4 Things Costco Does Better Than Sam's Club

Here is what sets Costco apart from Sam’s Club.

For years, Costco and Sam's Club have been the two premier wholesale clubs in the United States. Both offer a range of products at discounted prices, and both are home to loyal members who can attest to their quality. But while there is a lot of overlap between these two stores, there are also some distinct differences that set them apart. Let's take a look at some of the things that make Costco stand out from Sam's Club.

1. Costco's quality of products

Costco is known for having more variety in its products than Sam's Club, while still offering high-quality items. Costco is well-known for its popular Kirkland brand. Kirkland products are often similar to name-brand products such as Starbucks and Duracell but at cheaper prices. Sam's Club also has its own brand, Member's Mark, but it is not as well-known.

2. Costco's prices

Costco is known to have better deals and prices than Sam's Club. Due to the Kirkland brand, Costco typically has a lower price per unit compared to its brand-name competitors. It may be that Costco is able to get a better price for its products since Costco has fewer products than Sam's Club and buys more in bulk.

3. Return policy

Another thing that sets Costco apart from competitors is its generous return policy. If you don't love what you purchased or it just doesn't work out, you can return it up to 90 days after purchase with no questions asked. Costco doesn't generally require a receipt. Sam's Club however does require a receipt to get a refund or credit. For Costco shoppers, this gives customers peace of mind knowing that they can get their money back quickly and hassle-free.

4. Credit card perks

Like many other rewards credit cards, both Costco and Sam's Club offer their own branded credit cards. You can use the credit cards as a membership card as well (you still have to pay the membership fee). Both are similar in that they offer identical cash back rewards for dining, travel, and gas.

When it comes to its branded credit card, the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi, Costco members can receive 2% cash back on all purchases, double the 1% that Sam's Club members receive on the Sam's Club equivalent credit card. However, those on Sam's Club "Plus" membership will receive 3% while the higher level members of Costco still receive 2%.

Sam's Club Mastercard holders earn 5% cash back on gas (on first $6,000 per year, then 1% after), 3% cash back on dining, and 1% cash back on other purchases. Costco's credit card is similar, with 4% rewards on eligible gas (on the first $7,000 per year and then 1% after), 3% on restaurants and eligible travel, 2% on all other purchases from Costco and Costco.com, and 1% for all other purchases.

When it comes to choosing between Costco vs. Sam's Club, there are some things that Costco does better. However, the differences may be minimal to some people. It really comes down to personal preference and budgeting needs. While both stores offer great deals on bulk items, only you can decide which one works best for you based on factors like product selection and return policy. So before making a decision about which one is right for your needs, be sure to do your research so you can make an informed choice!