Laptops are a significant investment, but savvy timing can significantly reduce the cost. While new models constantly emerge, several periods 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 throughout the year.
Best Times to Buy a Laptop in 2025:
Major Sales Events: Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Prime Day
Back-to-School Season
New Hardware Releases
Black Friday/Cyber Monday
Black Friday and Cyber Monday DealsBlack Friday and Cyber Monday are prime laptop shopping times, offering more than just doorbuster deals. New laptop hardware typically launches early in the year or around October, depending on the manufacturer. This means last-generation models, or those becoming outdated post-CES, receive deep discounts. We've observed this trend with MacBooks, for example, following recent model releases.
Retailers like Amazon and Best Buy aggressively clear inventory to make room for newer products. This might mean sacrificing the absolute newest features, but savings of 20-30% off the original price are substantial.
Combined with aggressive Black Friday and Cyber Monday promotions, significant savings are possible. We've seen Black Friday deals slash prices on MacBook Airs shortly after release—a noteworthy discount considering Apple products rarely see immediate price reductions.
Black Friday falls on November 28th, 2025, but deals typically begin in late October. Expect deals to emerge shortly after Amazon's October Prime Day event.
Amazon Prime Day
Amazon Prime DaySimilar to Black Friday, Amazon hosts its own major sales event. While Prime Day laptop deals aren't always spectacular, they exist. If you're not overly demanding, you can find affordable options, though top-of-the-line models are less likely.
Prime Day is ideal for Chromebooks. Already budget-friendly, Amazon offers further price reductions. The advantage with Chromebooks is less concern about hardware specifics, as most functions rely on web browsers.
Prime Day 2025 is anticipated around mid-July, similar to previous years.
October Prime Day
Amazon's October Prime Day event mirrors the summer sale, with comparable discounts ahead of the holiday season. While laptop deals are less abundant than during Black Friday, it's a valuable option for fall budget shoppers.
Other Sales Events
Beyond Black Friday and Prime Day, retailers often discount electronics during holidays. President's Day sales, for example, are already underway at Best Buy. Memorial Day, Labor Day, and the Fourth of July also present opportunities.
Seeking the Latest Technology
If prioritizing the newest technology over price, wait for announcements from Nvidia, Intel, or AMD regarding new laptop hardware. CES 2025 showcased a new generation of laptops, emphasizing AI assistants and Mini-LED displays. Razer's RTX 5090 laptops were a highlight.
Intel Announces 13th Gen Raptor Lake Mobile Processors at CES 2023For current deals and ongoing updates, explore our comprehensive gaming laptop deal guides.
Ultrabooks receive regular upgrades, though Intel's U-series processors release sporadically. Staying informed about tech news and rumors is crucial. New hardware often appears unexpectedly, so vigilance is key for securing the latest models.
New Hardware Impacts Pricing
New hardware releases immediately lower prices on previous generations. While spending on a last-generation laptop might seem less appealing, generational improvements are incremental.
The performance difference between a 13th-gen and 14th-gen Intel laptop, for example, is minimal for everyday tasks. The speed increase in applications like Photoshop is negligible.
Combining new hardware releases with deals on last-generation models is a highly effective strategy. This applies to MacBooks as well; new releases trigger significant price drops on older models in the used market.
Current Affordable Laptop Options
If immediate purchase is preferred over waiting for sales or new releases, consider these budget-friendly options:
### Dell XPS 13
A top MacBook alternative.
$999.00 See it at Dell
### ASUS TUF Dash 15
A great budget gaming laptop (under $2,000).
$1,149.99 See it at Amazon
### Microsoft Surface Pro 9
A top detachable laptop; the SQ 3 (ARM-based processor) model is recommended.
$1,399.99 See it at Best Buy
### Apple MacBook Air M2
Excellent for everyday use.
$1,665.00 See it at Amazon