Is there really a difference between Costco bags and Ziploc bags? Here’s what shoppers say

When it comes to keeping food fresh, freezer or storage bags are a critical tool. For many shoppers, the decision often boils down to the familiar brand-name quality of Ziploc versus whatever discounted store brand sits next to them — and the choice is often simple when quality is the deciding factor: Ziploc wins.

However, the choice becomes much trickier when Costco’s Kirkland Signature brand is in the other corner. So, when you put Kirkland Freezer bags vs Ziploc, which is better?

Turns out, thousands of shoppers had a heated debate on Reddit this week on this very subject.

Ziploc has long been the gold standard, known for its reliable seal and durability. The brand offers an endless number of permutations for every need; slider bags for a convenient, fool-proof closing mechanism and their “Grip ‘n Seal” technology offer a secure, airtight closure.

However, Kirkland Signature bags have emerged as a strong contender. In fact, online communities often heavily favor the Kirkland brand.

The case for Kirkland bags

Kirkland bags are built better

Many users report that the Kirkland bags are “superior” and “durable,” with a seal that is just as, if not more, reliable than Ziploc. In fact, one Reddit user claims that these new bags are the “best new Kirkland product this year.”

Another user says Kirkland bags are not only thicker, but they come with a pleated bottom, making it much easier to stand them up on their own, even when they’re empty.

They’re cheaper

Purchased in bulk at Costco, the Kirkland bags offer a substantially lower cost per bag than Ziploc, even when the latter is on sale. Shoppers appreciate that they get a higher volume of a durable product for a more affordable price point. When comparing gallon-sized, freezer bags; Ziplocs costs about $0.12 per bag while Kirkland’s costs $0.05 per bag.

The case for Ziploc bags

You can buy them anywhere

Of course, that’s where the inevitable asterisk comes into play; shoppers need to have a Costco membership to accrue the savings from Kirkland brands, while Ziploc is available at most stores, including Amazon, without the need for a $65 per year membership.

They’re thinner

This one could be a pro or a con, but Ziploc bags are slightly thinner width-wise than Kirkland bags.

“The only drawback i have found is they are slightly wider than Ziploc which means they don’t fit in the drawer organizer my wife purchased,” one user writes.

“I actually prefer them because they’re wider,” another user counters.

They’re better for non-storage needs

Reddit users point out that Ziploc actually has the advantage when it comes to non-storage uses. One user says the Kirkland bags don’t have a strong enough seal to handle sous vide, while another adds that the pleated bottoms mean you can’t turn your bags into makeshift frosting bags.

The verdict?

If you’ve got a Costco membership, the Kirkland bags win. They’re wider, thicker, and cheaper than Ziploc bags, meaning they’ll hold more, last longer, and ultimately cost you less in the long run. If you’re in a hurry, Ziploc won’t let you down, but if you have the choice, we agree with Reddit: Go for Kirkland.

If you have any questions about this piece — or you just wanna chat about your favorite products you think we should check out — send us an email at shopping.editors@aol.com and we’ll write you back!

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