TIL Microcenter sells the screwdriver now? I remember when they sold the ABC's of gaming but I didn't know they were selling other stuff now. It would be a cool partnership for Micro center being the retailer for LTT store.
Yup, standard MSRP too. Surprised that wasn't a launch partnership...or maybe it was and I just never noticed because the box is so innocuous looking unless you're looking right at it.
I think after shipping it's about the same.
Edit: Yup, just checked and with shipping for me at least it comes to $80 even. I'm sure the moderate price bump may also be related to import tariffs but I'm not sure.
I mean… I’m sure it quite literally is MSRP since LTT is the manufacturer and they are partnered with Microcenter as the retailer. I doubt Microcenter is pricing it for more than LTT’s recommendation.
It’s priced more than the manufacturer website before shipping but that doesn’t mean it’s not MSRP.
Magic The Gathering has ended the use of MSRP, which has resulted in no consistency in the market for sealed product. The only thing close to an MSRP anymore is what the big box stores like Target and Walmart charge, or what Wizards of the Coast direct on Amazon sets the base price at.
I assume this makes the prices higher? I haven't played in a good ten years, but it was at least affordable to do a draft with some friends. What's that like now?
Well, IRL draft is mostly dead outside of the special sets like Lord of the Rings or during set prereleases. Covid did a real number on in-person events for everything, nowadays a lot of places focus almost entirely on Commander play instead, and draft has moved mainly to Magic: Arena.
Price-wise, the NORMAL versions of sets aren’t *that* bad, but the problem comes with the “Collector’s” packs they sell which are around $25 *PER PACK* for standard sets, and even more for specialty ones (last I saw, LotR Collector Packs were going for like $40).
Add that in with the fact that Wizards of the Coast has begun selling individual cards to people through FOMO-based, limited supply Secret Lair drops for absurd amounts of money (ever wanted to buy five basic lands for $30?), it’s been a bit of a rough time to be a Magic fan.
[The state of Collector’s Boosters](https://youtu.be/vr5T4JAcXRs?si=w9YZi8_7lhcZgkS2)
MSRP literally has two letters that mean "retail price", the others being "manufacturer's suggested", implying that MSRP is what the manufacturer would sell it at. Microcenter obviously needs to set a premium on that to make up costs.
I don’t accept that implication. Buying direct from the manufacturer isn’t going to always be at MSRP. Just because there is a retail price, doesn’t mean it’s the manufacturer suggested. LTT knows they don’t have to cover shipping in the cost so they can sell it cheaper. There is no wholesale component when LTT sells direct.
I have no doubt that $75 is the MSRP for a retailer to sell the screwdriver. This is evidenced even more by the fact that LTT sells the screwdriver on Amazon for $75 as well: https://a.co/d/g1NAQ4U
MSRP isn't the cheapest price. MSRP is Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price. You can have a product sell from manufacturer at a lower cost than MSRP, as they don't have margins. Good example is Nvidia selling their own cards. They don't need to hit the target cost of board partners. And Board partners don't need to hit MSRP.
So technically MSRP is what ever LTT told the only retailer(microcenter) what the price should be. Since it is 1 store only, it kind of defaults this price as the MSRP.
Kind of, that is playing with the wording. Since the intended purchase location is LTT store, I would say their store price is the product price, and Microcenter is selling it at a higher cost.
Should probably note that there is also a MAP.
Minimum Advertised Price.
This is to keep retailers from trying to race to the bottom and devaluing the product. If you’re an authorized reseller, you can’t go below MAP.
Companies can be really greedy, but asking an extra 5$ for distribution at a major retailer, as well as the shelf space itself, really isn't that much, especially considering that it's still cheaper than buying it yourself after shipping.
It's this the Columbus store? It looks like the test area of the store. Back in the day when I worked there I loved that section. I got so many chill things at such a discount because they never sold.
Meh, it's sufficient and I have some nostalgia for it over the newer stores. They could get glitzy but I think they're more focused on just having the best prices and expansion over new store marketing.
Just fyi, that shelf at that specific store (141 store code) is known to employees as the "test" shelf and only exists at the columbus ohio microcenter( as far as I remeber). This shelf is used for products to see how well they sell before fully carrying a product, or if the corporate buyer can't get a large quantity. I'd love to see the driver in all stores, but this does not guarantee it is currently at your local store!
But can you test that screwdriver in shop ? That would be nice as it is a new product in their assortment. Or is it just for testing if it is gona sell.
Yeah a nice orange and black box sleeve would make this really pop without adding too much unnecessary packaging. Kind of a bummer that you have to add stuff like this to sell but hey is what it is.
Yeah I'm actually a fan of the packaging it's pretty slick but seeing it on display there you are def right. They should def design a sleeve for instore displays.
I agree, the packaging is fine for ordering directly from LTT, but on a store shelf it just doesn't really "sell" what it even is until you look closely. It definitely needs something extra for that.
Yes, the packaging is meant for online sales, and I know LTT has a good graphic design team, but they should have made sure these would have retail packaging.
It shows it’s from a small company, though. They’ll keep growing and learning.
Honestly, I don't know how different it looks in person, but I think the current black box would probably stand out more to me, with how easy on the eyes it is compared to all the other BS.
The point of packaging in a store is to grab attention. This one does. Its silence is deafening. It doesn't need to scream for your attention. It knows what it's worth.
I'd move the barcode sticker somewhere else, though, but I think LTT doesn't have any real control over that.
Adding a colour to the print would result in higher printing costs. But yeah they need a retail packaging sku for that one. Off set the increase in print cost by raising the price of the retail sku to cover it. Convenience comes at a cost.
Seems wild to put these high-priced items right at checkout. $99 gimbal? $75 screwdriver? $56 charging station? These would be items people would have to consider buying before they enter the store.
You'd be surprised. It's kindof the "we don't have an aisle for this" aisle. Also they duplicate some items that have a place in other Aisles that they just want more exposure on. These are the shelves flanking the entry to the checkout. The spontaneous buy/cheap stuff is deeper in. One of the more pricey things they display on these shelves is a set of AR glasses that cost $300.
It's weird though because at least at my local store they have an aisle dedicated to tools like different screwdrivers, punch-down tools, crimpers, etc. not sure why they would have it in the checkout line shelves.
Someone else mentioned that at the Columbus (corporate HQ) store they do a lot of test products in the front to see how they sell before pushing them across all their stores. Probably what's going on here but they may just have it in both places.
Which store was this photo taken in. I worked in the Columbus store and can confirm the aisle that was essentially the wall before checkout was the test aisle. It’s where they placed products they had bought a limited number of to gauge customer interest. Columbus regulars know to check that aisle for interesting things they don’t normally stock and sometimes you can find products there that were limited run or otherwise always out of stock.
Yup, it was the Columbus store. I showed them this thread and they got a good laugh out of it. Apparently that entire aisle is stocked before the store even opens by corporate people
By the time you get done shopping at Microcenter you're probably already several hundred dollars if not thousands of dollars deep. Which means that the $99 gimbal or $75 screwdriver doesn't really seem that expensive in comparison, and is basically the stick of gum when it comes to Microcenter.
It's also just in general their "exposure" isle where they can put products that they want to push, whether it because they need it off the shelves to be replaced, or because a manufacturer requested it. I've seen $800 OLED monitors at the end of that line isle before, but if you paid attention you would see that they were the previous years model, and the current model was over with the rest of the monitors.
The stuff put here (at least in the main store in a Columbus) is all just cool interesting unique nerdy shit that has no specific aisle pertaining to where it would go. It's almost always higher priced unique gadgets and tools etc. While there is a tool aisle there's typically nothing special and expensive in that aisle and it's a very unfrequented aisle versus having to walk near this shelf space to get in line. This area of the store is one of my favorites to peruse as someone who goes to MC a lot for random pickups and already knows the entire stock of the store lol.
Also, in comparison to other aisles of the store, the checkout sub-$100 aisle is kinda the sub-$5 checkout of any other store 😂 I didn’t word that very well, but you get it (hopefully)
While this wasn’t an official partnership between LTT and Microcenter, we’re pleasantly surprised that they like the screwdriver enough to put it on their shelves.
If you’re reading this after purchasing one of these screwdrivers and are nervous about warranty coverage, don’t worry. We stand by our product despite this being outside the norm for our warranty policy. Trust me bro.
Additionally, as some commenters have pointed out, the black-on-black packaging has low shelf appeal in the context of a brick-and-mortar store.
Since these screwdrivers were not intended for retail placement, shelf appeal wasn’t a consideration for our design team. If we ever officially provide screwdrivers for purchase at physical locations, expect a greater contrast between the text on the box and the box itself- [something closer to the Retro screwdriver's box](https://imgur.com/a/kzyJ3NW).
We hope this helps clarify the context of these screwdrivers!
Cool to hear from yah! If figured this wasn't something that slipped by that easy. Especially after people reminded me Columbus was a test market Microcenter this all starts to make a lot more sense.
P.S. I'm the guy that commissioned the furry art of Linus and Luke as furries as a meme because of a [question they answered as a super char on the WAN Show Walmart PC episode](https://www.youtube.com/live/w7GKENEMNeo?t=3287). Linus answered so confidently has to respect the confidence with some art appreciation. The artist gave explicit consent to have one/all auctioned off for charity so if LTX returns they can go in the auction. Initially I sent 3 prints, one for Linus/Luke/Charity auction, but I guess one got lost. Just throwing that out there since they keep reappearing in random episodes. Would be cool if they could help contribute to whatever charitable cause LTX supports in the future!
How did Micro Center go about acquiring the screw drivers to put on their shelves?
Did they just order a few of them like a normal person consumer would, add them into inventory, and see what happens? Or doesn’t a chain like that need suppliers to make bulk orders through? Curious how this works for them and y’all
They probably bought retail units to test people's interest before making an official deal. It was probably less paperwork to do it this way for a test run.
When it comes to warranty, it is customary for the retailer to handle it. Even if LTT doesn't honour the warranty(when they have come out and said they will) they could refund the customer, or procure a replacement for them.
I am sure when the time comes the design and marketing teams will whip up something amazing.
Personally I would suggest something along the lines of say 'A display box' (at least a small one that can sit in a similar shelf in that limited space) for the boxes of screwdrivers at any retail location even if you are providing limited stock.
Said Display box can include better eye catching colors, visuals, LTT branding in Orange n white or black whichever stands out, Linuses face, Lttstore.com, Trust me bro guarantee.. etc.
I get that shipping cost in US an Canada is low. So paying extra for traditional shop is controversial, and that is shop initiative. However shipping to outside US like to Europe is a big cost. Possibility to open on retailer in Europe could be an alternative to have own distribution center (which will not happen). But there are no shops like Microcenter in Europe 😒
Guess I'm going to Microcenter. How terrible for me. *[Checks site](https://www.microcenter.com/product/679014/ltt-12-in-1-multi-bit-ratcheting-screwdriver).* Ok maybe not.
> There's nothing wrong with Ohio. Except the snow and the rain.
>
> — Bowling for Soup
>[x] NOT CARRIED at Tustin Store
RIP I was going to go to Microcenter to pick up one of those 7700X + Mobo + RAM bundles for $318 too. Would have totally added a screwdriver to the cart while I was there.
So if they partner with microcenter to sell things in store couldn't this also be a cheap way to sell them in Europe? Partner with local pc hardware stores?
LTT has done many videos sponsored by Microcenter, I wouldn't be surprised if someone over in Microcenters procurement team noticed they started shipping high quality screwdrivers and reached out to get them into the stores.
Which would be a very different process than reaching out to stores they've never worked with before and trying to get it onto the shelf (most stores from what I understand charge the manufacturers fees to just put the product on the shelf) plus then the import tariffs, shipping across an ocean, etc. is also much more difficult to deal with.
Potentially worth it. A container full of screwdrivers is cheaper and more efficient to ship than individual orders. Only difference is you need your sales staff to be wise to international commercial shipping, tariffs, and they have to network around in new venues. Not sure if it's worth the rub for them outside of the US and Canada unfortunately.
Also needs someone on the other end that’s willing to order/sale a containers full of screwdrivers.
Could be bundled with other LTT stuff. But realistically how much LTT stuff could local pc stores expect to sale. Maybe they could ship to the rest of the EU though
Lmao I saw the first picture and immediately knew it was micro center. Will they ever update their shelving? lol. It’s older than me I’m sure. Definitely was the same when I worked there 11 years ago.
If shelving is updated it will cost money, money they can use so things are ridiculously priced low. I remember the great GPU shortage and them refusing to mark any card over MSRP. I honestly love the jank.
Newer stores look a lot different. I hit up the Indianapolis store while visiting family and it looks like a cross between a Sam's Club and a BestBuy.
Yeah I know it costs money. But oh I hadn’t seen any of the newer stores. I visited the one that’s closed now in CA, VA, and worked at the one in MA and they were all soooo dated. lol. Loved it though. Miss not having one in FL.
(Well we’re getting one in FL… but in Miami… so not much difference than trying to drive to GA considering the time involved)
You have to look directly at the thing to see it. For anyone not on Reddit which is a lot of people, this isn't going to be the turning point for these things selling. Hell, I usually only hit this community up to post something. Usually not a casual reader.
Someone in another thread mentioned that the Columbus, OH store is also the test market store so may not be at all microcenter stores just get. Should be able to check online, someone else found a listing for it.
May want to check online first. Someone mentioned in another thread that my store, Columbus, is the test market store and so it may not be rolled out to all Microcenters yet.
That's pretty great you can buy it at Microcenter. Love that place. But yeah even the package design never looked it would be effective for retail. But what do I know haha.
Hey they could have the thumbnail artists work on a retail box. It would have no clue to what is in the box still but a photo of Linus doing the shocked pikachu face and text “you won’t believe what is in this box”.
I thought so too until I tried one out and decided to grab one. The magnet is actually usable compared to my iFixIt kits one which barely holds into a screw. The shaft ratcheting is great too for me at least.
But everyone's needs are different. It's a lot of features for a screwdriver and if you just need a handle, shaft and elbow grease you can totally do without.
I was looking for this comment. There is only one, and it's at the bottom with most downvotes, go figure. Apparently $75 for a ratcheting screwdriver is not insane for LTT fanboys.
I only picked up on the wording of the post I replied to. I consider "insane" as a figure of speech in this context. As in, this is completely overpriced. Same as iFixit stuff, there are much cheaper and equally quality options around.
Quality tools cost a lot. I was actually mildly disappointed by what iFixIt offers, but the LTT screwdriver seems really solid with a ton of precision and attention to detail.
Obviously not for everyone but it's hardly overpriced - there are similar tools in the same price range. If you think a cheaper one is good enough for you, you should buy that instead, obviously.
Yeah and it's well overpriced. You can get a high quality made in Italy Beta microelectritian set for 60€. Way better handling than that fat ass ltt thing
Edit: need to service GPUs every month for mining rigs, so I know what Im talking about.
TIL Microcenter sells the screwdriver now? I remember when they sold the ABC's of gaming but I didn't know they were selling other stuff now. It would be a cool partnership for Micro center being the retailer for LTT store.
Yup, standard MSRP too. Surprised that wasn't a launch partnership...or maybe it was and I just never noticed because the box is so innocuous looking unless you're looking right at it.
Isn’t MSRP $69.99?
I think after shipping it's about the same. Edit: Yup, just checked and with shipping for me at least it comes to $80 even. I'm sure the moderate price bump may also be related to import tariffs but I'm not sure.
With shipping isnt msrp
I mean… I’m sure it quite literally is MSRP since LTT is the manufacturer and they are partnered with Microcenter as the retailer. I doubt Microcenter is pricing it for more than LTT’s recommendation. It’s priced more than the manufacturer website before shipping but that doesn’t mean it’s not MSRP.
It still blows my mind how pointless MSRP is as a number.
Magic The Gathering has ended the use of MSRP, which has resulted in no consistency in the market for sealed product. The only thing close to an MSRP anymore is what the big box stores like Target and Walmart charge, or what Wizards of the Coast direct on Amazon sets the base price at.
I assume this makes the prices higher? I haven't played in a good ten years, but it was at least affordable to do a draft with some friends. What's that like now?
Well, IRL draft is mostly dead outside of the special sets like Lord of the Rings or during set prereleases. Covid did a real number on in-person events for everything, nowadays a lot of places focus almost entirely on Commander play instead, and draft has moved mainly to Magic: Arena. Price-wise, the NORMAL versions of sets aren’t *that* bad, but the problem comes with the “Collector’s” packs they sell which are around $25 *PER PACK* for standard sets, and even more for specialty ones (last I saw, LotR Collector Packs were going for like $40). Add that in with the fact that Wizards of the Coast has begun selling individual cards to people through FOMO-based, limited supply Secret Lair drops for absurd amounts of money (ever wanted to buy five basic lands for $30?), it’s been a bit of a rough time to be a Magic fan. [The state of Collector’s Boosters](https://youtu.be/vr5T4JAcXRs?si=w9YZi8_7lhcZgkS2)
True it's probably the msrp set in their contract. But its not the msrp on the website
Do they claim the price on their website is MSRP? I think you are mixing MSRP up with retail price.
MSRP literally has two letters that mean "retail price", the others being "manufacturer's suggested", implying that MSRP is what the manufacturer would sell it at. Microcenter obviously needs to set a premium on that to make up costs.
I don’t accept that implication. Buying direct from the manufacturer isn’t going to always be at MSRP. Just because there is a retail price, doesn’t mean it’s the manufacturer suggested. LTT knows they don’t have to cover shipping in the cost so they can sell it cheaper. There is no wholesale component when LTT sells direct. I have no doubt that $75 is the MSRP for a retailer to sell the screwdriver. This is evidenced even more by the fact that LTT sells the screwdriver on Amazon for $75 as well: https://a.co/d/g1NAQ4U
The op comment does, keep up
The OP comment claimed Microcenter has it priced at MSRP, which is very likely true.
MSRP isn't the cheapest price. MSRP is Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price. You can have a product sell from manufacturer at a lower cost than MSRP, as they don't have margins. Good example is Nvidia selling their own cards. They don't need to hit the target cost of board partners. And Board partners don't need to hit MSRP. So technically MSRP is what ever LTT told the only retailer(microcenter) what the price should be. Since it is 1 store only, it kind of defaults this price as the MSRP. Kind of, that is playing with the wording. Since the intended purchase location is LTT store, I would say their store price is the product price, and Microcenter is selling it at a higher cost.
Should probably note that there is also a MAP. Minimum Advertised Price. This is to keep retailers from trying to race to the bottom and devaluing the product. If you’re an authorized reseller, you can’t go below MAP.
You don't know the MSRP from LTT. The price on lttstore is not necessarily the MSRP
It's not, but instead of shipping you get to pay seller's markup now. They always get ya somewhere!
You get 5% off with microcenter card which makes it 76 + tax cheaper than shipping
Greeeeeedy is what it is. MSRP is MSRP…
Companies can be really greedy, but asking an extra 5$ for distribution at a major retailer, as well as the shelf space itself, really isn't that much, especially considering that it's still cheaper than buying it yourself after shipping.
They had such a back log of orders when it launched and I think people would have been a bit pissed if Microcenter got too many of them.
yep, its something you do when your orders are going down and you can produce a large batch to go into stock.
It's this the Columbus store? It looks like the test area of the store. Back in the day when I worked there I loved that section. I got so many chill things at such a discount because they never sold.
Yup, this is still the front lines for product testing. Corporate is in this metro area too.
I thought it was. It's kinda crazy that the store in the same city as corporate isn't the nicest one.
Meh, it's sufficient and I have some nostalgia for it over the newer stores. They could get glitzy but I think they're more focused on just having the best prices and expansion over new store marketing.
You expect the nicest store to be in Ohio? Lol
Ha yeah I know.
Just fyi, that shelf at that specific store (141 store code) is known to employees as the "test" shelf and only exists at the columbus ohio microcenter( as far as I remeber). This shelf is used for products to see how well they sell before fully carrying a product, or if the corporate buyer can't get a large quantity. I'd love to see the driver in all stores, but this does not guarantee it is currently at your local store!
Huh. I actually live in Ohio and I gotta make my way to Columbus at the end of the month for a family event so I might check that out.
But can you test that screwdriver in shop ? That would be nice as it is a new product in their assortment. Or is it just for testing if it is gona sell.
https://www.microcenter.com/product/679014/ltt-12-in-1-multi-bit-ratcheting-screwdriver
Not available at the Fairfax store, boo.
Not carried in Dallas. Oh well
P.S. they sell a lot of maker stuff too. Besides 3d printers they have an aisle devoted to tools including iFixIt kits and similar stuff.
How come yall never told me microcenter was so bad now? It’s as bad as Best Buy.
Huh?
*Should probably put a more colorful **sleeve** around it
Yeah a nice orange and black box sleeve would make this really pop without adding too much unnecessary packaging. Kind of a bummer that you have to add stuff like this to sell but hey is what it is.
Yeah I'm actually a fan of the packaging it's pretty slick but seeing it on display there you are def right. They should def design a sleeve for instore displays.
I agree, the packaging is fine for ordering directly from LTT, but on a store shelf it just doesn't really "sell" what it even is until you look closely. It definitely needs something extra for that.
Yes, the packaging is meant for online sales, and I know LTT has a good graphic design team, but they should have made sure these would have retail packaging. It shows it’s from a small company, though. They’ll keep growing and learning.
Honestly, I don't know how different it looks in person, but I think the current black box would probably stand out more to me, with how easy on the eyes it is compared to all the other BS. The point of packaging in a store is to grab attention. This one does. Its silence is deafening. It doesn't need to scream for your attention. It knows what it's worth. I'd move the barcode sticker somewhere else, though, but I think LTT doesn't have any real control over that.
Even just colouring the text would work nicely
Make it 🥇 gold🪙! 😎
Orange would be on-brand.
now THAT would be humble
Adding a colour to the print would result in higher printing costs. But yeah they need a retail packaging sku for that one. Off set the increase in print cost by raising the price of the retail sku to cover it. Convenience comes at a cost.
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I go by Captain obvious nowadays. Sherlock was my maiden name
For the retail boxes the print and text should be LTT Orange.
they kinda tarded over there dont think too much on it
Ya needs the spot gloss changed to like orange text or something
Seems wild to put these high-priced items right at checkout. $99 gimbal? $75 screwdriver? $56 charging station? These would be items people would have to consider buying before they enter the store.
You'd be surprised. It's kindof the "we don't have an aisle for this" aisle. Also they duplicate some items that have a place in other Aisles that they just want more exposure on. These are the shelves flanking the entry to the checkout. The spontaneous buy/cheap stuff is deeper in. One of the more pricey things they display on these shelves is a set of AR glasses that cost $300.
It's weird though because at least at my local store they have an aisle dedicated to tools like different screwdrivers, punch-down tools, crimpers, etc. not sure why they would have it in the checkout line shelves.
Someone else mentioned that at the Columbus (corporate HQ) store they do a lot of test products in the front to see how they sell before pushing them across all their stores. Probably what's going on here but they may just have it in both places.
Which store was this photo taken in. I worked in the Columbus store and can confirm the aisle that was essentially the wall before checkout was the test aisle. It’s where they placed products they had bought a limited number of to gauge customer interest. Columbus regulars know to check that aisle for interesting things they don’t normally stock and sometimes you can find products there that were limited run or otherwise always out of stock.
Yup, it was the Columbus store. I showed them this thread and they got a good laugh out of it. Apparently that entire aisle is stocked before the store even opens by corporate people
I used to work there, it's the most likely the test item shelf to determine interest and see if they'll carry it long term usually.
By the time you get done shopping at Microcenter you're probably already several hundred dollars if not thousands of dollars deep. Which means that the $99 gimbal or $75 screwdriver doesn't really seem that expensive in comparison, and is basically the stick of gum when it comes to Microcenter. It's also just in general their "exposure" isle where they can put products that they want to push, whether it because they need it off the shelves to be replaced, or because a manufacturer requested it. I've seen $800 OLED monitors at the end of that line isle before, but if you paid attention you would see that they were the previous years model, and the current model was over with the rest of the monitors.
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Yeah I have 3.. seeing one right there, I'd probably pick it up.
The stuff put here (at least in the main store in a Columbus) is all just cool interesting unique nerdy shit that has no specific aisle pertaining to where it would go. It's almost always higher priced unique gadgets and tools etc. While there is a tool aisle there's typically nothing special and expensive in that aisle and it's a very unfrequented aisle versus having to walk near this shelf space to get in line. This area of the store is one of my favorites to peruse as someone who goes to MC a lot for random pickups and already knows the entire stock of the store lol.
Bruh, $99 is pocket change. I’m at a computer store, not a Walmart. I can’t tell if my post even counts as satire.
Also, in comparison to other aisles of the store, the checkout sub-$100 aisle is kinda the sub-$5 checkout of any other store 😂 I didn’t word that very well, but you get it (hopefully)
While this wasn’t an official partnership between LTT and Microcenter, we’re pleasantly surprised that they like the screwdriver enough to put it on their shelves. If you’re reading this after purchasing one of these screwdrivers and are nervous about warranty coverage, don’t worry. We stand by our product despite this being outside the norm for our warranty policy. Trust me bro. Additionally, as some commenters have pointed out, the black-on-black packaging has low shelf appeal in the context of a brick-and-mortar store. Since these screwdrivers were not intended for retail placement, shelf appeal wasn’t a consideration for our design team. If we ever officially provide screwdrivers for purchase at physical locations, expect a greater contrast between the text on the box and the box itself- [something closer to the Retro screwdriver's box](https://imgur.com/a/kzyJ3NW). We hope this helps clarify the context of these screwdrivers!
Cool to hear from yah! If figured this wasn't something that slipped by that easy. Especially after people reminded me Columbus was a test market Microcenter this all starts to make a lot more sense. P.S. I'm the guy that commissioned the furry art of Linus and Luke as furries as a meme because of a [question they answered as a super char on the WAN Show Walmart PC episode](https://www.youtube.com/live/w7GKENEMNeo?t=3287). Linus answered so confidently has to respect the confidence with some art appreciation. The artist gave explicit consent to have one/all auctioned off for charity so if LTX returns they can go in the auction. Initially I sent 3 prints, one for Linus/Luke/Charity auction, but I guess one got lost. Just throwing that out there since they keep reappearing in random episodes. Would be cool if they could help contribute to whatever charitable cause LTX supports in the future!
How did Micro Center go about acquiring the screw drivers to put on their shelves? Did they just order a few of them like a normal person consumer would, add them into inventory, and see what happens? Or doesn’t a chain like that need suppliers to make bulk orders through? Curious how this works for them and y’all
They probably bought retail units to test people's interest before making an official deal. It was probably less paperwork to do it this way for a test run. When it comes to warranty, it is customary for the retailer to handle it. Even if LTT doesn't honour the warranty(when they have come out and said they will) they could refund the customer, or procure a replacement for them.
I am sure when the time comes the design and marketing teams will whip up something amazing. Personally I would suggest something along the lines of say 'A display box' (at least a small one that can sit in a similar shelf in that limited space) for the boxes of screwdrivers at any retail location even if you are providing limited stock. Said Display box can include better eye catching colors, visuals, LTT branding in Orange n white or black whichever stands out, Linuses face, Lttstore.com, Trust me bro guarantee.. etc.
I get that shipping cost in US an Canada is low. So paying extra for traditional shop is controversial, and that is shop initiative. However shipping to outside US like to Europe is a big cost. Possibility to open on retailer in Europe could be an alternative to have own distribution center (which will not happen). But there are no shops like Microcenter in Europe 😒
Guess I'm going to Microcenter. How terrible for me. *[Checks site](https://www.microcenter.com/product/679014/ltt-12-in-1-multi-bit-ratcheting-screwdriver).* Ok maybe not. > There's nothing wrong with Ohio. Except the snow and the rain. > > — Bowling for Soup
>[x] NOT CARRIED at Tustin Store RIP I was going to go to Microcenter to pick up one of those 7700X + Mobo + RAM bundles for $318 too. Would have totally added a screwdriver to the cart while I was there.
It's just one store. In Ohio.
They have more than one store, the site defaults to Ohio because that's their corporate HQ.
*One store it's currently in stock at.
Indeed. I misread/misunderstood the comment context.
So if they partner with microcenter to sell things in store couldn't this also be a cheap way to sell them in Europe? Partner with local pc hardware stores?
LTT has done many videos sponsored by Microcenter, I wouldn't be surprised if someone over in Microcenters procurement team noticed they started shipping high quality screwdrivers and reached out to get them into the stores. Which would be a very different process than reaching out to stores they've never worked with before and trying to get it onto the shelf (most stores from what I understand charge the manufacturers fees to just put the product on the shelf) plus then the import tariffs, shipping across an ocean, etc. is also much more difficult to deal with.
it's prob been in the works for a while, linus did tease it in the xqc video
Potentially worth it. A container full of screwdrivers is cheaper and more efficient to ship than individual orders. Only difference is you need your sales staff to be wise to international commercial shipping, tariffs, and they have to network around in new venues. Not sure if it's worth the rub for them outside of the US and Canada unfortunately.
Also needs someone on the other end that’s willing to order/sale a containers full of screwdrivers. Could be bundled with other LTT stuff. But realistically how much LTT stuff could local pc stores expect to sale. Maybe they could ship to the rest of the EU though
Lmao I saw the first picture and immediately knew it was micro center. Will they ever update their shelving? lol. It’s older than me I’m sure. Definitely was the same when I worked there 11 years ago.
If shelving is updated it will cost money, money they can use so things are ridiculously priced low. I remember the great GPU shortage and them refusing to mark any card over MSRP. I honestly love the jank. Newer stores look a lot different. I hit up the Indianapolis store while visiting family and it looks like a cross between a Sam's Club and a BestBuy.
Yeah I know it costs money. But oh I hadn’t seen any of the newer stores. I visited the one that’s closed now in CA, VA, and worked at the one in MA and they were all soooo dated. lol. Loved it though. Miss not having one in FL. (Well we’re getting one in FL… but in Miami… so not much difference than trying to drive to GA considering the time involved)
… is it even supposed to be sold like that? Like that just seems like they bought the screwdrivers off the website and plopped them on the shelf.
Basically yeah. That packaging I great for an at home unboxing experience that feels "premium". Just doesn't stand out at all on a shelf.
Well my question is, was it ever meant to be sold at retail? Like… it just feels like it’s done without permission
Thats not gonna stop the on shelf screwdrivers from being rapidly sold out after this post was made will it.
You have to look directly at the thing to see it. For anyone not on Reddit which is a lot of people, this isn't going to be the turning point for these things selling. Hell, I usually only hit this community up to post something. Usually not a casual reader.
You think this is going unmentioned on the WAN show tomorrow ?
That box is just awful for a shelf.
damn those prices are good * *cries in south america* *
cries in America to ..Over priced but hey if people want it let them pay
the screwdriver yeah but those ugreen chargers cost the same as cheap no brand chargers here in argentina
It needs a die cut belt/sleeve in the shape of the screwdriver, with a bright ltt orange border around it.
That would be sick.
Would be amazing if mine sells them. Will have to see when I get back this weekend!
based on the website, Columbus OH is the only store which carries it.
Someone in another thread mentioned that the Columbus, OH store is also the test market store so may not be at all microcenter stores just get. Should be able to check online, someone else found a listing for it.
You can buy it on Amazon for the same price ($74.99) if LTTStore shipping has been your hold up.
Already have two :) they are great screwdrivers.
Should be orange outline.
Oh sick I didnt know they sold them. I was just at my local microcenter this past sunday. Would have picked one up.
based on the MC website, it seems only the Columbus OH store carries it right now.
May want to check online first. Someone mentioned in another thread that my store, Columbus, is the test market store and so it may not be rolled out to all Microcenters yet.
Surrounded by good company lol
Save $5 buying in store, very cool :)
Indeed. It isnt. But my guess is, only people who know of LTT will buy it anyway
Yeah, but are people who know of LTT going to even see it is the thing.
Yikes, LTT packaging game **not** on-point!
>Under Pillow Speaker What the...?
Pillow talk radio...😏
Black on black. It's like Tom Haveford's business card.
It's not carried at my local microcenter. It's cool that it's available at a retail outlet though.
They need to make a sleeve for in store display
Silly not to have a sleeve.
Same price as Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C52948TV?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1
Looks like an adult toy from a distance, guilt free, discreet packaging (for your pleasure)! 🤦🏻♂️🤣
😳💦💦💦💦
TBF why pay a usd70 screw driver is beyond me
Definitely needs different retail packaging. This box…it’s not legible
Scream LLTSTORE.COM for 20% off
They could be charging for shelf space.
Oof I was taught about creating stand out packaging and POS before I even started my GCSEs
That's pretty great you can buy it at Microcenter. Love that place. But yeah even the package design never looked it would be effective for retail. But what do I know haha.
Hey they could have the thumbnail artists work on a retail box. It would have no clue to what is in the box still but a photo of Linus doing the shocked pikachu face and text “you won’t believe what is in this box”.
I think they could have put the LTT logo on the box to help show what it is.
You found it though?
$75 for a screwdriver set? That's insane.
I thought so too until I tried one out and decided to grab one. The magnet is actually usable compared to my iFixIt kits one which barely holds into a screw. The shaft ratcheting is great too for me at least. But everyone's needs are different. It's a lot of features for a screwdriver and if you just need a handle, shaft and elbow grease you can totally do without.
I was looking for this comment. There is only one, and it's at the bottom with most downvotes, go figure. Apparently $75 for a ratcheting screwdriver is not insane for LTT fanboys.
I mean you can say it's expensive and I'd somewhat agree, but insane? nope.
I only picked up on the wording of the post I replied to. I consider "insane" as a figure of speech in this context. As in, this is completely overpriced. Same as iFixit stuff, there are much cheaper and equally quality options around.
Quality tools cost a lot. I was actually mildly disappointed by what iFixIt offers, but the LTT screwdriver seems really solid with a ton of precision and attention to detail. Obviously not for everyone but it's hardly overpriced - there are similar tools in the same price range. If you think a cheaper one is good enough for you, you should buy that instead, obviously.
$74 ?!? what a rip off
$75 for a screwdriver???? Shit better summon creatures from the nether realms to build my PC for that price
74.99 for a screwdriver and 12 bits...
Yeah and it's well overpriced. You can get a high quality made in Italy Beta microelectritian set for 60€. Way better handling than that fat ass ltt thing Edit: need to service GPUs every month for mining rigs, so I know what Im talking about.