Imagine this: you’re shopping for a new laptop, and you see it on Best Buy’s website. But uh-oh — you also spot it at a lower price on Amazon. What now? Do you settle for the higher price? No way! Best Buy has a Price Match Guarantee.
TL;DR
If you find a lower price at a competitor, Best Buy may match it. The item must be identical and in stock on both sites. You can request a price match online, in-store, or by phone. Some exclusions and rules apply, but it’s usually quick and easy.
What’s a Price Match?
In simple terms, a price match means one store will sell an item at the lower price you found from another store.
Best Buy wants you to shop with them first. So they’ll often drop their price to match a competitor’s. You just have to ask.
When Can You Get a Price Match?
Here’s when you can score that sweet lower price:
- Before you buy: Show a lower price from a qualifying store.
- After you buy: If the price drops at Best Buy itself, you have 15 days to ask for a refund of the difference (though this varies for My Best Buy Elite members).
Where Can You Price Match?
The item has to be sold by a legitimate competitor. Here are the main ones:
- Amazon (sold and shipped by Amazon only)
- Walmart.com
- Target.com
- Newegg.com
- The online or local version of most major electronics retailers
Just a heads-up: Not all prices are up for matching. Third-party sellers on Amazon or eBay? Nope.
What Items Qualify?
The item must be:
- Identical (same model number, color, size, etc.)
- In stock on both sites
- New — No open box, refurbished, or clearance items
So if you’re eyeing that Samsung 55-inch 4K TV, make sure it’s the exact model number and not “close enough.” Almost doesn’t count!
How to Request a Price Match
There are three ways to do it:
1. In-Store
Easy peasy. Just show the lower price on your phone to a Best Buy employee.
- Bring the website up on your browser.
- Make sure it’s not a screenshot — they check live prices.
- Politely ask for a price match.
If it qualifies, they’ll adjust the price on the spot. You can walk out feeling like a price-savvy hero.
2. Online (Chat Option)
Don’t feel like leaving your house? No probs!
- Go to BestBuy.com
- Find the item you want
- Click on the “Chat for Price Match” or support options
- Share the competing offer’s link with the rep
If approved, they’ll give you a new link with the matched price.
3. Phone
Old school works too. Call 1-888-BEST-BUY (1-888-237-8289).
Explain the price match and provide the competing link. Great for when you want to hear confirmation from a human.
How About After You Buy?
Yes! Best Buy has a post-purchase price match.
If the same item you bought drops in price at Best Buy within your return period (usually 15-45 days depending on membership level), they’ll refund the difference. Just bring in your receipt or order info to claim it. Easy refund = big win.
Common Price Match Pitfalls
Wait! Don’t rush just yet. Here’s what won’t qualify:
- Limited time outrageous sales (like Black Friday lightning deals)
- Coupons, promo codes, or bundle offers
- Prices from marketplace sellers (like someone selling on Amazon or Walmart)
- Out-of-stock products
- Membership-only prices (like Costco or Sam’s Club)
Nobody likes rejection, but now you know how to avoid it!
Tips to Maximize Your Price Matching Power
- Bookmark competitor pages — Keep tabs on prices before and after purchase
- Be polite and patient — Reps are more helpful when you are nice
- Join the My Best Buy program — Better return windows = longer chance to get post-purchase matches
- Use apps that track price drops
Can You Price Match During Holiday Sales?
Unfortunately, most Black Friday or Cyber Monday deals don’t qualify. Best Buy hits pause on price matching during major promotional windows — usually from Thanksgiving through Cyber Monday weekend.
Check their holiday price match policy to know when the rules change.
Price Matching on Open Box or Clearance?
Sorry, Charlie. Open box, refurbished, outlet, clearance, and liquidation sales do NOT qualify for price matching. Best Buy wants apples-to-apples comparisons only.
Need a Return to Get a Better Price?
If your item doesn’t qualify for an after-the-fact price match but you’re still within your return window, here’s a cheeky move:
- Return the product.
- Buy it again at the lower price.
Be careful — don’t abuse it too often! Best Buy tracks returns and can limit you.
A Quick Success Story
Dan wanted the latest gaming headset from Best Buy. It was $149.99. He saw the same exact one on Newegg for $119.99. Dan used the online chat option, shared the Newegg link and — bam! Best Buy approved it and linked him to a new cart. Headset bought. $30 saved. GG, wallet.
Final Thoughts
Best Buy’s price match policy is your secret weapon. With a little prep and a sharp eye, you can snag the best deals without bouncing from store to store.
Better prices, less stress — what’s not to love?
Next time you shop at Best Buy, take the few extra minutes to check competitor pricing. Your future self (and your bank account) will thank you!
