What to buy on Black Friday: 9 items you should always consider

As Black Friday 2020 approaches, many retailers are looking forward to the annual shopping event to make up for some of the lost revenue due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

It's fair to say that Black Friday may look a little different this year. While online purchases on Black Friday have been increasing every year, it's likely that retailers will place even more of an emphasis on online sales, given the requirements for social distancing in stores.

Although scheduled for 27 November, 2020 it's also likely that retailers will start offering their deals more than a week before that to entice more shoppers to bag a bargain ahead of the holiday season.

That's why it's easy to get tempted by these early offers and grab the first deal on offer, but that's rarely a wise move. When it comes to Black Friday, it's all about picking your options.

While there are some great deals on clothing or beauty products, you might also want to consider some bigger ticket items because, historically, certain items on Black Friday get much steeper discounts.

Here are some items you should consider if you want to get the best deals on Black Friday:

1. Televisions

Black Friday has been known to be a great time to get that large screen TV. Buying a TV can be confusing these days, with the number of buzzwords like HDR, UHD, 4k and even 8k being thrown about by retailers. But with 4k and HDR technology being commonplace, you'll be hard-pressed to find a TV larger than 40 inches that isn't 4k.

But it's also important not to be taken in by the marketing. The steepest discounts are generally on the more mid-range TVs, rather than the premium sets. But even mid-range TVs these days deliver great picture and sound quality so you can't go too wrong. If you do your research you can upgrade your Netflix and Chill game and get a great deal as well.

2. Tablets

Tablets and e-readers have become popular Christmas gifts over the past few years. More people are using tablets to fill the gap between their smartphones and laptops for streaming and casual browsing.

You'll likely get the best offers on models that are a year or two old, but still powerful enough to fulfil all your needs - unless you're a real power user. Retailers like Amazon, Argos, Currys, and eBay and all are likely to offer some of the best discounts.

If you're a devoted iPad user, you might find Apple's Black Friday discounts to be less generous than other brands. It's rare to find more than a £50 discount on iPads on Black Friday.

3. Laptops

If you're in the market for a new laptop, Black Friday is a great time to upgrade. Again, you're more likely to get a better deal on models that are a year or two older. For most people, last year's model should be just fine for their needs, and they can save a pretty penny.

That doesn't mean you should opt for the best deal on offer. Even a 50% discount can be a bad deal if it doesn't suit your needs. A good deal also doesn't mean that you impulsively buy a new laptop. If you're already have a laptop that's working just fine, you might be better off upgrading in a year or two.

4. Video Games and Consoles

Black Friday is a great opportunity to pick up a new gaming console or buy a few video games on the cheap especially if you opt for console and game bundles. With both Sony and Microsoft having announces the latest generations of their consoles in the PS5 and Xbox Series X, respectively, retailers will be looking to move inventory of the previous generations Unless you're a hardcore gamer who only wants the latest wares, it's a great opportunity to find sizeable discounts on Sony's PS4 and Microsoft Xbox One, that often come bundles with the most popular games. In addition to console and game deals, you can also get discounted accessories, online gaming memberships, and even collectibles on Amazon.

5. Smart home devices

Investing in smart tech during Black Friday is the most cost-effective option. Most major retailers will be participating in the Black Friday sales, which means there will be plenty of choices when it comes to smart tech.

Buying devices like an Amazon Echo or a Google Nest at full price isn't recommended. They go on sale frequently and Black Friday is no exception.

In fact, some retailers often bundle these gadgets into other offers. Amazon Echo Dots are the likeliest to get. They're typically bundled with electronics like TVs or smart home devices like Ring doorbells.

6. Headphones

The search for the perfect set of headphones can seem never ending. Unfortunately, if you're in the market for those highly coveted Apple AirPods, unfortunately, as is the case for most Apple products even Black Friday isn't going to help you out very much on the price. Luckily, though, if you're not married to the idea of a specific brand, the headphone and earbud market is full of so-called Apple killers. Brands like Bose, Sony, Samsung and Anker are competing to woo you away not with just features, but price as well, and Black Friday is a great time to find a great deal.

7. Home appliances

If the thought of a new coffee machine or blender gets your heart beat, then Black Friday is a good time to kit your kitchen with some nifty appliances. You'll likely see retailer wage price wars on coffee pod machines like those from Nespresso, and KitchenAids. Robot vacuums may also drop significantly.

8. Winter Clothing

Although it may already be a bit chilly by the time Black Friday rolls around, you can save a lot on if you're looking into invest in a winter coat. In fact, puffers and quilted jackets are a favourite for retailers to offer large discounts on as they try to clear inventory of last year's designs. So that one winter jacket that was out of your budget, might be much more affordable in Black Friday.

9. Luggage

It might feel strange to consider buying luggage during a time when travelling has almost come to a standstill. But one day soon we will get through these tough times and there will be a time when we can visit the countries and places we've always dreamed of.

And let's face it, good quality luggage doesn't come cheap. Black Friday should be a good time to find reasonably priced carry-ons and trolleys that you can use when travelling resumes.