10 Reasons You Should Always Buy Your iPad at Costco Instead of the Apple Store

If you love all things Apple, you might think it makes the most sense to hit up your nearest Apple Store the next time you need a new iPad. But although Apple might create your favorite products, that doesn’t mean it sells them at the best price point.

Instead, to get the best deal possible, you might want to unlock the true value of your Costco membership for your new Apple tech. There are countless reasons to choose the buy-in-bulk superstore rather than Apple — starting with the 10 we list below.

As a Costco member, you have access to top-notch products at wholesale prices. Those discounts often extend to Apple products, though the exact amount depends on the iPad model you choose and any discounts you get from trading in old products.

Costco has a remarkably buyer-friendly return policy. The warehouse retailer will accept most products back for up to 90 days after purchase — including high-end Apple products like the newest iPad. You’ll need to perform a factory reset before returning it, but otherwise, Costco should take the product back for up to three months.

Swinging by the Apple Store means adding another errand to your (probably already packed) errand-running routine. Why add a second stop when you’re already planning on visiting Costco anyway?

Of course, since Costco carries clothes, books, electronics, jewelry, and more, it’s entirely possible to make Costco your one-stop shop for nearly anything, not just Apple tech and groceries. You’ll save on travel time and gas while taking advantage of warehouse pricing, which makes your Costco shopping trip a win in every way.

Depending on which version of the Apple iPad you’re upgrading, Costco will accept your old device in exchange for a paid Costco shopping card of up to $530. 

Naturally, terms and conditions apply, and not every device qualifies for the full $530 shopping card. Still, it’s always worth bringing your older tablet with you when purchasing a new iPad at Costco — you could stand to score quite a lot in free groceries.

Did you think AppleCare was only available for tech purchased directly from Apple itself? Think again.

Costco members can choose to add any AppleCare plan to their new tablet purchase without having to visit the Apple Store or subscribe on Apple’s website. Each Apple purchase makes you eligible for one AppleCare+ subscription, which extends your warranty to two years and gives you access to 24/7 tech support.

Costco Concierge Services is a tech support service included with your Costco membership at no additional cost. 

Instead of dealing with a lengthy phone tree or automated assistance through AppleCare, just call Costco’s tech service directly to get help ASAP. Make sure to have your Apple device and Costco membership number on hand to get the fastest possible service.

Costco carries far more than the latest version of the iPad. In fact, you can choose from dozens of different iPad models, sizes, and versions — at least as many as you can get on Apple’s site, and definitely more than you can find at any given Apple Store.

Don’t see the iPad model you want at your local warehouse? Costco offers online exclusives you can’t find in stores. For instance, the 10.2-inch iPad (version 9) is available on Costco’s website with a $70 discount, bringing the price down to just $379 (though the price may vary based on your location).

It’s not very often you can make a major tech purchase and expect cash back. But with a Costco Executive Membership, you’ll earn cash back on qualifying Costco purchases — expensive Apple products included.

Costco members expect to find high-quality products at low prices whenever they visit a warehouse, and Costco works hard to maintain that reputation. Although Costco doesn’t match prices with other retailers, it does allow you to ask for a price adjustment if you buy a product at Costco whose price decreases within 30 days of your purchase.

If you notice a promotional price drop on an item you bought online, you can request a price adjustment on Costco’s site to get a quick refund. If you buy an item in-store that then drops in price later that month, talk to a representative at the returns desk to inquire about a possible refund.

Costco truly takes the cake when it comes to helping its members find the best discounts, deals, and prices on top-of-the-line products, and Apple products are no exception. 

Our advice? Skip long lines at the Apple Store when the newest Apple gadget comes out and visit your nearest Costco instead. You'll save money shopping, and your wallet will be glad you did.