I’d like to share a frustrating experience I had at Best Buy’s North Avenue (Chicago) location. I recently decided to purchase a new Samsung cooktop to replace my old one—originally bought from Best Buy five years ago—after one of the burners stopped working.
I found what seemed like the perfect match online: Model NA30N7755TG, SKU: 6261811, listed as an Open Box – Excellent Condition item at the North Avenue store. Given the need for precise countertop fit, and seeing it was even an upgraded model, I decided to move forward. Despite the 90°F heat, I drove nearly an hour to the store.
But upon inspection, the product was clearly not in “excellent” condition. It had visible scratches and looked used. I was offered a small discount. Feeling pressured after the long drive, I was prepared to accept the item—but when I asked about the iron griddle (listed as included on the website), I was told it was missing and unavailable. I mentioned that this part alone costs nearly $300 from Samsung and that failing to disclose its absence was misleading to customers. In response, the sales representative became noticeably rude. Only at this point was I informed that the cooktop had been a display unit since 2018—a 7-year-old store display model. With every new piece of information, my shock and frustration kept growing.
Nowhere on the website did it mention the product’s age or that it had been on display for that long. This lack of disclosure is extremely misleading.
When I raised these concerns with staff, the conversation became increasingly dismissive. To avoid escalation, I left the store without purchasing the item.
Later that evening, I checked the product page again—and noticed that the listing had suddenly been downgraded from “Excellent” to “Good” condition, confirming my concerns.
I contacted customer service via chat, and although the representative claimed the product had been pulled from sale, I was still able to see it listed online under Good Condition, still missing any mention of the missing griddle, display status, or age. After a lengthy chat, I was offered a new unit at full price—nothing more.
This was a highly disappointing experience from a retailer I’ve trusted for years.
-“Open Box” may mean a 7-year-old display model with missing parts.
-Website listings can be inaccurate and lack critical disclosures.
-In-store interactions may turn unprofessional when you raise legitimate concerns.
-And customer service might offer no real resolution.
I hope this serves as a warning for others who, like me, rely on Best Buy's product listings and reputation.
Caleb was great - super tech savvy and friendly
Fair prices, take a look at offers. The staff is always willing to help, and you will usually find someone who speaks Spanish. Lots of technology and appliances. Recommended.
Excelente stock y muy buenos precios. Aprovechen los ventas con descuento que son mas qué interesantes. Personal muy agradable y predispuesto.