Black Friday and Cyber Monday, once distinct deal shopping days, have essentially merged into one massive shopping extravaganza. The lines between them began to blur significantly in 2020 when the world shut down, and brick-and-mortar stores shifted to online sales instead of in-person Black Friday events. In 2023, those lines are practically nonexistent; we certainly can’t see them.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday
While major retailers have been running holiday sales throughout November, savvy shoppers recognize that both Black Friday and Cyber Monday remain two of the biggest shopping days of the year. They reliably trigger record-low prices on significant items like 4K TVs, Apple devices, robot vacuums, headphones, and video games. This includes discounts that surpass Amazon’s heavily promoted fall Prime Day deals.
What Sets Black Friday Apart from Cyber Monday?
Back in the MySpace and AIM era in 2005, the National Retail Federation coined the term “Cyber Monday” when they noticed a surge in online sales on the Monday after Thanksgiving. This was likely because shoppers used their faster work internet connections on Monday morning to snag deals—or at least, that’s the credited explanation. It also came about because online retailers wanted a slice of the holiday shopping pie. Thus, two distinct deal shopping days emerged: Black Friday, for in-store shopping the day after Thanksgiving, and Cyber Monday, for those who preferred shopping from home.
Nowadays, there’s little, if any, real difference between the two, thanks to the alleged “death of retail.” With everything and everyone online, Black Friday naturally joined the digital fray. Based on our extensive experience covering both, we can honestly say neither is a “better” day to shop. It ultimately depends on what you’re looking for and the level of demand for it.
Does Black Friday or Cyber Monday Offer Better Deals?
If you spot a good deal, seize it, regardless of whether it falls under Black Friday or Cyber Monday. There’s not a significant distinction anymore in terms of discounts on specific products compared to previous years. Historically, Black Friday was the prime day for TV or popular toy purchases, while Cyber Monday was ideal for buying a laptop or PC. This guideline still holds true, as TV deals are typically more dramatic and widespread on Black Friday, and laptop deals shine on Cyber Monday.
However, with the blurred lines of Cyber Week, many of these deals may overlap. As noted on BlackFriday.com, “Some TV deals may feature flashy discounts during both Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but they might not have the specs you’re after.” In short, the deals will be excellent for both shopping days, but it all depends on what you’re looking for. Keep your specifications in mind, and when you come across a deal, grab it—no one wants to risk it selling out.
