What are the benefits of buying at a MAC store instead of a department store?

I have heard that there are some benefits to buying cosmetics at the mac store instead of a department store like Macys. One of them being that the refill pans of eyeshadow are not available to you at department stores.
Are there more bonus' to the MAC stores? Is it cheaper? Do they offer you samples?
Its the same as the counters, but the MAC store has more stuff that aren't avaliable at counters.

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You get a way better service and professional advice so you can be sure you get the right products for your skin needs. Sometimes they give samples away as well.
it's the same price and while both the counter and the store are supposedly supposed to offer samples, neither one really ever do. sometimes on the off chance though. sometimes.
the only thing cheaper are those refill pans. they are like a couple dollars cheaper but you don't get to do the back to mac thing with them.

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its same price either way but at the MAC store you can get more things like the pan refills and pallette. i also thing you have more option for if you BAC to MAC something but idk... you also have even more option of product to buy if you go to a MAC pro store
It's basically the same thing, except you can get refill pans and palettes. Unless you're talking about the MAC Pro stores. That store is only located in four states. I know it's in NYC and LA. That is where they have special eye shadows, lipsticks, etc that you can't get at a MAC store at Macy's, Nordstroms, or even their regular store. You can order from the MAC Pro store by phone, if there isn't one near you. Also, they offer a special program where you can get discounts.

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Only if you're a makeup artist, freelancer, photographer, model, actress, etc. They have a complete list on their site. Depending on what you do, you can get up to 60% off. They have limits and rules, though. But for advice, don't try and fake your way in. It takes awhile for them to get back to you. Why? Because they are taking their time, reviewing your credentials (you have to provide actual proof, business cards, degree, etc) and if they find out you faked it, they will keep you on a list and it will become even HARDER to get in next time.
Sorry for this being so long.