As Black Friday approaches, many shoppers eagerly await the perfect time to snag that new phone at a discounted price. If you’re in the market for a new device, you may be wondering whether Black Friday truly offers the best deals or if it’s better to wait until later in the holiday season.
1. Deals Available Now
While Black Friday may be the ultimate shopping event of the year, some major retailers and carriers are already offering early bird deals to get a jump on the competition. If you can’t wait until late November, there are a few deals available now.
- Apple iPhone 16: Apple is known for not slashing prices directly, but retailers like Best Buy, Target, and carriers such as AT&T often offer substantial trade-in promotions. Currently, you can get up to $1,000 off a new iPhone 16 if you trade in an older model (or without a trade in), depending on the carrier and condition of your device.
- Samsung Galaxy S24: Samsung’s newest flagship, the Galaxy S24, is seeing early offers of up to $1,000 off with eligible trade-ins, particularly if you’re switching to or upgrading through carriers like Verizon and T-Mobile. Samsung’s own site also has bundles where you can get free accessories like Galaxy Buds or a Galaxy Watch with your purchase.
- Google Pixel 9: The Google Pixel 9 is available with early deals, offering $150 off on major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Google’s store. Additionally, carrier-specific deals can further reduce the price with trade-ins or when signing up for a new plan.
If you’ve been holding off for a deal, now may be the time to act, especially if you’re looking for a specific model or plan. However, there could be even better discounts as Black Friday approaches.
2. Anticipated Deals for Black Friday
Looking ahead, the biggest discounts on smartphones typically land on Black Friday itself. Luckily, you can get a sneak peek at what to expect based on previous years.
- Apple iPhones: While Apple rarely offers massive direct discounts, expect significant savings from major retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, and Target, which may cut the price of older models like the iPhone 14, or bundle them with gift cards or accessories. Apple also tends to offer up significant discounts for trade-ins on older models.
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip: Foldable phones are one of the hot trends in the smartphone market, and last year, Samsung offered up to $500 off foldables like the Z Flip and Z Fold when trading in older phones. You’re likely to see similar offers this year, especially during Black Friday week.
- Android Flagships: Other Android phones, such as the Google Pixel 8 Pro, Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, and OnePlus 11, will see discounts, sometimes up to $500 off depending on the retailer. Best Buy often has a range of options with extra savings if you opt for carrier deals or financing.
- Carrier Deals: Mobile service providers typically offer Black Friday exclusive deals on phones with trade-ins and switching bonuses. In 2023, for example, Verizon offered up to $800 off the latest devices when switching, while AT&T often offered Buy One, Get One Free deals on select phones.
Black Friday is the time for doorbusters, limited-time offers, and discounts that are hard to find the rest of the year, so it’s worth waiting if you can time it right.
3. Tips Based on Previous Years for Timing the Best Deal
When it comes to Black Friday deals, timing is everything. While the official shopping holiday is on the day after Thanksgiving, the best deals often extend across a few days or even the whole week.
- Shop Early in the Week: Many retailers release their Black Friday deals early in the week or even a week before. This gives you an opportunity to shop the sales before they potentially sell out. Be on the lookout for early promotions starting as early as Monday, November 25th. This year, some retailers are even doing a pre-Black Friday sale from Friday, November 15 to Sunday, November 17.
- Track Deals: Use deal tracking apps or websites (like Honey or Rakuten) to get alerts for specific phone models. Retailers may change prices during Black Friday week, and a little extra research can help you spot a true bargain.
- Watch for “Doorbusters”: Certain retailers may reserve their best deals for doorbuster events, which are often offered at very specific times. If you’re after a popular phone, plan to be up early or have the website ready to go as soon as the deal drops.
- Consider Trade-In Offers: While discounts are great, sometimes the best deal comes from trading in your old device. Many retailers and carriers offer additional trade-in value during Black Friday, so you could save significantly when upgrading to a newer model.
- Be Prepared for Stock Shortages: The hottest phone deals, especially on models like the iPhone or Samsung Galaxy, can sell out quickly. If you see an irresistible deal, act fast before it disappears.
- Don’t Forget Cyber Monday: If you miss the perfect deal on Black Friday, Cyber Monday often offers similar or even better discounts on select phones, particularly online exclusives. So, if you have flexibility, it might be worth holding off to compare offers.
If you’re in the market for a new phone, Black Friday is one of the best times to buy. While early deals are already available, the biggest savings are often reserved for Black Friday itself. Whether you’re eyeing the latest iPhone 16, Samsung Galaxy S24, or Google Pixel 9, planning your purchase carefully can lead to significant discounts. By tracking deals, taking advantage of trade-ins, and knowing when to act, you can ensure you get the best possible price.