Crock Pots are sold at most major retailers, both in-store and online
You can find Crock Pots at big-box stores like Walmart, Target, and Costco, at kitchen specialty retailers like Williams Sonoma and Sur La Table, at online marketplaces like Amazon, and at appliance stores. The model you want and the price you pay depend on which retailer you choose and whether you shop during a sale. Most stores carry the basic round or oval models year-round, though selection grows wider before the fall and winter cooking seasons.
Prices vary by location and retailer. A standard 4-quart Crock Pot typically costs between $30 and $60 at major chains, while specialty retailers charge more. Online prices sometimes undercut in-store prices, but you pay for shipping unless you may have access to for free delivery. Costco and Sam's Club often have lower per-unit costs if you have a membership, and they rotate their inventory, so availability changes month to month.
Key Takeaways
- Walmart, Target, and Amazon stock Crock Pots year-round in multiple sizes and price ranges.
- Specialty kitchen retailers like Williams Sonoma and Sur La Table carry higher-end models and offer more detailed product information in-store.
- Warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam's Club offer lower prices but rotate inventory, so the model you want may not always be in stock.
- Appliance stores and online marketplaces often have the widest selection of models, including discontinued or specialty versions.
- Shopping during holiday sales (September through November) usually means better prices and more models to choose from.
Big-Box Retailers: Walmart and Target
Walmart and Target both stock Crock Pots in their kitchen appliance sections, in-store and online. Walmart typically carries 3-quart, 4-quart, and 6-quart models in basic colors like stainless steel, black, and red. Target's selection is similar, though it leans slightly toward design-forward colors and finishes. Both stores update their inventory regularly, so if a specific model is out of stock, another will usually be available within a week or two.
Prices at these retailers are competitive and often include sales during back-to-school (August) and holiday (September through November) seasons. You can check stock online before you go to the store, and both offer in-store pickup or home delivery. Return policies are straightforward: Walmart allows returns within 90 days, and Target allows 30 days for most appliances. If you buy online and pick up in-store, you avoid shipping costs and can inspect the box before you leave.
Online Marketplaces: Amazon and eBay
Amazon stocks dozens of Crock Pot models, from basic 4-quart versions to programmable models with digital displays and specialty sizes. Prices range widely depending on the model and seller. If you have Amazon Prime, shipping is often free and arrives within two days; without Prime, shipping costs vary. Read the seller reviews carefully—some third-party sellers offer lower prices but slower shipping or less reliable customer service than Amazon itself.
eBay also carries new and used Crock Pots, often at lower prices than retail. New models on eBay typically come from authorized sellers or overstock liquidators. Used models are cheaper but come with no warranty unless the seller explicitly offers one. Check the seller's feedback rating before you buy, and look for "30-day money back" or "returns accepted" in the listing. Shipping costs on eBay vary by seller and can be high for a heavy appliance, so factor that into your total cost.
Specialty Kitchen Retailers: Williams Sonoma and Sur La Table
Williams Sonoma and Sur La Table carry premium Crock Pot models and often stock exclusive colors and sizes. Staff in these stores are trained to explain features and help you choose the right size for your household. Prices are higher than at big-box stores—expect to pay $50 to $100 for a standard model—but these retailers often run sales and offer loyalty programs that give you discounts on future purchases.
Both stores allow online ordering with in-store pickup, which saves on shipping. Williams Sonoma and Sur La Table also accept returns within 30 to 60 days, depending on the item. If you want to see and touch the appliance before you buy, or if you value personalized information, these retailers are worth the extra cost. They also carry replacement parts and accessories, like glass lids and cooking inserts, if you need them later.
Warehouse Clubs: Costco and Sam's Club
Costco and Sam's Club offer Crock Pots at lower per-unit prices than most other retailers, but only if you have a membership. Costco typically stocks one or two models at any given time, rotating them seasonally. Prices are usually $10 to $20 lower than at Walmart or Target for the same model. Sam's Club carries a similar selection and pricing structure.
The trade-off is availability: if the model in stock is not the size or color you want, you have to wait for the next shipment or shop elsewhere. Both clubs accept returns on appliances within 90 days, even if you no longer have your receipt. If you already have a membership and the model on hand meets your needs, warehouse clubs are the cheapest option. If you do not have a membership, the annual cost ($60 to $120) may not be worth it for a single appliance purchase.
Appliance Stores and Local Retailers
Independent appliance stores and regional chains like Best Buy (which carries small appliances) stock Crock Pots and often have staff who can answer detailed questions about features and performance. Prices are usually in line with big-box retailers, though some stores offer price matching if you show them a lower quote from a competitor. Local appliance stores sometimes have floor models you can see and handle in person, which helps if you are unsure about size or weight.
These retailers often offer delivery and setup services for an additional fee, which can be worth it if you want the appliance unpacked and tested before the delivery person leaves. Return policies vary by store, so ask before you buy. Local retailers also tend to stock replacement parts and may offer repair services if your Crock Pot breaks after the warranty expires.
Timing Your Purchase: When Prices Drop
Crock Pot prices are lowest during three windows: back-to-school sales in August, holiday sales from September through November, and clearance events in January. During these periods, most retailers discount models by 15 to 30 percent and stock a wider range of sizes and colors. If you are not in a hurry, waiting until September usually means better selection and lower prices.
Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving) and Cyber Monday (the following Monday) often feature the deepest discounts, though popular models sell out quickly. If you see a model you want at a good price during these sales, buy it then rather than waiting for a better deal later—inventory moves fast. Off-season (February through July) is when prices are highest and selection is smallest, so avoid buying during these months if you can.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I return a Crock Pot if I open the box but do not use it?
Yes, most retailers allow returns of unopened or lightly used appliances within 30 to 90 days. Walmart and Target accept returns within 90 and 30 days respectively. Costco and Sam's Club allow 90-day returns even without a receipt. Check the retailer's policy before you buy, and keep your receipt and original packaging in case you need to return it.
Is it cheaper to buy online or in-store?
Prices are usually similar, but online can be cheaper if you avoid shipping costs through Prime or in-store pickup. Warehouse clubs like Costco are almost always cheaper per unit than online retailers, but you need a membership. Big-box stores like Walmart and Target often match their online and in-store prices, so compare before you decide where to shop.
What is the difference between a Crock Pot brand model and a generic slow cooker?
Crock Pot is a brand name owned by Sunbeam Products. Generic slow cookers work the same way and cost less, but Crock Pot models often have better build quality and longer warranties. If you are buying your first slow cooker, a Crock Pot brand model is a safer choice. If you are on a tight budget, a generic brand from Walmart or Target will work fine for basic cooking.
Do I need to buy a programmable Crock Pot or is a basic model enough?
A basic model with a low and high setting is enough for most home cooks. Programmable models cost $20 to $40 more and let you set a cooking time and temperature, then switch to warm automatically. If you want to start cooking in the morning and have dinner ready at a specific time, a programmable model is worth the extra cost. Otherwise, a basic model is simpler and just as reliable.
Where can I find replacement parts like glass lids or cooking inserts?
Crock Pot replacement parts are sold on Amazon, eBay, and the official Crock Pot website. Specialty retailers like Williams Sonoma and Sur La Table also stock common parts. Local appliance stores may order parts for you if they do not have them in stock. Check your model number before you order, because parts vary by size and generation.