Costco, known for its extensive range of products and generous return policies, has long been a trusted destination for electronics. However, not all items on its shelves meet the high expectations associated with the retailer. Recent reviews have highlighted six tech products that, according to customer feedback, may not be worth the investment.
ASUS Vivobook S16: A Disappointing Laptop Choice
The ASUS Vivobook S16 appears to be an attractive option on paper, featuring a large OLED display, a modern AMD Ryzen AI processor, and ample storage for a competitive price of $1,200. Yet, customer ratings reveal a different story. With an average score of 2.7 out of 5, over half of the reviews are one-star ratings. Common issues include failures during initial setup, hard crashes, and even devices that fail to power on. Professional evaluations from sites like Laptop Mag confirm these concerns, citing mediocre performance and a lackluster display as significant drawbacks.
Samsung’s Frame TV: Art or Headache?
Marketed as a blend of art and technology, the Samsung Frame TV is designed to serve as a centerpiece in modern homes. It comes with extended protection plans and promotional access to the Art Store when purchased through Costco. Despite these bonuses, customer satisfaction remains low, with an average rating of 2.8 out of 5. Reviewers have reported problems with activating promotional subscriptions and navigating intrusive bloatware, which detracts from the viewing experience. Professional assessments from RTings echo these sentiments, suggesting potential buyers consider alternatives.
PetSafe Guardian GPS Dog Fence: Reliability Issues
The PetSafe Guardian GPS 2.0 Dog Fence promises to keep pets safe within virtual boundaries using satellite technology. However, many Costco customers have expressed disappointment, citing unreliable safety features and delayed notifications when pets breach designated areas. With an average rating of 3.1 out of 5, users have reported issues with GPS performance, especially in wooded areas, and confusion regarding Wi-Fi requirements, which undermines the product’s intended functionality.
Type S Dual View 4K Dashcam: Software Problems Persist
Costco’s selection of dash cams includes the Type S Dual View 4K model, which currently holds an average rating of 3 out of 5. Many reviews highlight significant software problems, including app connectivity failures and confusing setup requirements. Users have reported issues such as the camera failing to recognize SD cards and freezing during operation, along with privacy concerns regarding the app’s data access requests.
Samsung Crystal UHD TVs: Quality Control Concerns
Samsung’s Crystal UHD TVs have also garnered negative attention among Costco shoppers. Customers have reported display defects, burnt-in vertical lines, and even overheating issues that pose safety risks. With an average rating of 2.8 out of 5, many buyers feel that the picture quality does not meet expectations, often reporting washed-out colors and low contrast compared to in-store displays. Professional reviews further criticize the TV’s performance in various lighting conditions, urging potential customers to seek better-rated options.
Ultrahuman Smart Ring: Questions About Value
The Ultrahuman Smart Ring, aimed at competing with established products like the Oura Ring, has also received its share of criticism. Customers report short battery life, connectivity issues, and inconsistent data tracking. Reviews mention that while the ring may function well initially, performance declines over time. Additionally, customer service experiences have been reported as frustrating, with many users encountering unhelpful chatbot responses.
To curate this list of tech products to avoid, the focus was on items with low average customer ratings of 3 stars or below, combined with a substantial volume of negative reviews. Evaluations from credible sources, including RTings and Laptop Mag, were incorporated to provide context and confirm customer complaints.
While Costco typically maintains high standards for its products, these six tech items have failed to live up to expectations. Prospective buyers should carefully consider customer feedback and professional reviews before making a purchase.
