Apple TV boxes are sold at major electronics retailers, online marketplaces, and Apple's own stores
You can buy an Apple TV box at Best Buy, Target, Walmart, Amazon, and directly from Apple. Best Buy and Walmart stock them in-store and online, usually with same-day or next-day shipping options. Amazon carries multiple Apple TV models with standard shipping. Apple's retail stores and apple.com offer the full range of current models, often with setup support included. Costco and Sam's Club sometimes carry Apple TV boxes if you have a membership, though inventory varies by location and season.
The model you choose affects where you'll find it in stock. The current Apple TV 4K (third generation) is widely available at all major retailers. Older models like the Apple TV HD may be harder to find new, though some retailers clear inventory when new versions launch. Checking stock online before visiting a store saves time, since not every location carries every model.
Key Takeaways
- Best Buy, Walmart, Target, and Amazon all stock Apple TV boxes online and in-store, with prices typically matching across retailers.
- Apple.com and Apple retail stores often bundle setup or offer trade-in credit, which can lower your out-of-pocket cost.
- Costco and Sam's Club carry Apple TV boxes at member prices, but selection is smaller and changes seasonally.
- Checking online inventory before you shop prevents wasted trips, since not every store location stocks every model.
Best Buy and Walmart for in-store pickup and returns
Best Buy and Walmart both stock Apple TV 4K models in most locations and let you check availability online before you go. Both offer in-store pickup within hours on many items, which is useful if you want to set it up the same day. Return policies are straightforward: Best Buy gives 15 days for opened electronics, and Walmart gives 15 days as well, though some items may have different windows.
Best Buy's Geek Squad can help with setup if you buy there, though you'll pay a separate service fee. Walmart does not offer in-store setup, but their return process is straightforward if the box doesn't work with your TV or internet setup. Both retailers price Apple TV boxes at the manufacturer's suggested retail price, so you won't save money by shopping one over the other.
Amazon for fast shipping and Prime member benefits
Amazon stocks Apple TV 4K models with standard shipping and faster options if you have Prime membership. Prime members often see free one-day or two-day delivery on electronics. Amazon's return window is 30 days, longer than Best Buy or Walmart, which gives you more time to test the box with your setup before deciding to keep it.
Amazon's price matches other retailers, so you're not paying more for the convenience. The main advantage is speed if you have Prime and live in an area with fast delivery. Amazon also shows customer reviews from people who have used the box, which can help you decide between the Apple TV 4K and other streaming devices if you're still comparing options.
Apple.com and Apple retail stores for setup support and trade-in
Apple's official website and retail stores offer the full current lineup of Apple TV models and often include setup information. If you buy at an Apple Store, staff can help you connect it to your network and sign into your Apple ID before you leave. Apple.com offers the same models with standard shipping, though you won't get in-person setup help.
Apple sometimes runs trade-in programs where you can send in an older Apple TV or other device and receive credit toward a new purchase. The credit amount depends on the device's condition and model. This can reduce the effective price if you're upgrading from an older box. Apple's return policy is 14 days, which is shorter than Amazon but standard for electronics retailers.
Costco and Sam's Club for member discounts
Costco and Sam's Club occasionally stock Apple TV boxes at member prices, though availability is not may provide year-round. When they do carry them, the price is usually the same as other retailers, but members may see occasional bundle deals or discounts during holiday sales. You need an active membership to buy in-store or online from either warehouse.
The downside is that warehouse clubs rotate inventory, so the model you want may not be in stock when you need it. Calling ahead to confirm availability saves a trip. Return policies at both warehouses are generous — Costco offers a full refund within two years on most electronics, and Sam's Club offers 90 days — so if the box doesn't work with your setup, returning it is straightforward.
Price comparison and what to expect to pay
Apple TV 4K models are priced the same across retailers because Apple sets the manufacturer's suggested retail price. The 64GB model typically costs around $129, and the 256GB model costs around $149, though these prices can shift with new releases or sales. You won't find a cheaper price by shopping around — the difference is in shipping speed, return policies, and bundled services like setup.
Older Apple TV models, if still available, may be discounted as retailers clear stock to make room for new inventory. Checking multiple sites takes a few minutes and shows you which retailers have the model in stock, but the actual price will be the same. The real savings come from trade-in programs at Apple or occasional bundle deals at warehouse clubs, not from price differences between retailers.
Checking stock and delivery times before you buy
Most retailers let you search their website for Apple TV availability by entering your zip code or city. Best Buy, Walmart, and Target show in-store stock and estimated pickup times. Amazon shows delivery dates based on your location and membership status. Apple.com shows stock at nearby retail stores and estimated shipping times for online orders.
If you need the box quickly, checking delivery estimates before you buy prevents disappointment. In-store pickup is usually the fastest option if your local store has stock. If you're ordering online, Amazon Prime typically offers the shortest delivery window, followed by Best Buy and Walmart's standard shipping. Apple.com's shipping is standard unless you pay for expedited delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy an Apple TV box used or refurbished to save money?
Yes, Apple sells refurbished Apple TV boxes directly on apple.com at a discount, usually 10 to 15 percent off the new price. These are tested and come with the same warranty as new units. Amazon and eBay also sell used and refurbished models from third-party sellers, but check the seller's rating and return policy before buying, since warranty coverage may be limited.
Do I need to buy AppleCare+ with my Apple TV box?
AppleCare+ is optional and covers accidental damage and hardware failures beyond the standard one-year warranty. It costs extra and extends coverage to two years. Most people don't need it for a streaming box since they're durable and rarely drop or break, but it's worth considering if you have young children or pets that might damage it.
What's the difference between buying at Apple versus Best Buy?
The price is the same, but Apple offers in-store setup help and trade-in credit, while Best Buy offers Geek Squad setup for a fee and a 15-day return window. Apple's return window is 14 days. If you want free setup help, buy at Apple. If you prefer a longer return window, buy at Amazon.
Can I buy an Apple TV box at a phone carrier store?
Some phone carriers like Verizon and AT&T stock Apple TV boxes in select stores, but availability is limited and prices are the same as other retailers. Calling ahead to confirm stock is necessary. Major electronics retailers are more reliable for consistent availability and selection.
Is there a difference in warranty between retailers?
No. All new Apple TV boxes come with the same one-year limited warranty from Apple, regardless of where you buy them. The warranty covers hardware defects but not accidental damage. AppleCare+ is the only way to extend coverage, and you can buy it at any retailer or directly from Apple.