Electronics stores have steep competition online, but there's still no alternative to entering a brick and mortar store with a wide selection and talking with a professional about your electronic needs. Here are some stop-and-shop NYC electronics stores where you'll find the best NYC has to offer.
Best Electronic Stores NYC: Midtown West
The store for shutterbugs and professional photographers alike, B&H was established in 1973 and remains the largest retailer of cameras and photo equipment in the United States. They also have a wide array of electronics — including drones, lighting equipment, televisions, computers, as well as audio equipment and more (with warranties available, too). While their business surges online, the storefront bustles, with hundreds of knowledgable employees. The sprawling, two-story expanse takes up a full block on 34th Street and Ninth Avenue in Midtown and is meticulously organized. Open six days a week; in observance of Shabbat, the store is closed on Saturdays. 420 Ninth Ave., 212-444-5003, bhphotovideo.com
Best Electronic Stores NYC: Union Square
Did you know that Best Buy was founded in Minnesota in 1966 as The Sound of Music, specializing in audio equipment? That all changed in 1983, when they underwent a reinvention. Today, their inventory includes all things electronic: television and home theater, phones and camera equipment, gaming systems and accessories, appliances, laptops, and more. They have seven locations throughout NYC, with one of their most popular spots in Chelsea near Union Square. Their in-house "Geek Squad" team is on hand for all kinds of repair, installation, and setup services. 52 E. 14th St., 212-466-4789, bestbuy.com
Best Electronic Stores NYC: Flatiron District
Located in the Flatiron District, DataVision features a full complement of gadgetry. They stock computers, software, peripherals, digital cameras, camcorders, MP3 players, DVDs, personal video players, TVs, handhelds, GPS solutions, desktops, notebooks, tablet PCs, wireless LAN, carrying cases and mobile phones. And, if your laptop has become a doorstop, bring it in! The techies here provide same-day service on computer repairs, and services brands that includes Apple, Sony, Samsung, and Toshiba. 50 W. 23rd St., 212-689-1111, datavis.com
Best Electronic Stores NYC: Midtown East
This is not an ordinary electronics store full of things you need—it's more about those treasures you want. You'll enjoy checking out their autobalancing electric skateboard; an easy-to-command Stormtrooper; a land and water RC hovercraft, and their two-person electric cruiser. No doubt you've been dazzled by their coveted catalogs. But you don't need to wait for a mail order delivery! For more than 170 years, Hammacher Schlemmer has been offering New York shoppers the gift of the unexpected. Yes, they have conventional electronics, but also toys, outdoor products, personal care, apparel, home, sports, leisure, travel items, and renowned holiday specials. 147 E. 57th St., 212-421-9002, hammacherschelemmer.com.
Best Electronic Stores NYC: Midtown East
We've all been there-rushing; not paying attention. Then suddenly your cell slips from your hand and presto: a cracked screen. Sometimes you can't even get it to turn on. Well, if you can't afford to buy a new cell at drop of a ... phone, Jack's Place can be a fast and affordable answer to your distress. They offer mobile service repair, in addition to selling a variety of mobile accessories and other assorted electronics. 235 E. 51st St., 212-486-7090, jacksplaceny.com
Best Electronics Stores NYC: Flatiron District
PC Richard stands proud as one of the last electronics store chains serving the Northeast. And they're not simply surviving—they're going gangbusters. Since opening their first store in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn way back in 1909, they've become the largest private and family-owned chain carrying appliances, televisions, electronics, and, as of 2014, mattress stores (!) in the United States. Computers, monitors, printers, refrigerators and air conditioners? They have them all. They also offer warranty protection and installation services. This one's in the Flatiron District, but 21 locations continue to sprawl across NYC's five boroughs alone. 53 W. 23rd St. 212-924-0200, pcrichard.com
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