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Best Buy’s name is synonymous with gadgetry, and this retailer is probably the biggest name among the big box stores. Some areas of the U.S. also have Fry’s Home Electronics and CompUSA. In Canada, consumer electronics are the core business of Future Shop. Look up which stores are near you with Canada 411. It’s worth doing some comparison shopping at several big boxes. The stores rotate special pricing offers, so you may want to wait until the store near you marks down your gadget of choice.

Discount Chains

Rather than wait for the sales, head over to Wal-Mart and Target. Both stores sell electronics. Unless you want something that’s highly specialized or customized, check out the products and prices at these stores. You might find the gadget you want at a discount price.

Online Retailers

Do your homework if you’re going to shop online, and see which site has the best price. Shop at web-only retailers such as Amazon, but don’t neglect websites for big box stores and discount retailers. These companies often offer more products and different discounts online than in their brick-and-mortar stores.

Specialty and Local Shops

Usually, when you walk by an Apple Store, it’s crowded. People seem to love getting their hands on the products. Cell phone retailers such as AT&T let you try out smartphones in person. Don’t overlook the importance of visiting a local mom-and-pop electronics store that may carry highly specialized inventory. These are few and far between, but if there’s one in your community, make a stop there.