Why are cellphones, tablets and other gadgets cheaper in stores like Walmart and Costco than they are if you buy directly from the manufacturers?

Do they offer less features than the ones sold directly on the manufacturer's website or is there no difference?

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DeWayfarer · 61-69, M

Service provider is the huge reason. The cellphone is a fixed provider with Walmart. Where it's not fixed through the manufacturers.

You can't remove the provider easily through Walmart.

AllycatAD · 26-30

@DeWayfarer that was the main reason on that list