11 Reasons Sam’s Club Beats Costco at Its Own Game

Costco and Sam’s Club may look similar on the surface, but loyal Sam’s shoppers know it offers perks that make it the smarter choice for many shoppers. From lower membership fees to tech-driven checkout options, here’s why Sam’s Club can be the better buy.

1. Membership Costs Less

Sam’s Club’s Plus membership comes in at $110 per year compared to Costco’s $130 Executive Membership, giving you an instant $20 savings before you’ve even stepped inside. That $20 could cover your first trip’s gas or a week’s worth of groceries. Plus, you still get premium perks like 2% cash back on qualifying purchases, free shipping on most online orders, and early shopping hours. If you’re a casual warehouse shopper who wants benefits without paying a premium price, Sam’s Club offers the better value for your membership dollar while still delivering the convenience and savings of bulk shopping.

2. Lower Pizza Prices for a Whole Pie

Costco’s pizza gets plenty of hype, but Sam’s Club quietly delivers its own delicious deal. A 16-inch Sam’s Club pizza costs just $8.99 compared to Costco’s $9.95 for an 18-inch. While Costco’s is slightly larger, the price difference means you can feed your family for less at Sam’s. Flavor-wise, Sam’s Club pizza is a satisfying, cheesy, crowd-pleasing option — and you can often grab it without the longer waits seen at Costco’s busier food courts. For those who love a quick, budget-friendly pizza night after a shopping trip, Sam’s Club keeps your wallet and your appetite equally happy.

3. Anyone Can Use the Food Court

Sam’s Club gives everyone a seat at the table — literally. Unlike Costco, where the food court is strictly members-only, Sam’s Club lets non-members purchase and enjoy food court items without needing a membership card. This means friends, visiting family, or even curious first-timers can tag along and experience the famous pizza, pretzels, and frozen treats without committing to a membership. It’s also a smart way to sample Sam’s Club’s food offerings before deciding to join. For social shoppers and families with mixed memberships, this openness makes Sam’s Club a friendlier, more inclusive place to grab a post-shopping bite.

4. Alcohol Samples in Some Locations

Here’s a perk Costco doesn’t offer: in certain states, Sam’s Club gives free alcohol samples alongside its food sampling stations. Whether it’s a sip of wine, a splash of craft beer, or a taste of a new spirit, these samples help shoppers discover new favorites before buying in bulk. It’s a fun, grown-up twist on the warehouse sampling experience, especially if you’re shopping for an event or stocking your home bar. While availability depends on state liquor laws, for members in qualifying areas, this little extra adds a touch of variety and enjoyment that Costco simply doesn’t match.

5. Cheaper Frozen Treats

While Costco’s soft serve has a cult following, Sam’s Club’s frozen yogurt comes in at about a dollar less — a small but satisfying savings for dessert lovers. The vanilla is creamy, the chocolate is rich, and you can often add toppings for an extra treat. For families, that lower price point adds up, especially when you’ve got multiple kids (or adults) each wanting their own. It’s also a sweet reward after a big stock-up trip, and unlike Costco’s sometimes lengthy food court lines, Sam’s Club’s dessert counter tends to move quickly. More dessert, less cost — that’s a win.

6. Faster Checkout Options

Sam’s Club’s Scan & Go app changes the warehouse shopping game. You scan items as you shop, pay directly in the app, and skip the checkout lines entirely. This feature is especially valuable on busy weekends when Costco members often face long waits. With Scan & Go, you can be in and out in record time, even if you’re grabbing a full cart of groceries. Plus, the app lets you track your running total, making it easier to stick to your budget. For time-pressed shoppers, this technology is a huge advantage that makes Sam’s Club a more efficient choice.

7. Gas Prices Can Be Lower

Costco may offer Top Tier gasoline, but Sam’s Club often edges them out on price per gallon. Depending on your location, the difference might be small — but for high-mileage drivers or large families, those savings add up quickly over the year. Like Costco, Sam’s Club fuel stations are members-only, so the lines tend to be shorter than public gas stations, but many members report even quicker pump times compared to Costco’s busier lots. For shoppers who prioritize value over premium fuel additives, Sam’s Club’s consistently lower fuel costs make it a smart, budget-conscious stop.

8. More Frequent and Accessible Samples

While Costco may win on sheer variety of samples, Sam’s Club sampling stations are often easier to access. You won’t have to weave through crowded aisles or wait in long lines for a taste. Many members enjoy the faster, more casual sampling experience at Sam’s, where you can grab a quick bite and keep moving. Plus, you’ll still find seasonal and new product tastings to help you discover hidden gems. For shoppers who value convenience over quantity, Sam’s Club’s more streamlined approach can make the trip smoother — and just as tasty — without the traffic jams.

9. Flexible Return Policies on Big-Ticket Items

Costco’s no-questions-asked return policy gets attention, but Sam’s Club’s more structured approach can actually make returns simpler — especially for electronics, appliances, and other high-value items. With clear timelines and conditions, you know exactly what to expect, and the process is often quicker. Some members prefer this straightforwardness to Costco’s sometimes case-by-case judgment calls. For business owners or shoppers who regularly buy expensive merchandise, having defined return guidelines reduces uncertainty and speeds up the process, ensuring you can get back to shopping (or replacing) without the back-and-forth.

10. Easier to Find Parking

Sam’s Club stores tend to be less crowded than Costco, especially during peak weekend hours. That means finding a parking space is faster and less stressful — no circling the lot or waiting for someone to load their car. Inside, aisles can also feel less congested, making it easier to navigate your cart and finish your shopping without battling through crowds. For shoppers who value a calmer, more relaxed experience, Sam’s Club’s lighter traffic can make the trip much more pleasant, especially for families with young kids or anyone short on time.

11. More Accessibility Without a Membership

One of Sam’s Club’s most underrated advantages is how much you can access without a membership. You can still use its pharmacy, get select in-store promotions, or enjoy the food court even if you don’t have a card. Occasionally, Sam’s runs open house events where non-members can shop for free. This flexibility lets you try the store before committing — something Costco doesn’t offer. For budget-conscious shoppers or those on the fence about joining, this openness makes Sam’s Club a friendlier, lower-pressure option.