### The Optimal Time to Purchase a Laptop: A Tactical Guide

Acquiring a laptop is not akin to snatching a candy bar at checkout—it represents a considerable investment that necessitates thorough consideration. If your existing laptop unexpectedly ceases to function, you might have to replace it right away (after responsibly recycling or repurposing it). However, if you have the luxury of time, you can make a more informed choice and possibly save some money.

The crucial factor is to identify your priority: Are you seeking the latest technology, or are you in pursuit of the best bargain? Drawing on historical laptop launches and sales patterns, here’s when it’s advisable to buy.

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## If You Desire the Latest Technology

For those who yearn for state-of-the-art specifications and are prepared to pay extra, the prime time to purchase is during new model releases.

### **Best Time to Buy: At Launch**

The **Consumer Electronics Show (CES)**, taking place every **January**, is where prominent brands like Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Asus showcase their newest laptops. Some models may be preordered or purchased shortly after CES, while others become available by **March or April**.

Apple and Microsoft each have their own timelines. Apple generally refreshes its **MacBook Pro and MacBook Air** lines annually or biannually, with launches occurring in **March/April, June (WWDC), or October/November**. Conversely, Microsoft unveils new **Surface laptops** in **September** during its own events.

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## If You Aim for the Best Deal

If budget is your main concern, timing your purchase around major sales periods can help you secure the best value.

### **Best Time to Buy: Black Friday Season**

Black Friday, which occurs on the fourth **Friday in November**, is an ideal time to score significant discounts on laptops. Nevertheless, sales often commence as early as **October** and continue through **Cyber Monday**.

Retailers and manufacturers provide substantial discounts (20-50% off) to clear out existing stock before the arrival of new models in January. Older models, particularly those from the preceding year, typically reach their lowest prices during this time.

Apple and Microsoft participate in Black Friday deals through third-party retailers such as Amazon and Best Buy, offering discounts on both older and newly launched models.

#### **Should You Purchase Early or Hold Off?**
If you have a particular laptop in mind, buy it as soon as it becomes available to avoid running out of stock. However, if you can be flexible, waiting until Black Friday itself might yield even greater savings. Numerous retailers also provide **price-match guarantees**, enabling you to request a refund if prices drop further.

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### **Second Best Time to Buy: Back-to-School Season**

From **mid-June to early September**, retailers present discounts to students, parents, and educators. Apple runs a **back-to-school promotion** from **June to October**, offering complimentary gift cards with MacBook purchases in addition to standard **education pricing** ($100 off selected models).

Amazon’s **Prime Day** (mid-July) also coincides with this timeframe, often boasting competitive laptop offers. Other retailers, including Best Buy, engage in rival sales during this period.

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### **Third Best Time to Buy: Holiday Weekends**

Retailers provide discounts on laptops during significant holiday weekends, which include:
– **Presidents’ Day (February)**
– **Memorial Day (May)**
– **Fourth of July**
– **Labor Day (September)**

Although these sales may not feature the steepest discounts, they can still deliver solid savings outside of peak shopping times.

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### **Honorable Mention: Following New Model Announcements**

When a new laptop is launched, older models frequently experience price reductions. This typically occurs in **late January and February** after CES, though Apple and Microsoft also cut prices when they introduce new versions of their MacBooks and Surface laptops.

For instance, Apple permanently lowered the price of the **M2 MacBook Air** twice—once with the launch of the **15-inch version** and again with the arrival of the **M3 model**. Similarly, Microsoft reduced the price of the original **Surface Laptop Studio** by $500 after announcing its successor.

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## Where to Shop for the Best Deals

### **Top Retailers for Laptop Discounts**
– **Best Buy**: Offers an extensive selection, including MacBooks, Windows laptops, Chromebooks, and gaming laptops.
– **Amazon**: Carries a wide range of laptops, but tread carefully with third-party sellers.
– **Walmart**: Limited inventory, mainly older models and budget options.

### **Caution with Third-Party Sellers**
Both Amazon and Walmart feature third-party sellers, which can result in inflated prices, differing return policies, and potentially counterfeit products. Always verify if a laptop is **”Sold and shipped by Amazon.com”** or **”Sold and shipped by Walmart.com”**.