An Apple Watch is a great addition to your array of Apple products if you enjoy having extra functionality that pairs seamlessly with your iPhone.
The watch can connect you to messages on your phone, keep you updated on your health, or get you important information without grabbing your phone.
And while your first instinct may be to head to the Apple Store, have you thought about checking out the selections at Costco instead? The warehouse giant is a good alternative that can help you save money and get more out of your Costco membership.
Earn 2% cash rewards at grocery stores and Costco
The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card(Rates and fees) is a powerful rewards card that allows you to earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases — including on groceries, even at warehouse stores like Costco. New cardholders can also earn a one-time cash rewards bonus — $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months!
This card also offers an intro APR of 0% for 12 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers (then 19.24%, 24.24%, or 29.24% Variable).
The best part? There's no annual fee.
Click here to apply for the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card now.
It's cheaper
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Comparison shopping can save you money when you're able to check different prices online, so compare Costco's price to see if you can get an Apple Watch for cheaper than you can directly from Apple.
The Apple Watch Series 9, for example, costs $399 on Apple's website but $329 on Costco's site. The retailer may also have additional sales and deals that you can take advantage of to get even more off the final price.
You can save money with an Executive Membership
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Springing for an Executive Membership might be another way to save money on your Apple Watch.
The Executive Membership costs $120, which is more expensive than the $60 Gold Star membership. But the higher level membership will score you 2% cash back on most purchases, which can be significant on higher-ticket purchases like an Apple Watch.
Costco has a great return policy
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Costco is well known for its generous return policy, but be aware that the retailer does have limits on returning some electronics — Apple Watches need to be returned within 90 days of purchase.
However, you only have 14 days to return an Apple Watch if you purchase through Apple.
It may be important to factor in return policies if you're not sure you'll like the item or if you're giving it as a gift.
Costco may have more inventory
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New products from Apple sell out fast as customers head to the Apple Store to get the latest options or certain colors that may be popular.
That could work to your advantage as Costco may not be the first stop for shoppers who want the newest Apple Watch, leaving you with more options and ensuring they have the inventory to help you find what you want.
AppleCare+ may cost less
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AppleCare+ is a good investment if you need extra protection for your Apple Watch if issues arise after purchase.
But like the watch itself, you may be able to get AppleCare+ cheaper if you buy it through Costco with your Executive Membership than signing up for protection through Apple.
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Costco isn't as crowded as an Apple store
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There are times when you need to go to an Apple Store to check on new products, and you find the store packed with customers.
Apple's sleek stores are inviting to techies who love the products or want to browse the latest releases, but it can also lead to crowded locations where it's hard to get service or find what you want.
Instead, head to Costco, where you won't have to deal with the loud crowds and can have a quieter and less crowded shopping experience as you check out the Apple watch to see if it's right for you.
You're already at Costco
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Costco is packed with plenty of products that you probably need, like canned foods, a rotisserie chicken, home goods, and a great hot dog deal at the food court.
Apple only has Apple products and certainly doesn't offer a tasty hot dog and drink for $1.50.
So if you're already at Costco for other things, stop by the electronics department to check out the retailer's Apple Watch selection.
It has the same options as an Apple Store
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The great thing about the Apple Watch is the level of customization available. With cases, watch bands, and a variety of colors, you can make sure the watch you get is the watch you want.
Both Apple and Costco offer the same options, with the exception of the (Product)Red color option, which is available only at the Apple Store.
You can still get the latest models
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You have plenty of options at Costco depending on the type of Apple watch you want, including new releases and the latest models.
Apple doesn't limit what you can find at Costco, so feel free to get the most recent models there rather than going to Apple if you want the newest models.
Get a protection plan on all your appliances
Did you know if your air conditioner stops working, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover it? Same with plumbing, electrical issues, appliances, and more.
Whether or not you’re a new homeowner, a home warranty from Choice Home Warranty could pick up the slack where insurance falls short and protect you against surprise expenses. If a covered system in your home breaks, you can call their hotline 24/7 to get it repaired.
For a limited time, you can get your first month free with a Single Payment home warranty plan.
Bottom line
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Savvy shoppers can save money on pretty much everything — from food to home goods, clothes, and electronics at Costco.
Check your local Costco or Costco's website to see what options are available and see if you can save money on your next Apple Watch.
2025 award winner
Best Overall Cash Back Credit Card
Benefits Card Details on Wells Fargo’s secure website Intro Offer
$200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
Annual Fee $0 Why we like it
If you love earning cash rewards but prefer to avoid the hassle of tracking spending categories, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card could be a good option for you. Cardmembers can earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
This card also offers a 0% intro APR on qualifying balance transfers and purchases for 12 months from account opening, then 19.24%, 24.24%, or 29.24% Variable. Those looking for straightforward rewards and an introductory APR will likely find value in this card.
FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment.
Our partners do not influence how we rate products.
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