Gaming Hardware Terms Scanner

Gaming Hardware Provisions I Check First

Graphics cards, consoles, and peripherals have unique return and warranty terms. Don't get burned on a $1,500 GPU.

High Risk

Many retailers have 14-15 day return windows for graphics cards (vs 30 for other items). Some won't accept returns on GPUs at all once opened.

Look for: Category-specific return windows and restocking fees for components.

High Risk

Pre-orders for consoles and limited releases may be non-cancellable after a certain point. Your card gets charged, and you're committed.

Look for: Pre-order cancellation window, charge timing, and refund policies.

High Risk

Open-box deals often have no returns or shorter warranty. That "like new" GPU might have been used for mining and returned.

Look for: Open-box return policy, warranty differences, and testing standards.

Medium Risk

Retailer warranty may end at 30 days, leaving you to deal with manufacturer warranty—which can be slower and have more exclusions.

Look for: Who handles warranty claims after initial return window.

Medium Risk

Consoles and GPUs sometimes require buying bundles. You can't return the game without returning everything, and bundles aren't discounted.

Look for: Bundle return policies and component-level returns.

Medium Risk

High-demand items (new GPUs, console launches) are often excluded from price matching and price protection guarantees.

Look for: Category exclusions from price match and adjustment policies.