As retail giants compete with Amazon Prime, both Walmart and Target have launched their own membership programs. But which one offers better value for your shopping dollar? We've spent months using both Walmart+ and Target Circle (including the paid Target Circle 360) to bring you a comprehensive comparison of benefits, costs, and real-world value.
Walmart+
$98/year or $12.95/month- ✓ Free delivery from store (minimum $35)
- ✓ Free shipping (no minimum)
- ✓ Fuel savings (up to 10¢/gallon)
- ✓ Scan & Go mobile checkout
- ✓ Paramount+ Essential included
- ✓ Early access to deals
Target Circle 360
$99/year- ✓ Free same-day delivery ($35 minimum)
- ✓ Free 2-day shipping (no minimum)
- ✓ Extended returns (extra 30 days)
- ✓ Partner perks (Shipt, Apple Fitness+)
- ✓ Target Circle benefits included
- ✓ Exclusive member deals
Delivery & Shipping Showdown
Walmart+ Delivery
Same-Day Delivery: Available from local stores with $35 minimum. Delivery windows typically 1-2 hours. Powered by Walmart's own delivery network and third-party services.
Express Delivery: Get items in as little as 30 minutes for an additional $10 fee.
Coverage: Available to 80% of US households.
Target Circle 360 Delivery
Same-Day Delivery: Powered by Shipt, with $35 minimum. 1-hour delivery windows. Includes fresh groceries, alcohol, and household essentials.
Drive Up: Free curbside pickup in 2 hours (not exclusive to members).
Coverage: Available in all major metropolitan areas.
Exclusive Perks Breakdown
Walmart+ Fuel Savings
Save up to 10¢ per gallon at 14,000+ locations including Exxon, Mobil, Walmart, and Murphy stations. Average annual savings: $150-200 for regular drivers.
Target Extended Returns
Get an extra 30 days to return most items (120 days total). Perfect for gift shopping and trying new products. No questions asked policy.
Walmart+ Scan & Go
Skip checkout lines by scanning items with your phone. Pay through the app and show receipt at exit. Saves 15-20 minutes per shopping trip.
Target Partner Perks
3 free months of Apple Fitness+ ($30 value) and discounted Shipt membership. Access to exclusive experiences and early product launches.
Our 6-Month Testing Results
Shopping Frequency Analysis
Average Savings Per Month
Walmart+ User
$47/month
- Delivery fees: $25
- Fuel savings: $15
- Shipping fees: $7
Target Circle 360 User
$38/month
- Delivery fees: $20
- Shipping fees: $12
- Extra deals: $6
Product Selection & Pricing
| Category | Walmart+ | Target Circle 360 | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Groceries | Extensive, budget-friendly | Good selection, premium options | Walmart+ |
| Home Decor | Basic selection | Trendy, designer collaborations | Target |
| Electronics | Wide variety, competitive prices | Curated selection | Walmart+ |
| Clothing | Value-focused brands | Fashion-forward options | Target |
| Baby/Kids | Great prices, all essentials | Quality brands, cute designs | Tie |
Don't Forget the Free Programs
Target Circle (Free)
- 1% earnings on every purchase
- Personalized deals and offers
- Birthday reward (5% off)
- Community giving votes
- Early access to sales
💡 Stack with RedCard for additional 5% off
Walmart Rewards (Free)
- Online purchase rewards
- Receipt scanning for cashback
- Pharmacy rewards
- Special member prices
- No membership required
💡 Use Walmart Pay for faster checkout
The Verdict: Which Membership Wins?
Choose Walmart+ If You:
- Drive regularly (fuel savings alone can pay for membership)
- Shop for groceries weekly
- Value speed and convenience over style
- Live in suburban or rural areas
- Want entertainment perks (Paramount+)
- Prefer lower everyday prices
Choose Target Circle 360 If You:
- Prioritize quality and style
- Shop for home decor and clothing
- Already have a RedCard (extra 5% off)
- Value extended return windows
- Live in urban areas with Shipt coverage
- Prefer curated product selection
Our Recommendation
For most shoppers, Walmart+ offers superior value, especially if you factor in fuel savings. The combination of free delivery, shipping with no minimum, and gas discounts typically saves members $400-600 annually. However, Target Circle 360 shines for style-conscious shoppers who value quality over quantity.
Consider trying both with their free trials: Walmart+ offers 30 days free, while Target Circle 360 provides a 7-day trial. Many savvy shoppers maintain both memberships, using each retailer's strengths to maximize savings.
Maximizing Your Membership Value
Walmart+ Tips
- Fill up on Tuesdays for extra fuel savings
- Use InHome delivery for ultimate convenience ($148/year)
- Stack manufacturer coupons with member prices
- Shop early morning for best delivery slots
Target Circle Tips
- Combine Circle offers with RedCard 5% off
- Use Drive Up for free same-day pickup
- Shop clearance endcaps for 70% off deals
- Time purchases with bonus gift card promotions
Bottom Line
Both Walmart+ and Target Circle 360 offer compelling benefits that can easily pay for themselves if used regularly. Walmart+ edges ahead with broader appeal and tangible fuel savings, while Target Circle 360 caters to a specific demographic that values style and shopping experience.
Ready to Save?
Start your free trial today and see which membership works best for your shopping habits.
Compare Memberships