Many customers praised the staff for being knowledgeable and helpful, with specific mentions of employees like Diego and Grant.
Customer Service Issues
Several reviews highlighted poor customer service experiences, particularly with rude or unhelpful staff, and issues with returns and Geek Squad support.
Store Inventory
Customers expressed disappointment with low inventory levels and limited stock on popular items, impacting their shopping experience.
Mixed Experiences
While some customers had positive experiences, others reported frustrations with long wait times and inefficient service, indicating inconsistency in store performance.
Overall Satisfaction
Despite some negative feedback, many customers still expressed a general fondness for the store and its offerings, appreciating the good prices and product selection.
TS
Thomas Brooks (SanDiegoTom)
Nov 14, 2025
1.0
I am submitting a formal complaint to Best Buy Headquarters regarding an incident at the Encinitas, CA location on November 14 around 12 PM. I have been a loyal Best Buy customer for over 20 years, spending tens of thousands of dollars annually, and the Encinitas managers and staff have always treated me with professionalism — until this encounter.
A newer Geek Squad agent named Joey purposely deceived me and refused to perform a basic verification of my warranty and TotalTech coverage. Without checking a single detail, he told me:
“That’s an Apple product. We don’t do Apple here. You’ll have to go to Oceanside.”
When I asked him to look up my account, he said:
“I’m unable to look you up. I’m unable to verify anything.”
I then asked him to verify my TotalTech coverage, and he said:
“No, I cannot do that.”
This was simply untrue. Every Geek Squad terminal has access to the same information. Instead of assisting me, he attempted to send me on a two-hour round-trip to another city for something he could have checked in seconds. When I calmly asked him again to verify before I wasted my time, he dismissed me and ended the conversation with:
“We’re going in circles. I’m done with you.”
Another Geek Squad employee looked up my account in under 30 seconds and explained everything clearly. Joey chose not to help.
This was not a misunderstanding. This was intentional dismissal and deception toward a long-time, high-value customer. It is unacceptable for any employee — especially at a store with such a strong reputation.
I am requesting that this complaint be formally escalated to the Best Buy District Manager and appropriate leadership. Joey’s conduct needs to be addressed immediately.
CT
Chris Taddei
Nov 11, 2025
1.0
Overrated cell phone cover store, no longer carries real electronics... so disappointing
SS
Sam Storey
Oct 26, 2025
5.0
Best Buy is consistently staffed with smart, knowledgeable and friendly staff. I wish all retail was held to this standard.
HC
Hailey C
Oct 25, 2025
1.0
I want to start by saying that I never write reviews. I’ve worked in customer service and retail before, so I completely understand how tough those jobs can be. Because of that, I always make an effort to be patient and kind — I’m not the type to make anyone’s day harder.
That said, I had a truly frustrating experience at the Encinitas Best Buy. I ordered a TV online that unfortunately arrived damaged — a bummer, but these things happen. I took it to the Encinitas store to return it, only to be told they don’t do online returns and that I’d need to call customer service, especially for damaged items. That felt odd, but I called customer service anyway. Customer service assured me I could return it in-store and just needed to show my barcode. So I came back (carrying a 50-inch TV) and an employee said he could help. But then the manager came over and told me they would not accept the return and to call customer service again. I explained that customer service had specifically told me to return it in-store, and he still refused — insisting no Best Buy would take an online damaged return and that it was up to the manager’s discretion. I calmly asked what I should do if customer service again directed me to come back, and he flatly said he still wouldn’t take it. This all happened in front of other customers, and as a young woman, his tone and demeanor made me feel incredibly uncomfortable, disrespected, and honestly unsafe. I even said, “Sir, I’m really not trying to cause a scene; I’m just trying to understand why you won’t take the return.” Again, I worked in retail, I fully understand sales of the day and making LY (this was literally only a $200 TV). Feeling defeated, I decided to try another store — Carmel Mountain Best Buy — and what a difference. The manager, Chris S, was kind, professional, and understanding. He processed the return without issue and even confirmed that there’s no such policy preventing stores from taking online damaged returns. To my Encinitas friends — skip that location. Drive to Carmel Mountain instead. It’s absolutely worth it for the professionalism and kindness you’ll receive there
NK
Nicole Kallis
Oct 16, 2025
5.0
Diego! I know this location is smaller than most, but our experience was an A+ because of our sales rep, Diego. He was so knowledgeable and friendly and helpful! I wish every sales rep could take a lesson from Diego. We purchased an Oura ring and a tv mount. We will definitely go back to this Best Buy and hopefully, Diego will be available to help us again. They happen to have precisely the espresso machine I want for Christmas!
What are the store hours for Best Buy in Encinitas, CA?
Best Buy in Encinitas is open Monday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and on Sunday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Does Best Buy offer curbside pickup at the Encinitas location?
Best Buy offers curbside pickup services at this location, allowing customers to conveniently collect their orders without entering the store.
What types of products can I find at the Best Buy in Encinitas?
You can shop for TVs, computers, appliances, and more electronics at Best Buy in Encinitas.
Can I get technical support and repairs at this Best Buy?
Yes, Best Buy provides Geek Squad support and in-store service repair for your electronics.
Is the Best Buy store in Encinitas wheelchair accessible?
Yes, this Best Buy location has a wheelchair accessible entrance for customer convenience.
What payment methods are accepted at Best Buy Encinitas?
Best Buy accepts debit cards and does not require cash-only payments. They also accept paycheck payments.
Are appointments required to shop or get services at Best Buy Encinitas?
No, appointments are not required for shopping or service at this Best Buy location.
What nearby places can I visit before or after shopping at Best Buy?
Nearby, you can visit Encinitas Ranch Town Center for additional shopping or enjoy refreshments at Starbucks and Juice Stop Encinitas smoothie bars after your visit.
Where can I find technical repair services close to Best Buy Encinitas?
Geek Squad, located nearby, offers IT services and computer repair which can complement your Best Buy purchases for expert repairs.
What nearby amenities might help me during my visit to Best Buy in Encinitas?
You'll find convenient nearby amenities such as Wells Fargo ATM and Coinstar for financial services, along with Stater Bros. Markets for groceries.