UsersRated15 days
to return a laptop
15% restocking fee
15 days
to return a laptop
15% restocking fee
60 days
to return a laptop
No restocking fee
Best Buy Laptop Return Window
Best Buy's laptop return window depends on your membership tier. The standard window is 15 calendar days from the purchase date (in-store) or delivery date (online). This is one of the shorter windows in retail — so if you're buying a laptop you're not 100% sure about, plan accordingly.
If you have a My Best Buy+ ($49.99/year) or My Best Buy Total ($179.99/year) membership, your return window expands to 60 days. That's a massive difference — and the memberships pay for themselves quickly if you make even one large electronics purchase.
The free My Best Buy loyalty program does not extend the return window — it remains 15 days.
Restocking Fees on Laptop Returns
Best Buy charges a 15% restocking fee on laptop returns for non-members. Here's what that looks like:
| Laptop Price | Restocking Fee (15%) | You Receive Back |
|---|---|---|
| $300 | $45 | $255 |
| $500 | $75 | $425 |
| $800 | $120 | $680 |
| $1,000 | $150 | $850 |
| $1,500 | $225 | $1,275 |
| $2,000 | $300 | $1,700 |
💡 Avoid the fee: My Best Buy+ ($49.99/yr) and Total ($179.99/yr) members pay no restocking fee on any return, including laptops. If you're returning a $500+ laptop, the membership pays for itself in the first return.
Condition Requirements for Laptop Returns
Best Buy expects returned laptops to be in like-new condition. Here's a checklist to make sure your return goes smoothly:
Factory reset completed
Remove all personal data and accounts. Restore to factory defaults.
All accessories included
Charger, power brick, any included cables or peripherals.
Original packaging preferred
Box, foam inserts, any manuals or documentation.
No physical damage
No cracks, broken hinges, or scratches to the display or body.
All software removed
Log out of Microsoft/Apple accounts, deregister from any services.
Receipt or order number
Bring your receipt or have your order number ready. Not strictly required.
Open Box Laptop Returns at Best Buy
Best Buy's Open Box laptops — the ones on display or returned by other customers — have the same return window as new laptops: 15 days for standard customers, 60 days for paid members.
The advantage of Open Box: significant discounts (often 15-30% off). The potential downside: the item may not come with original packaging, may have minor cosmetic wear, and has already been opened. All of this is disclosed at purchase.
Best Buy grades Open Box items: Excellent, Satisfactory, and Fair. Excellent items look essentially new. Check the condition grade carefully before buying.
In-Store vs. Online Laptop Returns
Returning In-Store
Bring the laptop, accessories, and packaging to any Best Buy store. Go to customer service. In-store returns are typically processed in minutes. The restocking fee applies at checkout. You'll get a refund to your original payment method or store credit.
Returning Online
Log into your BestBuy.com account, find the order, and initiate a return. You'll get a prepaid shipping label. Pack the laptop securely and drop it off at UPS or FedEx. Online returns may take 5-7 business days to process after Best Buy receives the item.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do I have to return a laptop to Best Buy?
Standard customers have 15 days. My Best Buy+ and My Best Buy Total members get 60 days. My Best Buy (free) members get 15 days. The clock starts from the date of purchase (in-store) or date of delivery (online).
Does Best Buy charge a restocking fee on laptop returns?
Best Buy charges a 15% restocking fee on laptop returns unless you are a My Best Buy+ or My Best Buy Total member. For a $1,000 laptop, that's a $150 fee. To avoid it, become a paid member or return within the member window.
Can I return an opened laptop to Best Buy?
Yes, Best Buy accepts returns on opened laptops within the return window. However, the laptop must be in complete, like-new condition with all accessories, cables, and original packaging. Restocking fees may apply.
What condition does my laptop need to be in for a Best Buy return?
The laptop should be in like-new condition — no physical damage, all accessories included (charger, box, manuals), and the laptop should be factory reset. Best Buy can refuse returns that appear damaged or have missing components.
Can I return a Best Buy laptop without the original box?
Best Buy prefers original packaging but doesn't always require it. Returns without original packaging are subject to associate discretion and may be declined or result in a lower refund. Your odds are better with the box.
What's the return policy on open box laptops at Best Buy?
Open Box laptops purchased at Best Buy have the same return window as new laptops — 15 days for standard customers, 60 days for My Best Buy+ and Total members. Open Box items are already tested and don't come with original packaging, which is accepted.