the verge s guide to black friday As the holiday season approaches, shoppers are gearing up for Black Friday and Cyber Monday, with significant discounts on a wide array of tech products.
the verge s guide to black friday
Understanding Black Friday and Cyber Monday
Black Friday, traditionally observed the day after Thanksgiving in the United States, marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season. In recent years, it has expanded into a weekend of deals that culminates in Cyber Monday, which focuses primarily on online sales. This year, Black Friday falls on November 29, 2025, with Cyber Monday following on December 1. As consumers prepare for these shopping events, it is essential to understand the landscape of discounts, the implications of ongoing tariffs, and strategies for successful shopping.
The Impact of Tariffs on Prices
Shoppers may find that this holiday season could be more expensive than anticipated due to the ongoing tariff situation in the United States. Tariffs on various imported goods have led to price increases on popular items such as Sonos speakers, video game consoles, and cameras. While many retailers are offering discounts, the underlying costs may still be higher than in previous years. This situation underscores the importance of being informed about pricing trends and potential savings.
Current Discounts and Notable Deals
Despite the potential for higher prices, many gadgets and tech products are available at steep discounts during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Here are some of the most notable deals currently available:
- Apple Products: Discounts on last-generation AirPods Pro 2 have reached their lowest price to date. The M4 MacBook Air is also cheaper than ever, making it an attractive option for those in the market for a new laptop.
- Televisions: LG’s B5 OLED TV is already priced at just $530, offering significant savings for those looking to upgrade their home entertainment systems.
- Headphones: Bose’s QuietComfort Ultra earbuds are available for $50 off, while Sony’s last-gen XM4 headphones are over 50 percent off, providing excellent options for audiophiles.
- Smart Home Devices: Discounts on robovacs from Roborock and Eufy are noteworthy, with savings of up to 50 percent.
- Streaming Devices: Google’s 4K TV Streamer is at its best price to date, making it an ideal choice for those looking to enhance their streaming experience.
Breakout Tech Deals
In addition to the broader categories, several standout deals are worth highlighting:
- The Fire TV Stick 4K Max has returned to $35, marking its best price in a year.
- The DualSense Edge controller for PlayStation has fallen to one of the lowest prices seen for Black Friday.
- The Oura Ring 4 is still at its lowest price ever, appealing to health and fitness enthusiasts.
- Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 have received their biggest discount ahead of Black Friday.
- Philips Hue’s Festavia string lights are nearly $60 off, perfect for holiday decorating.
Shopping Strategies for Black Friday
To maximize savings during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, shoppers should consider several strategies:
1. Research and Compare Prices
Before making a purchase, it is essential to research and compare prices across different retailers. Many retailers have price-matching policies, allowing consumers to take advantage of the best deals available. Websites and apps that track price history can also provide insights into whether a deal is genuinely a bargain.
2. Sign Up for Retailer Newsletters
Many retailers offer exclusive discounts to subscribers of their newsletters. Signing up for these newsletters can provide early access to sales and additional savings opportunities.
3. Use Cashback and Reward Programs
Utilizing cashback websites and credit card reward programs can further enhance savings. Many credit cards offer cashback on purchases made during the holiday season, adding an extra layer of savings to already discounted items.
4. Shop Early
While Black Friday and Cyber Monday are the main events, many retailers begin their sales weeks in advance. Shopping early can help consumers secure the best deals before popular items sell out.
Notable Retailer Policies
Understanding retailer policies can significantly impact the shopping experience. Here are some key policies to keep in mind:
- Shipping and Return Policies: Familiarizing oneself with shipping costs and return policies can save time and money. Many retailers offer free shipping during the holiday season, while others have extended return windows for holiday purchases.
- Price Matching: Retailers such as Best Buy and GameStop have price-matching policies that allow consumers to receive the lowest price available, even after a purchase.
- Exclusive Sales Events: Some retailers may have exclusive sales events for members of their loyalty programs, providing additional discounts on top of existing offers.
Popular Categories and Deals
Several categories are particularly popular among shoppers during Black Friday and Cyber Monday:
1. Electronics
Electronics consistently top the list of desired items during the holiday shopping season. Discounts on laptops, televisions, and headphones are often substantial, making it an ideal time to upgrade or purchase gifts.
2. Smart Home Devices
With the rise of smart home technology, devices such as smart speakers, security cameras, and home automation systems are in high demand. Discounts on these products can lead to significant savings for consumers looking to enhance their home technology.
3. Gaming Consoles and Accessories
Gaming consoles, such as the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, are frequently on sale during Black Friday. Additionally, accessories like controllers and gaming headsets often see substantial discounts, appealing to gamers of all ages.
4. Home Appliances
Home appliances, including kitchen gadgets and cleaning devices, are also popular during this shopping season. Discounts on items like air fryers, coffee makers, and robotic vacuums can lead to considerable savings for consumers looking to upgrade their home essentials.
Conclusion
As Black Friday and Cyber Monday approach, consumers have a wealth of opportunities to save on tech products and gadgets. While the ongoing tariff situation may lead to higher prices on some items, many retailers are offering significant discounts that can help shoppers find great deals. By employing effective shopping strategies and understanding retailer policies, consumers can navigate the holiday shopping season with confidence and make informed purchasing decisions.
Source: Original report
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Last Modified: November 29, 2025 at 12:39 pm
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