Key dates
- Thursday, November 26: Thanksgiving. Some stores open their online sales this evening.
- Friday, November 27: Black Friday.
- Saturday, November 28: Small Business Saturday.
- Monday, November 30: Cyber Monday.
Most big stores now start "early deals" weeks ahead, and many sales run through the following week. The dates above are the headline days, not hard cut-offs.
How to tell a real deal
- Check the history. A good deal beats the item's own recent price, not a list price nobody pays. On RipePrice each product page shows 90 days of prices once tracking is live.
- Match the model number. Some TVs, laptops and appliances sold in the big sales are versions made for the event, with fewer features than the regular model of the same name.
- Use unit prices for everyday items. A bigger pack on sale is not always cheaper per ounce, sheet or diaper.
- Read the return policy. Holiday return windows differ by store and by product type.
Buy, wait, or it depends
These are general patterns, not promises. They are written to help you decide how hard to look, not to predict a specific price.
TVs: usually worth buying
Late November is one of the usual low points for TVs. If you need one this year, this is a good window. Check the model number first.
Headphones: usually worth buying
Last year's models are often discounted when new ones are out. Compare against the recent price, since regular prices already move around.
Vacuums and small kitchen appliances: usually worth buying
Cordless and robot vacuums, air fryers and blenders tend to see some of the larger swings. Check filter and battery costs before you decide.
Gaming: depends
Consoles are often not discounted deeply. Bundles and accessories are where the savings tend to show up, so compare what is in the box.
Winter coats and space heaters: it depends
Demand is highest now, and sizes sell out. Prices can keep falling later in winter, but you may not find your size.
Laptops: it depends
Black Friday can be a good time, but check that the configuration matches what you need. Sale models sometimes have less memory or storage than the regular one. See our laptop guide.
Everyday essentials: use unit price
Paper goods, detergent and diapers rarely have dramatic sales. Compare the price per unit and buy only what you will use. See the household essentials guide.
Early deals
This is where the biggest price drops since yesterday will appear, pulled from our daily price records.
Dropped since yesterday
Price tracking is rolling out category by category. The biggest drops will be listed here as categories are covered.
Before you check out
- Confirm the exact model number and what is included.
- Check the shipping date against when you need the item.
- Keep the receipt and note the return deadline.
- If you are buying gifts, see our Christmas gift guide.
Want to see current prices on Amazon? Check prices on Amazon