DO NOT SHOP HERE. Shockingly horrific experience -- the police were called! I'm still in shock as I write this. Yesterday, my husband and I (both in our mid-fifties) went to Ace to return two unopened items that we no longer needed and to purchase another item. For the return, we had the receipt, and both items were unopened. Unbeknownst to us, one of the items did not match the part number listed on the receipt, although the description and price were correct. The employee at the register, Toll, pointed this out, and we were perplexed because these were the items we had purchased, and this was the receipt we had been given. We didn't think it would be an issue, and honestly, store credit would have been fine. However, Toll demonstrated zero ability to problem-solve or provide even a modicum of customer service. He refused to accept the return, even for store credit. My husband, in complete frustration, said point-blank that this was their error, not ours, and that the items needed to be accepted for return. Toll never even scanned the item to see if there was an error in the computer system, which is what I would have done. Toll grabbed the item we intended to purchase, shoved the items we were trying to return back toward us, and yelled for us to leave the store. We stood there shocked at how quickly the situation had escalated. I started recording on my phone because Toll's behavior seemed completely unreasonable and increasingly erratic. While we stood there, he called the police and falsely claimed that we were threatening him. The police asked whether we were armed and whether we posed a danger. Toll told them we were being hostile and that he felt threatened. I'm still in disbelief. As we left the store, without being able to return our items, he continued giving the police a physical description of us and attempting to identify our vehicle. Not only does this man have zero problem-solving or customer service skills, but his behavior raises serious concerns about whether he should be interacting with customers. At no point did we threaten anyone. We try to shop locally whenever possible, but I will never NEVER shop at this store--or at any Ace Hardware--again. From now on, it will be Amazon. read more

Online, I ordered a faucet stem for a leaking bathtub faucet through Ace Hardware. I couldn't find any hardware storethat had it, except for Ace. Not even Amazon had it. I asked for delivery to my home. It would take three days. Then the leak got worse and I wanted to pick it up directly from the store. I called them and asked them to pull the part right weekend it got there and have it ready at the cash register. They happily did that for me and it stepped the process up by a day. I took it home and fixed the leak immediately. They were kind and empathetic to my situation. That's the nicest part. read more

Young Helper/assistant with a mustache who was on the sales aisle today (9/2/2026) @ around 2 pm was very unhelpful and curt towards me. I had a basic question about the size, weight and price certain bags of bird seeds. He was very curt, rude and not helpful at all. He had an attitude that was bordering on arrogance. I've been shopping at this Ace Hardware since we moved into the area in 1979 and I had never experienced this type of behavior in this store from a sales associate or worker at this store. I hope this was only a one time incident and that type of behavior by a sales associate is dealt with appropriately by the Ace Hardware management team. read more

I dread shopping here and do so only when desperate. The sales associates ALL are very rude and rough and in dire need on training in Customer Service.. the minute I step foot in the store I feel their negative Energy. Even if I do a pick up order, it's a negative experience. read more

Happened to be specifically looking around for a ploughing/digging tool and my search took me to Ace Hardware. I was looking at the tools wall and ran into Arshia who was immensely helpful through out my search process and the eventual purchase. Even though he was getting ready to get to his break , he made sure that he helped me in entirety with the search (looking it up in store, online , suggesting alternatives etc) and with a purchase that i made. So this review is a shoutout to Arshia and as well if you are looking to buy some hardware stuff (for your garden, house etc), Ace Hardware is out there to help you find it or the next best thing that can do the job. read more

Worse customer service there, from the moment you walk in to the moment you walk out. I went to match a screw and literally when I asked for help in locating the screw they just sent me to the aisle have in mind they have thousands of them. I asked a gentleman there for helped it's like I asked him to do me personally favor sighed so loud and was like ughhh grabbed my screw and took off with out a word. read more

I went into the store to a propane tank exchange. The cashier who helped me was courteous, efficient, and set a great example of quality customer service. Unfortunately, the overall experience was undermined by another associate, Eric. Eric handed me a tank from the shelf that was visibly rusty. When I politely asked if I could receive one in better condition, he replied in a dismissive tone, "They are all the same." That response felt rude and dismissive, and it left me concerned about both the condition of the tank and the level of care being shown to customers. Even if the tanks are functionally equivalent, a visibly rusty tank raises maintenance and safety questions for customers, and a respectful explanation or a simple exchange would have gone a long way. As a customer, I expect: - Safe, clean, and well-maintained equipment. - Respectful, solution-oriented communication. - A willingness to address reasonable concerns without making customers feel brushed off. I recognize that anyone can have a rough day, but the dismissive response and condition of the tank were not aligned with the level of service I've come to expect, and perhaps Eric needs additional training and accountability. read more

DO NOT BUY PAINT HERE. We were given the wrong paint multiple times after getting samples. This cost us much time and money and they have not been responsive in addressing these mistakes. Definitely go to Home Depot instead for your paint needs. read more

Nice staff with limited hardware supplies. Not much gardening plant comparison to Lowe's or Home Depot. read more

Almaden Ace Hardware - Services they're offering besides the hardware supplies - Hardware Stores Near Me - San Jose, California

Matt was a tremendous help today on matching my paint swatch. He has a great attitude and is an asset to our local hardware store.

You may want to rethink buying here if there is any chance you may need to return it! Apparently, there is a correct way to open your packages, I must've missed the tutorial. I recently tried to return an outlet, which was in perfectly good condition, never used. They denied my return due to the condition of the packaging not meeting their standards. That's fine, I don't need their over priced items. I try to buy local shops, Anyways, I'll just shop at Lowe's Home Depot, or Amazon instead,You wouldn't return a $25 switch and that will cost you how many thousands of dollars over the next 10 years for everybody who reads this review and people I tell. Not too smart. read more

Almaden Ace Hardware - Incorrectly opened packaging - Hardware Stores Near Me - San Jose, California

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Ordered a drill from here on black Friday. They called us when it was ready for pickup-no issues there. Its a small chain and a bit old school in my opinion. The people who work there aren't very helpful if you have questions or need help. Its a fine store if you know exactly what you want. read more

I was trying to get key copies for my 97 Toyota ACE HW saved the day. ACE made key copy for $6 When I could find a place that had key blanks, they wanted $25-$30 each. WTH read more

Two stars = average between 5 and 0, with a half star removed for unpredictability. Service is as important as materials. This place swings between helpful and disdainful service. They have a monopoly on the hardware store business in this part of San Jose, so they don't really need to try. read more

I typically go to Home Depot for parts as I am an electrical contractor. So I'm working near by this Ace hardware and stop in. I look around and buy a few electrical parts for a job nearby and start chatting about a question I had about my EGO leaf blower. I told this gentleman about the battery issue I had with it and figured it was out of warranty and figured I was out of luck, but thought I would ask anyways. I like the blower, but would hate to dump it, but the first battery died very quickly and I didn't bother to take it back to Los Gatos ACE where I originally purchased it at. I spoke with Mr. Frazier and he said he would try and help. He asked me to get him the battery and would call the company. I was shocked at the customer service. I mean even to try was a huge plus. I didn't think it would honestly work since it was out of warranty. He said he would do his best. Now I deal with Home Depot most of the time and their customer service is horrible, so I was used to that type of service. Not here. No way. Matt actually called me 2 days later and said the new battery would be available for pick up in a few days. I couldn't fricken believe it. I am not used to this kind of service, from anybody. Damn if the battery was not there when he said. Matt Frazier, thank you. I never see such service. Ever. Thank you for not only trying, but for going WAY beyond what anybody does these days. Your kind of service almost doesn't exist anymore. Thank you for bringing SERVICE BACK. 5 star service. Will be going back. read more

Love this neighborhood hardware store. They carry most of the essential basics that we need around the house. All the employees I've encountered have provided great customer service. Shoutout to Maracell who was so friendly and helpful today in helping me find replacement plumbing parts for a leaking sink. read more

Zack at Almaden Ace Hardware store in San Jose is the most helpful hardware sales person I've met in years. Zack searched high and low through several screw bins in the store until he found two perfect brass screws and a hole repair kit, to repair a broken antique hobby horse my wife used as a child. The brass screws were the perfect touch blending the aged toy with the new repair fasteners as much as possible. Now, the family heirloom can be displayed and will be a great conversation piece. Zack, you are an asset to Ace Hardware thanks again for your patience and kindness. I will be asking for you next time I shop at Ace. read more

Excellent customer service! I went in to get some drain cleaner and the cashier was smart enough to ask me what I planned to use it for. Upon hearing that I was going to clean the bathtub, he helped me find a better cleaner that was much more suited for my task. It worked like a charm! Upon returning for help with a broken cabinet, another attendant gave me some great repair advice and advised me on how to fix it, keeping cost and the future usability of my purchases in mind. He wasn't pushy at all about making me buy anything I didn't want and was really thoughtful when considering how to address my issue. Whenever I come in, the staff are always super helpful and knowledgeable. If I have an uncommon household dilemma that I'm trying to deal with, they have thoughtful and effective solutions. They're also nice enough to give dog biscuits to some of the customers who bring pooches in. Plus, the comparatively small size of the store makes each visit much faster than going to Home Depot. read more

Well I want to say that the Ace selection really saved me today. I must admit I tend to go to those high volume hardware stores with hd initials, but they did not have a screw smaller than #6. ACE had #4s in 1/2" and many other sizes as well and not just that. They had them in stainless steel and regular steel. They not only had standard nuts, but had nylon lock nuts. It was AWESOME! And like always they have an attentive staff, something pretty much unheard of at that other place. Over there I have to call customer service from the lumber dept to get a manager to send someone after waiting 15min. Anyway also check out their great remodel. Very clean looking store indeed. read more

I ordered a set of crows feet online that said it was going to be delivered tonight. When I got home I received an email telling me that it wouldn't be and I would need that set for my job inspection tomorrow. I hurried out the door and drove to Harbor freight tools, Home Depot and Sears, where a gentleman there told me to try ACE hardware. It was getting late so this would be my last chance and sure enough not only did they have crows feet but they had the 15/16 inch size that I needed which seem to be an odd size that nobody else carried. Thank God for Ace Hardware! read more

Almaden Ace Hardware - Hardware Stores Near Me - San Jose, California

The staff here is always knowledgeable and friendly-in my experience. When I first moved here they had everything I needed for painting the inside of our house. Today I just went for a copy of a key and walked up to the first employee I saw. He was able to copy the key in a couple minutes! Go anywhere else and they make you wait while they call the one person with expertise and it takes forever! I appreciate the store layout, those tasty snacks coming up to checkout, and the training provided to staff. Lots of good people. read more

Unlike the bigger stores, this store has people who really take care of you and give you help. I was only needing a few screws and it is hard for customer like me to find the right screws. I really appreciate all the help I got there. The store is quite organized and with great selections of household and hobby items. read more

This location is well stocked with anything you need from a hardware store. Except plants which is ok. The customer service is on point. Thanks to the staff for always helping me out. read more

As always they are hands on helpful. They know their stock and if you are unsure of exactly what you need will help you figure it out

Extremely rude and unprofessional unhelpful staff. Went there to get a key cut and the manager was outside in the front of the store. I asked him if the cut keys and he just said "yes" and seemed in a bad mood. I just thanked him and went inside and asked the lady at the cashier if she she could make me some keys. She agreed and I went over to the key section I'm standing in front of the key section asked the cashier which is the right key and she simply replied they're in front of you. She literally did not want to come over and show me what was the right style key and literally was afraid to come anywhere near me to find the right key. Overall both the cashier and the manager were very rude and unhelpful and I certainly won't be going back to that store. By contrast there's another ace hardware just a little bit further from my home on Blossom Hill Road and the staff there were extremely nice and helpful in the past I guess that's not the fault of ace but those particular people in the store in Almaden that just sort of made it a bad experience for me. read more

This is usually the place my husband likes to go to. For me, it's just ok. It's like an old fashioned hardware store. They seem to somehow carry everything in this small place. I wish I was still a kid because I would love to come into this place for their candy. They have candy that the big grocery stores don't stock. But, other than that, I always feel like I might be paying too much for something here. It is close and so it's nice to have someplace in Almaden Valley to go to when you don't want to hit up Home Depot again and the trip to OSH seems like overkill also. Lately I have had occasion to get keys made here, The last several times I have had that done I have been disappointed in the outcome. The keys don't work (for two separate places) which has not only caused problems, but the necessity to save receipts, come back and have it all done over again. Even a close place turns this task into a pain when the necessity for it becomes too much. read more

I keep going in here when I need something small - something I deem not worth my time and the gas (even driving a hybrid) to get to OSH or Home Depot ... but I rarely leave without wondering how they stay in business (heh, likely through other people who don't want to drive further for one little thing?!) This place is pricey and the staff are almost-never helpful (either in offering to help, or in actually being able to help when cornered and asked a question). Yesterday I went in to buy four new castors for my parrot cage. I had to find them myself, the staff were all chitchatting with one customer about the weather (literally). So I wandered a bit, found what I needed, and went back to the front to stand in line to pay (one line feeds to both registers). When I was next, another customer went ahead of me straight to the register. I said "Excuse me I was next" -- he ignored me. Now, I was on the cell at the time, so I asked my friend to hold a sec, put the phone down and said louder, to let the teller hear too, I said "Excuse me, I was in line and am next" - both the guy and the teller (both tellers in fact) ignored me. So I put down the castors (and the candy bar I'd picked up) where I was and left saying "Fine, I'm happy to take my business somewhere else." I'm not sure they even noticed me leave. Whatever - I went to OSH, and got what I needed, with help and input from the staff depsite OSH being *swamped* with people, at half the price (and no candy bar, so my hips would likely give ACE a 5-star just on that alone). Maybe this will convince me, once and for all, to quit going in there. OSH isn't that much further, is definitely cheaper, and hey they're a sponsor of the Sharks! :) read more

I left this place VERY frustrated that I couldn't find my 25w type B bulb today. But, that isn't Ace's fault. The clerks were helpful and didn't hassle me one bit when I returned a bulb that I bought that did not work. So in the end, they did their jobs well. Friendly service, and I can't fault them for not carrying a bulb that Home Depot didn't carry either. Turns out a lamp specialty store carried it, but I got a different one that is working fine in this putzy little lamp that was hardly worth the trouble. read more

The staff is really nice and usually helpful but I have to say to stand in line here is a bit of a nightmare. They have this weird tape on the ground about 6 feet away from the register that everyone is suppose to form one line at, but it is so confusing everyone just huddles...I hate the checking out part...it is close to home so I go there when need be. But very rarely. Too bad. Maybe they will fix the register portion and make it more user friendly. read more

Parking is very cramped here. Store is large but also cramped with lots of merchandise. Very difficult to find items as there seems to be no signage or organization of departments. You will have to ask for help to find merchandise. Staff is helpful, pricing seemed high for backpacks. If you just want to browse you will find something to buy. Just wish store was better organized with signage. 3 stars read more

So far, after our move back to Almaden, we've had to make 3 stops here and I have to say I'm impressed! For such a little hardware store (in comparison to Home Depot/Lowes) in a smaller community it has had everything we were looking for! I mean, we were at Home Depot the other day looking for a magnetic screwdriver set and they didn't have it! But, low and behold this place did! Also, the staff are very friendly and we've been greeted every time we walked in :) read more

Almaden Ace Hardware - Ooo so pretty ;) - Hardware Stores Near Me - San Jose, California

They don't have everything but carry the essentials most need. Good and helpful staff and great location.

They do not know what they are doing when it comes to installing pet screens. They broke my screen and tried to fix it and it was short. The screen is loose and does not fit correctly! Very disappointed with the management and how they handled this situation. read more

Conveniently located in the same plaza as Safeway! Friendly staff and great service when you need assistance locating things

Everyone at this location is super friendly. Robert in particular was very helpful. With his help, I was able to find the canning jars that my husband had ordered on the Internet. Additionally, Robert was able to fix my car key clicker simply by replacing the battery for me! That was an unexpected addition to my visit at this store. read more

Hidden gem in a busy plaza for your hardware needs. Parking can be a challenge depending on the time of day but usually theres always parking somewhere in the plaza. The employees are very helpful when assistance is needed. read more

This is the only place locally (beyond an auto dealer) that has a key coding machine. The keys run ~ $60, significantly less than the stealerships. read more

Ace in Almaden gets an F for customer service. My daughter walked down to Ace to get duct tape. Too bad for her she was a little too close to closing time. She was in the store, duct tape in hand, ready to go to the register. The clerk turned the lights off and said "We're closed." That was that. A wasted trip. I guess they didn't want her money. I guess going home was more important to the clerk. A normal customer service interaction would have let the customers in the store complete their purchases. It's not like she was lingering or taking too long. She went in, grabbed duct tape and headed to the register. No sale. read more

I went there today to buy some anchors to hang a shelf. The store is being remodeled. I found this out AFTER I tried to find wall anchors. I asked the sales lady where things were and she said "all over". Is that customer service? Could she have asked me what I was looking for when I walked in and told me the store was depleted? She was almost sarcastic. Hoping they are remodeling their employees with their store because there are a lot of hardware stores in Almaden and better customer service! read more

Poor Customer service. I have lived all over the country and the one thing I loved about Ace was the excellent customer service. You walk in the door and someone is there asking if you need help. You pay more, but the service is great. NOT THIS STORE. WOW. Very unfriendly and they never ask if you need help. Also, be prepared for some frowns if you return an item - it will not be greeted with a smile. While Home Depot is large and not very personable, at least you get better prices, obviously much better selection, and not treated like you a liar when you return something. One more thing, beware of the associate JACI - she is the rudest sales person you will ever meet. It's shocking they keep her around given how disrespectful she is. Maybe her manager should reach out to me so I can provide an example of complete disrespect she showed me when I was at the sore. I have officially boycotted this store - too bad b/c it's convenient for me :( read more