Black Friday and Cyber ​​Monday are two of the most exciting days of the year when it comes to shoppers looking for big holiday discounts.

While Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving) has traditionally focused on in-person sales at clothing retailers and technology stores, Cyber ​​Monday (the Monday after Thanksgiving) is the day when online shopping platforms offer big savings on top items, all of which are easy to ship. directly to you.

However, in recent years, many of the deals start earlier and start online, even on Black Friday.

“Black Friday is still king for expensive items like electronics, TVs, gaming consoles and appliances,” Michael Ryan, a financial expert and founder of michaelryanmoney.com, told me. Newsweek. “Retailers tend to go all out on these items. While many of these deals are in-store, Black Friday is no longer just about crowds. Most retailers have also made the move online.”

However, for those who prefer to shop online, Cyber ​​Monday reigns supreme.

“Shopping in your pajamas beats dealing with the Black Friday crowds,” Ryan said. “If you’re all about online shopping, Cyber ​​Monday is your day to shine.”

To get the best deals, start tracking prices early, using comparison tools available online, and don’t wait until Cyber ​​Monday to shop for the most important items on your list.

Ryan said attention to return policy will also be critical.

“With the pressure of time-sensitive sales, it’s easy to forget that some retailers have shorter return periods or high restocking fees,” Ryan said. “Research shows that many of the ‘deals’ are too high at first. So shop smart. Compare prices. Stick to your budget. And don’t fall for the marketing hype.”

Some stores raise prices before Black Friday and then artificially lower them to a lower discount, Ryan said, adding that this is especially common for furniture and clothing.

Does Amazon have better deals on Black Friday or Cyber ​​Monday?

Amazon is offering significant savings on both Black Friday and Cyber ​​Monday.

While Black Friday deals are available from November 21 to November 29, Cyber ​​Monday deals start on December 2.

But depending on what kind of products you’re looking for this holiday season, one of the days could be more useful for savings.

“While Black Friday brings the rush for expensive electronics, Cyber ​​Monday focuses on everything,” said Ryan. “It’s also a good place for fashion, gadgets, smart home devices and smaller electronics like headphones or tablets. Plus, you can compare prices so you know you’re getting the best deal.”

So overall, Black Friday will be best for those looking for TVs and gaming consoles, while Cyber ​​Monday will offer the best opportunities for gadgets and accessories, while having a little online shopping advantage.

According to Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor at the University of Tennessee at Martin, the best deals may not come on both days.

“We are increasingly seeing retailers lower prices starting a week before Black Friday to get a jump on the discounts that other retailers are going to offer,” Beene said. Newsweek. “Similarly, some of the best deals may come after Cyber ​​Monday, when retailers are looking to unload inventory that hasn’t seen robust sales over the holiday weekend. That doesn’t mean you should avoid these days altogether, just continue to check in before and after price drops.”