Are Open Box TVs Worth It? The Honest Answer for Canadian Buyers

If you have been shopping for a new TV and noticed open box options listed at significantly lower prices, you have probably asked yourself: are open box TVs actually worth it? The short answer is yes — but it depends on where you buy, what warranty coverage looks like, and what condition the unit is actually in.

This guide breaks down exactly what open box means, what the real risks are, and why open box TVs from a reputable seller are one of the smartest electronics purchases a Canadian consumer can make.

What Does Open Box Actually Mean?

An open box TV is one that was purchased and returned — most commonly because a customer changed their mind, the packaging was damaged in shipping, or the unit was used as a floor display in a retail store. The television itself is typically untouched or barely used.

Open box is not the same as refurbished. A refurbished TV has been repaired and reconditioned. An open box TV has simply been returned — usually in working condition with all original accessories included.

The Real Risks of Buying Open Box

The main concerns buyers have with open box TVs are legitimate — but manageable when you buy from the right source:

  • Unknown history — You do not always know why a TV was returned. A reputable seller will test the unit before listing and disclose any known issues clearly.
  • Missing accessories — Some open box units come back without a remote, stand, or cables. A trustworthy seller lists exactly what is and is not included in the product description.
  • No manufacturer warranty — Once a TV is returned, the original manufacturer warranty may no longer apply. This is why buying from a seller who offers their own warranty is critical.
  • Cosmetic wear — Display models or heavily handled returns may have minor scratches. These are noted in the listing if present.

Why Open Box TVs at Factory Brands Direct Are Worth It

At Factory Brands Direct, every open box TV is physically inspected and tested before it goes on sale. We check picture quality, HDMI ports, smart TV functionality, remote pairing, and audio output. Units that do not pass inspection are not listed.

Every TV we sell includes a 1-year warranty — and an extended warranty of up to 2 years is available at checkout. That coverage removes the primary risk of buying open box entirely.

Our inventory includes open box TVs from LG, Samsung, Sony, TCL, Philips, and Hisense. Current models include:

How Much Can You Save?

On average, open box TVs at Factory Brands Direct are priced 25 to 50 per cent below retail. On a 65 inch OLED that retails for $2,500, that is a saving of $625 to $1,250. On a 55 inch QLED at $1,200 retail, you are looking at $300 to $600 back in your pocket — for a TV that performs identically to a new unit.

What Size TV Should You Buy?

The right size depends on your viewing distance. A general rule for 4K TVs:

  • 43 to 49 inches — Bedrooms and smaller living rooms at 5 to 7 feet
  • 55 inches — Most Canadian living rooms at 6 to 9 feet
  • 65 inches — Main living areas and open-plan spaces at 8 to 12 feet
  • 75 inches and above — Home theatre setups and large rooms

Verdict: Are Open Box TVs Worth It?

Yes — when you buy from a seller who tests inventory, discloses condition accurately, and backs every sale with a real warranty. The savings are genuine. The performance is identical to new. And the risk, when managed by a reputable seller, is minimal.

Factory Brands Direct is a Canadian-owned open box electronics store located in Scarborough, Ontario. TVs 50 inches and above are available for local pickup. Smaller TVs ship to Ontario, Alberta, and Quebec.

Browse Open Box TVs | 55 Inch TVs | 65 Inch TVs | What is Open Box?

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