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Gaming Consoles Return Policy Guide 2026
Updated January 2026 · 8 stores compared
Gaming consoles follow electronics return windows at most stores, but GameStop has unique policies for used games and consoles. Warehouse clubs offer the most flexibility with 90-day windows.
Best Window
No limit
Average Window
90 days
Stores Compared
8
Gaming Consoles Return Policy Comparison
Sorted by return window length. Windows shown are specific to gaming consoles where stores have category exceptions.
| Store | Return Window |
|---|---|
| CostcoBest | No limit |
| Sam's Club | No limit |
| BJ's Wholesale Club | 1 year |
| Walmart | 90 days |
| Amazon | 30 days |
| Target | 30 days |
| Best Buy | 15 days |
| GameStop | 7 days |
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Best Store to Buy Gaming Consoles: Costco
Costco gives 90 days to return gaming consoles — perfect for testing performance or waiting for bundle deals. Sam's Club and BJ's also offer 90 days. Best Buy's 15 days and GameStop's 7-day used policy are far more restrictive.
See Costco's full return policy →Tips for Returning Gaming Consoles
- ✓Do NOT redeem digital games included in bundles — digital content typically cannot be returned once activated.
- ✓Test the console thoroughly: check all USB ports, disc drive, HDMI output, and controllers.
- ✓GameStop charges a restocking fee on some used console returns — ask before you buy.
- ✓Keep all cables, controllers, and original packaging — missing accessories can affect refund amount.
- ✓Opened physical games generally cannot be returned for a refund (exchange only at most stores).
- ✓If the console is defective, contact the manufacturer — Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo all offer repair/replacement programs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gaming Consoles Returns
- Can I return a gaming console if I don't like it?
- Yes, within the return window, but you must return all accessories, cables, and packaging. At Best Buy (15 days), Walmart (30 days), Amazon (30 days), and Costco (90 days), you can return a console for any reason. At GameStop, new consoles get 15 days; used get 7 days.
- What is GameStop's return policy for consoles?
- GameStop gives 15 days to return new gaming consoles and 7 days for used/pre-owned consoles. The console must be in original condition. Pre-owned returns may be subject to a restocking fee.
- Can I return an opened PS5 or Xbox?
- Yes — unlike games, consoles themselves can be returned opened at most retailers (Best Buy, Amazon, Walmart, Costco, Target) within the return window. The key is having all original accessories and packaging. Don't activate any included digital games before the return.
- What happens if I return a gaming console with a redeemed game code?
- Most stores won't refund the digital game portion. If a bundle includes a redeemed code and you return the hardware, you typically won't get a refund for the software. GameStop and Best Buy explicitly exclude redeemed digital content from returns.