Buying electronics doesn’t always mean paying full price. If you’re looking to save money without sacrificing protection or performance, open-box electronics can be a smart choice. Typically returned, lightly used and often still in like-new condition, open-box tech can even come with full warranties. In the U.S., several major retailers offer trustworthy open-box programs that combine discounted pricing with dependable coverage. Understand where to look when value and peace of mind are your top priorities.
Best Buy: The Most Recognized Open-Box Source
Best Buy is perhaps the most well-known retailer in the U.S. offering open-box electronics. Through their “Open-Box” section both online and in stores, customers can find everything from TVs and laptops to headphones and appliances. Best Buy clearly labels the condition of each item—such as “Excellent-Certified” or “Satisfactory”—to help buyers understand what to expect.
What makes Best Buy especially appealing is that many open-box products include the same manufacturer warranty as new versions. Plus, they often qualify for Best Buy’s return policy and optional Geek Squad Protection plans, which adds an extra layer of confidence. For shoppers who prefer in-person browsing, Best Buy’s local inventory tools can show what’s available at stores nearby.
Amazon Resale: A Broad Selection with Prime Support
Amazon Resale features thousands of open-box and pre-owned electronics. These products go through an Amazon inspection process and are rated with clear labels like “Used – Like New” or “Used – Good,” depending on cosmetic condition and packaging.
In many cases, Amazon Resale items are still eligible for Amazon’s 30-day return window. Some also include full manufacturer warranties if the item is labeled as open-box rather than used. While not every listing will have warranty support, Prime-eligible items tend to come with better protections and faster resolutions in case of issues.
The key with Amazon is to read each product description carefully. Warranty terms and conditions can vary by brand and seller, but many open-box items fulfill the same quality standards as new inventory.
Apple Certified Refurbished: Like-New Quality With Full Warranty
While Apple labels their discounted electronics as “refurbished” rather than “open-box,” their Certified Refurbished program deserves a spot on this list. Every device sold through this program—MacBooks, iPads, iPhones, and more—is tested, cleaned, and repackaged by Apple, and comes with a full one-year limited warranty.
These items are often returned within Apple’s 14-day window, so the actual usage is minimal. Buyers also have the option to purchase AppleCare+, extending the coverage just like with a new product. This makes Apple’s program one of the most reliable ways to buy open-box-like products with brand-backed support.
B&H Photo and Adorama: Trusted Electronics Retailers With Open-Box Deals
For cameras, laptops, audio gear, and high-end monitors, both B&H Photo and Adorama offer a wide selection of open-box products. These respected electronics retailers often mark items as open-box if the original packaging was opened but the product remains unused or lightly handled.
Many items in this category still include full manufacturer warranties, and B&H and Adorama both provide clear return policies—usually around 30 days. Their open-box sections are easy to browse online and are frequently updated with new deals on popular items.
For photographers and tech enthusiasts looking for more expensive or specialized gear, these stores are a great place to score savings without the risk of buying from an unknown third-party seller.
Target and Walmart: Occasional Finds, Extra Caution Needed
While not as well-known for open-box programs, both Target and Walmart sometimes sell open-box electronics through their online marketplaces. However, many of these listings come from third-party sellers, and warranty coverage can vary greatly.
When shopping open-box from these retailers, be sure to check:
- Whether the item is fulfilled directly by the retailer or by an outside merchant
- If the listing includes details about warranty and return policies
- Whether the item is eligible for protection plans, such as Walmart’s Allstate-backed plans
These stores can be hit-or-miss when it comes to open-box electronics, but deals are out there—especially on gaming consoles, tablets, and headphones—if you read the fine print.
Know Where to Look for Real Value
Open-box electronics are a great way to get high-quality tech at lower prices, as long as you’re buying from a reputable source with clear warranty terms. Retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, Apple, and B&H Photo lead the pack when it comes to offering full manufacturer warranties and reliable return policies. Others, like Target and Walmart, can offer solid deals too—but require more attention to who’s selling the item and what protections are included.
In the end, buying open-box doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice coverage or quality—just make sure you shop smart and stick with sellers who stand behind their products.