Walmart vs. Amazon Verdict

$4,364.02

$4,325.64

The shopping cart total was $38.38 less.

Similar selection, low prices, but some gripes about fewer technical specs on equipment and no in-store preorder ability on hot items (e.g., the season's best video games yet to be released).

Ability to preorder not-yet-released video games is a major perk, guarantees getting a copy.

Shoppers can preorder popular video games before release date to reserve a copy. The same can be done on Walmart.com, but not in the stores.

Straightforward store organization but limited brand options.

Department organization a bit confusing, but many more choices and brands -- even high-end brand names.

Although it takes some time to narrow the search, nothing compares to the number of brands and styles offered through the site.

Smaller selection, low prices, free assembly on hard-to-put-together items like bikes.

Larger selection, some things a bit more expensive, no free assembly.

You can't beat free assembly on complicated items, which Amazon cannot provide.

Big selection, extremely low prices.

Hard to find certain items, prices on the high side.

Extremely low prices.

Limited artwork and wall decor items.

Limited candle selection.

Walmart offers tons of candles and holders in different sizes, shapes and scents. Amazon has a huge selection of artwork.

A bit more expensive with limited selection, no simple yoga mat.

Cheaper and larger selection.

Large selection with slightly lower prices.

Decent selection, low prices.

Large selection, a little pricey.

Lower prices.

Walmart.com sells more than 1 million items, including many not found in stores. Site considered user-friendly and returns can be made through the site or in stores.

Amazon Marketplace gets some negative feedback with some sellers overpricing items and others charging unnecessary shipping fees.

Walmart.com is convenient and easy to use, with many items not available in stores.

Walmart.com offers site-to-store free shipping on select items, store-to-home free shipping if order totals at least $45 for qualifying items; otherwise, shipping costs imposed. Relevant sales taxes applied.

No sales tax applied for most states. Free Super Saver Shipping with minimum $25 order on select items, free two-day shipping on many items with Amazon Prime ($79/year).

No sales tax in most states and limited shipping fees.

90 days with a receipt for immediate full refund; store credit or cash for less than $25 without receipt.

30 days on most items with leeway for holiday gifts, but check policy for each; order number required for return or contact customer service; return shipping charges deducted from refund and 10-15 days to process.

Return policy is straightforward and hassle-free, say customers.

Ad Match Guarantee matches any advertised price at checkout; holiday shopping price matching for purchased items -- show ad and Walmart receipt and get gift card for the difference.

Only price matches on televisions from approved sites.

Price matching guarantees are easy and convenient money savers.

Stores well organized and opportunity to inspect merchandise; some shoppers complain about crowds and slow checkout.

Shop-from-home convenience, but can't inspect item before purchase.

Ability to avoid long lines, crowds, shopping within store hours, and the bother of going to a store make Amazon an ideal shopping experience for many.