Lowe's vs. Home Depot: Where should you shop for better savings?

Home improvement can get uncomfortably expensive, therefore choosing the right retailer for your projects can be more important than you think. The two giants of home improvement retail Home Depot and Lowe's dominate the market, but which store actually offers better deals for your specific needs?

The answer isn't as straightforward as you might think. While Home Depot maintains higher sales than Lowe’s, both retailers have unique advantages when it comes to savings opportunities. Interestingly, demographic preferences vary significantly, with younger adults favoring Lowe's while the 55-64 age group tends to prefer Home Depot, according to a survey from Civic Service.

Whether you're a DIY enthusiast tackling weekend projects or a professional contractor managing large-scale renovations, we'll show you exactly how to maximize your savings at both stores, or save at any hardware store, and which one comes out as the victor.

Lowe's vs. Home Depot: Which one is more expensive?

Let's dive into how these retailers compare across major product categories to help you decide where to shop for specific items.

Tools and hardware

The tool department is where you'll find some of the biggest differences between these retailers, particularly in brand selection:

Exclusive brands:

• Lowe's: Kobalt

• Home Depot: Husky, Ryobi, and Ridgid

Tool rental comparison:

• Home Depot offers more extensive rental options with flexible timeframes

• Lowe's typically provides lower rental rates for short-term needs

Price considerations: Home Depot's Ryobi line often beats Lowe's Kobalt on price by around $50 for comparable tools. However, Kobalt tools frequently include advanced features like brushless motors.

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Building materials

When it comes to construction supplies, each store has its strengths:

Lumber selection:

• Home Depot typically stocks a wider variety of lumber grades and sizes

• Both stores offer similar quality, but selection can vary by location

Delivery options:

• Lowe's: Provides same-day delivery through OneRail partnerships

• Home Depot: Offers next-day delivery through Flatbed Distribution Centers

Appliances

Both stores compete aggressively in the appliance category:

Brand availability:

• Lowe's: Specializes in Samsung appliances

• Home Depot: Exclusive access to certain LG and GE models

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Services:

• Both charge $29 for standard appliance delivery

• Lowe's often receives higher marks for installation service quality

• Both offer haul-away services for old appliances

Garden center

The garden center experience differs notably between stores:

Plant selection:

• Home Depot: Known for frequent restocking and seasonal variety

• Lowe's: Emphasizes quality guarantees on perennials and shrubs

Staff expertise:

• Both stores employ knowledgeable garden center staff

• Home Depot's employee incentive programs may result in more attentive service

Pricing notes

Prices listed below were compared on November 1st, 2024 and are subject to change. Service availability and pricing may vary by location. Always check with your local store for current offerings and rates.

Which store wins for each category?

• Tools: Home Depot for price, Lowe's for premium features

• Building Materials: Home Depot for selection, tie for quality

• Appliances: Tie with slight edge to Lowe's for installation service

• Garden: Tie with each offering unique advantages

Remember that experiences can vary significantly by location. It's worth checking both stores for major purchases, as price matching policies mean you can often get the best price at either retailer.

Tool rental

Rental policies:

• Lowe's: Walk-in rentals available, fewer locations offer this service

• Home Depot: Offers online reservations with flexible rental periods

Both require:

• Valid credit card for deposit

• Government-issued ID

• Proof of insurance for certain equipment

Additional specialty services

Both stores offer various convenience services:

Paint services:

• Lowe's: Offers color matching through Valspar system

• Home Depot: Can match colors from other brands like Benjamin Moore

Other services:

• Wood cutting (free with purchase)

• Key cutting

• Carpet installation

• Window treatment installation

• Pipe threading

• Tool sharpening (select locations)

Service comparison summary

For major projects requiring installation or design services, it's worth getting quotes from both retailers, as pricing and availability can vary significantly by location and project scope.

Discount comparison and savings strategies

Understanding how to save at both Home Depot and Lowe's can make a significant difference in your home improvement budget. Let's break down the key ways to save at each retailer.

Price matching policies

Both stores offer competitive price matching, but the details matter:

Lowe's:

• Features "Lowest Price Guarantee"

• Matches local competitors and major online retailers

• Similar exclusions for special sales events

• Item must be in stock at competitor

Home Depot:

• Offers price matching through their "Low Price Guarantee"

• Matches online retailers including Amazon

• Excludes seasonal and clearance sales

• Must be identical items

Pro tip: Always check competitor prices before making major purchases, as both stores will honor lower prices when shown proof.

Bulk pricing and pro savings

For larger projects or professional needs:

Lowe's:

• MVPs Pro Rewards Program for contractors

• Earn gift cards based on annual spending

• Special bulk pricing available on request

Home Depot:

• Bulk purchase discounts up to 25% available

• Submit shopping lists to Contractor Desk for custom quotes

• Volume pricing on building materials

Military and special discounts

Lowe's:

• Provides year-round 10% military discount

• Available to active duty, veterans, and families

• Excludes some commodities like lumber

• No published annual maximum

Home Depot:

• Offers 10% military discount with $400 annual maximum

• Available for active service, veterans, and spouses

• Applies both in-store and online

• Excludes certain categories like appliances

Remember that prices can vary by location and availability. Always verify current prices and policies at your local store, and don't hesitate to ask about additional savings opportunities or upcoming sales.

Get exclusive promo codes when you sign up for the Lowe’s email newsletter.

Which has the better shopping experience?

When deciding between Lowe's and Home Depot, the shopping experience can make or break your decision. Let's break down the key differences in how these retailers serve their customers.

Digital shopping experience

Both retailers have invested heavily in their digital presence:

Mobile Apps:

• Lowe's app offers augmented reality features for visualizing products in your space and provides detailed aisle locations for in-store shopping.

• Home Depot's app includes over 1,000 video how-to guides and real-time inventory checking capabilities.

Pickup and Delivery:

• Lowe's has implemented contactless pickup lockers for quick, staff-free collection of online orders.

• Home Depot offers efficient curbside pickup with mobile app check-in for faster service.

Store atmosphere and layout

Walking into a Lowe's store typically feels different than entering a Home Depot. Lowe's stores feature brighter lighting and wider aisles, creating a more welcoming environment for casual DIYers and first-time home improvers. Their layout includes helpful project displays and renovation models to inspire your next project.

Home Depot, meanwhile, embraces its warehouse aesthetic with the signature orange shelving reaching toward high ceilings. While this industrial feel might seem less inviting to some, it allows for extensive product storage and efficient organization that contractors and frequent shoppers appreciate.

Customer service approach

Both retailers take different approaches to customer service:

• Lowe's has recently invested in freeing up store associates from behind-the-scenes tasks, allowing them to spend more time helping customers. This shows in their reputation for courteous, attentive service.

• Home Depot focuses on quick issue resolution and practical assistance. Their staff often includes former contractors and trades professionals, though customer experiences can vary by location.

The best choice often depends on your specific needs. DIY homeowners might prefer Lowe's more approachable atmosphere and customer service, while contractors might appreciate Home Depot's efficiency-focused layout and pro services.

Delivery and pickup options

Same-day options:

• Home Depot: Offers same-day delivery through Roadie in select markets

• Lowe's: Similar service with regional availability

Pickup choices:

• Both offer curbside pickup

• In-store pickup usually ready within hours

• Pro pickup areas for bulk orders

• Scheduled delivery available for large items

When to shop online vs in-store

Shop online when:

1. You need detailed product research

2. You want to compare prices easily

3. You're looking for online-exclusive deals

4. You prefer home delivery

5. You're buying standard items that don't need inspection

Shop in-store when:

1. You need immediate items

2. You want to inspect materials personally

3. You need custom services (paint mixing, wood cutting)

4. You want expert advice

5. You're buying items that might need quick returns

Remember that experiences can vary by location and season. For major purchases, it's worth checking both online and in-store options to ensure you're getting the best deal and service for your needs.

Return policies

Understanding the return policies and customer service offerings at both retailers can help you shop with confidence. Here's how they compare:

Basic return windows:

• Both stores offer 90-day returns for most items

• Major appliances must be returned within 48 hours if damaged/defective

Receipt requirements:

• Returns with receipt: Full refund to original payment method at both stores

• Returns without receipt: Both stores can look up purchases using credit card or ID

Online returns:

• Home Depot: Returns accepted by mail or in-store; shipping fees refunded only for store errors

• Lowe's: Online return initiation available; original packaging required

Key restrictions:

• Some custom products generally non-returnable at both stores

• Gift cards non-returnable for both stores

• Opened items must include all original packaging for both stores

• Special order items may have different policies at both stores

Maximizing your savings

Want to stretch your home improvement dollar further? Here's your comprehensive guide to saving money at both Home Depot and Lowe's.

Best times to shop

Major sale events:

• Home Depot: Spring Black Friday (first Thursday of April) offers up to 40% off

• Lowe's: SpringFest and Memorial Day feature up to 50% off seasonal items

Seasonal shopping calendar:

Pro tip: Shop mid-week (especially Wednesdays) when stores typically release new sales.

Loyalty program benefits

Pro programs:

• Home Depot Pro Xtra: Volume pricing starts at $1,500 purchases

• Lowe's MVPs Pro: Bulk discounts and exclusive pricing available

Regular customer perks:

• Sign up for email alerts

• Use mobile apps for exclusive deals

• Join loyalty programs for points on purchases

• Check daily deals by searching your preferred home improvement store name here

Remember that prices and promotions can vary by location. Always verify current offers with your local store and check both retailers' prices before making major purchases.

Lowe’s vs. Home Depot: Which is better?

After comparing every aspect of Home Depot and Lowe's, it's clear that each store offers distinct advantages for different types of shoppers. Here's how to choose the best option for your needs:

Shop at Home Depot when:

• You're a professional contractor needing extensive product selection

• You prefer a more streamlined, warehouse-style shopping experience

• You need access to a broader tool rental program

• You're buying in bulk and want to leverage their Pro pricing

• You're comfortable with a more industrial shopping environment

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Shop at Lowe's when:

• You're a DIY enthusiast who appreciates more hands-on assistance

• You prefer a more curated, customer-friendly store layout

• You want a wider selection of home decor and appliances

• You appreciate their more extensive in-store displays

• You're looking for a more approachable shopping experience

Best strategy: Use both retailers strategically

• Compare prices between stores (both match competitors)

• Take advantage of each store's seasonal sales

• Use both loyalty programs to maximize rewards

• Consider which location has better inventory for specific items

• Leverage each store's unique strengths for different project needs

Remember that experiences can vary significantly by location. The best approach is often to establish relationships with both retailers, understanding that each may serve different aspects of your home improvement needs more effectively.

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