This Is the Best Time to Buy a TV (Plus, How to Save the Most When You Do)

These days, it feels like TV technology updates faster than it takes to re-binge every single episode of The Crown. But as promotions overload your inbox, your savings-centered brain starts to wonder: Should I splurge? But also, when *is* the best time to buy a TV? You’ve heard rumblings about Superbowl Sunday discounts. Or is Black Friday really the best? We asked Sara Skirboll, shopping and trends expert at RetailMeNot, to set the record straight.

On Black Friday, electronics like TVs are heavily discounted, some as high as 40 percent off. “The biggest deals will typically be found on older TV models than on the latest technology,” Skirboll explains. “Manufacturers cut prices on past year’s models in November to clear out inventory.” In other words, 2021 TVs are on the horizon. (They come out in March/April.) This is a retailer’s chance to make space on the shelves.

As for Superbowl season? Those same TVs are typically only discounted to 30 percent, Skirboll explains.

This year’s Black Friday/Cyber Monday sales are looking significantly different than years past. Since shoppers can’t get to the store as easily. Add in expected shipping delays and the fact that Amazon held Prime Day in October this year, and it means that other retailers are offering elongated sales to keep up.

What does this mean for you? You want to start combing for deals, stat. “Electronics will sell out the fastest on Black Friday and we’re already seeing some of the TV deals roll out,” Skirboll says. “If you see a good deal on one—especially Apple TVs and 4K TVs since this technology is so hot, I recommend you buy it immediately.”

Just be sure you do your homework first. Price compare. Check out weekly ads on BlackFriday.com, which highlights all the best Black Friday deals before they go live. Read reviews. “TV technology changes so often, which means sometimes it’s not about just getting the very latest and greatest. You might find just as great of a TV, but with a better deal,” Skirboll adds.

Also, don’t forget to read the fine print, especially if you’re uncertain about your purchase and think it’s something you might return. Skirboll notes that some retailers offer a shorter-than-typical time frame for returns on big-ticket items. She also suggests holding out for free shipping. “So many retailers like Target and Walmart offer it during the holiday season,” she says. “If they are going to charge you shipping, opt to buy online, pick up in-store or via contactless curbside pickup to save.” You could also ask the retailer about complimentary installation on the TV, too.