Teen Easter Basket IdeasLight Therapy LampsEaster Gifts for AdultsBest Earbuds for iPhoneEaster Basket StuffersTechTV ReviewsWhen Is the Best Time to Buy a TV? Here's What an Expert SaysIf you want to save big, make your TV upgrade during these times of year.

　　By Emily J. Shiffer

　　If your current TV feels dated because of the lack of smart features, poor picture quality, or too-small screen, it may be time for an upgrade.

　　However, buying a new TV can be a big investment — according to Gadget Review, the average cost of a 42-inch TV is between $400-$500. And depending on size and features, that price can drastically increase. Because of this, you'll want to be smart about when you make your purchase, since many TV models go on super-sale throughout the year.

　　So, when is the best time to buy a TV? We tapped an expert for insight on when you should (and shouldn't) make the purchase, plus we also have tips on how to pick the best one for you.

　　When is the best time to buy a TV?

　　There are two times of the year you should take advantage of when it comes to getting a good deal on a TV, says Burton Kelso, technology expert and owner of IT support service Integral. They are in the lead-up to Super Bowl Sunday and the weekend of Black Friday/Cyber Monday.

　　January/February (Super Bowl season)

　　The Super Bowl attracts millions of TV watchers each year. In 2023, more than 113 million people tuned in, according to Nielsen. So, it's no wonder that TV retailers see the big game as a great opportunity to mark down their older models.

　　“If you're wanting a good discount on last year's TV models, then Super Bowl time is the best time to buy a TV,” Kelso says.

　　Black Friday/Cyber Monday

　　As the holiday season starts to ramp up, you can expect retailers to run major deals on TVs around Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

　　“They're starting to try to clear out those older models in time for next year's model,” says Kelso. Plus, as shoppers pour into brick-and-mortar stores during this time to buy Christmas gifts, they may also be swayed by the incredible deals to make a TV purchase for themselves.

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　　When is the worst time to buy a new TV?

　　If you want to avoid paying full-price and you don't care about getting the newest TV model, then don't buy a TV in the spring.

　　This is because most new TV models are debuted at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), which typically happens in January. By March, these just-launched TVs have hit retailer shelves but won't be on sale for months to come.

　　Kelso does note that if you do want a brand-new TV that's equipped with top-of-the-line tech, buying now is the right move.

　　“A lot of tech and audio/video enthusiasts purchase in March and April,” says Kelso.

　　What to know before purchasing a new TV

　　If you’re currently in the market for a new TV, the search can quickly get overwhelming. Here are a few tips from Kelso to make your search a bit more simple.

　　Skip the warranty

　　Many big-box retailers (and online retailers) will offer extended warranties of TVs, but Kelso suggests you save your money.

　　“Ninety-nine percent of new TVs come with a 1-year warranty,” says Kelso. “If something is going to go bad with your TV, it’s likely going to happen in that first year.”

　　Pay attention to features

　　While you may have cared about TV pixels in the past, today's 4K TVs make crystal-clear picture quality the new standard. Instead, focus on the special features and smart capabilities of the TV that make it easier to integrate into your home theater set-up.

　　“Will it hook up to your smart home? Does it have a camera? Can it connect to your phone? Those are the things that might make TVs stand out,” says Kelso.

　　Check it out in person

　　If you’re planning to buy a new TV online, Kelso suggests checking out your TV in person at a big-box retailer like Best Buy, Costco, Target, or Walmart.

　　“It's always a good idea to stop into a store to see if it's going to work for you, as far as the visuals and size.” says Kelso.

　　 Ask about price matching

　　Shopping in stores offers another benefit: If you see a TV you like on the sale floor, but it's cheaper to buy online, Kelso suggests asking about price matching.

　　“Show the retailer the [online] price, and they'll probably sell it to you at that price,” he says.

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