NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Black Friday is just around the corner, and the sales have already begun, especially on some electronics.
If you’ve been dreaming of a new TV for yourself or to give it to someone else, now is the time to look for deals.
Consumer Reports tracks the prices of thousands of products throughout the year. Black Friday and Cyber Monday are the best times to score the lowest prices on TVs, but you have to be a savvy shopper to cash-in.
“The really big news for Black Friday this year is that we're seeing extra-large TVs, with screens 98 and even 100 inches, at shockingly low prices, starting at about $1,600,” said Consumer Reports Tech Editor Jim Willcox.
To help you compare prices early and often, consider price-tracking apps like BuyVia, Shopkick, and ShopSavvy which let you scan barcodes or QR codes to compare prices, get discounts, and score coupons.
Browser extensions CamelCamelCamel, Keepa, and Honey are tools that give you price histories, price alerts, and coupons when you shop online.
“You can also follow your favorite brands and retailers on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram to get deal alerts and discounts," Willcox added. "And some retailers offer their members special prices or early access to deals.”
When you’re shopping for a TV, there are some too-good-to-be-true deals that you may want to avoid: those rock-bottom doorbuster models from lesser-known brands with prices that draw you in but may not be worth the money.
“Keep in mind that you’ll be watching that new TV for years," he said. "If you’re unhappy with the features or the picture quality, you may really regret not spending a little bit more money to get something better.”
OLED TVs, known for their impressive picture quality, generally dominate CR’s ratings. And many are now at their lowest prices of the year.
“While it can be tempting to get a very inexpensive TV from a lesser-known brand, major brands tend to do better in our ratings and have higher reliability scores,” Willcox added.
It's also a good idea to check a retailer's price match and return policies beforehand since some stores suspend price matching on certain items during Black Friday and may charge a restocking fee for returns.
Do you have more information about this story? You can email me at jennifer.kraus@newschannel5.com.
Journalism is at its best when we can shine a light on an issue that needs more attention. Once again, Hannah McDonald does this beautifully by highlighting the hardships of teens aging out of the foster care system. I learned something new in her reporting and am inspired by the work I AM NEXT is doing to make a difference. I think you will be too!
-Carrie Sharp
