This is an archived article and the information in the story may be outdated. Please check the time stamp on the story to see when it was updated last.
If you own an iPhone, you would probably feel lost without the Apple store. In addition to dispensing valuable advice every time our iPhones act all weird without warning, Apple store employees can always point us in the direction of perfect products that enhance our iPhone experiences. If the product is made by Apple, there's a good chance it's going to be a winner.
But that doesn't mean every Apple store purchase is a good one. Here's the one thing you should never buy for your iPhone at the Apple store.
Photos: Shutterstock
Generic Accessories
Apple enthusiasts typically agree on one thing: Apple accessories like chargers, cases, and ear pods are usually the best fit for iPhones. Apple is careful about keeping its prices competitive and, unless you are willing to buy a used iPhone accessory, you're going to pay the same amount for those headphones wherever you shop (and if you are being offered an Apple accessory for a steal, be very cautious — it may not be the real deal).
Buy Non-Apple Accessories Somewhere Else
But when it comes to non-Apple, generic accessories, you can't be sure that you're getting a case or ear pods that are going to be the perfect match for your iPhone (and that goes triple for third-party chargers, which may not deliver the power your iPhone needs).
Buying generic products at the Apple store may also end up costing you more. Often times you can find these accessories on Amazon or another online retailer for far less than at the Apple store. Always do your research before handing over your credit card.
