pressure
- Those seeking non-electronics products
About Best Buy
Best Buy leads North American electronics retail with extensive product selection, expert technical support through Geek Squad, and competitive pricing with price matching. With a strong trust score of 8.8/10 and exceptional performance across all criteria, particularly in customer service and technical expertise, Best Buy sets itself apart from electronics competitors.
The platform excels through Geek Squad expert support for installation and repairs, price matching guarantees against major competitors like Amazon and Target, and flexible membership options. My Best Buy Plus ($49/year) extends returns to 30 days with free shipping, while Total ($179/year) offers 60-day returns and unlimited 24/7 tech support. Standard members receive 15-day returns, shorter than some competitors but adequate for most electronics purchases.
Security features include valid SSL certification, support for all major payment methods, and excellent data protection. The clean security incident history and 24/7 customer support demonstrate commitment to transaction safety. Same-day pickup with real-time inventory tracking provides convenience, while open box items offer 15-50% discounts on inspected, certified returns with full warranties.
For the best experience, join My Best Buy Plus or Total for extended return windows, explore open box discounts for significant savings, and utilize Geek Squad expertise for complex installations and tech support needs.
Our Testing Methodology
Our Best Buy review involved testing in-store and online purchase experiences, evaluating Geek Squad support through multiple service requests, analyzing price matching processes, testing return procedures with various membership levels, and comparing open box quality. Testing occurred over a 60-day period across multiple store locations.
How It Compares
vs. Amazon
Superior in-person expertise with Geek Squad support, in-store consultations, and installation services. Physical locations enable immediate pickup and returns.
vs. Walmart
Better specialized electronics knowledge, professional installation services, and expert technical support through Geek Squad. Extended return windows for members.
vs. B&H Photo
Broader consumer electronics selection beyond photography, nationwide store presence for immediate pickup, and comprehensive technical support services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about shopping at Best Buy
1 Is My Best Buy membership worth the cost?
My Best Buy Plus ($49/year) doubles your return window to 30 days and includes free shipping, while Total ($179/year) extends it to 60 days with 24/7 tech support and included AppleCare+. For frequent electronics shoppers, the extended returns and support typically justify the cost.
2 How does Best Buy's price matching work?
Best Buy matches prices from major online retailers including Amazon, Target, and others. You can request a price match at time of purchase or within 15 days of buying. Price matching excludes marketplace sellers and requires the item to be in stock at the competitor.
3 What are open box products and are they safe to buy?
Open box items are products returned by customers, usually in like-new condition. Best Buy inspects and certifies them before resale. They come with standard manufacturer warranties and Best Buy return policies, offering significant discounts (typically 15-50% off) with minimal risk.
4 How quickly can I get items with store pickup?
Most items are ready for pickup within 1-2 hours during store hours. The app and website show real-time inventory at your local store, and you'll receive notification when your order is ready. Curbside pickup is also available at most locations.
5 Is Geek Squad support really worth it?
Geek Squad provides expert tech support, installation, repair services, and extended warranty coverage. For complex products like home theater systems, smart home devices, or computers, their expertise can save significant time and frustration. My Best Buy Total members get 24/7 tech support included.
Ready to Shop with Confidence?
Our comprehensive review has analyzed Best Buy across all key trust factors. Make informed decisions for safe online shopping.