Maximize your laptop budget by buying smart! Laptops are a significant investment, but strategic timing can significantly reduce the cost. While new models constantly emerge, specific times of the year offer substantially better deals, even on the latest technology in 2025. With President's Day sales approaching, let's explore the optimal times to purchase a laptop.
Best Times to Buy a Laptop in 2025:
Major Sales Events: Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Prime Day Back-to-School Season: August/September New Hardware Releases: Typically early year or around October
Black Friday/Cyber Monday:
These sales offer incredible savings, extending beyond just the initial doorbuster deals. New laptop hardware often launches early in the year or around October, leading to significant discounts on previous-generation models. Retailers aggressively clear inventory to make room for newer products. This might mean foregoing the absolute newest features, but savings of 20-30% are substantial. Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals amplify these savings. Even Apple products, known for holding their value, sometimes see significant reductions.
Black Friday falls on November 28th, 2025, but deals typically begin in late October. Expect deals to appear shortly after Amazon's October Prime Day event.
Amazon Prime Day:
Prime Day deals aren't always spectacular for laptops, but affordable options exist. However, it's an excellent time to find discounted Chromebooks, already budget-friendly. The reliance on web browsers minimizes hardware concerns.
Prime Day 2025 is anticipated around mid-July, similar to previous years.
October Prime Day:
Amazon's secondary October Prime Day event mirrors the summer sale, offering similar discounts before the holiday season. While laptop deals are fewer than Black Friday, it's a worthwhile consideration for fall buyers seeking affordability.
Other Sales Events:
Beyond Black Friday and Prime Day, retailers often discount electronics during holidays like President's Day (already underway!), Memorial Day, Labor Day, and the Fourth of July.
Seeking the Latest Technology:
For those prioritizing the newest features rather than price, wait for announcements from Nvidia, Intel, or AMD regarding new laptop hardware. CES 2025 showcased new laptops emphasizing AI assistants and Mini-LED displays. New generation graphics cards, like Razer's RTX 5090, are also highly anticipated.
Ultrabook upgrades and Intel's U-series processors release less predictably, requiring closer attention to tech news and rumors. New hardware releases often immediately lower prices on previous-generation models. While purchasing a slightly older model might seem less appealing, the generational differences are often minimal for everyday tasks.
New Hardware's Impact on Pricing:
New hardware releases directly impact pricing of older models. The performance difference between generations is often marginal, making last-generation laptops a cost-effective choice. This is especially true for MacBooks; new releases flood the used market with discounted previous-generation models.
Current Top Affordable Laptops:
If immediate purchase is necessary and sales aren't a priority, consider these budget-friendly options:
Dell XPS 13: A strong MacBook alternative. Price: $999.00 (Check Dell)
ASUS TUF Dash 15: A budget-friendly gaming laptop under $2,000. Price: $1,149.99 (Check Amazon)
Microsoft Surface Pro 9: A top detachable laptop. Price: $1,399.99 (Check Best Buy)
Apple MacBook Air M2 (2022): Excellent for everyday use. Price: $1,665.00 (Check Amazon)
