You're Wasting Money If You Buy Electronic Accessories At A Dollar Store

Shopping at dollar stores can often make sense. It's easy to quickly grab a few things from the shelves and it can actually save you money. However, dollar store shopping isn't always the most cost-effective idea. Batteries, for example, can be one of the worst things to buy at a dollar store. They're often older ones that aren't as effective as they once were, making them a substandard bargain. It can also be tempting to buy electronic devices like earbuds and charging cords at dollar stores, especially since these items' prices are being significantly impacted by Trump's China tariffs, boosting their cost. Just like with batteries, though the initial price may be a bargain, they don't always last long, making the per-day usage cost pricey. Plus, do you really want to plug something from an unknown manufacturer into your tablet and possibly damage the device?

In 2025, a CNET investigator looked into dollar store electronics, deciding to buy 10 items that cost $10 or less apiece. Mixed results caused him to call dollar store electronics purchases a gamble. He labeled an E-Circuit USB adapter purchased for $1.50 a keeper, but was a little more skeptical about a $7 Bytech Wi-Fi Smart RGB Bulb, which he labeled good enough "for now." Meanwhile, he rejected a pair of Bass Jaxx Air Conduction True Wireless Ear Cuffs, sold for $8, noting that they caused too much ear pressure and that the buttons you needed to press to active them were hard to find.

If dollar stores aren't always the best place to buy electronics, where should a discerning shopper go? This became a more challenging decision in 2024 when choices for places to purchase electronics shrunk after the largest U.S. electronics retailer closed more stores. 

To help consumers, PCMag conducted a deep dive on the best types of electronics stores, including ones that offer bargain prices. Costco Wholesale topped the list for warehouse club stores, and was also celebrated for its membership value and its exceptional return policy. In terms of pricing, Apple prices a set of four AirTags at $99.99, while they only cost $64.99 at Costco. Another reason to choose Costco is that it sells name brand products, so you won't have to plug cables from unknown manufacturers into your expensive devices. Its extended warranties are often generous, and there's even free technical support. For online shoppers, PCMag commended Amazon for its shipping speed and Temu for its prices. Of course, there are also stores like Walmart, which offer affordable memberships and a wide selection of electronics and might be more easily accessible than a Costco in some areas. Whichever way you go, you're probably better off skipping the dollar store the next time you're in need of some new gadgets.