Buying a new cell phone can be exciting but also tricky. With so many sales, promotions, and new models coming out all the time, it's hard to know when to get the best deal. This article will help you figure out the best times to buy a cell phone so you can save money and get the best features.
Key Takeaways
- Black Friday and Prime Day are excellent times to find deals on cell phones.
- Buying a phone right before a new model comes out can save you money on the current model.
- Carrier promotions often include trade-in offers and bundle deals that can lower costs.
- Different brands have specific times when their phones are cheaper, like Apple's September releases.
- Using price comparison tools and monitoring price histories can help you find the best deals.
Understanding Seasonal Trends for Buying Cell Phones
When it comes to buying a cell phone, timing can make a big difference in how much you pay. Shopping during certain times of the year can help you score the best deals. Here are some key seasonal trends to keep in mind:
Black Friday Deals
Every year, the day after Thanksgiving, retailers offer some of their deepest discounts on electronics, including cell phones. Black Friday is a great time to find deals, but be sure to start your research early as some stores may begin their sales weeks in advance.
Prime Day Discounts
Amazon's Prime Day, usually held in mid-July, is another excellent opportunity to find discounts on cell phones. If you're a Prime member, you can take advantage of these deals, and if not, you can sign up for a free trial to access the savings.
Post-Christmas Sales
The day after Christmas, known as Boxing Day in some countries, is another time when retailers offer significant discounts on electronics. Even if you don't live in a country that celebrates Boxing Day, you can still find post-Christmas sales on cell phones.
Back-to-School Promotions
As the new school year approaches, many retailers offer back-to-school promotions that include discounts on cell phones. This is a good time to buy if you're looking to upgrade your phone before the fall.
Keep an eye on these seasonal trends to maximize your savings and get the best deal on your next cell phone purchase.
Timing Your Purchase Around New Model Releases
Pre-Order Period Benefits
During the pre-order period, you can find two types of deals. The first is a flat discount, where retailers try to undercut each other to secure more pre-sales. The second type includes free goodies like storage upgrades, accessories, or even gift certificates. For example, those who pre-ordered a Samsung Galaxy S24 directly from Samsung received free storage upgrades and discounts on accessories. Pre-ordering can also offer higher trade-in values for older smartphones.
One Month Before New Releases
If you don't mind having a soon-to-be-last-gen phone, buying about a month before a new model comes out can save you a lot of money. Retailers often lower prices to clear out old stock. For instance, the Samsung Galaxy S23 was available for as low as $570 on Amazon less than a month before the Galaxy S24 launch. However, be quick, as inventory can sell out fast.
Post-Release Discounts
After a new phone is released, the previous models usually get discounted. This is a great time to buy if you want to save money and still get a good phone. Apple, Samsung, and Google often reduce the prices of their older models by around $100. Waiting until the new version arrives allows you to make an informed decision about whether it's worth upgrading or sticking with the older model.
Timing your purchase around new model releases can help you save money and get the best deals. Whether you choose to pre-order, buy a month before, or wait for post-release discounts, being patient can pay off.
Carrier and Provider Promotions
When it comes to buying a cell phone, carrier and provider promotions can offer some of the best deals. These promotions often include trade-in offers, bundle deals with plans, and exclusive provider discounts. Timing is key to making the most of these offers, as they can change frequently and sometimes end quickly.
Trade-In Offers
Many carriers provide trade-in offers where you can exchange your old phone for a discount on a new one. This can be a great way to save money, especially if your old phone is still in good condition. Be sure to evaluate the trade-in value of your device to ensure you're getting a fair deal.
Bundle Deals with Plans
Carriers often offer bundle deals that include a new phone and a service plan. These deals can be very cost-effective, especially if you're looking to switch carriers or add a new line. For example, some carriers might offer a new phone at a reduced price when you sign up for an unlimited data plan.
Exclusive Provider Discounts
Some providers offer exclusive discounts that you won't find anywhere else. These can include special promotions for new subscribers or limited-time offers that coincide with new phone releases. It's always a good idea to keep an eye on these promotions, as they can provide significant savings.
Don't pay more than you need to! Our roundup of the best cell phone deals will score you a shiny new device from Apple, Google, or Samsung in no time.
Best Times to Buy Specific Brands
Apple iPhones
Apple releases new iPhone models every September. Preorder sales often offer significant savings and perks on the latest models. However, if you want to save even more, consider buying the previous year's iPhone. These models are usually discounted as they are no longer the latest and most sought-after.
Samsung Galaxy Phones
Samsung typically releases its latest Galaxy S phones in February. The best time to buy is during trade-in deals, which can save you up to $550. If you prefer not to trade in, wait until summer for substantial discounts without the trade-in requirement.
Google Pixel Phones
Never buy a Pixel phone at full price. You can get a big discount or a free gift if you buy within the first month after launch. For example, Best Buy offered a free $100 gift card with the Pixel 7 series. Black Friday is also a great time to find deals, with discounts up to $200.
OnePlus Phones
The best time to buy a OnePlus phone is during Black Friday or December. For instance, the OnePlus 11 had a $150 Black Friday discount. If you miss these deals, you can still find discounts in December or January, and sometimes during Back to School promotions in August.
Being savvy with your research and timing can save you hundreds of dollars. Always compare prices and look for the best deals before making a purchase.
Maximizing Savings Through Trade-In Programs
Evaluating Trade-In Values
When considering a trade-in, it's crucial to evaluate the trade-in value of your old phone. Different platforms and carriers offer varying amounts, so shop around to get the best deal. Dedicated trade-in sites might not be as seamless as trading in at the store where you buy your new phone, but they often pay more. Always provide an accurate assessment of your phone's condition to get the best estimate.
Timing Trade-Ins with New Releases
Timing is everything when it comes to trade-ins. When new phones are released, older models are usually discounted, and carriers often offer promotions on these phones. Watch for guaranteed trade-in promotions from carriers or manufacturers, as these can provide significant savings. Act quickly, as these deals can be fleeting.
Combining Trade-Ins with Promotions
To maximize your savings, combine trade-in offers with other promotions. For example, some carriers offer trade-in deals that can save you hundreds of dollars on a new phone. Look for seasonal promotions like Black Friday or back-to-school sales, which often include additional discounts or perks. By strategically timing your trade-in and taking advantage of promotions, you can get the best value for your old phone.
Shopping Smart: Comparing Prices and Deals
When it comes to buying a cell phone, being smart about your purchase can save you a lot of money. Here are some tips to help you get the best deal.
Using Price Comparison Tools
One of the best ways to ensure you're getting a good deal is by using price comparison tools. Websites like CamelCamelCamel show you how the price of a phone listed on Amazon changes over time. A price comparison tool will help you find the best deal. For example, you might find that a phone was never actually priced as high as the discount suggests.
Monitoring Price Histories
Monitoring the price history of a phone can give you a better idea of when to buy. Tools like CamelCamelCamel can show you the highest and lowest prices a phone has been sold for on Amazon. This way, you can decide if the current price is a good deal or if you should wait for a better one.
Understanding Retailer Tactics
Retailers often use tactics to make deals seem better than they are. For instance, a phone might be listed with a high original price that it was never actually sold at. By doing a little research, you can avoid falling for these tricks and make sure you're getting a genuine discount.
Shopping around big sales events is also a good time to find a phone deal. While major retailers cut prices on popular products, carriers can also take those opportunities to make their usual discounts even more enticing.
By using these tips, you can make sure you're getting the best possible deal on your next cell phone purchase.
Conclusion
In summary, the best time to buy a cell phone depends on various factors, including the brand, model, and your personal needs. For iPhones, waiting until after the new model is released in September can save you money on the previous year's model. For Android phones, events like Prime Day and Black Friday offer significant discounts. Additionally, trade-in deals from providers can provide substantial savings. By being patient and strategic, you can get the best value for your money when purchasing a new cell phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to buy a new cell phone?
The best times to buy a new cell phone are during major sales events like Black Friday, Prime Day, and post-Christmas sales. You can also find good deals right before or after new model releases.
Why should I wait for new model releases to buy a phone?
Waiting for new model releases can save you money because older models often get discounted. Plus, you might get extra perks like gift cards or accessories during the pre-order period.
Are trade-in programs worth it?
Yes, trade-in programs can be very beneficial. They allow you to get a significant discount on a new phone by trading in your old one. Timing your trade-in with new releases can maximize your savings.
Do carriers offer better deals than retailers?
Carriers often have competitive deals, especially during seasonal promotions. They might offer bundle deals, trade-in discounts, and exclusive savings that can sometimes be better than retailer offers.
Is it cheaper to buy an older phone model?
Yes, buying an older phone model can be cheaper, especially right after a new model is released. Retailers often discount previous models to clear out inventory.
How can I make sure I'm getting the best deal?
To get the best deal, use price comparison tools, monitor price histories, and keep an eye on both retailer and carrier promotions. Shopping during major sales events can also help you save money.
