Computers and electronics

Is it worth buying electronics in New York?

• Are you planning to buy electronic devices during your trip to New York, be it a smartphone, a laptop, or a tablet? It’s entirely possible, provided you know the pros and cons.
• On the plus side, you’ll find an exhaustive range of electronics in New York, including all the latest models. Some electronic devices are even available in the USA well before their European release! Prices can also be more attractive, especially depending on the dollar’s exchange rate against the euro. Not to mention the sometimes spectacular sales and promos, like the Black Friday.
• On the downside, you should know that all electronic devices sold in the USA come with American-standard chargers, featuring flat-pin plugs and a 110-volt adapter. You’ll therefore need to buy a European charger upon your return to use these electronic devices in Europe.
• Also, remember to check the warranty and after-sales service conditions. Some manufacturers indeed require the equipment to be sent back to the USA for repairs. Other manufacturers are more flexible and offer a worldwide warranty.
• Another downside for laptops: American keyboards are always QWERTY and not AZERTY like in Europe. You can certainly switch the keyboard to AZERTY, but the keys will remain in their original position.
• Lastly, don’t forget about customs. Europeans actually benefit from a customs allowance of €430 per person, which can quickly be reached with electronic devices. Beyond €430, you must declare the electronic equipment upon your arrival in Europe and pay the remaining VAT. Customs allowances are CHF 150 for Switzerland and CAD 800 for Canada. See my article on customs upon return from New York.

The 3 best electronics stores in New York

1. Apple Store

   The famous brand with the apple is obviously present in New York. Apple’s flagship store is located on Fifth Avenue, facing Grand Army Plaza and Central Park. You will be greeted by an army of salespeople, relaxed and cheerful. You can test all the new products of the brand, whether it’s smartphones, tablets, computers or screens. Little tip: Apple Stores are also the good plan to check your e-mails and surf the Internet! In addition to the flagship of the Fifth Avenue, you will find an Apple Store inside Grand Central Terminal itself and in the shopping center of the Oculus, at the World Trade Center. Other Apple addresses in New York: 401 West 14th Street (Meatpacking District) and 103 Prince Street (SoHo).

   

   Address: 767 5th Avenue, between 58th Street and 59th Street.

   Neighborhood: Midtown.

   Metro: 5 Av/59 St.

2. Best Buy

   Best Buy is one of the leading American chains specializing in the sale of electronic, household appliances and high-tech accessories. Best Buy has more than a thousand stores in the USA, including obviously several stores in New York. You will find computers, tablets, cameras, smartphones, drones and other electronic toys. Among the brands represented: Apple, Sony, Samsung, Epson, Lenovo, Microsoft… To get an idea of this chain, it can be compared to the FNAC Darty group in France, which also has a thousand stores.

   

   Address: 60 West 23rd Street, between Fifth Avenue and 6th Avenue. The store is located not far from the Flatiron Building and Madison Square Park.

   Neighborhood: Flatiron District.

   Metro: 23 St.

3. Micro Center

   The Micro Center chain was founded in 1979 in Ohio and has gradually established itself throughout the country. The chain of stores specializes in the sale of computer equipment, consumer electronics, accessories and technological gadgets. Micro Center boasts of having more than 25,000 products in stock in its stores! You should definitely find what you are looking for.

   

   Address: 850 3rd Avenue, in Brooklyn. The store is located not far from the famous Green-Wood Cemetery.

   Neighborhood: Greenwood Heights.

   Metro: 25 St.