An Apple Watch is a great addition to your Apple lineup, adding extra features that pair perfectly with iPhones. The now ubiquitous watches keep us connected to messages, track our health, and deliver information without needing a phone nearby.
With the beloved Apple Watch nearing its 10th anniversary, Apple has a few exciting upgrades up its sleeve. This fall, the new Series 10 models will have larger, easier-to-read screens and an even thinner design.
These watches, codenamed N217 and N218, will offer screens almost as big as the Apple Watch Ultra and come with a new chip for future AI enhancements.
If you’ve been waiting for Apple Watch’s more robust health-tracking features, though, you might have to wait a bit longer.
Some of the most anticipated highly-anticipated features, like blood pressure detection and sleep apnea monitoring, are delayed due to testing and legal issues. Apple is working to resolve these and add them later.
Apple is also exploring 3D printing for its watch cases to speed up production and reduce environmental impact. Plus, a new, cheaper Apple Watch SE with a rigid plastic shell might soon be available to compete with Samsung's budget watches.
When you’re ready to buy your next Apple Watch, skip the "fruit" store and consider Costco. It's just one way to save money and maximize your Costco membership. Here are nine reasons your new wristwear should come from the big-box retailer.
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!
If you’re looking for a powerful rewards card that offers an extended intro APR period, look no further, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card checks that box too!
This card also offers an intro APR of 0% for 12 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers (then 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable). Which is great for someone who wants a break from high interest rates, while still earning rewards.
The best part? There's no annual fee.
Click here to apply for the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card now.
It’s cheaper
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 $389 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
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
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.
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Costco may have more inventory
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
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.
Costco isn’t as crowded as an Apple store
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
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
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
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
Savvy shoppers can save money at Costco on pretty much everything — from food to home goods, clothes, and electronics.
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.
Lucrative, Flat-Rate Cash Rewards
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Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Current Offer
$200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
Benefits
- Low spend threshold for its welcome offer — $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
- Cell phone protection benefit (subject to a $25 deductible)
- Can redeem rewards at an ATM for literal cash
Drawbacks
- Foreign transaction fee of 3%
- No bonus categories
- Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
- Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
- Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
- 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
- $0 annual fee.
- No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
- Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.
- Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.