An Apple Watch is a great addition to your Apple lineup, adding extra features that pair perfectly with iPhones. The now ubiquitous watches keep us connected to messages, track our health, and deliver information without needing a phone nearby.
With the beloved Apple Watch nearing its 10th anniversary, Apple has a few exciting upgrades up its sleeve. This fall, the new Series 10 models will have larger, easier-to-read screens and an even thinner design.
These watches, codenamed N217 and N218, will offer screens almost as big as the Apple Watch Ultra and come with a new chip for future AI enhancements.
If you’ve been waiting for Apple Watch’s more robust health-tracking features, though, you might have to wait a bit longer.
Some of the most anticipated highly-anticipated features, like blood pressure detection and sleep apnea monitoring, are delayed due to testing and legal issues. Apple is working to resolve these and add them later.
Apple is also exploring 3D printing for its watch cases to speed up production and reduce environmental impact. Plus, a new, cheaper Apple Watch SE with a rigid plastic shell might soon be available to compete with Samsung's budget watches.
When you’re ready to buy your next Apple Watch, skip the "fruit" store and consider Costco. It's just one way to save money and maximize your Costco membership . Here are nine reasons your new wristwear should come from the big-box retailer.
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1. It’s cheaper
Comparison shopping can save you money when you’re able to check different prices online, so compare Costco’s price to see if you can get an Apple Watch for cheaper than you can directly from Apple.
The Apple Watch Series 9, for example, costs $399 on Apple’s website but $389 on Costco’s site. The retailer may also have additional sales and deals that you can take advantage of to get even more off the final price.
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2. You can save money with an Executive Membership
Springing for an Executive Membership might be another way to save money on your Apple Watch.
The Executive Membership costs $120, which is more expensive than the $60 Gold Star membership. But the higher level membership will score you 2% cash back on most purchases, which can be significant on higher-ticket purchases like an Apple Watch.
3. Costco has a great return policy
Costco is well known for its generous return policy, but be aware that the retailer does have limits on returning some electronics — Apple Watches need to be returned within 90 days of purchase.
However, you only have 14 days to return an Apple Watch if you purchase through Apple.
It may be important to factor in return policies if you’re not sure you’ll like the item or if you’re giving it as a gift.
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4. Costco may have more inventory
New products from Apple sell out fast as customers head to the Apple Store to get the latest options or certain colors that may be popular.
That could work to your advantage as Costco may not be the first stop for shoppers who want the newest Apple Watch, leaving you with more options and ensuring they have the inventory to help you find what you want.
5. AppleCare+ may cost less
AppleCare+ is a good investment if you need extra protection for your Apple Watch if issues arise after purchase.
But like the watch itself, you may be able to get AppleCare+ cheaper if you buy it through Costco with your Executive Membership than signing up for protection through Apple.
6. Costco isn’t as crowded as an Apple store
There are times when you need to go to an Apple Store to check on new products, and you find the store packed with customers.
Apple’s sleek stores are inviting to techies who love the products or want to browse the latest releases, but it can also lead to crowded locations where it’s hard to get service or find what you want.
Instead, head to Costco, where you won’t have to deal with the loud crowds and can have a quieter and less crowded shopping experience as you check out the Apple watch to see if it’s right for you.
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Costco is packed with plenty of products that you probably need, like canned foods, a rotisserie chicken, home goods, and a great hot dog deal at the food court.
Apple only has Apple products and certainly doesn’t offer a tasty hot dog and drink for $1.50.
So if you’re already at Costco for other things, stop by the electronics department to check out the retailer’s Apple Watch selection.
8. It has the same options as an Apple Store
The great thing about the Apple Watch is the level of customization available. With cases, watch bands, and a variety of colors, you can make sure the watch you get is the watch you want.
Both Apple and Costco offer the same options, with the exception of the (Product)Red color option, which is available only at the Apple Store.
9. You can still get the latest models
You have plenty of options at Costco depending on the type of Apple watch you want, including new releases and the latest models.
Apple doesn’t limit what you can find at Costco, so feel free to get the most recent models there rather than going to Apple if you want the newest models.
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Savvy shoppers can save money at Costco on pretty much everything — from food to home goods, clothes, and electronics.
Check your local Costco or Costco’s website to see what options are available and see if you can save money on your next Apple Watch.
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