Why Black Friday is the Best Time to Buy a Laptop
Black Friday is a shopper's paradise, especially for tech lovers. With major retailers slashing prices and offering limited-time promotions, it’s an ideal time to upgrade your laptop without breaking the bank. Many people wait all year for these deals because they typically offer some of the deepest discounts on premium models.
In recent years, online shopping has become a big part of the Black Friday experience, allowing you to skip the lines and snag deals from the comfort of home. This year, expect even more online-exclusive offers, especially on laptops.
Laptop Deals for Black Friday 2024
Based on trends from previous years and early sales leaks, here are the laptops and deals we expect to see during Black Friday 2024:
Lenovo: Lenovo is likely to continue offering significant discounts across its ThinkPad, Yoga, and Legion series. Keep an eye on the ThinkPad X1 Carbon and Yoga 7i, both of which saw impressive markdowns last year and are expected to return at similar prices. The Legion 5, a popular gaming laptop, is also expected to be a top pick. Here are some of the top deals you can get your hands on right now:
Best Buy: Anticipated discounts include up to $400 off MacBook Pro (M2 chip) and MacBook Air, as well as up to $500 off the Dell XPS 13 and HP Spectre x360. Gaming laptops from ASUS and Razer are also expected to be on sale, making Best Buy a great choice for both students and gamers.
B&H Photo: B&H is expected to offer deals on high-end laptops aimed at creative professionals. Look for savings on the MacBook Pro and MSI Creator laptops. The ASUS ROG Zephyrus series is also likely to see discounts for those looking for powerful gaming machines. For now, here are some of the deals our expert has found you can buy for a discount right now:
Walmart: Budget shoppers should keep an eye on Chromebooks, which Walmart often offers for under $150 during Black Friday. Expect more low-cost Windows laptops from brands like HP and Acer, with deals likely starting around $200.
Newegg: Known for tech deals, Newegg is expected to discount gaming laptops heavily. Look for up to 30% off popular models like the Acer Predator Helios, ASUS ROG Strix, and MSI Stealth.
Our Top Savings Tips
Start Early: Many retailers begin offering early Black Friday deals weeks in advance. Signing up for email alerts or loyalty programs can give you early access to these sales.
Look for Bundles: Many retailers, particularly Best Buy and Lenovo, bundle laptops with accessories or warranties. These can add value to your purchase without increasing the price.
Check Laptop Specs: Be sure to compare specs like the processor, RAM, and storage to ensure the laptop meets your needs. If you’re a gamer, look for deals on models with dedicated graphics cards.
Refurbished vs. New: Many retailers, including Newegg, offer refurbished laptops at a fraction of the cost. These models are factory-tested and often come with warranties, making them a smart option for bargain hunters.
Take Advantage of Extended Return Policies: Many stores extend their return windows during the holidays, allowing you to purchase now and return later if needed. Be sure to confirm return policies before buying.
Looking for more general tips about saving money at different stores? Check our out Savings Hub!
Set a Budget: Decide how much you’re willing to spend and stick to it. Black Friday deals can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to overspend if you don’t have a clear limit in mind.
Research Ahead of Time: Familiarize yourself with different laptop models and their regular prices so you can recognize a true deal when you see one.
Sign Up for Retailer Alerts: Many retailers offer early access to sales through newsletters or loyalty programs. By signing up, you can get first dibs on the best laptop deals.
Be Flexible: If a specific model sells out, be prepared to grab a similar one at a comparable discount. Black Friday deals can disappear quickly, so flexibility is key.
Use Cashback Offers: Maximize your savings by using cashback services or stacking coupons. Some credit cards also offer additional discounts or cashback during Black Friday.
Check Warranty Options: For high-end laptops, consider investing in an extended warranty or protection plan, especially if the laptop will be heavily used or transported frequently.
