11 Kirkland products shoppers say are better than the name brands

If you’ve spent time walking through Costco’s aisles, you know the thrill of spotting a Kirkland Signature product that delivers more than just savings.

For many shoppers, these items rival—or even outperform—the well-known brands they’re modeled after.

From pantry staples to household must-haves, Kirkland has built a loyal following by offering quality without the big price tag.


The best part? Many shoppers insist they’d rather buy Kirkland than the brand-name version.

Here are 11 customer favorites that might just earn a spot on your next shopping list.


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Costco shoppers say Kirkland Signature products often match—or even surpass—the quality of national name brands. Image Source: YouTube / The Wall Street Journal.


1. Kirkland Signature Almond Nut Bars​


Often compared to Kind bars, these nut bars are praised for being tasty, affordable, and lower in sugar.

“My household likes these more than Kind,” one shopper wrote. For a snack that’s both wholesome and wallet-friendly, they’ve become a Costco classic.


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A popular alternative to Kind bars, these nut-packed snacks offer great taste with less sugar. Image source: Costco.


2. Kirkland Signature Chocolate Chip Mini Muffin Bites​


These treats give Little Bites tough competition.

Each pouch comes with four moist, chocolate-filled muffins, free of high fructose corn syrup or artificial colors.

At around $8.79 for 20 pouches, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike.


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These soft, chocolatey muffins are a hit with kids and grownups alike. Image source: Costco.


3. Kirkland Signature Oxi Powder​


Laundry day is easier with this stain-fighting powder.

Customers say it outperforms OxiClean at about half the cost.

One reviewer put it simply: “It’s what OxiClean used to be.”


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Shoppers say this stain remover rivals OxiClean at nearly half the cost. Image source: Costco.




Also read: Costco shoppers are raving about this heart-healthy snack you can find in-store

4. Kirkland Signature Unscented Kitchen Trash Bags​


Reliable and sturdy, these bags are a favorite alternative to pricier Hefty versions.

Shoppers praise their durability, calling them “top tier value.”

It may not be glamorous, but it’s one of those little upgrades that makes daily life smoother.


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Praised for their strength and reliability, these trash bags are a household essential. Image source: Costco.


5. Kirkland Signature Extra Crispy French Fries​


Frozen fries are a family staple, and these stand out. Customers say they’re thicker, crispier, and more flavorful than Ore-Ida fries.

Once they’ve tried them, many don’t look back.


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Crispy, thick-cut fries that fans say outperform big-name frozen brands. Image source: Costco.


6. Kirkland Signature Egg Bites​


Similar to the ones you’ll find at Starbucks, these egg bites are a convenient and tasty breakfast option.

Fans say they’re especially good in the air fryer, and some even believe they’re made by the same supplier.


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These protein-packed bites are a favorite breakfast shortcut—especially when air-fried. Image source: Costco.




Also read: Costco shopper shares “secret code” for cheaper meds—members say they’re stunned

7. Kirkland Signature Popcorn​


With 44 bags per box, this popcorn is both budget-friendly and delicious.

Customers call it the best microwave popcorn they’ve tried, praising the flavor and value compared to grocery-store brands.


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With great flavor and serious value, this microwave popcorn is a go-to snack. Image source: Costco.


8. Kirkland Signature Organic Summit Roast K-Cup Pods​


Coffee drinkers say these pods rival Starbucks and Caribou in smoothness and flavor.

You’ll get more pods for less money, making mornings a little easier on the budget.


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Coffee lovers say this smooth roast rivals name-brand brews for a fraction of the price. Image source: Costco.


9. Kirkland Signature Breakfast Sandwiches​


Made with applewood smoked bacon, egg, and cheese on a spiral croissant bun, these sandwiches are a customer favorite.

Many compare them to Starbucks breakfast sandwiches—without the drive-thru line or price tag.


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These bacon, egg, and cheese sandwiches are a wallet-friendly alternative to café breakfasts. Image source: Costco.


Also read: The secret times Costco pros shop to score deals and skip the crowds

10. Kirkland Signature Krinkle Cut Kettle Chips, Himalayan Salt​


These crunchy chips are made by the same company behind Kettle Chips, offering the same flavor at a better price.

Shoppers love the thick texture and satisfying saltiness.


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Made by the same company as name-brand chips, these deliver the same crunch at a better price. Image source: Costco.


11. Kirkland Signature Applesauce Pouches​


Perfect for kids’ lunches or an on-the-go snack, these pouches are considered a better deal than GoGo Squeeze.

With less sugar and fewer calories, they’re both healthier and more affordable.


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A convenient, lower-sugar snack that competes directly with GoGo Squeeze. Image source: Costco.


Also read: 7 standout Costco deals that loyal members say beat every other store

Why Kirkland Signature keeps winning fans​


Kirkland products often come from the same suppliers as the name brands, which helps explain their consistent quality.

Costco’s private label also keeps prices low while offering generous portions and straightforward ingredients.

For families, retirees, or anyone watching their budget, Kirkland continues to earn trust as a dependable value.

Also read: Are you missing out on these 7 Costco Executive perks members love?

Tips for shopping Kirkland like a pro​


  • Try samples before committing – Costco often lets you taste or test items.
  • Check labels – Many Kirkland products use simpler ingredients.
  • Look beyond food – The brand also covers items like batteries, vitamins, and olive oil.
  • Split bulk buys – Share purchases with friends or family to avoid waste and stretch savings further.

For many Costco shoppers, Kirkland products have become household staples, offering both quality and savings.

If you haven’t explored the full range yet, these 11 favorites are a great place to start.

You may even find yourself wondering why you ever paid extra for the name-brand version!


Source: YouTube / The Wall Street Journal


Read next: 11 member-only Costco savings you’ll want to check out this month

Key Takeaways
  • Shoppers often rate Kirkland Signature items as equal to—or better than—name brands, usually at a lower price.
  • Popular picks include Almond Nut Bars, Oxi Powder, Egg Bites, and Extra Crispy French Fries, which are praised for quality and taste.
  • Some Kirkland products are confirmed or suspected to come from the same manufacturers as branded items, adding extra value.
  • Online reviews highlight everyday essentials like trash bags, coffee pods, and snacks as reliable alternatives to higher-cost versions.

Which of these Kirkland products do you keep stocked at home, and do you think they truly beat the brand names? Let us know in the comments below!
 

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