Best and Worst Products at Target

Target has transcended its status as a mere retail establishment and become a cultural phenomenon in the United States. Originally established as Goodfellow Dry Goods Company in the early 1900s, the brand has undergone numerous transformations over the past century, ultimately emerging as one of the most successful companies in the country with a valuation of over $80 billion. While Target attracts customers seeking a diverse range of products, from household cleaning items to art supplies, not every purchase is a wise investment. Despite appearances, all retail stores offer both good and poor deals. Therefore, on your next visit to Target, it’s essential to be discerning about what you put in your cart and what you should avoid.

TVs – Skip

As a large retailer, Target offers a wide variety of products, including electronics, making it a convenient one-stop-shop for customers. Nevertheless, it’s essential to exercise caution when purchasing electronics from Target simply because they carry them. While Target’s pricing is not always competitive, and consumers can often find the same products at lower prices on sites like Amazon, the store’s sales are typically noteworthy, so it’s worthwhile to monitor them for potential deals throughout the year.

California Roots Wine – Buy

The notion of purchasing inexpensive wine may not always sound appealing, as it can conjure up memories of regrettable decisions made at college parties. However, consumers need not be deterred by the $5 price tag of California Roots wine, available exclusively at Target. While the taste may not impress wine connoisseurs, it’s not the worst wine available on the market. Given its affordability, it remains a viable option to serve at gatherings when you’re tired of cracking open the tenth case of InBev’s Bud.

Gift Cards – Skip

Navigating the realm of purchasing physical gifts for others can be a challenge, as it’s challenging to predict whether the recipient will appreciate the item. Therefore, the popularity of gift cards has surged in recent years, with most retailers, including Target, offering them in various denominations. However, gift card buyers should be aware that warehouse clubs are the best place to purchase them, as experts suggest. While a $50 Starbucks gift card costs $50 at stores like Target and Walmart, warehouse clubs offer discounts on certain denominations, enabling you to save money.

Donut Shop K-Cups – Buy

With the average American consuming at least three cups of coffee per day, it’s no surprise that consumers are constantly seeking the best deals on their daily dose of java. The coffee market is saturated with numerous brands, and Target offers several excellent deals, including The Donut Shop K-Cup Coffee Pods. These coffee pods come in a box of 24 and have garnered five-star reviews from coffee drinkers, even the decaf version is highly regarded. Therefore, Target has undoubtedly hit the bullseye with this product.

Archer Farms Cheesecake Bites – Buy

Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that is suitable for any occasion, although it is not always easy to cut and serve. However, Target has revolutionized the game by offering its Archer Farms brand’s own selection of cheesecake bites. The reviews for this product are outstanding, with consumers praising the delectable treats as well as their affordability at just $6.19 for a package of 12. With various flavors available to cater to all palates, this dessert is a surefire winner. Whether you’re hosting a corporate event or a dinner party, Target knows how to sweeten the deal with their dessert offerings.

Books – Skip

In the midst of the digital age, physical books remain a valued part of society. Yet, in the competitive market of booksellers, Target falls short due to its limited selection. Though tempting to browse while shopping, Target’s lack of specialization in books makes it difficult to compete with online giants like Amazon, even with slashed prices.

Video Games – Buy

Video games remain popular, especially as people spend more time at home. However, buying the latest games can be costly. Thankfully, Target often offers impressive deals that beat out other retailers, like buy 2 get 1 free or discounted prices. Compared to companies like Walmart, Target has shown to be a better option when it comes to getting the best value for your money. It’s clear that Target wants a piece of the pie, as the video game industry generated $43.4 billion in revenue in 2018.

Paper Towels – Buy

For households that use paper towels, it is a staple item that is necessary for cleaning spills, serving as a napkin, and wiping down surfaces. Consumers always want the best quality product at the most affordable price. Fortunately, Target offers an excellent range of paper towels, catering to both high-end and budget markets. From well-known brands like Bounty to Make-A-Size, Target has a wide selection of paper towels to meet everyone’s needs. With prices starting as low as $1.29, it’s easy to find the right product for any kitchen.

Phone Chargers – Skip

Phone chargers are necessary but frustrating items that often break and need replacing. While Target sells a wide range of chargers for various phone models, they might not be the most affordable option. For smaller items like chargers, it may be more cost-effective to browse online marketplaces like Amazon or eBay, where you can potentially find better deals and save some money. However, Target can be a convenient option if you need a charger urgently.

Craft Supplies – Skip

Arts and crafts are great for unleashing creativity, and Target is a good place to start for basic art supplies. However, for more specific items, avid crafters may need to look elsewhere. While Target’s prices for items like felt tips and glue are reasonable, they may not have a wide range of items like acrylic paints or sewing supplies. For those looking for more specialized options, it’s best to check out a dedicated arts and crafts store like Michaels or look online. Local businesses may also offer unique options, and while Amazon may have what you need, it’s not always the most convenient option.

Asparagus and Cheddar-Stuffed Chicken Breast – Buy

Hosting a dinner party can be a daunting task, especially if cooking is not your forte. But fret not, as Target offers a solution with their Archer Farms range that includes pre-made Asparagus & Cheddar Stuffed Chicken Breasts. The 4-pack is ready to cook, and all you need to do is pop it in the oven and set the timer. While it may not taste like a Michelin-starred dish, it’s a convenient and affordable option for impressing your guests without the risk of foodborne illness. At $10.99 for the pack, it’s a bargain.

Instant Pot – Buy

Target is a great place to find Instant Pots, which are versatile kitchen gadgets that can make cooking easier for families on the go. While prices for these appliances can vary depending on the brand, Target offers a wide selection of Instant Pots at affordable prices. If you’re looking to buy your first Instant Pot, it’s worth checking out Target’s website or visiting a store to see what deals are available.

Native Deodorant – Buy

Native Deodorant may not be the cheapest option on the market, but it’s definitely a good deal when you consider its health benefits. Unlike most antiperspirants, it’s completely free of aluminum, making it a safer choice for your body. Target is doing a great job by stocking the product, even though it’s available at other retailers for similar prices. So, if you’re looking to switch up your routine and want to stay fresh and healthy, it’s definitely worth trying out Native Deodorant from Target.

Cleaning Products – Buy

Keeping your home clean and fresh is more important than ever, but cleaning products can quickly eat into your weekly budget. Fortunately, Target offers competitive prices when it comes to essentials like toilet cleaners and bleach. You can easily stock up on everything you need for around $10, or possibly even less depending on your purchases. Target also has a wide range of scents and brands, from leading to budget, giving you plenty of options to choose from. When it comes to filling up your cart with cleaning products, Target is a no-brainer.

Batteries – Skip

When it comes to batteries, Target has got you covered even though most devices are rechargeable nowadays. If you only require a few batteries, Target can cater to your needs, but if you plan on making large purchases, it’s best to shop online. Amazon offers batteries in bulk, which is more cost-effective than spending $15.99 on 20 batteries at Target. The decision ultimately comes down to what type and how many batteries you need. If you only use one or two batteries occasionally, Target may be suitable for you, but for more frequent users, it’s advisable to compare prices before making a purchase.

Squatty Potty – Buy

Although it might not be the most comfortable topic to discuss, considering products that can make our personal business a little easier is important. The Squatty Potty is a stool that helps our bodies work more efficiently with minimal effort, and it’s worth considering investing in one. While these little stools can be expensive, Walmart sells the pink version for around $34.99, whereas Target sells the white one for just $24.99. After all, the color of the stool doesn’t matter much when you’re only using it for its intended purpose.

Bath Towels – Skip

Target is known for its impressive range of home products, and many customers often end up buying more than they initially intended. Their collection of towels is no exception, but some designs are better than others, particularly the Made by Design selection. While these towels are affordable, starting from just $4, their quality is not exceptional. They may be a good budget option if you’re looking to spend less, but if you want a durable product that lasts a long time, there are better options available elsewhere.

Carter’s Baby Clothes – Skip

New parents may be drawn to Target for baby products, but not all baby items are a bargain. While some baby products at Target offer great value, Carter’s baby clothes starting at $6 may not be the best deal. As of writing, Carter’s website is having a sale with many items discounted up to 50%, whereas similar products are priced higher at Target. It’s wise to shop around for the best deals and timing, and Kohl’s is another option as they also carry Carter’s with multiple sales throughout the year.

Market Pantry Coffee – Skip

Target’s Market Pantry brand coffee may be a convenient and affordable option at around $4.99 per tub, but for those who are particular about their coffee, it may not be the best choice. Like wine, cheaper options often don’t impress, and the same goes for coffee. While Market Pantry has a decent selection of coffee types, it may not deliver the perfect taste that coffee aficionados crave. However, it could still be a good buy for an office kitchen where convenience and cost are more important than taste. For those seeking a better coffee experience, it may be worth spending a little more on a higher-quality brand.

Market Pantry Mini Cheeseburgers – Skip

Buffet foods can be a hit or miss, and purchasing mini cheeseburgers for your party may not be the best option – especially if they are frozen. Market Pantry’s product, priced at $3.49 for 6, has received negative reviews regarding both the value and taste. According to reviewers, the taste of the cheeseburgers is not great, and the product is not a good value for money. The item has a 3-star rating on Target’s website, with some customers mentioning that the recipe has changed, resulting in a decrease in the quality of the product.

Milk Bar Cookie Mix – Buy

Milk Bar’s cornflake-chocolate chip-marshmallow cookie mix is a unique and popular product that packs a punch. Created by celebrity chef Christina Tosi, the $4.99 box of cookies may not be the cheapest option, but it’s definitely worth trying for those looking for something different. While some reviewers may not be fans of the taste, it’s ultimately a matter of personal preference. Despite mixed reviews, the brand continues to thrive and attract new customers.

Party Decorations – Skip

We love the festive atmosphere of holiday decorations and party supplies, and Target always puts on a great display of their seasonal goods. However, despite consumers flocking to the store to stock up on Halloween and birthday goods, there might be a better solution. According to experts, specialty craft stores often have the same items for a lower price, although it may require a bit of creativity. Either way, you could save a few dollars by taking a trip to Michaels instead of instinctively heading to Target.

Outdoor Furniture – Buy

Relaxing in your garden surrounded by beautiful furniture can be a wonderful experience. Target excels in this area with its vast range of outdoor furniture products from different brands. Customers can find almost anything they need from the store or website, whether it’s a simple chair or a 3-piece Littleton wicker set. What’s even better is that the prices are reasonable enough not to break the bank. Target’s selection is definitely a winner.

Food Court Chicken Tenders – Skip

Target’s food courts are designed to keep customers in-store for longer periods of time, resulting in increased spending. However, how does the pricing of these food courts compare to other retailers? In fact, the prices aren’t the problem at all, as Target’s food court prices are on par with other stores like Costco. The real issue is the limited selection at Target, unless you happen to live near a location that partners with Pizza Hut. Chicken tenders are a popular item, priced at around $2.99, but there isn’t much variety beyond that.

Shoes – Skip

Target’s footwear selection is vast and offers options for the whole family, which can be tempting for shoppers to peruse and buy a pair or two. However, the question remains: is it really worth it? Although Target strives to provide the latest trends at affordable prices, the quality of the shoes may not always meet expectations. In this case, it may be more cost-effective to spend a little more at another retailer rather than opting for the cheaper option. Purchasing cheaper shoes may result in needing to replace them sooner, which can ultimately end up costing more in the long run.

Dried Fruit – Skip

The high cost of dried fruit, especially the high-quality ones, can be attributed to the expensive production process. The process of turning raw fruits into dry requires more labor, equipment, and energy, which significantly increases the production cost. Hence, the price of dried fruit reflects the labor cost involved in its production. However, consumers need not spend a fortune on dried fruit as there are more affordable options available in other stores. For instance, Aldi sells Simply Nature Freeze Dried Fruit for just $3 per pack, which is over two-thirds less than the price of other brands.

Spices – Buy

According to Reader’s Digest, one of the items to always get at Target is staple spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and ground cinnamon, which are priced just a little over $1. While you may find comparable deals at the dollar store, it is not advisable to buy food products, including spices, from there. Target’s in-house brand, Market Pantry, offers the cheapest spices, while purchasing from name brands like Lawry’s or McCormick may cost a little more. However, the taste difference between name brands and generic-brand spices is hardly noticeable.

Baby Formula – Buy

Enfamil, Gerber, and Similac dominate the baby formula market, but Target-, Kroger-, and Walmart-brand formula are just as capable of meeting the minimum nutritional standards set by the F.D.A. However, some parents prefer sticking to name-brand formulas despite the minimal price differences. For instance, Enfamil costs $1.14 per ounce at Target and $1.15 per ounce at Walmart. While it may not seem significant, the penny difference can add up over time.

Tone It Up Protein – Skip

To purchase Tone It Up Protein Powder at a lower price, you should head to Walmart instead of Target. Target offers the product at $23.99 for a 14.32-ounce jar, while Walmart sells it for $21.95. This plant-based protein powder is a women’s brand that can be mixed with water or milk, or used to make pancakes, muffins, and other baked goods. The protein powder is known for being both delicious and potentially helpful for weight loss, but you should consult with your doctor to determine if it is suitable for you.

Gift Wrap – Skip

If you’re looking to save money on gift wrapping, skip Target’s pricey options. Their large-size gift bag is $4.50, which can add up quickly. Instead, head to your local Dollar Tree or Dollar General where you can find wrapping paper, gift bags, and tissue paper for only $1. These dollar stores have an advantage in the paper products market, allowing them to produce their items at a low cost.

Generic Drugs – Skip

Consumer Reports delved into the cheapest places to buy prescription drugs and found HealthWarehouse.com to be the most affordable, followed by Costco Wholesale. However, if you prefer to shop in-store or dislike buying in bulk, Target, Walmart, and Kroger pharmacies are still more budget-friendly than drugstore chains like CVS and Walgreens. Additionally, Target offers price-matching, so they will adjust the cost of your prescription to match lower prices found elsewhere, as long as it meets their criteria.

Pet Supplies – Buy

The cost of pet supplies at Target varies depending on the items and quantity, ranging from $10 to $100. Nonetheless, pet food at Target and Walmart is 20% less expensive than at local grocery stores, according to BargainBabe.com. Amazon offers the cheapest pet food, but not by much, for instance, a twelve-pack of Purina Fancy Feast Wet Cat Food goes for $7.59, which is only 20 cents more at Target. Hence, if a few extra cents do not matter, Target would be a great option for pet food.

Bedding – Skip

Consumer savings expert Andre Woroch advised in an interview with Market Watch that while Target and Walmart offer competitive prices on bedding items such as comforters, sheets, and pillowcases, the quality may not meet your expectations. In fact, according to Market Watch, bedding is considered “what not to buy at Target.” To find high-quality bedding, The Spruce recommends Brooklinen, West Elm, Pottery Barn, Overstock, and Casper, although these options may come at a higher price point. Splurging on quality bedding is worth it since you’ll be using it nightly.

Laundry Products – Skip

Target falls behind Walmart when it comes to the cost of laundry detergent. Arm & Hammer, a popular brand of detergent, is more cost-effective at Walmart compared to Target. For instance, a 210-fluid-ounce container of Arm & Hammer Clean Burst costs $9.98 at Walmart, while a 185.5-fluid-ounce container costs $9.99 at Target. Although the price difference is only one penny, you get 25.5 more fluid ounces of detergent for a lower price at Walmart. But, if you prefer to purchase laundry detergent in bulk, Costco is the better option to consider.

Up&Up Trash Bags – Skip

Garbage bags are a necessary expense, but they can be surprisingly costly. Target’s Up&Up brand offers a 60-count pack of medium-sized trash bags for $4.99, while larger 13-gallon drawstring bags come in a pack of 120 for $15.99 (around 13.3 cents per bag). Walmart offers 40 bags for $5.12 (12.8 cents per bag), making it the cheaper option if you’re willing to compromise on quantity. While not the most eco-friendly option, plastic garbage bags are a staple in most households, and finding the best deal is always a plus.

Justin’s Peanut Butter Packets – Buy

Justin’s, a small company based in Boulder, Colorado, produces organic and natural candies and nut butters. Despite its modest size, Justin’s has managed to secure partnerships with major retailers like Target. Justin’s Peanut Butter Packets are 1.15-ounce pouches of peanut butter that come in individual, easy-to-squeeze wrappers, making them perfect for on-the-go snacking or packing in lunches. At Target, a single packet is priced at $0.69, while a Cinnamon Almond Butter Packet can be purchased for $1.19, making them a delicious and nutritious snack at a reasonable cost.

Individual Snack Bags –

The Up&Up brand at Target offers a cost-effective option for those who don’t mind non-name brand plastic products. For $1.79, you can buy a 90-count pack of plastic bags, which equals a little less than two cents per bag. If you want to buy in bulk, a 150-count pack is available for $2.79, which works out to 1.9 cents per bag. While the dollar store may offer cheaper options, the quality isn’t always reliable, so sticking with a brand like Up&Up is a better option.

Sparkling Water – Skip

In 2019, Coca-Cola launched AHA, their first major brand in a decade, which is a line of sparkling water with no sodium, calories, or sweeteners. While AHA is a relatively new brand, it’s already widely available at major retailers like Walmart and Target. However, a price comparison shows that Walmart is the cheaper option for an eight-pack of AHA, which costs $3.38 at Walmart and $3.69 at Target.

Fresh Produce – Skip

According to Cheat Sheet and Mashed.com, Target is not the best place to buy produce or meat. These sources claim that the selection is not as fresh as what you would find at a local grocery store. While the prices may be reasonable, those who prioritize freshness should look elsewhere. Best Life suggests avoiding the “Target Syndrome” (buying unnecessary items) and going to a local grocery store for truly fresh food.

Seasonal Candy – Skip

Seasonal candy is always available in America, with Target being a popular destination. However, when it comes to buying Valentine’s Day candy, Target may not be the best choice. A comparison of prices reveals that an eleven-ounce bag of Hershey’s Mini Chocolate Candy costs $3.69 at Target but only $2.98 at Walmart. If you need to purchase seasonal candy in bulk, you could try Amazon or Costco, but for regular-sized bags, Walmart is a cheaper option.

Nutri Ninja Blender – Skip

The Nutri Ninja Pro Blender (Model BL456) is available at Target for $59.99 with an optional two-year electronics protection plan from Allstate for $2. However, Amazon offers the same model for $54.99, making it a better deal. Similarly, the high-tech model BL487T costs $119.99 at Target with a $17 Allstate plan, while Amazon sells the model for $74.95, representing a significantly lower price for a more advanced product. Therefore, it’s recommended to avoid buying these blenders from Target.

Nuts and Trail Mix – Buy

Target’s first in-store brand was Archer Farms, but it has been replaced by Good & Gather. One product that has carried over is the 36-ounce jar of Monster Trail Mix, which is great for snacking while outdoors or indoors. It costs $7.99 at Target, while the same jar of Archer Farms brand is $19.89 at Walmart, and Walmart’s Great Value brand of trail mix costs $9.87. For those in search of nuts and trail mixes, Target is the way to go.

Bathroom Accessories – Buy

If you’re looking to spruce up your bathroom without breaking the bank, Target is the perfect place to find all your bathroom essentials, including shower curtains, soap dishes, trash cans, rugs, and more. Even if you live in an apartment, you can outfit your entire bathroom for under $100 with the cute and trendy items offered at Target. While Walmart might offer lower prices, Target’s matching sets are unbeatable. For example, Target sells PEVA shower curtain lining for just $2.99, whereas on Amazon, you’d pay $9.99 for the same thing.

Frozen Fruits and Vegetables – Buy

Bird’s Eye is a popular and affordable brand of frozen vegetables, usually costing under $5 for a nice meal or side. To determine if Target is the best place to buy this brand, a price comparison was conducted. For a 10.8-ounce bag of frozen green beans, Target charges $1.99, while Walmart sells the same product for $1.97. Despite some price variations, Target and Walmart are close enough that it’s still recommended to “buy it.”

Skinny Pop Popcorn – Skip

Skinny Pop Popcorn is an ideal snack for those who want to cut calories while still feeling full. They come in snack, sharing, and family-size bags, usually at affordable prices. A sharing-size bag at Target costs $4.39, while at Walmart, it’s $3.83. At Target, a 14-count family pack of mini-bags costs $7.99, while at Walmart, it’s $7.47. The price comparison suggests that Walmart is the better choice.

Hormel Pepperoni Minis – Buy

Hormel Pepperoni Minis are a popular snack for pepperoni lovers who want to avoid carbs. It is considered as one of Hormel’s best-selling products, and the brand claims to be America’s top pepperoni brand. A price comparison between Target and Walmart shows that while the prices are similar, Target sells a five-ounce bag of Hormel Pepperoni Minis for $3.49, while Walmart sells it for $3.88. Therefore, for this particular product, Target appears to be the better option.

Barbie Dreamhouse Playset – Skip

Walking past the Target toy aisle with kids is almost impossible without them being captivated by the wide range of toys. One of the popular toys is the classic Barbie Dreamhouse Playset that comes with a pool, slide, and elevator. At Target, the Dreamhouse Playset costs $179.99, while at Walmart and Amazon, it costs $179. Strictly in terms of price comparison, Target does not come out on top, so whether this is a “Buy It” depends on the value of $1 to the buyer.

S’Well Travel Mug – Buy

If you’re looking to save money on coffee, investing in a travel mug might be a good idea. The S’ip by S’well Travel Mug is an insulated, stainless steel mug that can hold hot or cold drinks. It’s available at Target for $24.99, which is the same price you’ll find at Walmart and on Amazon (for the plain, solid color version). Since the price is the same across all three retailers, it’s a “Buy It.”

Market Pantry Condiments – Buy

In this price comparison, Target’s Market Pantry brand beats Walmart’s Great Value brand when it comes to ketchup and mustard condiments. Target sells a 32-ounce jar of ketchup for $1.39 and an eight-ounce jar of mustard for $0.45, while Walmart charges $1.72 and $1.34 for the same products, respectively. So if you’re looking for a cheaper option, Target is the way to go. However, if you’re a brand-name loyalist, this comparison may not be relevant to you.

Project 62 Home Decor – Buy

Target’s home décor brand, Project 62, takes inspiration from mid-century modern design and offers exclusive products in this style. The brand collaborates with designers like Nate Berkus and Leanne Ford to create collections that range in price from $6.99 to $99, comparable to similar collections. The unique designs and collaborations make Project 62 a great choice for those who love mid-century modern and want exclusive products.