Hong Kong is a shopping Mecca, and that metaphor holds true for lovers of electronics. But among the throngs of shops lining the streets of this concrete jungle, where do you start looking for the best prices and trustworthy vendors?
To find out where to buy phones, computers, cameras, and video games in Hong Kong, Tech in Asia sought the advice of locals and scoured Reddit for the most recommended places to get your gadget on. But before you set out on your journey, let’s start with a few guidelines to make your purchase go smoothly.
Contrary to popular belief, not everything is cheaper in Hong Kong. Compared to mainland China, yes, lower taxes result in most electronics being 20 to 30 percent less expensive. But for those coming from other countries, we highly recommend you look up prices on Price.com.hk. The website is all in Chinese, but it’s fairly straightforward. Nearly every consumer electronic product sold in Hong Kong can be found here, and you’ll get a good idea of how much you should be paying.
The specific shops are also listed, but there’s no guarantee that price will still be there by the time you walk in. We recommended you call or WhatsApp the store ahead of time to make sure it’s in stock at the quoted price.
As a general rule, don’t buy extended warranties. Most warranties for goods sold in Hong Kong are only valid in Hong Kong, anyway. Keep that in mind if you’re coming from overseas.
Also for out-of-country buyers, do your research on electronics that might be region-locked. Are your games and DVDs in PAL or NTSC format? What bands does your smartphone use to connect to your local data network?
Steer clear the neon-clad shops in Tsim Tsa Shui. With a couple exceptions, these are notorious for scams.
Finally, unless you plan on purchasing from a major chain, have cash handy. Many places won’t accept credit cards, or they charge a premium for it.
Ok, now that the formalities are out of the way, here’s the best places in Hong Kong to buy electronics:
Smartphones
Sin Tat Plaza (a.k.a. Sincere Podium)
A large market full of the widest range of smartphones and a few other gadgets. Vendors are generally trustworthy and most products are genuine, but don’t drop your guard. You can try bargaining down prices a bit. This is the most highly-recommended place for phones in Hong Kong. You can also take phones here to get them repaired or unlocked.
- Address: 83 Argyle Street, Mongkok (Map)
Broadway
A chain store with several branches throughout Hong Kong, Broadway sells many electronics but was most recommended for its phones. If Sin Tat seems too intimidating, this is a solid alternative. While prices might not be quite as low, you won’t have to worry about buying fake or secondhand goods. Broadway accepts credit cards and has legitimate receipts and warranties. It’s also pretty liberal with the freebies, like SD cards and screen covers.
- Address: See all locations here
Fortress
Broadway’s biggest competitor is usually located within a stone’s throw away. Fortress is another local electronics franchise with a solid selection of phones, though locals report prices aren’t as cheap and they don’t hand out freebies. That said, everything is genuine and they have legit warranties and return policies. Fortress also has a website where you can browse its selection beforehand.
- Address: See all locations here
Computers
Wan Chai Computer Centre
Probably the best known computer market in Hong Kong, Wan Chai Computer Centre has lately gotten a bit touristy. That means prices might be slightly higher, but the individual shops are usually trustworthy.
- Address: 144 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai (Map)
Golden Computer Arcade
Another market full of cramped stalls, Golden Computer Arcade has a bit of everything – video games, phones, and especially computer hardware. Remember to bargain! On a side note, the associated HK Golden online forums are a popular destination for Hong Kong’s geeks to nerd out.
- Address: 146-152 Fuk Wa Street, Sham Shui Po (Map)
298 Computer Zone
For something a bit more local, try out 298 Computer Zone. It’s more focused on just computers, parts, and peripherals than the other alternatives. It’s worth noting that Wan Chai Computer Centre and 298 Computer Zone are on the same street, so you can hit them both up in a single trip.
- Address: 298 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai (Map)
See: Welcome to Huaqiangbei, China’s massive maker’s market (GALLERY)
Cameras
Wing Shing Photo Supplies
The most recommended camera store in Hong Kong, Wing Shing is a reputable vendor for everything from dSLR to point-and-shoots. Check out their selection online here. It’s got a better selection than the big chains that all sell the same stuff, but prices might be a little pricier than some local specialty shops. Still, it’s less expensive and staff are more knowledgeable than at Fortress or Broadway.
- Address: 55-69 Sai Yeung Choi Street, Mong Kok (Map)
DCFever
For serious photographers, DCFever specializes in DSLR bodies, lenses, and accessories from most major brands. Browse its stock here.
- Address: Shop 326-329, 3/F, Sim City, 47-51 Shan Tung Street, Mong Kok (Map)
Tin Cheung Camera
With multiple locations including one in the notorious Tsim Sha Tsui area, Tin Cheung Camera is a reputable store for serious photographers. Along with a mainstream stock, it features many offbeat brands and specializes in Leica. It even has an English website.
- Address: Shop 2, Pearl Oriental House, 60 Stanley Street, Central (Map)
Photo Scientific
While pricier than its competitors, Photo Scientific has made a name for itself among professional photographers thanks to excellent service, quality products, and a knowledgeable staff.
- Address: G/F, 6 Stanley St., Central (Map)
Video Games
Oriental 188
For video games in Hong Kong, there’s really only one place you need to visit. Oriental 188 is four floors of gaming bliss. Cheap games and consoles abound among the dozens of shops, at a far better deal than what you’ll find at chains like Fortress and the Sony store. Make sure to check your region compatibility! It’s also a prime destination for lovers of anime, toys, and collectibles.
- Address: 188 Wan Chai Road, Wan Chai (Map)
Something we missed? Let us know in the comments!
This post Where to buy phones, computers, cameras, and games in Hong Kong appeared first on Tech in Asia.
Where to buy phones, computers, cameras, and games in Hong Kong
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