Discuss: Good brick and mortar tech shops

by William Maher  |  Friday 10 February 2012
Discuss: Good brick and mortar tech shops

We hear plenty of criticism about bad advice and overpricing at brick and mortar shops. But where have you had a good experience?

Big electronics chains haven't exactly been enjoying perfect conditions lately, what with competition from web sites and news that Dick Smith shops will be sold off. In the US there is now speculation over the fate of retail giant Best Buy.

In our dealings with people who are savvy about where to buy technology, we've heard plenty of complaints about shops that have poor in-store service. Perceptions are tainted by people who share stories like this.

But is it fair to tar all brick and mortar shops with the same brush?

We know a lot of our readers prefer to shop online, and have favourite sites, and tactics for sourcing the best products at the best prices.

What we're interested to hear about is anyone with positive stories about brick and mortar technology shops. Service, location, stock, repairs, advice - maybe you've even found something at discount that's cheaper in a shop.  Add your comments below.

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See more about:  dick smith  |  best buy  |  shop
 
 

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Comments: 9
anthonyqld
10 February 2012
 For items such as hard drives, monitors, etc. I print out the MSY price list and go to Office Works to get them to price match (+ their 5% further discount)


Comment made about the PC & Tech Authority article:
Discuss: Good brick and mortar tech shops?
We hear plenty of criticism about bad advice and overpricing at brick and mortar shops. But where have you had a good experience?

What do you think? Join the discussion.
fourassedmonkey
10 February 2012
 Anything to avoid going into MSY itself.
Personally I will never go back there again after the rudeness and terrible customer service I have experienced there.
I now usually go to Computer Online in Enfield where things may be a couple of dollars dearer, but have always got good service and advice and on the rare occasion have had no problems with warranty replacement (looking at you again MSY)
Spud
12 February 2012
 Fully agree about MSY being a lousy shopping experience.
ItEstate in North Rocks is close to MSY prices and are actually nice people to deal with.
Another good one is TI Computers in Crowsnest. Had a warranty problem late last year with a 9 month old PC. Brought it in, went and had a coffee nearby and problem fixed.

Gerry
plasticbrain
12 February 2012
 Check out http://www.ple.com.au with physical stores around Perth. Their web site is always up to date with stock availability indicators for each store. Their prices are competitive and from my experience the staff are friendly and knowledgeable. They are not huge stores so possibly not great for browsing – best to find what you want online first, then call in or order online.
symowallo
12 February 2012
 I prefer brick and mortar when I need it now. So many times I've ordered online but have been let down by poor dispatch or courier services. IN fact, I'd go brick and mortar even if they're 5-10% more expensive, except for Computer Online or MSY, who I've both found to be rude and have poor stock management (in my opinion - time is too valuable to show up to a shop and be told that they don't have the item that they told you that they did have in the first place). I usually go with IJK, even if they're a little more expensive sometimes, because they're efficient and they've never stuffed up my order in over 7 years.
Madaz
13 February 2012
 i don't know why so many you have had trouble with MSY i have no trouble understanding them ordering parts and even getting warranty claims seen too
DJ...
13 February 2012
 If you in the south east of Melbourne the I'd recommend "Suntron" in Mt Waverley. Check out www.budgetpc.com.au. I've always received friendly knowledgable service over the past 10 years I've been going there. You can checkout online first, even chat with a human via their website before visiting the Bricks & Mortar. And they can usually offer a 'plan B' when your plan A fails.
raprex
15 February 2012
 long time fan of www.scorptec.com.au they have 4 stores in Melbourne that i can visit to pickup goods. Can choose what products on their website and then go to the store to pick them up.

Edited by raprex: 15/2/2012 06:21:38 AM
Madaz
15 February 2012
 yeah i too have used scorptec very professional and well priced
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