Choosing an electronics store: Last-minute tips

As of sometimes this afternoon, depending on the website, it's all but official: You've left it too late to buy electronics (or anything else) online in time to get it by the holiday on Thursday.

If you still have electronics purchases to make, you obviously have little time to choose which walk-in store might best meet your needs. Retailers often carve out a niche that emphasizes low price, broad selection, convenience, or ultimate hand-holding, but no single merchant has it all. Minimize your frustration by shopping at a store that plays to your priorities.

In our Ratings of electronics retailers (available to subscribers), warehouse stores such as Costco and BJ's Wholesale stood out solely for price, so don't shop there if you want lots of service or a wide selection. (Their gargantuan size and sometimes-slow checkouts aren't exactly conducive to a quick shopping trip, either.)  Mass merchandisers, including Wal-Mart and Sears, were middling in price, and satisfaction among our survey respondents with their shopping ease and service varied from average to well below. Independent electronics stores and the best chains, all regionals such as west-coast chain Video Only, plus one manufacturer's outlet were standouts for service but tended to be below average in price satisfaction. Office-supply chains like Staples and Office Depot, though respectable performers in many ways, were among the worst for their selection of items.

So once you've decided on your shopping priorities—low price or best selection, for example—consider choosing the nearest retailer of that type, rather than worrying about modest differences among similar retailers.

Also consider going online before you hit the road, and not only to confirm the closest location. At many stores, you can check in-store availability online, and even pay for the item before you go to the store, perhaps saving time once you're there. After all, every minute may count when you're heading down to the wire!

For other advice on choosing a store, see our tips on buying electronics.