Since getting back into electronics earlier this year, I've placed orders for more kits and components than I care to admit. Fortunately, I've had good experiences so far. (I will update this page as I have future interactions with these, and other, vendors)

Companies I've dealt with and my notes on the interaction(s)

Digikey - Offers an incredibly diverse selection of manufacturers and components, but not always the best prices. However, given minimum order sizes and shipping costs with most online resellers, they are currently my default option for general parts orders. Also: don't be scared by their backorder date estimates, they shipped an order in which I had several items backordered well over a month ahead of when I expected it.

Adafruit - I've purchased their kits and boards both directly and through resellers. Good experiences in both situations and I expect I'll be doing more business with them in the future.

Sparkfun - What attracted me to them are their specialized breakout boards and kits. I'll be back for more.

MakerSHED - A good selection with moderate prices. I had a couple of minor issues with my order re: a damaged part and obtaining documentation for the kit, but they eventually came through.

EvilMadScience - Fairly specialized in what they offer but I couldn't resist placing an order with them and was happy with what I got. Also, excellent customer service when I emailed them with questions and wanted to order 'off the menu'.

Robotshop.us - When I needed servo and steppers, this was who I dealt with. No problems.

One thing I appreciate about the merchants above: they provided very good online information (often in the form of data sheets or information pages as appropriate) and very clear prices and terms for the order so there were no surprises on my end.

Companies I haven't done, or won't do, business with

Seeed Studio - Unfortunately, they don't offer a payment method I'm comfortable with (direct credit card payments)... which is a bummer since they do offer some items I'm interested in buying.