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Re-activateJust in time for the holidays, we've got the inside scoop on shoppers' favorite places to buy computers. Our Ratings of electronics stores (available to subscribers only), based on more than 50,000 responses from Consumer Reports subscribers, cover purchases of new desktops and laptops between January 2007 and June 2008.
Our readers told us what they thought of their shopping experiences at 13 walk-in stores, nine retailer Web sites, and seven manufacturer sites. Each was rated based on selection, price, and service. Readers were generally highly satisfied when buying computers, but when you hit the stores, remember to follow our advice on extended warranties. (Watch our video on saving on electronics which offers more tips to help you save money while holiday shopping. Click on the player at right to view the video.)
So if a new computer is on your shopping list, where should you buy? As a group, retail Web sites were best all-around for price and selection, and not bad for service either. Manufacturer sites were the best places to find the widest selections, which makes sense since you can configure your own systems to order at most of those sites. With a few exceptions, walk-in stores were not the best places to shop if you're looking for variety, although a couple stood out for price or service. Take a look at our Ratings (available to subscribers only) to find the stores and sites our readers liked best.
—Donna Tapellini
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