Martin Lewis’ MSE shares ‘hidden’ Amazon stores that get cheaper prices
Martin Lewis' MoneySavingExpert.com team has shared three ways you can save money on your Amazon purchases.
Amazon is the go to for many Brits for near-enough anything but many are not aware of the other sites the online retail giant has which could save them money on their shopping. The MSE team recently shared some hacks in the recent MSE newsletter noting that there was a "vast array" of areas of Amazon which could help cut costs.
Of course, you should always only make a purchase if you were planning on buying that product anywhere. Also, don't forget to check prices elsewhere to make sure you're getting the cheapest deal possible.
Amazon Warehouse
Firstly, shoppers can check out Amazon Warehouse. This sells returned or slightly damaged goods at discounted prices, allowing you to purchase items cheaper than normal. The MSE team says Amazon Warehouse is "best" for up-to-date branded electricals, kitchen appliances, laptops, lawnmowers, games, jewellery, and other household items.
Each product sold on Amazon Warehouse has a condition listing such as Used: Very Good" or "like new" or "acceptable" - so you have a rough idea of why it has been discounted. Sometimes they may be unpackaged, but you're told this before buying. The MSE newsletter noted you've got statutory rights on items bought through Amazon Warehouse but you may not get the manufacturer warranty. When Mirror Money took a look, we found an Apple 2022 10.9-inch iPad 64GB in "good" condition selling for £356 compared to the £499 for it brand new. We also found a NutriBullet reduced further from £79.05 to £55.33.
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Amazon Renewed is a separate page where you can purchase "as new" refurbished goods at a cheaper price. While Warehouse is mostly for current models, Amazon Renewed sells pre-owned older products such as Apple, Samsung and Dell that have been tested and refurbished to look like new.
MSE said this section was best for slightly older tech, including phones, tablets, headphones, game consoles, smartwatches and cameras. As the items on this site are refurbs, the stock is limited so once they are gone they are gone. All these products also come with a separate one-year warranty, to give you peace of mind. MSE shared that they had managed to find a 64GB iPhone 11 for £198. This is a saving of £200 on what it would cost new at over £400.
Amazon Outlet
Amazon Outlet sells overstocked items at discounted prices and has thousands of brand new surplus items for sale which MSE says Amazon - or third-party sellers - are keen to shift. Discounts offered can be 50% off or more - and again, you can shop by department to help you find what you're looking for. However, MSE noted that the outlet could be a bit "hit and miss". MSE said: "Best way to think of it is like any store's end-of-sales clearance - it's a mix of funk, junk and a few things you may put in your trunk."
The MSE team says the site is best for brand-new out-of-season items such as leftover Christmas cards/gifts and "lesser-known brands". Like with other outlet stores, you have statutory rights when you buy on Amazon Outlet. MSE warned that you should always check the prices as not everything on the Outlet is discounted - and even those that are "may not be great deals." When Mirror Money took a look, we found the ANCwear Smart Watch, 1.69" Touch Screen Running Watch priced at just £16.99 - compared to the original retailer price of £24.99.