Return policy comparison · 2026
B&H Photo Video vs Full Compass Systems
Policy data verified April 17, 2026 (B&H Photo Video) and July 24, 2026 (Full Compass Systems)
Winner
B&H Photo Video
A-
3.9 / 5.0 · Very Good
Full Compass Systems
C
2.1 / 5.0 · Mediocre
The verdict
B&H Photo Video has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A- (3.9/5.0) against Full Compass Systems's C (2.1/5.0). It wins 3 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return shipping: free returns (incl. by mail) versus customer pays return shipping.
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
B&H Photo VideoFull Compass Systems
Return window · worth 2.0
Restocking fee · worth 1.0
Return shipping · worth 1.0
Holiday window · worth 0.5
Transparency · worth 0.5
Key terms side-by-side
| B&H Photo Video | Full Compass Systems | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | ✓ 30 days | 15 business days (no restocking fee if unopened) |
| Free returns | ✓ Yes | No - fee deducted |
| Restocking fee | None typically | None if returned within 15 business days in the unopened, undamaged original manufacturer carton. If the package has been opened, a minimum restocking charge of 15% or $10 (whichever is greater) applies; used, damaged, or incomplete merchandise increases the fee further. No returns accepted at all without prior authorization after 30 days. |
| Return shipping | Customer may pay for mail | Customer pays shipping both ways on returns; items originally sent on a free-shipping promotion will be charged for the outgoing shipping cost when returned. |
| Holiday extension | ✓ Yes (holiday extension typical) | None published |
| Non-returnable | Opened software, consumables, final sale, special order items | Special-order/non-stock items, custom goods, closeout or discontinued merchandise, tape, gel, lamps, books, opened software, ear-phones, chemicals, bids and contracts, and installed service parts (unless defective on arrival, which are exchange-only, no refund) |
| Watch-out items | Standard 30-day window | — |
B&H Photo Video tip
Orthodox Jewish ownership — closed Saturdays. Excellent customer service reputation.
Full Compass Systems tip
Keep the original manufacturer carton sealed if there's any chance you'll return it - opening it triggers a restocking fee even if the gear itself is untouched, and you'll also eat return shipping on both legs.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, B&H Photo Video or Full Compass Systems?
B&H Photo Video has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A- (3.9/5.0) against Full Compass Systems's C (2.1/5.0). It wins 3 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return shipping: free returns (incl. by mail) versus customer pays return shipping.
What is B&H Photo Video's return window?
B&H Photo Video's return window is 30 days.
What is Full Compass Systems's return window?
Full Compass Systems's return window is 15 business days (no restocking fee if unopened).
Does B&H Photo Video or Full Compass Systems offer free returns?
B&H Photo Video: Yes. Full Compass Systems: No - fee deducted.