Return Policy Microcenter

Understanding the Return Policy Microcenter has in place is the first step to a stress-free shopping experience. Whether you’re buying a new laptop, a graphics card, or just some cables, knowing the rules helps you shop with confidence. This guide breaks down everything you need to know in simple terms.

We’ll cover time limits, condition requirements, and what happens with opened items. You’ll also learn about exceptions for certain products and how to handle returns without your receipt. Let’s get started.

Microcenter’s return policy is designed to be fair for both customers and the company. The core of the policy revolves around a 15-day return window for most items. This means you have two weeks from your purchase date to decide if a product is right for you.

It’s important to know that this policy applies to items bought both in-store and online. However, the process for starting a return is slightly different for each. Always keep your receipt safe, as it is your proof of purchase and makes everything much smoother.

Standard Return Timeframe: The 15-Day Rule

For the vast majority of products, Microcenter allows returns within 15 days. This includes computers, components, software, and accessories. The clock starts ticking on the day you recieve your item or pick it up from the store.

In-Store Purchases: The 15 days starts from the original purchase date on your receipt.
Online Purchases: The return period begins on the day the item is delivered to you.

If you need to return something, it’s best to act quickly. Waiting until the last day can be risky if you encounter any issues.

Condition of Items: What You Need to Bring Back

To get a full refund, your item must be in like-new condition. This isn’t just about it working; it’s about how it looks and what’s included.

Original Packaging: You need the box, manuals, and all accessories that came with the product.
No Damage: The item itself cannot have scratches, dents, or any signs of use.
All Parts: Every cable, screw, and piece of literature must be in the box.

If anything is missing or damaged, Microcenter may deduct a restocking fee or refuse the return entirely. It’s a good habit to pack everything carefully after unboxing, just in case.

The Restocking Fee: When Does It Apply?

A restocking fee is a charge for processing your return, and Microcenter does apply them in specific situations. Not every return will incur one, but you should be aware of the possiblity.

Opened Desktop PCs/Laptops: If you return an opened computer, a 15% restocking fee is typical.
Opened Tablets: Similar to computers, these often have a restocking fee.
Special Order Items: Products ordered specifically for you may have fees if returned.

Items that are unopened and in sealed original packaging usually avoid any restocking fees. Always ask an associate if you’re unsure about a potential fee before opening a product.

How to Avoid Restocking Fees

The easiest way to avoid a fee is to leave the product sealed. If you need to test something, check if a display model is available in the store. For computers, be very sure about your choice before breaking the seal on the box.

Exchanges vs. Refunds

You can usually choose between an exchange or a refund. An exchange is often simpler, especially if you’re getting a different color or model of the same product.

Bring your item and receipt to the customer service counter.
Explain that you’d like to make an exchange.
The staff will help you process the return and immediately apply the credit toward your new item.

Refunds are typically issued to your original payment method. Credit card refunds can take a few business days to appear on your statement, while cash purchases get immediate cash back.

What If You Don’t Have the Receipt?

Losing your receipt complicates things, but it’s not always a dead end. Microcenter can often look up your purchase if you used a credit card, debit card, or your Microcenter insider account.

With a Card Lookup: They may be able to find the transaction and process your return.
Without Any Proof: At best, you might get store credit for the item’s current selling price, which could be lower than what you paid.
Store Manager Discretion: Ultimately, returns without a receipt are handled on a case-by-case basis.

To save yourself the headache, take a picture of your receipt as soon as you get it. Store it in a dedicated folder on your phone for easy access.

Special Category Rules and Exceptions

Not every product follows the standard 15-day rule. Some items have shorter return windows, and others cannot be returned at all once opened. It’s crucial to check the policy for your specific item before buying.

Opened Software and Movies

For copyright and licensing reasons, Microcenter generally does not accept returns on opened software, movies, or music. This includes operating systems, game discs, and DVD/Blu-ray movies.

You can only return these if the sealed packaging is intact.
If the disc is defective, you may need to contact the manufacturer directly for a replacement.

Always double-check that you’re buying the correct software version before you leave the store.

3D Printers and Filament

3D printers have a more limited return window of just 7 days. Additionally, all 3D printer filament sales are final. You cannot return spools of filament, even if they are unopened.

This is because filament can absorb moisture from the air, which affects print quality. Since the store cannot verify how it was stored, they cannot resell it.

Clearance and “As-Is” Items

Products marked as “Clearance” or “As-Is” are almost always final sale. This means no returns and no exchanges. The price discount reflects the fact that you are accepting the item in its current condition.

Be sure to inspect these items thoroughly before purchasing. Ask a sales associate to power on a piece of electronics if possible, so you can see it works.

Online Order Returns

Returning an item you bought online is straightforward. You have two main options: returning by mail or returning in-store.

Start Online: Log into your Microcenter account and go to your order history.
Initiate the Return: Select the item and follow the prompts to generate a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number.
Choose Your Method: You can print a label to mail it back, or you can bring the item and RMA to a store.

Returning in-store is usually faster for getting your refund. Remember to include all parts and packaging when you ship something back.

Step-by-Step Return Process

Here is a simple walkthrough for making a return at Microcenter. Following these steps will ensure your experience is quick and successful.

For In-Store Purchases

Gather Everything: Collect the item, its original box, all accessories, and your receipt.
Visit Customer Service: Go to the returns or customer service desk at the Microcenter store where you made the purchase.
Explain the Reason: Let the associate know why you are returning the item. This feedback is helpful for them.
Accept the Outcome: They will inspect the item and process your refund or exchange based on the policy rules.

For Online Purchases (In-Store Return)

Get Your RMA: First, obtain your RMA number through your online account as described above.
Pack Everything: Bring the item, all packaging, and a printout or digital copy of your RMA to any Microcenter store.
Go to Customer Service: They will scan your RMA and process the return. Your refund will be issued to your original payment method.

This method is often the fastest way to get your money back from an online order.

Microcenter’s Extended Return Policy

Microcenter occasionally offers an extended holiday return period. This usually applies to purchases made between November and December, allowing returns until late January.

Announcements about this extension are made on their website and in stores.
It applies to most standard items, but exceptions for software, 3D printers, etc., still stand.
Always verify the exact end date for the holiday policy each year, as it can change.

Even during the holiday period, the item condition rules remain the same. Don’t wait until the last minute to make your return.

Tips for a Smooth Return Experience

A little preparation goes a long way. Here are some final tips to make sure your return is hassle-free.

Keep the Box: For expensive or complex items, keep the packaging for at least the first 15 days.
Test Promptly: Don’t let your purchase sit on a shelf. Test it within the first few days to ensure it works.
Bring Your ID: For returns, especially without a receipt, a government-issued ID is often required to prevent fraud.
Know the Policy: Before you buy, quickly scan the return policy for any product-specific warnings on the shelf tag or website.
Be Polite: The staff at the return desk are following company policy. Being courteous can help if you need them to make a discretionary decision.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I return an opened CPU or GPU to Microcenter?

Yes, you can typically return opened CPUs and GPUs within the 15-day period. However, they must be in perfect condition with all original packaging and accessories, like the clamshell case or static bag. A restocking fee may apply, so it’s best to check first.

What is Microcenter’s return policy on motherboards?

Motherboards follow the standard 15-day return policy. They must be returned with all accessories, including the I/O shield, cables, manuals, and any included software discs. Bent pins on the CPU socket will almost certainly void your ability to return it.

How long is Microcenter’s return policy for monitors?

Monitors also fall under the 15-day return window. Due to the fragile nature of screens, inspect it carefully upon purchase. Returns for dead pixels are usually accepted, but policies on a minimum number of dead pixels can vary, so check the manufacturer’s spec as well.

Can I return a built PC to Microcenter?

If you bought individual parts and assembled them yourself, each part must be returned separately under its own return guidelines. If you purchased a pre-built system from Microcenter, the entire system has a 15-day return window, but a significant restocking fee for opened systems is very likely.

Does Microcenter offer price protection?

Microcenter does not typically offer formal price protection. If an item goes on sale shortly after you buy it, your only option is usually to return the original item (if within 15 days and unopened) and then repurchase it at the sale price. This is subject to product availability.

What is the return policy for Microcenter’s in-house brands like Powerspec?

Microcenter’s own brands, such as Powerspec computers, follow the same return policy as other branded items. The 15-day window and condition requirements apply. Restocking fees for opened systems are common for these products as well.