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the verge s guide to black friday Black Friday has evolved into a multi-day shopping extravaganza, and while the main event may have shifted to Saturday, many of the best deals are still available, extending through Cyber Monday on December 1st.

the verge s guide to black friday

Current Shopping Landscape

The holiday shopping season is in full swing, and consumers are presented with a plethora of opportunities to save on a wide array of products. From laptops and OLED TVs to noise-canceling headphones and smart home devices, shoppers can find substantial discounts across various categories. This year, the stakes are higher due to ongoing tariff issues in the United States, which have caused prices for certain goods, including Sonos speakers, video game consoles, and cameras, to rise. As a result, savvy shoppers are encouraged to take advantage of current deals before prices increase further.

Understanding Tariffs and Their Impact

The ongoing tariff situation has created a complex environment for consumers. Tariffs are taxes imposed on imported goods, and they can significantly affect retail prices. As manufacturers and retailers pass these costs onto consumers, shoppers may find themselves paying more for products that were previously more affordable. This situation makes it imperative for consumers to stay informed about pricing trends and to act quickly when they spot a good deal.

Top Deals Still Available

As we navigate through the shopping weekend, numerous deals remain available. Here’s a curated list of standout offers that consumers can still take advantage of:

The Oura Ring 4 is currently at its lowest price ever, making it an attractive option for those interested in health tracking.
Apple’s last-gen AirPods Pro 2 are down to their lowest price to date, appealing to audiophiles and casual listeners alike.
LG’s B5 OLED TV is available for just $530, a significant discount that highlights the brand’s reputation for quality displays.
Bose’s latest QuietComfort Ultra earbuds are $50 off, providing a premium audio experience at a more accessible price point.
Robovacs from Roborock and Eufy are being offered at 50% off, making home cleaning more convenient and affordable.
Gaming enthusiasts can find the best gaming headset of the year at a $30 discount, enhancing their gaming experience without breaking the bank.

Electronics and Gadgets

Electronics continue to dominate the Black Friday sales landscape. Here are some additional notable deals:

Every current-gen Fitbit is heavily discounted, making fitness tracking more accessible.
Google’s 4K TV Streamer is at its best price to date, appealing to those looking to upgrade their home entertainment systems.
The Fire TV Stick 4K Max is back down to $35, a price point that makes streaming services more accessible.
The Meta Quest 3S is $50 off and comes with a $50 gift card and a game, making it an enticing option for gamers.
Apple’s M4 MacBook Air is cheaper than ever, providing a powerful computing option for students and professionals alike.

Shopping Tips for Black Friday and Cyber Monday

To navigate the vast array of deals effectively, consumers can benefit from strategic shopping tips. Here are some recommendations:

Research Before You Shop: Familiarize yourself with the products you want and their typical price ranges. This knowledge will help you identify genuine deals.
Set a Budget: Determine how much you are willing to spend before diving into the sales. This can help prevent impulse purchases.
Utilize Price-Matching Policies: Many retailers, including Best Buy and GameStop, offer price matching. If you find a lower price elsewhere, take advantage of this policy to secure the best deal.
Sign Up for Newsletters: Many retailers send exclusive deals and early access to their subscribers. Signing up can give you a head start on the competition.
Check Shipping and Return Policies: Understanding the terms of shipping and returns can save you headaches later, especially if you need to return or exchange items.

Timing Your Purchases

Timing is crucial during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Many retailers start their sales early, and some deals may sell out quickly. Here are some key dates and times to keep in mind:

Many retailers begin their Black Friday sales on Thanksgiving evening, so be prepared to shop early.
Cyber Monday, which falls on December 1st this year, is another opportunity to find significant discounts, particularly on tech products.

Popular Categories and Deals

Different categories of products are particularly popular during the Black Friday shopping weekend. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best deals across various categories:

Home and Kitchen

Ninja’s versatile Creami ice cream maker is at an all-time low, perfect for those looking to indulge in homemade treats.
Robovacs from Roborock and Eufy are available at 50% off, making home cleaning more efficient.

Entertainment

Disney Plus, Hulu, and HBO Max are offering discounts of over 60%, making it an excellent time to subscribe to streaming services.
Two months of Paramount Plus with Showtime can be grabbed for just $2.99 a month, providing access to a wealth of content.

Gaming

Sony is taking $100 off its PS5 consoles, a significant reduction that appeals to gamers eager to upgrade their systems.
Battlefield 6 is already 24% off, making it a great time to expand your gaming library.

Final Thoughts

As we approach the conclusion of Black Friday and head into Cyber Monday, consumers have a unique opportunity to secure significant savings on a wide range of products. With ongoing tariff issues potentially affecting prices in the future, now is the time to act. By leveraging the tips and deals outlined in this guide, shoppers can navigate the busy shopping weekend with confidence and find the best bargains available.

Source: Original report