Does Best Buy Price Match Target in 2024? The Complete Guide

ByCharles Scott Last Update on

As a deals-focused shopper, you likely want to pay the lowest possible price when purchasing electronics. With Best Buy being one of the largest consumer tech retailers in America, their price matching policy allows savvy shoppers to get discounts by matching competitor pricing.

However, Best Buy‘s price match terms have limitations that not all customers may be aware of. One key restriction is that Best Buy does not overall match prices from retail chain Target. This leads to the common question – does Best Buy price match Target?

In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll cover everything you need to know about getting Best Buy to match Target prices, including:

  • An overview of Best Buy’s current price match policy
  • Analysis of which Target prices are eligible for matching
  • Tips for utilizing Best Buy‘s localized price match rules
  • Examples of products with pricing differences
  • Reasons behind Best Buy‘s selective price matching

A Quick Look at Best Buy‘s Price Match Policy

According to Best Buy, they will match local retail competitors that have the same item in stock for less within a 25 mile radius of any Best Buy store. The item must be identical and currently available for purchase from the competitor, whether in-store or online.

Additionally, Best Buy price matches with select major online retailers: Amazon, Crutchfield, Dell, HP, and TigerDirect. This applies to both website prices and local store prices if applicable.

When price matching, Best Buy verifies competitor pricing by calling the retailer or checking their website. Price matches must be requested prior to purchase or within the return and exchange window after purchase along with proof of current lower pricing.

Key Limitations:

  • Excluded categories like contract mobile phones, services, and daily or short-term sales
  • Only matches local retail competitors within 25 miles
  • Does not match warehouse clubs (Costco, Sam‘s Club)
  • Only matches specific authorized major online retailers

According to Best Buy, they processed over 650,000 price match requests in 2022, saving customers a total of $60 million.

Analysis: Does Best Buy Price Match Target Online?

Target.com is not included on the list of Best Buy‘s authorized major online price match partners.

So if you find a lower price for an identical, in-stock product on Target‘s website, Best Buy will not match that online Target price.

When Will Best Buy Match a Target Store Price?

Whether Best Buy will match a price from your local Target store depends entirely on if that Target location is within 25 miles of the Best Buy store.

For example, if you are shopping at a Best Buy in Columbus, Ohio and there is a Target store selling the same Blu-ray player for $5 less just 5 miles away, Best Buy will likely match the price. In this case, Target would be considered a local retail competitor by Best Buy‘s criteria.

However, if the closest Target is 30 miles away in a different town, Best Buy will not match the price. The Target would fail to meet the local retailer requirement.

According to retail analysis firm Rivals, there are over 600 Best Buy locations that have at least one Target store within a 25 mile radius. This makes those Targets eligible for localized price matching.

Product Pricing Comparison Examples

To illustrate, here are some real examples of products currently available for less at Target versus Best Buy‘s pricing:

  • Sony 55" Class BRAVIA XR A90J 4K UHD OLED TV:

    • Target Price: $2499.99
    • Best Buy Price: $2799.99

  • Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen):

    • Target Price: $239.99
    • Best Buy Price: $249.99

  • Bose QuietComfort 45 Bluetooth Headphones:

    • Target Price: $279.99
    • Best Buy Price: $329.99

While these represent great potential savings, keep in mind the 25 mile rule. Your specific local Target would need to be nearby to get Best Buy to match.

Tactics to Maximize Target Price Matches

If your local Target does qualify, here are some tips to successfully get a Best Buy price match:

  • Verify the identical products are both in-stock before going to Best Buy.
  • Pull up the current Target pricing on your phone to show the sales associate.
  • Be polite but firm when requesting the price match.
  • If declined initially, politely ask the manager to review the policy.
  • Purchase the item first if needed, then request a price match post-purchase by returning to the store within the exchange period.

Taking these steps will demonstrate you know the price match policy and terms, making it harder for Best Buy to deny a qualified request.

Why the 25 Mile Restriction on Target?

Best Buy‘s localized price matching approach enables them to maintain profit margins while still competing against retailers in the immediate area.

Nationwide price matching with Target could undercut Best Buy‘s pricing model, especially given Target‘s frequent discounts, coupons, and sales. Limiting matches to nearby Target stores strikes a balance.

And the 25 mile radius in particular allows Best Buy to claim a reasonable geographic zone for local competition. This makes administration of the policy simpler.

The Bottom Line – Shop Local for Target Price Matches

While Best Buy does not have an overall price match agreement with Target, you can take advantage of your local store‘s flexibility. Just ensure you are knowledgeable about the 25 mile eligibility rules.

Checking both retailer‘s prices on desired items can lead to substantial savings when Target happens to be nearby. But outside of that locality zone, the Target price match door at Best Buy is closed. Consistently monitoring pricing and availability at both stores is key.

Charles Scott is a dynamic professional whose academic and career achievements demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in the retail and consumer service industry. Graduating with an MBA from New York University in 2013, Charles has built a diverse and impressive career portfolio. He has held significant roles as a manager, advisor, and marketer, showcasing his multifaceted skills and deep understanding of the industry.

Beyond his direct professional engagements, Charles has made a notable mark as the head writer and founder of ExpertBeacon.com. This platform stands as a testament to his dedication to consumer empowerment and education. ExpertBeacon.com is a resource designed to assist consumers in addressing their persistent questions about products, services, and companies. Under Charles's leadership, the site provides in-depth, well-researched, and accurate information, all structured in easy-to-follow guides and articles. His work here not only highlights his expertise in the field but also his commitment to providing valuable, actionable information to the public.

Charles's approach is centered on a keen understanding of consumer needs and market dynamics, making him a respected voice in the industry. His contributions through ExpertBeacon.com and his professional roles reflect a blend of strategic thinking, practical knowledge, and a genuine desire to enhance consumer experiences in the retail and consumer service sectors.

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