Black Friday has become synonymous with huge discounts and once-in-a-year deals, especially in the world of technology. Smartphones, being one of the most sought-after items, often see significant price drops during this time. Whether you're looking to upgrade to the latest flagship model or pick up a budget-friendly phone, Black Friday 2024 offers an excellent opportunity to save. To help you find the best deals on smartphones, here’s a breakdown of some of the top retailers and platforms to keep an eye on during the big sale.
1. Amazon
Amazon consistently leads the pack when it comes to Black Friday smartphone deals. The online giant offers deals across a wide range of brands, including Apple, Samsung, Google, OnePlus, and more. In recent years, Amazon has featured flash deals and early access sales on smartphones, often giving Prime members an extra edge with exclusive discounts.
Amazon also offers refurbished and renewed models at significantly reduced prices. If you’re willing to forgo the brand-new device for one that has been certified as “like new,” you can save even more. Additionally, Amazon’s "Lightning Deals" and bundle offers, where you can snag accessories like wireless earbuds or chargers along with your smartphone, make it a one-stop-shop for Black Friday savings.
2. Best Buy
Best Buy is a trusted destination for Black Friday smartphone deals, especially for those who want to see and touch the devices before purchasing. Best Buy typically offers discounts on both unlocked and carrier-specific smartphones, making it an excellent option for customers who are upgrading their phones or switching carriers.
For Apple enthusiasts, Best Buy often has some of the best deals on iPhones, including the newest models. Samsung fans will also find impressive offers on Galaxy devices, often bundled with store gift cards or accessories. Another major advantage of shopping at Best Buy is the opportunity to take advantage of its trade-in program, which can lower the cost of your new phone by a few hundred dollars.
Additionally, Best Buy’s TotalTech membership offers perks like extended warranties, faster access to deals, and Geek Squad tech support for those who want added benefits with their smartphone purchase.
3. Walmart
Walmart is another great retailer for Black Friday smartphone deals, particularly for those shopping on a budget. Walmart tends to offer deep discounts on a wide range of smartphones, including mid-tier models and budget-friendly brands like Motorola, LG, and Nokia. However, that doesn’t mean flagship models are excluded—Walmart often slashes prices on Samsung Galaxy and iPhone devices as well.
One of Walmart's best features is its online Black Friday event, which allows shoppers to snag deals from the comfort of their homes, avoiding the in-store rush. In past years, Walmart has also featured bundle deals, where you could get a smartphone along with a free accessory or even a prepaid service plan at a discounted price.
4. Apple Store
While the Apple Store may not traditionally offer steep discounts compared to other retailers, it is worth considering during Black Friday if you're specifically looking for iPhones or Apple accessories. Apple’s Black Friday deals usually come in the form of gift card promotions, where you receive an Apple Gift Card when purchasing certain devices. These gift cards can be redeemed for future Apple purchases, whether it’s accessories, apps, or even towards your next phone upgrade.
Additionally, Apple’s trade-in program can offer significant savings on your new iPhone. By trading in your current device, you can reduce the price of a new iPhone by as much as several hundred dollars.
5. Samsung Official Website
For Android fans, the Samsung website is another key destination for Black Friday smartphone deals. Samsung is known for offering direct discounts on its Galaxy devices, including both flagships like the Galaxy S and Note series, as well as foldable phones like the Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip. Samsung often runs trade-in programs where you can exchange your old phone for a new one at a discounted price.
Moreover, Samsung’s website often bundles other tech devices like smartwatches, Galaxy Buds, or even tablets with smartphone purchases, allowing for additional savings. Free shipping and Samsung’s finance plans make it easy to manage the cost of premium devices.
6. Carrier Deals (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile)
If you don’t mind being tied to a specific carrier, Black Friday is an excellent time to take advantage of promotional offers from major service providers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. These carriers often offer steep discounts on smartphones—sometimes even giving them away for free—if you sign up for a new service plan or upgrade your current one.
Carrier deals often include popular flagship models like the latest iPhone or Samsung Galaxy. You may also find bundle offers that include additional lines, extra data, or accessories. While these deals usually require a long-term commitment to the carrier, they can provide significant savings if you're already planning to switch or renew your service.
7. Google Store
If you're a fan of Google’s Pixel devices, the Google Store is the best place to shop for Black Friday deals. Google typically slashes prices on its Pixel smartphones, including the flagship models and mid-range offerings like the Pixel 7a. These deals are often accompanied by free or discounted accessories, such as Pixel Buds or cases.
Google’s trade-in program is another advantage for those looking to upgrade. You can trade in your old device and use the value to reduce the price of a new Pixel phone.
8. eBay and Other Refurbished Marketplaces
For shoppers looking for the best value, refurbished smartphones can be a fantastic way to save even more during Black Friday. Marketplaces like eBay often offer certified refurbished phones from trusted sellers, allowing you to buy recent models at heavily discounted prices.
Be sure to look for listings that include warranties and return policies for added peace of mind when purchasing refurbished devices. Many times, you’ll find deals on previous generation models that still offer excellent performance, but at a fraction of the original retail price.
Conclusion
Black Friday 2024 is shaping up to be one of the best times to score great deals on smartphones, whether you’re hunting for the latest flagship or a more budget-friendly option. From major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart to official brand stores like Apple, Samsung, and Google, there are plenty of places to find the perfect phone at the right price.
By keeping an eye on these stores, signing up for early access, and checking out trade-in programs, you can maximize your savings this Black Friday. Whether you’re upgrading to the newest iPhone or switching to a new Android device, Black Friday is the perfect time to make the leap into a better mobile experience.
