Maplin

With 2015 coming to a close, it’s getting pretty rare to still need serial port connections to computer peripherals, but we tech folk don’t always get to choose the hardware when we get onsite to sort problems out. Unfortunately, I didn’t bring any serial cables in my bag of tricks on this trip, so finding myself in need of one concern set in quickly. Fortunately, a local colleague told me about Maplin’s and suggested we walk over.
This — this is what Radio Shack could have (and should have) become in the US. Good inventory of essential items, and staff who can actually help. I’m a fan, and while I hope to not find myself in such dire straits in the future, at least I now know who to turn to for tech supplies while in London.

They’re helpful indeed, and a sight to see after I was trying to find them when Sainsburys and Curry’s didn’t have what I need. I don’t have any real issue here, but I will say, it is an electronics store. They’re well stocked, they’re polite and friendly, but they can be a little hard to get through if you don’t navigate through chaos well enough.

Very friendly, polite and helpful service.

Better stocked on computer accessories than the Curry’s down in Cabot Place. But like all UK electronics stores, tech parts and accessories here always expensive. If I’m not in the mood to haul arse to Tottenham Court Road this is where I would come to pick up cables and other odds and ends.