Why buy from Maplin?
Why should you buy your electronics from Maplin?
It's a great question — and one that's increasingly important when you compare local retailers with overseas marketplaces like Temu and AliExpress.
Here's a breakdown of the benefits of shopping with Maplin if you're based in the UK.
UK-Based with Reliable Delivery
Maplin ships locally from the UK, with fast delivery times (usually 1–3 working days).
In contrast, companies like Temu and AliExpress often ship from China, with long lead times (7–25+ days) and less certainty on delivery windows.
UK Warranty and Consumer Protection
Maplin offers UK statutory protections, including a 12-month warranty and easy returns under UK law.
Shipping from abroad can result in warranties that are often unclear, limited, or unenforceable. Returns can be complicated and expensive due to international shipping, causing you extra stress and hassle if something goes wrong.
Trusted, Curated Product Range
Here at Maplin, we carefully curate a tested range of cables, chargers, power banks, smart home accessories and more to compliment your everyday tech needs. With a focus on quality, safety, and compliance (e.g. UKCA/CE marks), you can buy from us with confidence.
Other marketplace models feature thousands of sellers, meaning that the product quality varies wildly. Many listings feature non-compliant or poorly-made electronics with misleading specs, making it difficult to trust that you're getting exactly what you're looking for.
Real Customer Support
Maplin's UK-based support team are always here to help you, with clear escalation routes. You can speak to someone real, getting effective assistance to aid you with your queries.
Other companies offer mostly automated dispute systems with varying success in resolving issues, especially if the seller disputes the claim.
No Surprise Import Fees
When you shop with Maplin, there are no customs fees or VAT surprises — pricing is final.
However, when you import from abroad, you may occasionally face import VAT, customs duties, or Royal Mail handling fees, depending on the item value and shipping method.
Support a UK Business
By shopping with Maplin, you're supporting the UK economy, local jobs, and helping to maintain a tech retail presence in Britain.
Shopping with Temu and AliExpress funds large overseas conglomerates with money that rarely circulates back into the UK economy.
So when it comes to considering your next electronic purchase, be sure to shop with Maplin, the UK electronics specialist.
Payment Methods
We accept payment by credit/direct debit cards, or you can pay with PayPal at the checkout. For bona fide business, educational or government establishments, a credit account may be opened subject to status.
With Klarna, you can pay in 3 instalments or use their Pay in 30 Days credit agreement.
We also accept One4All Gift Cards and Maplin E-Gift Cards.
Free UK Shipping
on most items when you spend over £35
Easy Returns
with our quick and simple returns portal
Special Offers
for massive savings on tech & electronics