I'm not crazy about buying online; if a piece of gear goes south within a return privilege period, I don't want to futz with the Post Office or United Package Smashers. I want to return or exchange it right now!
I bought a sound card, a printer, and a video card all at Staples. CompUSA sold me a hard drive.
Staples' return and price matching policy have enabled me to get parts just as cheap as online, plus the store is only 10 minutes away. I've never had a problem with anything I've bought from them.
I no longer set foot in Circuit City. They advertise specials and have you jump through rebate hoops or never have the items in stock.
Best Buy is in a mall here, and it's a real PITA to get to.
Compusa is pretty good, just kinda far for a quick trip.
In every store, though, I've noticed that the sales clerks know less than I do... and Lord knows I'm no IT genius.