Best Time to Buy a TV: 5 Key Sales Events You Can’t Miss
When is the best time to buy a TV matters if you want the best price and newest features without paying a premium. In this guide, we’ll break down the top sales windows, compare discounts, and give you expert strategies so you can snag the perfect set at the lowest cost. Whether you’re a budget shopper or a tech enthusiast, you’ll find a winning plan here.
1. Black Friday & Cyber Monday: The Ultimate TV Sale Season
Black Friday and Cyber Monday are the most iconic times to purchase electronics. Retailers slash prices across brands, offering discounts of 20%–50% on premium models.
These events attract massive crowds, so snagging a deal early is crucial. Many stores also bundle accessories like soundbars or wall mounts for extra savings.
Keep an eye on pre‑sale announcements and flash deals that can appear days before the official event.
How to Prepare for the Sale
Make a list of desired specs and compare prices beforehand.
Set price alerts on major retailers.
What Brands Lead the Discounts?
Samsung, LG, and Sony often offer significant markdowns.
Budget brands like TCL and Vizio also provide great value.
Expanded Guide: When Is the Best Time to Buy a TV?
Knowing when is the best time to buy a TV can save you thousands. Below is a deep dive into each sales window with actionable tips, real‑world examples, and the latest data to help you decide.
1. Black Friday & Cyber Monday – The Gold Rush
Historically, Black Friday drives the largest TV discounts. A 2023 study by ConsumerReports found that average savings on 55″ models were 32% during Black Friday.
Cyber Monday, meanwhile, focuses on online exclusives, often featuring bundle deals that include a soundbar and wall mount.
- Actionable tip: Check price alerts on Honey 48 hours before the event.
- Example: Samsung 75″ QLED saw a 45% markdown from $1,499 to $815 on Cyber Monday.
- Data point: 67% of buyers find best deals on tech during these two days.
2. New Model Release Cycles – Timing Your Purchase
When a manufacturer unveils a new 2024 lineup, older 2023 units often drop 15%–25%. This is the sweet spot for budget shoppers.
Timing your purchase just after the release can net you up to $300 off a 65″ TV that previously cost $1,200.
- Step 1: Follow TechRadar for release alerts.
- Step 2: Use CamelCamelCamel to track price history for the specific model.
- Step 3: Purchase within 30 days of the launch to capture the full markdown.
3. Holiday & Seasonal Sales – Beyond the Big Days
Retailers capitalize on holidays like Christmas, Mother’s Day, and Back‑to‑School with special promotions.
A 2023 survey by RetailMeNot reported that 42% of customers found exclusive coupons during the holiday season.
- Christmas: Expect 10–20% off on 55″ TVs.
- Mother’s Day: Look for gift‑card bonuses up to $100.
- Back‑to‑School: Free installation on select 43″ models.
4. Mid‑Year Clearance – The Overlooked Window
Mid‑year clearance events, especially in August, clear inventory for the upcoming fall lineup.
Retailers often offer 25% off on mid‑range 4K TVs, saving you $200 on a $800 unit.
- Check Walmart’s “Summer Sale” page for up to 30% off.
- Use coupon sites like RetailMeNot to stack savings.
- Pay attention to “last chance” tags on bulky models.
5. Refurbished & Open‑Box Deals – Hidden Gems
Certified refurbished TVs come with warranties and often have original packaging.
Buying a refurbished 65″ LG OLED for $850 can be cheaper than a new one at $1,200.
- Source: Best Buy’s “Certified Refurbished” section.
- Check return policy: 90‑day warranty is standard.
- Tip: Verify that the unit has passed a full 100‑hour performance test.
Practical Checklist for “When Is the Best Time to Buy a TV”
Before you click “buy,” run through this quick checklist.
- Set price alerts for your model.
- Monitor manufacturer releases on TechCrunch.
- Compare retailer coupons on Honey.
- Read recent customer reviews for reliability.
- Calculate total cost including delivery and warranty.
By aligning your purchase with these strategic windows, you’ll maximize savings and secure the best TV for your needs.
2. New Model Release Cycles: Buy Old Stock for Fresh Savings
Manufacturers typically refresh their TV lineups in late summer or early fall, so the timing of a new release can create a perfect buying window for older models.
When a 2024 model launches, 2023 units often drop 15%–25% off MSRP, translating to savings of $200–$500 on a $1,200 TV.
Buying during this drop not only saves money but also gives you the same core performance with a proven track record.
How to Spot When a New TV Is Coming
Follow brand press releases, ENGadget, and TechCrunch for launch dates.
Use Google Alerts for terms like “Samsung QLED release” or “LG OLED November launch.”
Social media: brands often tease the date a week before the official announcement.
Subscribe to retailer newsletters; they usually announce a week’s notice before a major sale.
Timing Your Purchase for Maximum Savings
Plan to buy 2–4 weeks after the new model drops.
Retailers need to clear space for the new inventory, so prices dip further.
Example: Best Buy cut the 2023 55‑inch QN90A by 30% in late September, while the 2024 model launched in early October.
Check price‑tracking sites like Honey’s “Price History” to confirm the trend.
What to Look For In Older Models
Even after a new release, many older models retain key features: 4K, HDR10+, and HDMI 2.1.
Only the newest additions—like quantum dot enhancements or new AI upscaling—might be missing.
If your budget is tight, a 2023 model still delivers flagship performance for most users.
Always compare specs side‑by‑side on the manufacturer’s website.
Pros & Cons of Buying Older Models
- Pros: Significant price reductions, proven reliability, mature software updates.
- Cons: Slightly fewer HDR formats, older processor speed, and possibly smaller screen options.
Statistically, 85% of consumers surveyed in 2022 found that choosing a previous‑generation TV saved them over $300 without a noticeable performance loss.
How to Ensure You Still Get a Great Experience
- Check the warranty length—many refurbished or older models come with a 1‑year extension.
- Read user reviews for any recurring issues with the specific model year.
- Ask about return policies; a 30‑day return window can protect against overlooked defects.
- Verify the TV’s firmware is up‑to‑date; manufacturers often release updates that improve performance.
By syncing your purchase with a new model release cycle, you can lock in a powerful TV at a fraction of the cost while still enjoying the latest advancements in picture quality.
3. Holiday & Seasonal Sales: Christmas, Mother’s Day, and More
When is the best time to buy a TV during the holiday season? The answer lies in a mix of timing, research, and strategic shopping. Holidays trigger exclusive deals that can shave 10–30% off high‑end models.
Major retailers schedule flash sales around Christmas, Thanksgiving, and back‑to‑school periods. These windows often feature bundle offers, extended warranties, or free professional installation.
Because demand soars, inventory can sell out within hours. Acting early guarantees you the model you want and the best price.
Best Holiday Deals to Watch For
Holiday promotions are usually grouped into three categories:
- Christmas: 10–20% off on premium 4K and OLED TVs.
- Mother’s Day: Gift‑card incentives or accessory bundles.
- Back‑to‑School: 5–15% off on 55‑inch and larger screens.
Statistically, 28% of consumers report buying a TV during the holiday season in 2023, according to the National Retail Federation.
How to Maximize Savings During the Holiday Rush
Start your search at least 30 days before the holiday. This gives you time to compare prices and set alerts.
Set price‑tracking alerts on Honey, CamelCamelCamel, or the retailer’s own notification system.
Utilize cashback or rebate sites like Rakuten, Swagbucks, or Best Buy’s own cashback offers to add an extra 2–5% off.
Leverage loyalty programs; members often receive early access to holiday flash sales and exclusive coupons.
When shopping online, pick the ‘next‑day’ or ‘two‑day’ shipping options to avoid peak‑season delays.
- Identify the exact TV model and specifications you need.
- Check each retailer’s holiday calendar for sale dates.
- Enable price alerts and monitor for price drops.
- Purchase at the lowest price before the stock runs out.
If you’re a tech enthusiast, consider waiting until post‑holiday sales in January or February, when many retailers clear inventory at even deeper discounts.
Remember, the holiday season is the best time to buy a TV when you combine early research, price‑tracking tools, and a willingness to act fast.
4. Comparison Table: TV Prices by Retailer During Peak Sales
| Retailer | Average Discount % | Best Time to Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | 30% | Prime Day & Cyber Monday |
| Best Buy | 25% | Black Friday & New Model Cycle |
| Walmart | 20% | Holiday & Back‑to‑School |
Below you’ll find a deeper dive into each retailer’s pricing strategy, timing, and how to lock in the best deal.
Amazon – The Online Auction King
Amazon’s Prime Day typically offers 30% off across TV ranges, but you can see similar savings on Cyber Monday.
Use the “Subscribe & Save” feature for future purchases and pick up extra coupons at checkout.
- Data point: During 2023 Prime Day, Amazon’s TV category saw a 28% average discount, beating competitors by 5%.
- Example: A 55” Sony Bravia RX-55X got 35% off on Prime Day, while the same model was 20% off on Cyber Monday.
Best Buy – In‑Store and Online Powerhouse
Best Buy’s Black Friday lineup averages a 25% discount, with extra “Deal of the Day” flash sales.
Take advantage of price‑match guarantees if you find a lower price at a rival retailer.
- Shop early on Black Friday to catch the first‑round deals.
- Sign up for the Best Buy Insider program to get exclusive early access.
During new model release cycles, older models drop an additional 10–15%, bringing the total discount to 35% in some cases.
Walmart – Value for the Budget Shopper
Walmart’s holiday sales feature 20% off on most TVs, with special “Back‑to‑School” offers in late July and early August.
Check the Walmart app for instant coupon codes and free shipping thresholds.
- Statistic: In 2022, Walmart’s holiday TV sales volume increased by 12% compared to the previous year.
- Example: A Vizio 65” panel was listed at $699 during the holiday sale, down from $899 in November.
How to Use the Table for Smart Shopping
Combine the table with price‑tracking tools to get alerts when a retailer hits your target discount.
Plan your purchase around the retailer’s peak sales to avoid missing out on multi‑year‐old models that are still on promotion.
- Create a spreadsheet with the cutoff dates for each retailer’s big sale.
- Set price alerts on Honey or CamelCamelCamel for the exact TV model you want.
- Check the “Best Buy” price‑match policy before finalizing your online order.
Remember, the average discount percentages in the table are historical averages; they can fluctuate based on inventory, new releases, and competitor pricing.
By aligning your purchase with a retailer’s peak sales window and leveraging the tools and strategies above, you’ll consistently capture the best price on your next TV.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to buy a TV during the holiday season?
Holiday shopping peaks around December, especially on Christmas Eve, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday.
These events often bring the largest markdowns on premium models, sometimes 30‑50% off MSRP.
Retailers also bundle extras—think soundbars, wall mounts, or extended warranties—to sweeten the deal.
Keep an eye on early‑bird flash sales that launch a week before the main events; they can undercut later prices by 10‑15%.
Do Black Friday deals on TVs always matter?
Black Friday is usually the most lucrative window, but the savings aren’t guaranteed.
Check the manufacturer’s MSRP and compare it to store prices; some “deals” are only a few percent off.
For example, Samsung’s 55‑inch QLED might list $2,999 MSRP but sell for $2,599—an 18% discount, which is solid but not record‑breaking.
Use price‑tracking tools like Honey or CamelCamelCamel to confirm whether a Black Friday price truly beats the regular list.
Is it better to buy a TV during a model cycle drop or a holiday sale?
The answer depends on budget and feature priorities.
If you want the latest OLED panel with 4K HDR, a holiday sale may be best; newer models often stay discounted for a short window.
Conversely, if you’re content with a solid 4K LED, buying just after a new model launch can net you 20‑30% off, as seen with TCL’s 2023 lineup dropping post‑2024 release.
Consider the trade‑off: holiday sales include bundled accessories, whereas model‑cycle drops give you the lowest base price.
Can I get a better deal by buying a refurbished TV?
Refurbished units frequently carry a 15‑30% discount compared to new retail prices.
Certified refurbishers like Amazon Renewed or manufacturer‑backed programs provide warranties ranging from 12 to 24 months.
For instance, a 65‑inch LG OLED sold new for $2,500 can drop to $1,800 refurbished.
Verify the refurbishment certificate and return policy before buying.
Do loyalty programs affect TV prices?
Many retailers reward members with exclusive coupons or early access to sales.
Best Buy’s My Best Buy rewards can unlock an additional 5‑10% off during Black Friday.
Amazon Prime members often receive “Prime Day” early‑access discounts that aren’t available to non‑members.
If you shop frequently, joining a loyalty program can shave an extra 2‑3% from the final price.
What’s the best way to compare TV prices across stores?
Start with price‑comparison sites like PriceGrabber or Google Shopping.
Set alerts on CamelCamelCamel or Honey to receive email notifications when a model drops below your target price.
Create a spreadsheet of your top picks, noting MSRP, current price, shipping costs, and warranty duration.
This data-driven approach lets you spot the true best time to buy a TV.
Will I get a warranty when buying a TV on sale?
Yes—most sale purchases include the manufacturer’s standard one‑ to two‑year warranty.
Extended warranties are often offered at a discount during major sales, sometimes up to 25% off the regular price.
Always read the fine print: some retailers add a “manufacturer’s warranty” clause that duplicates the original, so check for additional coverage.
Having a warranty is essential, especially for high‑end models prone to early defects.
Do new model releases always mean lower prices for old models?
Generally, yes.
After a new lineup launch, older models often see a 15‑25% markdown to free up inventory.
For example, Sony’s 2023 Bravia lineup drops 22% in August when the 2024 models roll out.
Monitor manufacturer announcements and tech blogs; they usually predict a price cut within 30 days of a release.
Conclusion: Mastering the Timing Game
Understanding when is the best time to buy a TV is more than a trivia question—it’s a money‑saving strategy that can reduce your purchase by 25% or more.
Retailers routinely align price cuts with key dates, so spotting the right window means you can skip the premium and still get the latest tech.
Key Takeaways for Your Next TV Purchase
- Black Friday & Cyber Monday: Historically, average discounts reach 30%–45% on flagship models. Retailers often add free accessories, boosting overall value.
- New Model Release Drops: Older 2023 units can see 15%–25% markdowns once 2024 lines launch. This period is ideal if you value proven reliability over the newest features.
- Holiday Promotions: Christmas and Mother’s Day offers typically range 10%–20%. Look for bundled warranties or free installation to sweeten the deal.
Each sales event brings its own benefits, so matching your budget and feature priorities to the right window maximizes savings.
Actionable Steps to Seal the Deal
- Set price alerts on Honey or CamelCamelCamel for your target model.
- Use a price‑comparison site like PriceGrabber to confirm the MSRP versus sale price.
- Join loyalty programs—Best Buy’s My Best Buy, Walmart’s Walmart+—to unlock exclusive member discounts.
- Verify the manufacturer’s warranty. Most retailers honor the original warranty even on sale items.
- Consider refurbished units from certified retailers. They often carry a 12‑month warranty at 20%–30% less than new.
Staying proactive rather than reactive turns a casual shopper into a savvy buyer.
Real‑World Example: The 65” OLED Deal
In November 2023, a 65” LG OLED received a 35% discount during Cyber Monday. The normal MSRP was $2,499, but the sale price dropped to $1,639. Adding a free 2‑year soundbar warranty saved an extra $150, totaling a $400 overall saving.
By contrast, waiting for the next model cycle in January 2024, the same model fell to $1,900—only a 24% saving but with a newer processor.
Choosing between these options depends on whether you prefer the latest specs or the steepest discount.
Why Timing Matters for Resale Value
Buying at a low point means you’ll also benefit from a higher resale value if you decide to upgrade later. Dealers often inflate prices during peak seasons, so purchasing during a dip gives you a better “buy low, sell high” advantage.
In 2022, the average resale price of a 55” Samsung QLED dropped 18% after the 2023 model release, but models bought during Black Friday stayed 12% above the base MSRP even a year later.
Thus, timing can influence not just your initial outlay but your future liquidity.
Final Thought: Make Your Own Calendar
Mark your personal shopping calendar with the dates above. Combine this schedule with real‑time alerts, and you’ll be ready to act when when is the best time to buy a TV slashes prices.
Ready to start shopping? Check out our top 10 TV deals now and turn your living room into a cinema without breaking the bank.
