As Black Friday approaches, tech enthusiasts and shoppers alike are gearing up for one of the biggest sales events of the year. If you're in the market for a new smartphone, Black Friday is the perfect time to score massive discounts and unbeatable deals. From major retailers to online giants, this article will guide you through the best places to find the top deals on smartphones this Black Friday.
1. Amazon: The One-Stop Shop for All Brands
When it comes to Black Friday deals, Amazon is a top contender. Known for slashing prices on tech gadgets, Amazon offers deals on a wide range of smartphone brands, including Apple, Samsung, Google, OnePlus, and more. What makes Amazon appealing during Black Friday is the convenience of shopping online, and the sheer volume of deals that they offer.
Amazon Prime Members’ Advantage: Prime members often enjoy exclusive deals, early access to Black Friday sales, and lightning deals that pop up throughout the day. So if you're a Prime member or considering a membership, it can be worth it just for the extra perks on Black Friday.
Expect Deals Like:
- Apple iPhone 15: Significant discounts or bundle offers including accessories like AirPods.
- Samsung Galaxy Series: Price cuts across the Galaxy S23, Galaxy A54, and foldable models like the Galaxy Z Flip.
- Google Pixel Series: Expect competitive pricing on the Pixel 8 and Pixel 7 series, with added bonuses like extra storage or Google Pixel Buds.
2. Best Buy: In-Store and Online Deals with Great Financing Options
Best Buy is a trusted name in tech retail and is one of the best places to shop for smartphones during Black Friday. Known for its in-store doorbusters and online promotions, Best Buy often offers some of the steepest discounts, especially if you're looking for a deal on a smartphone with a carrier plan.
What to Watch For:
- Carrier Activation Deals: Best Buy tends to offer significant discounts on smartphones if you activate them with a carrier during the purchase. You could save hundreds on the latest iPhone or Samsung Galaxy when committing to a specific carrier contract.
- Open Box and Refurbished Deals: In addition to new models, Best Buy is known for slashing prices on open-box and certified refurbished smartphones during Black Friday. These can be great if you're looking for a high-quality phone at a fraction of the cost.
Expect Deals Like:
- Up to $1,000 off iPhone models when paired with trade-ins and carrier activation.
- Samsung Galaxy Note and Foldable Series: Watch for deep discounts with carrier bundles or buy one, get one free deals.
3. Walmart: Competitive Prices and Bundle Deals
Walmart is another heavyweight when it comes to Black Friday sales. They often roll out competitive prices on smartphones from Apple, Samsung, and more, along with bundle deals that include accessories or gift cards. With both in-store and online deals, Walmart can be a great place to pick up a smartphone at a bargain price.
Key Advantages:
- Gift Card Bundles: Walmart frequently offers gift cards when purchasing select smartphones. For example, you might get a $300 Walmart gift card when you purchase the latest iPhone or Samsung Galaxy on a qualifying plan.
- Layaway Program: Walmart's layaway program, available at select locations, can make it easier to secure a deal without paying the full price upfront.
Expect Deals Like:
- Apple iPhone 15 Series: Up to $300 in Walmart gift cards with carrier activation.
- Budget Smartphone Discounts: Walmart often provides fantastic deals on budget-friendly smartphones, such as the Motorola Moto G or Samsung Galaxy A series, with prices dropping as low as $99.
4. Target: Cartwheel Savings and In-Store Offers
Target's Black Friday deals on smartphones are not to be overlooked. While Target might not offer as large a selection as Amazon or Best Buy, they frequently feature excellent deals on the most popular smartphones, especially when paired with their exclusive savings programs.
Target Circle and RedCard Benefits:
- Extra Discounts: Target Circle members can rack up additional savings on Black Friday purchases. If you have a Target RedCard, you can also save an extra 5% on top of any existing Black Friday deals.
- Gift Cards: Similar to Walmart, Target often includes gift cards with smartphone purchases, which can be used for future purchases.
Expect Deals Like:
- Apple and Samsung Deals: Discounts of up to $250 off with activation and trade-ins, plus Target gift cards for future shopping.
- Google Pixel and Budget Smartphones: Competitive pricing on unlocked versions of budget phones like the Google Pixel 7a and Samsung Galaxy A series.
5. Carrier Deals: AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile
If you're willing to switch carriers or sign up for a new plan, the major phone carriers—AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile—often offer some of the most significant Black Friday smartphone deals. By taking advantage of a carrier promotion, you can walk away with a brand-new phone for a fraction of its retail price, or even for free, with the right plan.
What to Expect from Carriers:
- Buy One, Get One Free: This is a common Black Friday promotion. You buy one high-end phone, like the iPhone 15 or Galaxy S23, and get another for free when you sign up for a new line.
- Trade-In Offers: Carriers like Verizon and AT&T frequently offer huge trade-in bonuses, where you can trade in your old device for significant savings on a new smartphone. Sometimes, you can get up to $1,000 off with the right trade-in model and plan.
- Contract Discounts: Special discounts when signing long-term contracts or opting for unlimited plans.
Expect Deals Like:
- iPhone or Samsung Galaxy: Get the latest models at no cost with eligible trade-ins and plan activations.
- Unlimited Data Plans: Major savings when you bundle smartphones with unlimited data plans.
6. Apple Store: Trade-In Deals and Financing
While Apple itself isn’t typically known for offering deep Black Friday discounts, the Apple Store does provide trade-in options and occasionally offers gift cards with purchases of select devices. If you're dedicated to buying directly from Apple, these deals can still provide some savings.
Apple’s Trade-In Program: By trading in an older device, you can significantly reduce the price of a new iPhone. Apple also offers 0% financing options through the Apple Card, making it easier to pay for your new smartphone over time.
Expect Deals Like:
- Apple Gift Cards: Up to $200 in gift cards with the purchase of select iPhone models.
- Trade-In Discounts: Substantial reductions when you trade in an older iPhone, iPad, or other Apple devices.
Conclusion
This Black Friday, smartphone deals will be everywhere, but knowing where to look will help you get the best value for your money. From the vast selection on Amazon to exclusive carrier promotions, there are multiple ways to save big. Whether you're after the latest iPhone, a Samsung Galaxy, or a more budget-friendly option, planning ahead and keeping an eye on these retailers can ensure you score a deal you won’t want to miss. Happy shopping!
