Wearable technology like smartwatches and fitness trackers are more affordable during the Black Friday season. Many prominent brands, including Samsung, Apple, Google, and Fitbit, are known to offer steep discounts during this time. While specific deals may vary depending on the retailer and the smartwatch model, the market sees a few common categories of deals, like trade-ins and bundles. Below are ten types of deals one may enjoy on smartwatches during Black Friday 2023.
1. Discounted prices
Smartwatches are known to have incredible price cuts during the annual Black Friday shopping event. Last year, Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart offered up to $110 off Apple and Samsung smartwatches. Similarly, AT&T let customers save up to $430 on Samsung watches. Individual brands also discount their products directly on their websites using promo codes.
2. Bundle deals
Some retailers offer bundle deals, letting customers save not only on a smartwatch but also on other gadgets or related accessories. For example, one may get a smartwatch plus a smartphone, earphones, screen protectors, extra straps, or charging docks at a discounted combined price. Brands like Samsung are likely to provide bundle offers.
3. Trade-in offers
Price cuts are more common on older models during Black Friday. One may rarely find markdowns on the latest wearable devices, especially those from renowned brands like Apple. Newer models and premium brands are likelier to provide trade-ins, where one can exchange an older smartwatch or electronic device to enjoy a discount on a new smartwatch. Trade-in deals may not be restricted to smartwatches; customers may also find them on other watch types, including quality digital and analog styles.
4. Free shipping
Many brands and online retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Target, Currys, Ebuyer, and Newegg are known to offer free shipping as part of their Black Friday promotions. This further reduces the overall cost of purchasing a smartwatch.
5. Gift cards or store credits
Some retailers might provide gift cards or store credits as part of their Black Friday deals. Customers can accumulate and use them in the future to get a discount on a smartwatch.
6. Limited-time offers
Flash sales and limited-time offers are common during Black Friday. These deals have a short window of availability, encouraging customers to make quick purchasing decisions.
7. Older models at lower prices
Sometimes, manufacturers release updated versions of their smartwatches around the holiday season. This reduces the price of the previous models, letting shoppers get a slightly older but feature-rich smartwatch at a lower cost.
8. Extended warranty or protection plans
Some retailers might provide extended warranties or protection plans for free or reduced costs when one purchases a smartwatch during Black Friday.
9. Exclusive online deals
Online retailers often have exclusive deals that are unavailable in physical stores. These online-only promotions can offer additional savings.
10. Creative deals
Retailers sometimes surprise savvy shoppers with unique incentives. For instance, last year, on Black Friday, AT&T had a buy-one-get-one offer on the Apple Watch and Pixel Watch. So, those who purchased one of these got another of the same brand for free. On another note, if someone purchased an Apple Watch that could connect to their cellular network, AT&T sweetened the deal by giving away a second watch at no extra cost!
Types of smartwatches to expect on sale for Black Friday 2023
Different types of smartwatches are available in the market. The following types are usually on sale during Black Friday:
General-purpose smartwatches
These are versatile smartwatches for both men and women that offer a wide range of features, including fitness tracking, notifications, and app integration. Simply put, they can handle various tasks beyond timekeeping. These smartwatches usually cost between $100 and $1,600, with the average range falling between $200 and $500 during the sale. The price may vary depending on the brand, accessories included, and add-on features. Black Friday is an ideal time to invest in smartwatches, as one may get them for much less, even up to 70% off their regular retail values.
Medical alert smartwatches
These smartwatches are designed for older adults and individuals with specific health needs. They include treatment reminders, glucose level monitoring for diabetics, emergency call buttons, and fall detection. Brands are known to sell as well as rent these wearables for a monthly fee. Black Friday might see companies like Medical Guardian, Mobvoi, LifeFone, and others offering attractive renting options and discounts on retail prices.
Fitness trackers
Also called smart bands or fitness bands, these focus on tracking health and fitness levels. They have advanced sensors to monitor heart rate, steps, sleep, and other metrics. Some also have specific workout modes and coaching features. Last Black Friday, shoppers enjoyed remarkable price cuts on popular fitness trackers. Wearables from Xiaomi’s Amazfit sub-brand were offered at nearly 50% off. Withings smartwatches and various slightly less-renowned brands also had exciting offers. With growing interest in health and lifestyle, brands and retailers like Fitbit, Garmin, and Walmart will likely offer similar or better discounts in 2023.
Kids’ smartwatches
Designed for children, these smartwatches focus on safety and parental controls. They may have features like GPS tracking to help parents keep tabs on their kids’ whereabouts. Brands like Garmin, VTech, and Gizmo Watch could offer Black Friday deals with discounts of about 25% on kids’ smartwatches.
LTE/cellular-enabled smartwatches
These watches have built-in cellular connectivity, allowing them to function independently of a paired smartphone. In other words, they can make calls, send messages, and use apps without a phone nearby. Past trends suggest potential savings of about $50 to $150 on these independent, connected devices.
