Return policy comparison · 2026
B&H Photo Video vs GotoDirect
Policy data verified April 17, 2026 (B&H Photo Video) and July 24, 2026 (GotoDirect)
Winner
B&H Photo Video
A-
3.9 / 5.0 · Very Good
GotoDirect
D-
0.5 / 5.0 · Very Poor
The verdict
B&H Photo Video has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A- (3.9/5.0) against GotoDirect's D- (0.5/5.0). It wins 4 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the restocking fee: no restocking fee versus restocking fee charged.
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
B&H Photo VideoGotoDirect
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 | GotoDirect | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | ✓ 30 days | 30 days (physical condition returns); 2 days to initiate standard returns |
| Free returns | ✓ Yes | No - restocking fee and customer-paid shipping |
| Restocking fee | ✓ None typically | 25-35% for refurbished units, 35-40% for new units; also applies to incompatible products and items with damaged original packaging |
| Return shipping | Customer may pay for mail | Customer pays return shipping and must insure the package |
| Holiday extension | ✓ Yes (holiday extension typical) | None published |
| Non-returnable | Opened software, consumables, final sale, special order items | Products shipped directly by the manufacturer; some parts are exchange-only, not refundable |
| Watch-out items | Standard 30-day window | faulty items must be reported within 10 days to get an RMA number; orders generally cannot be cancelled once processed without a 25-35% cancellation fee |
B&H Photo Video tip
Orthodox Jewish ownership — closed Saturdays. Excellent customer service reputation.
GotoDirect tip
Once an order processes, cancelling it costs you 25-35% as a fee — if you're having second thoughts, act before the order is marked processed, not after.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, B&H Photo Video or GotoDirect?
B&H Photo Video has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A- (3.9/5.0) against GotoDirect's D- (0.5/5.0). It wins 4 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the restocking fee: no restocking fee versus restocking fee charged.
What is B&H Photo Video's return window?
B&H Photo Video's return window is 30 days.
What is GotoDirect's return window?
GotoDirect's return window is 30 days (physical condition returns); 2 days to initiate standard returns.
Does B&H Photo Video or GotoDirect offer free returns?
B&H Photo Video: Yes. GotoDirect: No - restocking fee and customer-paid shipping.