Are things cheaper on Black Friday or Cyber Monday?

The age-old question: Black Friday or Cyber Monday for better deals? While many retailers extend the same promotions across both days, subtle differences exist. Consumer Reports expert Samantha Gordon highlights that historically, Cyber Monday boasts superior prices on tech gadgets. This stems from its online-centric origins, resulting in a broader selection of online-only deals.

Key Differences: Expect to find more competitive pricing on electronics, software, and other tech products during Cyber Monday. Brick-and-mortar stores may offer stronger deals on apparel, home goods, and appliances during Black Friday, leveraging in-store traffic and potentially offering additional incentives like bundled promotions.

Strategic Shopping: Don’t limit your search to a single day. Many retailers begin rolling out their Black Friday/Cyber Monday deals weeks in advance, with some early bird discounts emerging even earlier. Price tracking websites and browser extensions can prove invaluable in identifying the best offers and price drops across different platforms.

Beyond the Hype: Remember that “deals” can be deceptive. Scrutinize advertised prices against previous pricing and compare across different retailers before making a purchase. Look for genuine discounts rather than simply hyped-up sales. Utilize price comparison tools to ensure you’re securing the most competitive offer.

What is the most purchased item on Black Friday?

Black Friday’s top-selling categories paint a fascinating picture of consumer spending. Electronics dominated with a staggering $17.7 billion in sales, an 11.4% year-over-year increase. This surge likely reflects the continued demand for smart devices, gaming consoles, and home entertainment systems. The strong growth indicates consumers are prioritizing tech upgrades even amidst economic uncertainty.

Close behind was Apparel at $14.5 billion, boasting a robust 13.4% YoY growth. This suggests a strong rebound in the fashion sector, possibly driven by post-pandemic social events and a renewed focus on personal style. The significant increase hints at a healthy appetite for clothing and accessories.

Surprisingly, Grocery saw impressive growth of 16.8%, reaching $7.5 billion. This points to a possible shift in consumer behavior, where Black Friday deals are extending beyond electronics and apparel to essential everyday items. The high growth percentage might be indicative of inflation-driven bargain hunting.

Furniture and bedding followed with $9.5 billion in sales, representing a 7.2% year-over-year increase. This signifies a continuing investment in home improvement and comfort, potentially reflecting the ongoing trend of working from home and prioritizing home-based lifestyles. The relatively lower growth compared to other sectors could suggest a degree of market saturation.

Finally, Cosmetics, with $3.2 billion in sales and a 10.1% YoY increase, showcased the enduring appeal of beauty products and the willingness of consumers to invest in self-care. This growth suggests resilience within the beauty market despite wider economic concerns.

What do people buy the most on Cyber Monday?

Cyber Monday’s a HUGE deal, and guess what? Smartphones are king! Almost 60% of all sales last year happened on phones – that’s a crazy amount! It’s even more than 2025, showing mobile shopping’s getting even bigger.

I’ve noticed the best deals often pop up on apps first, so I always check my favorite store apps early. Plus, lots of retailers have exclusive mobile-only deals and promotions, so you’re missing out if you only browse on a laptop. It’s all about speed and convenience on Cyber Monday; snagging those bargains before they disappear requires being super quick on your phone!

Pro-tip: Make sure your payment info is pre-saved and your shipping address is updated on your favorite shopping apps. Those extra seconds can mean the difference between getting that amazing deal and losing it!

Is it better to buy before or after Black Friday?

The optimal Black Friday shopping strategy depends entirely on your priorities. Many believe the best deals occur during Black Friday, fueled by intense competition and limited-time offers. However, this often comes at a cost – the intense pressure of limited stock, long lines, and potentially aggressive crowds.

Consider these points when deciding:

Price vs. Peace of Mind: Shopping *before* Black Friday offers a more relaxed experience. You can compare prices across multiple retailers without the frantic rush, potentially finding comparable deals without the stress.
Product Availability: While Black Friday boasts lower prices, extremely popular items frequently sell out quickly. Pre-Black Friday shopping secures your desired product, eliminating the risk of disappointment.
Return Policies: Be aware that return policies can be stricter or more limited during the Black Friday frenzy. Pre-Black Friday purchases often come with more lenient return windows.

For the absolute lowest prices, Black Friday is typically the winner. But be prepared for potential drawbacks. Thorough pre-Black Friday research, including price tracking websites, can help you determine if the Black Friday discount is genuinely exceptional or just marketing hype.

Track Prices: Use price comparison tools and browser extensions to monitor price fluctuations leading up to Black Friday.
Read Reviews: Don’t let the sale pressure you into a poor purchase. Check reviews before buying, especially on items you haven’t researched thoroughly.
Create a Budget: Sticking to a budget prevents impulsive buys, even with the lure of incredible discounts.

Is it better to shop on Amazon on Black Friday or Cyber Monday?

While Amazon often boasts Black Friday deals, the truly massive discounts from major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Target, and Walmart typically peak on Cyber Monday. Think of Black Friday as the appetizer and Cyber Monday as the main course. However, the feasting often extends beyond a single day. Many retailers stretch their best offers into a “Cyber Week,” sometimes even longer, offering a window of opportunity to snag those coveted deals. This extended timeframe allows for more strategic shopping, enabling price comparisons and less frantic last-minute purchases. Keep an eye out for price drops throughout the week; some items might see their lowest price mid-week, while others will maintain their Cyber Monday discounts until the end. Don’t solely focus on the advertised sales start and end times – consistent monitoring of prices is key to maximizing your savings during this shopping period.

Furthermore, consider that while Cyber Monday traditionally focuses on electronics and tech, many retailers broaden their offerings across various categories, making it a prime time for bargains on everything from home goods to apparel. Factor in potential shipping delays, opting for in-store pickup if possible to avoid potential holiday shipping congestion. Finally, utilize browser extensions designed to track price history and compare across different online retailers to ensure you’re securing the absolute best deals.

What not to buy on Black Friday?

OMG, Black Friday! But honey, let’s be smart about this. Don’t fall for every shiny thing! Those off-brand TVs? Total trap! Sure, they’re cheap, but the picture quality will make you cry. Stick to the reputable brands – the sales are *amazing* on those, trust me. And furniture and mattresses? Unless you’ve been eyeing a specific piece for months and it’s *massively* discounted (like, 70% off, minimum!), skip it. Stores inflate prices beforehand just to make the “sale” seem better. Same goes for toys – the post-holiday clearance is way better.

Gift cards? Seriously? Unless it’s a specific store you already adore and know you’ll use it all, they’re a waste. You’re basically giving the retailer interest-free money. Jewelry – Black Friday deals on jewelry are often underwhelming. Look for better deals outside of the frenzy. And fitness equipment? You’ll probably end up using it as a very expensive clothes rack. Remember those New Year’s resolutions that died by February?

Cosmetics and beauty products? Most brands have better sales throughout the year, particularly around holiday times. Don’t get caught up in the hype! Finally, winter clothing. Unless you’re truly desperate or find an unbelievable deal on a must-have piece, hold off. Post-holiday sales usually offer similar or better deals on winter gear.

Pro-tip: Check prices NOW on those items you *think* you want. Use price comparison websites! Then, watch for the actual Black Friday ads to see if the deals are legit. Don’t fall for the fear of missing out (FOMO)! Happy (and smart) shopping!

Will everything be cheaper on Black Friday?

OMG, Black Friday! Don’t get suckered in! Nine out of ten deals are the same price or even cheaper at other times. Which? did a study, and it’s true! Seriously, retailers are masters of illusion. They jack up prices *before* Black Friday to make the “discount” look bigger. Do your research! Check sites like camelcamelcamel.com (for Amazon) or price trackers to see the item’s price history. Use browser extensions like Honey to find coupons automatically. Create a detailed wishlist *before* the madness begins. Don’t impulse buy! Stick to your list and your budget. Prioritize your wants, and focus on items with genuinely significant discounts – look for percentages, not just dollar amounts! And remember, that “limited stock” warning is often just a tactic to push you to buy NOW.

What is the best store to go to on Black Friday?

Black Friday shopping can be overwhelming, but knowing where to find the deepest discounts is half the battle. Based on projected 2024 average discount percentages, here’s a breakdown of top contenders:

JCPenney (76.20%): JCPenney consistently offers massive discounts on apparel, home goods, and jewelry. Expect significant markdowns across all departments, making it ideal for stocking up on clothing or refreshing your home decor. Be prepared for crowds, though.
Belk (72.68%): Similar to JCPenney, Belk provides substantial savings on a wide range of products, including clothing, shoes, and accessories. Their online presence is strong, offering a convenient alternative to in-store shopping.
Macy’s (57.13%): A department store staple, Macy’s offers a diverse selection with solid discounts on various items. Their sales often include brand-name items, though you might find better deals at other retailers for specific items.
Kohl’s (43.55%): Kohl’s is known for its wide selection and frequent promotions. While the average discount percentage might be lower compared to others, Kohl’s Cash and other promotions often sweeten the deal, making it worth considering.
Walmart (37.75%): Walmart is a go-to for electronics, home goods, and toys. Their Black Friday deals are often highly publicized and competitive, but expect fierce competition for in-demand items.
The Home Depot (32.43%): For home improvement needs, The Home Depot offers discounts on tools, appliances, and building materials. Focus on larger-ticket items where the percentage savings will be more substantial.
Amazon (32.05%): Amazon’s Black Friday deals span a vast range of products, providing convenience and often competitive pricing. Be sure to check their deals early, as many are available in the days leading up to Black Friday itself.
BJ’s (28.86%): BJ’s Wholesale Club offers strong deals, particularly on bulk items and groceries. Membership is required, so factor in the cost when evaluating the value proposition.

Important Note: These percentages are averages and individual item discounts may vary significantly. Always compare prices across retailers before making a purchase.

Pro Tip: Create a shopping list beforehand, prioritize your must-have items, and check online for store-specific Black Friday ads to plan your strategy.

What do consumers buy the most online?

Oh man, you wouldn’t believe the stuff you can get online these days! It’s crazy. But if you’re talking about what’s *actually* flying off the virtual shelves in the US, it’s definitely clothes and shoes. I mean, who wants to fight crowds at the mall when you can browse thousands of options from your couch in your pajamas? The convenience is unmatched. Plus, online retailers often have way better deals and a wider selection of sizes and styles than brick-and-mortar stores. You can even find super niche stuff that you’d never find locally. Beyond clothes and shoes, electronics are a huge online market – think phones, laptops, headphones – all easily compared and purchased with a few clicks. Then there’s beauty products – makeup, skincare – it’s easy to read reviews and find the perfect shade or formula without the pressure of a sales assistant. And don’t forget home goods! Everything from furniture to kitchen gadgets, it’s all there. Basically, the only limit is your imagination (and your credit card limit, haha!).

What are good things to buy on Black Friday?

Black Friday is the ultimate hunting ground for tech deals, and this year promises to be no exception. While many items are discounted, certain categories stand out as particularly worthwhile purchases. Prioritizing these can save you significant money.

Televisions: Expect steep discounts on larger screen sizes and higher resolutions, especially from brands like Samsung, LG, and TCL. Look for deals on OLED and QLED technologies for improved picture quality. Pay close attention to panel refresh rates (120Hz is ideal for gaming and smoother motion) and features like HDR (High Dynamic Range) for enhanced contrast and color. Research models beforehand to avoid impulse purchases.

Game Consoles: Black Friday frequently sees price drops on both current-gen consoles (PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S) and older models. Bundle deals including extra controllers, games, or subscriptions are common. Check for limited edition console designs as these often sell out quickly.

Laptops: Whether you need a powerful machine for gaming or a lightweight ultrabook for everyday tasks, Black Friday offers excellent opportunities to upgrade. Look for discounts on processors like Intel Core i5/i7 or AMD Ryzen 5/7. Consider RAM (8GB minimum, 16GB recommended) and storage (SSD is crucial for speed). Pay attention to screen resolution and battery life.

Apple Products: While not always drastically reduced, Apple products often see modest price drops or come with gift cards or bundled accessories on Black Friday. This is particularly true for older models being phased out. Be sure to compare prices across different retailers.

Appliances: Larger appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and dryers often receive significant discounts. Check energy efficiency ratings (look for Energy Star certification) before making a purchase. Consider smart appliances with Wi-Fi connectivity for added convenience.

Winter Apparel (Tech Focused): While not strictly tech, heated apparel like jackets and gloves powered by rechargeable batteries is becoming increasingly popular. Black Friday can be a great time to grab these at a discount. Look for long battery life and comfortable designs.

Sneakers (Tech Focused): While seemingly unrelated, certain high-end athletic footwear incorporates smart technology for tracking metrics. Look out for deals on these specialized shoes if you’re a fitness enthusiast who appreciates data-driven insights.

Vacations (Tech Focused): Consider booking a trip leveraging travel tech deals. Flights, hotel stays, and rental car bookings often offer significant discounts. These aren’t direct hardware, but purchasing through platforms with Black Friday offers can save considerable money on your tech-assisted travel.

What is the best time to go to a store on Black Friday?

Black Friday shopping is a marathon, not a sprint, and timing is everything. While the allure of doorbuster deals is strong, avoiding the peak hours of 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. is crucial for a smoother experience. These are the times when stores are most congested, with lines snaking around blocks and the coveted deals already picked over.

The most effective strategy? Embrace the early bird special – but strategically. While getting up before dawn might seem extreme, arriving before the stores even open can grant you access to the best deals with minimal wait times. However, don’t assume all early-morning deals are the best; many retailers strategically release highly-desired items throughout the day to keep the crowds engaged.

Consider your target stores. Larger big-box retailers tend to have longer lines and more aggressive shoppers compared to smaller, independent businesses. Research your preferred store’s past Black Friday strategies – some publish their opening times and potential deal releases online.

Remember to check online inventory before heading out. Many retailers offer online Black Friday deals, potentially allowing you to avoid the crowds altogether. And if you do choose to brave the physical stores, bring comfortable shoes and a fully charged phone – you’ll be doing a lot of walking and need to stay connected for any last-minute updates.

How much do prices actually go down during Black Friday?

Black Friday’s hype often overshadows the reality of its discounts. While many believe it’s a goldmine of deals, a recent WalletHub report reveals a more nuanced picture. Around 41% of items aren’t actually discounted, meaning their Black Friday price is the same as their regular price. This highlights the importance of pre-Black Friday research; checking prices on sites like CamelCamelCamel or Keepa can help you determine whether a deal is genuine.

However, for the remaining items, the average discount is a respectable 24%. Some deals are significantly steeper, reaching a maximum markdown of 89% in the WalletHub study. This variability underscores the need for careful shopping. Focus on specific items you need or want, rather than being swayed by flashy advertisements. Make a list beforehand and stick to it.

Tech deals are usually a major draw during Black Friday, with many consumers eagerly awaiting discounts on laptops, smartphones, and smart home devices. While significant savings can be found, remember that manufacturers often release slightly tweaked models just before Black Friday, making older generations appear more discounted than they truly are. Consider if the specs of a seemingly great deal truly meet your needs, rather than settling for a slightly older model simply because it’s cheaper.

Ultimately, Black Friday requires a strategic approach. Don’t get caught up in the frenzy; do your homework, compare prices across multiple retailers, and be ready to pull the trigger only when you’re confident you’re getting a genuine bargain. The thrill of the hunt should be complemented by the satisfaction of a smart purchase.

Does Amazon drop prices on Cyber Monday?

Amazon’s Cyber Monday is *huge*. Forget just one day – they do a whole Cyber Week! Seriously, they start their deals early and stretch them out. While Cyber Monday itself will have some killer deals, don’t sleep on the days leading up to and following it. You’ll find tons of great stuff discounted throughout the entire week. My tip? Make a wishlist beforehand. Amazon lets you track price drops, so you’ll know if something you’re eyeing gets cheaper. Also, be sure to check their Lightning Deals – those are limited-time offers on specific items that go fast. And don’t forget to check out their daily deals section throughout the week for additional savings.

Keep an eye on categories like electronics, home goods, and toys – they usually have the biggest discounts. But honestly, you can find deals across almost everything on Amazon during Cyber Week. It’s worth browsing even if you weren’t initially looking for anything specific. You might just find a surprise bargain!

Does Best Buy do Cyber Monday?

Best Buy’s Cyber Monday sale is a major event, consistently delivering impressive deals on a wide range of electronics. Expect significant discounts on highly sought-after items.

Key categories to watch:

Tablets & Computers: Look for deep discounts on both leading brands and budget-friendly options. Consider checking specs carefully to ensure you’re getting the features you need at the best price. Deals often include laptops, 2-in-1s, and Chromebooks.
TVs: Cyber Monday often brings the best prices of the year on TVs, from smaller screen sizes for bedrooms to large-screen models perfect for home theaters. Pay close attention to resolution (4K, 8K), HDR capabilities, and smart TV features.
Video Consoles & Games: Expect price drops on current-generation consoles and bundles, along with substantial savings on popular game titles. This is a great time to upgrade or start a new gaming setup.
Digital Cameras: Whether you’re a professional photographer or just starting out, Cyber Monday often presents opportunities to snag a great camera or lenses at a discounted price. Check reviews to see which models are worth considering.
Cell Phones: Best Buy frequently offers competitive deals on smartphones, often including carrier promotions and trade-in values. This is a perfect time to upgrade your device without breaking the bank.

Pro-Tip: Best Buy’s Cyber Monday deals often sell out quickly, so it’s crucial to have your desired items in your cart ahead of time and be ready to purchase the moment the sale starts. Also, compare prices across different retailers to ensure you’re getting the absolute best deal.

Things to consider before purchasing:

Read reviews: Before buying any electronics, check online reviews to ensure the product meets your expectations.
Warranty & Return Policy: Familiarize yourself with Best Buy’s return policy in case you need to make a return or exchange.
Compare specs: Don’t just focus on the price; compare the specifications of different models to choose the best product for your needs.

Do stores actually lower prices on Black Friday?

Black Friday’s a bit of a mixed bag, honestly. WalletHub found that a whopping 41% of items aren’t actually cheaper than they were in the weeks leading up to it! Don’t get me wrong, you can find amazing deals, but you really have to do your research.

My advice? Start tracking prices now using browser extensions like Honey or CamelCamelCamel. They’ll show you price history on sites like Amazon, so you can spot genuine discounts. Also, don’t forget about sites like Slickdeals and DealNews – they aggregate the best offers from across the internet. And finally, sign up for email newsletters from your favorite stores; they often send out exclusive early-bird deals.

Beware of “doorbuster” deals – they’re often limited quantities and may not be the best overall value. And always check the return policy before you buy – you don’t want to be stuck with something you don’t need.

What is the biggest sale of the year?

Black Friday, traditionally the day after Thanksgiving, remains the busiest shopping day in the US, a title fiercely contested year after year. Retailers pour significant resources into this period, viewing it, along with Cyber Monday, as crucial for annual profitability. This intense focus translates into aggressive discounting across a wide range of products.

What to expect:

Deep Discounts: Expect significant price reductions on electronics, appliances, clothing, and toys. Many retailers leak deals ahead of time to build hype.
Doorbuster Deals: Extremely limited quantities of heavily discounted items are offered early in the morning, often requiring early arrival and long lines.
Online Sales: Cyber Monday, the Monday following Black Friday, sees a surge in online shopping, offering a convenient alternative to brick-and-mortar stores. This often extends beyond electronics and includes deals from many physical stores’ online platforms.

Smart Shopping Strategies:

Plan Ahead: Research desired items and prices in advance. Many retailers advertise sales weeks prior.
Compare Prices: Don’t assume the first deal you see is the best. Utilize price comparison websites and check multiple retailers.
Read the Fine Print: Pay close attention to return policies, shipping costs, and any limitations on sale items.
Set a Budget: Stick to a pre-determined spending limit to avoid overspending.

While Black Friday and Cyber Monday are synonymous with massive sales, it’s wise to approach them strategically to maximize savings and avoid impulse purchases.

Are there bigger discounts on Cyber Monday?

Cyber Monday vs. Black Friday: A closer look reveals that while many tout Cyber Monday as a separate shopping extravaganza, the reality is often a continuation of Black Friday deals. The best offers frequently overlap, with many retailers extending their promotions throughout the weekend and into Monday.

However, there’s a key distinction: convenience. Unlike Black Friday’s frantic, often family-disrupting rush, Cyber Monday allows for more leisurely shopping during work hours. This makes it ideal for those seeking to avoid the crowds and the pressure of in-person shopping.

What to expect:

Extended Black Friday deals: Most major retailers continue their Black Friday discounts into Cyber Monday.
Online-exclusive deals: While some sales mirror in-store offerings, expect to find some exclusive deals available only online.
Flash sales: Be prepared for timed promotions that offer deep discounts for a limited period. These often appear throughout the day, so constant vigilance is key.

Smart Shopping Tips:

Price comparison websites: Utilize sites that aggregate deals from multiple retailers to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Read reviews: Before purchasing, check reviews to avoid disappointing purchases.
Check return policies: Familiarize yourself with return policies in case of issues or a change of mind.
Use browser extensions: Install browser extensions that automatically search for coupon codes and better pricing options.

In short: While the core deals might be similar, Cyber Monday provides a different shopping experience—a quieter, potentially more productive, and certainly less hectic alternative to the Black Friday frenzy.

How much cheaper is everything on Black Friday?

Black Friday’s discounts can be deceptive. While WalletHub’s research reveals that a significant portion – around 41% – of advertised deals aren’t actually cheaper than regular prices, the remaining items boast an average markdown of 24%. This average masks a huge range, however, with some products discounted as much as 89% while others see only minimal reductions.

Strategic shopping is key. Don’t blindly assume everything’s a bargain. Thorough price comparisons across multiple retailers – both online and brick-and-mortar – are crucial before committing to a purchase. Focus on specific items you need, rather than getting caught up in the hype. Check historical price trends using browser extensions or dedicated websites to verify the legitimacy of advertised discounts.

Prioritize quality over quantity. The deep discounts (those exceeding 50%) often apply to lower-quality items or older models. Weigh the actual value proposition carefully; a slightly lower price on a subpar product might not be worth it in the long run.

Beware of artificial inflation. Some retailers inflate prices before Black Friday to make the discounts appear more substantial than they actually are. This manipulative tactic makes it even more important to conduct your own thorough price research.

Don’t forget shipping costs. Free shipping is often a significant factor, especially when making online purchases. Factor shipping into your total cost to accurately assess the real savings.

Consider post-Black Friday sales. Many retailers extend sales beyond Black Friday, sometimes even offering better deals in the days and weeks following the event. Patience can lead to even greater savings.