I’m typically a Target shopper. But — even though most price discrepancies were mere pennies — they kept stacking in Walmart’s favor.
Target certainly had merits, though, specifically with its impressive backpack, mechanical pencil, and pen selections. Plus, it had cheaper fashion folders and single-pack Post-it notes.
However, Walmart offered equivalent or lower prices in just about every other category I assessed, both for its store-brand products and ones from recognizable names.
Nevertheless, it’s important to consider that this is a limited view based on in-store prices at the time of my trips. Both stores were running major back-to-school sales (or “rollbacks” at Walmart) at the time of my visit, and the best deals may vary from week to week.
For example, since my shopping trip, Target has announced a bunch of discounts on back-to-school essentials, like 30% off uniform polos and 20% off Champion backpacks.
If you want the lowest prices, monitor retailers’ weekly ads and seasonal deals. The “better” retailer for you will likely depend on when you’re shopping and what you’re looking for.
One thing’s for sure, though: Both stores are solid spots for back-to-school shopping on a budget. And, who knows? Maybe a late-summer round of markdowns will lead me back to Target again soon.
Business Insider reached out to Target and Walmart for comment.
