Consumer Reports yesterday released a detailed report about electronics shopping patterns. It found that in general online retailers are better than walk-in stores for electronics but that most who where surveyed said they still hit up a major brick-and-mortar location.

The Consumer Reports survey, which is based on data from more than 90,000 purchases made between January 2006 and June 2007, found that in particular Amazon.com and Crutchfield “were among the highest- scoring retailers for electronics-each offering above-average selection, while matching the best walk-in stores for the quality of products they sell.” It also found however that people still prefer “convenience and face-to-face assistance” when making major electronics purchases.

This benevolent attitude changed somewhat though when shoppers are asked by sales clerks if they want an extended sales warranty. “Despite being able to see and even touch products in a walk-in retailer, readers who responded to our survey were generally more satisfied with the prices and selection they found online,” said Paul Reynolds, electronics editor at Consumer Reports.

Consumer Reports Press Release