Maximize your laptop budget by buying smart! Laptops are pricey, but strategic timing can significantly reduce the cost. While new models constantly emerge, several periods each year offer substantial savings, even on the latest technology in 2025. With President's Day sales approaching, let's explore the optimal times to purchase.
Best Times to Buy a Laptop in 2025:
Major Sales Events: Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Prime Day Back-to-School Season: Typically August/September New Hardware Releases: Usually early year or around October
Black Friday/Cyber Monday:
These sales are prime laptop-buying opportunities. New laptop hardware launches either early in the year or around October, leading to significant discounts on previous-generation models. Retailers aggressively clear inventory to make room for new releases. Savings of 20-30% are common. While you might miss the absolute newest features, the price savings are substantial. Black Friday deals often extend beyond doorbusters, creating exceptional value. Even Apple products, typically resistant to discounting, can see price drops.
Black Friday falls on November 28th, 2025, but deals often begin in late October. Expect deals shortly after Amazon's October Prime Day event.
Amazon Prime Day:
Prime Day offers deals, though not always the most impressive laptop discounts. However, it's an excellent time to find affordable Chromebooks, which are already budget-friendly. The limited functionality of Chromebooks makes hardware generation less critical.
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 rush. Laptop deals are less abundant than during Black Friday, but still worth considering for budget-conscious shoppers.
Other Sales Events:
Beyond Black Friday and Prime Day, retailers frequently discount electronics during holidays like President's Day (already announced sales!), Memorial Day, Labor Day, and the Fourth of July.
Seeking the Latest Technology:
If price is secondary to having the newest features, monitor Nvidia, Intel, and AMD announcements for new laptop hardware. CES 2025 showcased new laptops emphasizing AI assistants and Mini-LED displays. Razer's RTX 5090 laptops were a highlight. Intel's U-series processors are released less predictably, requiring close attention to tech news and rumors.
New Hardware Impacts Pricing:
New hardware releases immediately lower prices on previous generations. While purchasing a last-generation laptop might seem less appealing, the generational improvements are often incremental. The performance difference between, for example, 13th and 14th-gen Intel processors is minimal for everyday tasks.
Capitalizing on this price drop after a new release is a smart buying strategy, applicable even to MacBooks.
Top Affordable Laptops Currently Available:
If you're not waiting for sales or new models, consider these budget-friendly options:
Dell XPS 13: A strong MacBook alternative. Price: $999.00 (Dell)
ASUS TUF Dash 15: A great budget gaming laptop (under $2,000). Price: $1,149.99 (Amazon)
Microsoft Surface Pro 9: An excellent detachable laptop. Price: $1,399.99 (Best Buy)
Apple MacBook Air M2 (2022): A top choice for everyday use. Price: $1,665.00 (Amazon)
