Most electronics are considered big-ticket items, meaning they cost a little more and may even need to be put on layaway. So, it makes sense to attempt to buy them when they are at their least expensive. The problem is, the best time to buy depends on the electronic item you are searching for. If you want a digital camera, buy in February. For a laptop, wait until August. Here’s why:
Cameras. Digital cameras and even digital frames are best purchased in January and February. That’s because the newest models come out then, so retailers are anxious to get rid of existing stock. If you don’t mind using a camera that is not hot off the latest trade show display, buy yours in February.
Televisions. It can be tempting to rush out for that flat screen during the holiday rush, but hold off until April or May if you can. This is especially true if you prefer a Japanese brand such as Sony or Toshiba. The fiscal year ends for Japanese manufacturers in March, and old inventory is usually let go for cheap right after that.
Home Theater Equipment. Update your television with HDTV or stereo sound during November and December. You can usually get good deals through January too, when equipment is new and everyone wants to sell the best and the brightest stuff at competitive prices.
Laptops. Buying a laptop or even a desktop computer in July or August will save you money. Not only are back-to-school sales ramping up, but retailers know that newer items will be arriving in time for the holidays, and they will want to get their existing models and inventory off the store shelves.
Phones. Buy your next mobile phone when your plan is ready to renew. You can usually talk your carrier into a free phone when you sign on for service for an additional year or two.
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