| Store Name: | Weird Stuff Warehouse |
| Address: |
Sunnyvale, CA 94089 |
| Phone: | (408) 743-5650 |
| Hours: | 09:30-18:00 Mon-Sat. and 11:00-17:00 Sun. |
| Web Site? | |
| Primary Line: | Computer and networking hardware, software, cables, and accessories. |
| Secondary Line: | Power supplies, test equipment, LOTS of older software, wire, cable, tools, test equipment, books, equipment racks, and 'Weird Stuff!' |
| Pricing (Primary Line): | B |
| Pricing (Secondary Line): | B - |
| Variety Grade: | B + |
| Customer Service Grade: | A + |
| Overall Grade: | B + |
LAST REVIEW: 15-Sep-06
Weird Stuff Warehouse goes back a long way, at least to 1986, and they've shown no signs of slowing down. I made no fewer than three visits there during Scrounge 2K6, and I ended up buying at least two items each time. They're always a most worthwhile stop, one that no scrounger should miss. You simply never know what they'll turn up.
That, in fact, is one of many things that I think makes Weird Stuff special. Just one day usually won't do it. You need to, ideally, make repeat visits because there is just so much there that you'll surely miss something you could use with only one visit.
If you do end up having only one day (or even a few hours), look around as carefully as you can, go through boxes, and NEVER be afraid to ask for help to locate something specific! If the counter people can't help you directly, they can call someone in back who can. I would recommend reserving a half-day, at a bare minimum, per trip.
In fact, never be afraid to ask for something specific, and help finding it, period. The warehouse staff, though often busy, are always happy to help, and there's always the online store. Be a little careful, however, about their in-store prices on items such as equipment racks and test gear. They are, unfortunately, on the high end of 'reasonable,' and in some cases border on 'Ridiculous.'
However, they do have an extensive assortment of goodies every week in their sealed-bid lot sales, something that should be paid close attention to. Their pricing on cables and parts is also (usually) pretty reasonable. As with any surplus place, stay sharp, know what you're doing and what you're buying, and have your price range in mind.
In short: As is the case with many surplus places, the full benefits of shopping at Weird Stuff can best be realized if you're local to the area, and a 'regular' in the store.
Oh, and for the record -- That reflection of the 'Techmobile' visible in the store's window is pretty old. I long since converted to a smaller GPS antenna. ;-)