Consumer Reports finds best places to buy electronics

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- From tablets to TVs to laptop computers, electronics will likely be the hottest gifts this holiday season. Consumer Reports' recent survey covering more than 42,000 electronics purchases can steer you to the best places to buy.

Some shoppers say the best place to shop for electronics is in their own homes.

"You can just be in your pajamas in front of the screen, research everything you want, find out exactly what you want, no pressure, and you can buy it," said shopper Melissa Toole.

Like Toole, people in Consumer Reports' survey let their fingers do the shopping for nearly four out of ten electronics purchases - like TVs, tablets, video game consoles, and computers.

"Our survey found people who shop for electronics online are happier with their experience than those who shop in the stores, and they're more likely to say they'd do it again," said Steven Witten with Consumer Reports.

B&H Photo and Video gets top marks for service, selection, and price. Shoppers say the checkout process is easy. Crutchfield, Amazon, and Newegg are also standouts for online shopping.

Even so, the Consumer Reports survey found that most people still shop with their feet.

"Even younger shoppers, those under 40, are more likely to do their buying at a store." Steven Witten said.

Apple shoppers give the retailer top marks for quality and customer service, but they're not happy about the prices. GameStop customers aren't pleased with the prices either.

At Costco, shoppers like the price, but not the selection. Walmart also gets thumbs-down for selection, along with customer service.

Whether you shop in a store or online, the survey found it pays to bargain. Walk-in shoppers who simply ask for a lower price get one more than half the time.

Consumer Reports says TV shoppers are particularly successful at bargaining. The survey found nearly 70 percent of those who asked for a better deal on a television got one. Their savings averaged close to $100.

For more from Consumer Reports, click here