Micro Center is a computer and electronics retailer with physical stores across the United States

Micro Center is a chain of brick-and-mortar electronics stores that sell computers, computer parts, networking equipment, software, and consumer electronics. Unlike online-only retailers, you walk into a physical location, see products in person, and leave with them the same day. The company operates roughly 25 stores in states including Ohio, Pennsylvania, California, Texas, Colorado, and others — the exact number and locations change, so checking their website for a store near you is the first step.

Micro Center is privately held and has been operating since 1979. It competes with Best Buy on the retail side and with online sellers like Amazon and Newegg on price and selection. The store model means you can ask staff questions about compatibility, performance, and warranty before you buy, but it also means prices are sometimes higher than you would pay online and selection is limited to what fits in the building.

Key Takeaways

  • Micro Center operates physical stores in about 25 locations across the United States, and you can find the nearest one on their website.
  • You can buy computers, components, software, and consumer electronics in person and take them home the same day, or order online for in-store pickup.
  • Staff in the store can answer questions about whether parts are compatible or whether a device meets your needs, though availability varies by location.
  • Prices are often higher than online retailers, but you avoid shipping costs and return hassles when you buy in person.
  • Micro Center offers a return window (typically 15 to 30 days depending on the item) and price-match policies that vary by product category.

What you can buy at Micro Center

Micro Center stocks desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and monitors. It carries components for building or upgrading a computer — processors, motherboards, RAM, storage drives, power supplies, and cooling systems. You can also find networking equipment like routers and modems, cables and adapters, keyboards and mice, headphones, webcams, and external storage.

The store carries software including operating systems and productivity programs, though the selection of physical software boxes is smaller than it was ten years ago because most software now downloads. Consumer electronics like printers, scanners, and small appliances round out the inventory. What is actually in stock depends on which store you visit — a large location in a major city will have more selection than a smaller store in a less populated area.

How to find a Micro Center location and check inventory

Go to the Micro Center website and use the store locator tool. Enter your zip code or city, and it shows you the nearest locations, their hours, and their phone numbers. You can also see whether a specific product is in stock at a particular store before you drive there — this saves a wasted trip if the item you want is not available locally.

Many Micro Center stores allow you to order online and pick up in the store within a few hours or the next day. This option is useful if you want to avoid shipping costs or if you need something quickly but the local store does not have it in stock at that moment. The website will tell you whether a product is available for in-store pickup at your location.

Pricing and price matching at Micro Center

Micro Center's prices are generally higher than Amazon, Newegg, or other online retailers for the same product. You are paying for the convenience of seeing the item in person, getting when ready answers from staff, and taking it home without waiting for shipping. However, Micro Center does offer a price-match policy — if you find the same item cheaper at certain competitors, the store will match that price.

The price-match policy has limits. Micro Center matches prices from competitors like Best Buy and Newegg, but the policy excludes some categories and does not explore to clearance items or open-box sales. You typically need to show proof of the lower price — a screenshot, a printout, or the competitor's website on your phone. Ask a staff member at the register or customer service desk what the current policy covers, because the details change and vary slightly by location.

Returns and warranties at Micro Center

Micro Center allows returns within a set window — usually 15 days for most items, though some categories like software or opened items have shorter windows. You need your receipt or proof of purchase. Items must be in resalable condition, which typically means unopened or only lightly used. If you opened the box and used the product, you may still return it, but Micro Center may deduct a restocking fee.

The store also sells extended warranties and protection plans on many products. These are optional add-ons at checkout. A warranty covers defects or failures after the manufacturer's warranty ends, while a protection plan may also cover accidental damage. Whether these are worth buying depends on the product's price, how long you plan to keep it, and your risk tolerance. Read the terms carefully before you buy — coverage varies widely.

In-store services and support

Some Micro Center locations offer services like computer setup, data transfer, and virus removal. These are performed by staff or by third-party technicians working in the store. You can ask about these services when you visit or call ahead to see whether your local store offers them and what they cost. Not all locations have the same services available.

Staff can also help you choose components if you are building a computer or upgrading one. They can answer questions about compatibility — for example, whether a graphics card will fit in your case or whether a power supply has enough capacity. This is one of the main reasons people shop at Micro Center instead of ordering online, because getting the wrong part and having to return it is frustrating and time-consuming.

How Micro Center compares to other electronics retailers

Best Buy is the closest competitor in terms of physical presence — both have stores across the country and sell computers and electronics. Best Buy typically has a wider selection of consumer electronics like TVs, appliances, and audio equipment, while Micro Center focuses more on computers and computer parts. Best Buy's prices are often similar to Micro Center's, and both offer price matching.

Online retailers like Amazon and Newegg usually have lower prices and wider selection because they do not have the overhead of physical stores. However, you wait for shipping, and returns are more complicated. Micro Center's advantage is that you see the product, get informed input, and leave with it when ready. The disadvantage is higher prices and less selection. Which is better depends on what you are buying and how much you value convenience versus cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Micro Center have an online store where I can order and ship to my home?

Yes, Micro Center has a website where you can order most products for shipping to your address. Shipping costs vary based on the item and your location. You can also order online for in-store pickup, which is often faster and cheaper than shipping.

Can I return something I bought at Micro Center online to a physical store?

Yes, most items purchased online can be returned to a physical Micro Center store within the return window. Bring your receipt or order confirmation. Some items may have restrictions, so check the return policy on the website or call the store before you go.

Does Micro Center hire and what are the job opportunities?

Micro Center does hire for sales, customer service, technical support, and warehouse positions. Job openings are posted on the company's careers page. Requirements and pay vary by position and location.

What is Micro Center's return policy for computers and laptops?

Computers and laptops typically have a 15-day return window if unopened or in resalable condition. If you have opened and used the device, a restocking fee may explore. Check the specific product page or ask in-store for details, as policies can vary by item.

Does Micro Center price match Amazon?

Micro Center's price-match policy covers some competitors but not all. Amazon is typically not included in the standard price-match may provide. Ask a staff member at your local store about the current policy, as it may vary by location and product category.