A lot of shoppers consider buying appliances online vs in store, but weighing each isn’t always a clear answer. There’s no denying that shopping appliances at home is convenient, but nothing beats seeing an appliance in person, checking the finishes, and getting advice from experts who knows their stuff.
The good news? Both ways can work—depending on what you need. Let's weigh the pros and cons of buying appliances online vs in store, so you can figure out what fits you best.
Discover In-Stock Appliance Deals
Online or in-store, Don's Appliances is the place where Pittsburgh locals go to for top deals on appliances
Shop In-Stock AppliancesThe Perks of Online Appliance Shopping
If convenience is your priority, online appliance shopping might just be the winner in the buying appliances online vs in store debate. This is a fantastic option for anyone who wants a faster, easier way to browse, compare, and check availability in the comfort of their home. Here’s why:
Online Appliance Shopping is Convenient
When you shop appliances online on a phone, tablet, or laptop, you can explore hundreds of appliances without leaving your couch. That’s especially helpful for busy households or anyone juggling a tight schedule.
Easily Compare Appliance Prices
Another big plus? Easy price comparisons. Online appliance stores (including us at Don’s) make it simple to see multiple products on one screen. Buyers can compare prices, specs, and features side by side to get a clear idea of exactly what you’re getting and whether it’s worth the upgrade.
See Real-Time Appliance Availability
Online appliance retailers also show you what’s in stock, how many are left, and often, which store locations carry the item if there are multiple locations in the area. Whereas in-store associates can provide this info, online shopping tracks inventory in real time, offering up-to-date statuses on which appliances are in stock and which ones aren’t.
That’s all to say, if you’re after speed, clarity, and comfort, buying appliances online vs in store might just tip in favor of going digital.
When In-Store Appliance Shopping is Better
Still considering shopping online vs in store? For many shoppers, especially those who want to experience, test, and talk through appliance options, visiting a store is the smarter move. When it comes to buying appliances online vs in store, in person shines in a few key areas, such as the following.
In-Store Shopping Offers Expert Advice on Demand
Need help choosing between two models or understanding a feature? In-store shopping gives you access to knowledgeable sales staff who can offer real-time guidance. Instead of spending hours researching, you can get answers on the spot from people who know the products inside and out. For example, at Don’s Appliances, we offer an experienced staff to help guide you through kitchen and bath remodeling with appliance recommendations based on your budget and lifestyle.
In-Store Appliance Shopping Provides Real-Life Experiences
Seeing an appliance online is one thing. Interacting with it in person is another. Shopping in-store lets shoppers test and compare models to get a feel for size, gauge noise levels, and review overall quality. It’s the best way to know if something truly fits your lifestyle or kitchen layout.
Compare Appliance Finishes in Person
Finishes like stainless steel, matte black, or brushed bronze can look very different in person than on a screen. When you're in-store, you can see how an appliance looks in different lighting and compare finishes side by side—something that’s often hard to do online. This is particularly beneficial for buyers considering mixing appliance brands.
Explore Exclusive Appliance Deals
While appliances for sale online also exist, not all appliance deals make it to the online landscape. Brick-and-mortar locations often have in-store-only specials, like clearance pricing, floor models, or unadvertised discounts that aren’t found online.
Overall, when it comes to online shopping vs in store shopping, heading into a showroom may be the better choice if you value hands-on experience, expert advice, and potential in-store savings.
Why Don’s Appliances is the Best Place to Shop for Appliances
For the best place to buy appliances in the greater Pittsburgh area, Don’s Appliances offers the best of both worlds. Whether you prefer browsing online or exploring products in person, Don’s has you covered. With a dynamic online catalog and stunning brick and mortar appliances, shopping for your next home upgrade at Don's has never been more enjoyable. If buying appliances is on your to-do list, Don’s makes it easy with a curated selection, expert help, and convenient shopping—both online and in-store (CLICK THE ➕TO LEARN MORE):
➕Explore Over 60 Top Brands
Don’s carries an impressive lineup of more than 60 trusted brands, giving you access to everything from everyday essentials to high-end options. Plenty of products at Don's are displayed carefully (like this attractive kitchen and bath showroom to give you a real-life example of what they look like at home. No matter your style, budget, or space, this appliance shop makes it easy to find what you need.
➕Backed by 50+ Years of Experience
With over five decades in the industry, Don’s knows appliances inside and out. Learn more about their journey as Pittsburgh’s trusted appliance experts. Our deep knowledge and customer-first approach mean you’re getting more than just a product—you’re getting reliable support and insight based on years of experience.
➕Unbeatable Deals You’ll Love
From seasonal sales to outlet pricing, Don’s offers competitive prices all year long. Check out our current clearance deals here. It's one of Don's smartest appliance shopping tips: keep an eye on these markdowns for serious savings.
➕Flexible Financing Options
Don’s has more tips for buying appliances to share, like this one: Take advantage of our flexible financing options. Big purchases don’t have to feel overwhelming when you can break them into manageable payments. It’s a smart way to stay within budget, especially if you’re outfitting a new home or upgrading multiple rooms at once. Learn more about financing at Don's here.
➕A Wide Selection That Covers It All
Whatever you’re looking for, Don’s likely has it. Their variety includes:
🔵 Clearance appliances for big savings
🔵 In-stock appliances that are ready to ship
🔵 Luxury appliances for a high-end kitchen feel
🔵 Kitchen bundles for a cohesive, value-packed upgrade
Shop Reliable Appliances at Don’s
For the best appliance shopping comparison in the greater Pittsburgh area, shop or browse appliances at Don’s Appliances.
Shop Reliable Refrigerators
From sophisticated French-door models to spacious side-by-sides, Don’s selection of refrigerators features top brands like Sub-Zero, KitchenAid, and GE. Look for features like smart cooling systems, built-in water and ice dispensers, and flexible storage that make everyday life easier.
Featured Pick: Whirlpool® 36 in. 24.5 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel French Door Refrigerator
Shop This Whirlpool Refrigerator
From one of the top names in refrigeration, this Whirlpool French door fridge offers excellent cooling performance with a spacious interior that keeps your fresh and frozen foods organized and easy to access. Its fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish gives it a modern, polished look that fits beautifully in any kitchen. Adjustable glass shelves, humidity-controlled crispers, and a full-width pantry drawer make it a standout for everyday convenience. With features like interior LED lighting and adaptive defrost, this fridge is built for both style and smart functionality.
⭐Featured Whirlpool WRMF3636RZ Review:
“I love my new French door refrigerator. There is more than enough room for all my food. The filter water is very good and the crushed feature ice is great! The bottom mount freezer is a pleasure, I can see all my gooodies! Very happy with my purchase!”
Shop High-Performance Dishwashers
Don’s dishwashers combine powerful cleaning with quiet operation. With brands like Bosch, Miele, and Whirlpool, you'll find options that include third racks, stainless steel tubs, and energy-efficient cycles.
Featured Pick: LG 24" PrintProof™ Stainless Steel Front Control Built In Dishwasher
Dishwashing has never been more convenient than with this LG model, thanks to its QuadWash™ system with four spray arms that tackle dishes from multiple angles. It runs at a quiet 48 dBA, making it easy to forget it's running unless you check the dishes afterward. The third rack and adjustable EasyRack™ Plus system help fit more dishes and odd‑shaped items in every load. With its PrintProof™ finish resisting smudges and LG’s Dynamic Dry™ fan‑assisted drying, this dishwasher delivers a polished look and reliable function in one package.
⭐Featured LG LDFN4542S Review:
“I bought this on the spur of the moment when mine went out on Christmas Eve. It did not disapoint. works well very quite easy to install as I did it myself.”
Shop Powerful Cooking Appliances
Don’s cooking appliances include everything from wall ovens and cooktops to pro-style ranges. Top brands like Wolf, Thermador, and LG deliver precision, power, and smart features that turn everyday meals into something special.
Featured Pick: KitchenAid® 30" Stainless Steel Freestanding Electric Double Oven Range
What offers an impressive cooking performance with a generous oven capacity and even baking and juicy roasts from the Even‑Heat™ True Convection technology? The answer is this KitchenAid freestanding double oven range. With five burners of different burning power, it handles everything from a rapid boil to a delicate simmer with precision. Features like SatinGlide® racks and glass touch controls add a refined, modern feel, making it easy to load and operate even with heavy dishes. Plus, the double‑oven setup lets you bake and broil different dishes at once—a real time‑saver.
⭐Featured KitchenAid KFED500ESS Review:
“I replaced my 20 year old range. I’m very pleased with my purchase. The 2 ovens make meal time so much easier.”
Featured Pick: GE Profile™ 30" Smart Built In Convection Stainless Steel Double Wall Oven
This GE Profile oven delivers outstanding cooking flexibility with dual 5 cu ft. cavities and True European Convection for consistent, fast baking and roasting. Its innovative side‑swing doors make loading and unloading more comfortable and safer—no bending over hot door drops. The bright 7‑inch touchscreen and built‑in Wi‑Fi (via SmartHQ) enable easy remote control, updates, and precision cooking modes like no‑preheat air fry. Plus, handy extras like a temperature probe, easy‑glide racks, and steam‑assisted self‑cleaning prove to be highly serviceable.
⭐Featured GE Profile PTD700RSNSS Review:
“The style, technology, and functionality are all top rated for us. We love the side opening doors.”
Shop Efficient Laundry Appliances
Don’s laundry collection includes energy-efficient washers and dryers for all spaces and household sizes. Whether your setup is gas-equipped or made for electric appliances, we can help you find what you’re looking for with our online and in-store selection.
Featured Pick: Maytag® 4.7 Cu. Ft. White Agitator Top Load Washer with Extra Power
This Maytag top-load washer can make an amazing addition to your laundry room. With its Heavy Duty cycle and Extra Power button, it tackles tough stains through a dual-temperature wash. Its Deep Fill option gives you full control over water levels while the smart-capable design uses Wi‑Fi connectivity to let you start cycles, receive alerts, and manage settings from your phone. With a slow-close glass lid, advanced vibration control, and a roomy stainless steel wash basin, it combines durability and thoughtful design for a strong everyday laundry experience.
⭐Featured Maytag MVW6230RHW Review:
“This is the second set of Maytag washer and dryer i purchased! The quality and performance of the appliances are great. Lots of difference wash and dry mode options too.”
Featured Pick: GE Profile™ 7.8 Cu. Ft White Electric Dryer
Get robust drying performance from this GE Profile model with a large-capacity drum capable of handling bulky items like comforters and towels. Its built-in steam and sanitize cycles reduce wrinkles, odors, and eliminate common household germs. The unit’s Wi‑Fi connectivity and SmartHQ app enable remote monitoring, real-time alerts, and seamless integration with compatible LG washers via the Washer Link feature. With a reversible door hinge, multiple venting options, and a modern, refined appearance, it combines flexibility, functionality, and form for any home.
⭐Featured GE Profile PFD87ESSVWW Review:
“I love everything, especially the extra large capacity for a king comforter I give it five stars.”
Don’s Appliances has been on a mission to simplify appliance shopping for Pittsburgh shoppers for over 50 years, and we continue to make it easy with versatile shopping options. Whether you prefer to browse from the comfort or the couch or you’re a hands-on shopper, let us help you find the appliances of your dreams with our collection of top brands and the latest models!
Why Trust Don’s Appliances?
Founded in 1971, Don’s Appliances is a family-owned, independent appliance retailer based out of Pittsburgh, PA. Don’s has since expanded to 10 locations selling, delivering, installing, and servicing all major appliance brands. Large enough to offer competitive pricing yet small enough to continue offering the “white glove” service we pride ourselves on, our focus is always on the customer experience — from the first step into a showroom to the purchase transaction to well after your new appliance has been installed.
When our customers are remodeling or building a new house, Don’s has all the expertise, product knowledge, inventory, brands, displays, and services to meet and exceed your needs. And in the event an appliance breaks, we are there, right on time and with the right product, delivery, installation, and service.
Shop Appliances at Don’s
Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today, and shop in-stock appliances online at Don’s Appliance. Our friendly experts are always happy to help you decide whether buying appliances online vs in store is the right choice — whether you call us at 866-544-1711, email us, or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by any of our Don’s Appliances Pittsburgh, PA warehouse locations. Visit us today!
Learn More: Shop Local for Appliances: What You Need to Know