Black Friday 2023 in Australia: the best deals on laptops, phones, audio, cameras and more

Best Black Friday deals 2023
(Image credit: Future)
Recent updates

Black Friday 2023 is officially over, but that doesn't mean the deals have stopped! There's still heaps of great bargains worth nabbing, and you'll find a comprehensive list in our best Cyber Monday deals in Australia round-up.

Black Friday has officially come to a close, but there's still a big stack of deals to grab during Cyber week. We are starting to see some offers end and prices change, so if you spot a deal you like, you might not get another chance to snatch it up.

WANT MORE OF THE BEST BLACK FRIDAY DEALS?

Assorted tech products on blue background with cyber monday deals text overlay

(Image credit: Future)

Check out our best Cyber Monday sales hub for over 200 fantastic discounts that are still available! Black Friday may be over, but the deals certainly aren't!

We saw excellent discounts on OLED TVs, laptops and Amazon devices start before Black Friday itself, but deals like the AU$350 saving on the Dyson Airwrap only landed once November 24 was here.

If you were looking to pick up a deal on the PS5, we saw an incredible bundle deal which paired the popular console with God of War Ragnarok for just AU$619. It sold out rather quickly, but we'll be keeping our fingers crossed for a similar offer in future.

Of course, Black Friday sales don't stop once the weekend's over – Cyber Monday is the last day of the sale event. Check out our comprehensive coverage of the best Cyber Monday deals here.

14 best Black Friday deals you can still buy

Apple MacBook Air (2020)M1 / 8GB RAM / 256GB SSDAU$1,499AU$1,246 on Amazon

<a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=8428&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com.au%2Fdp%2FB08W43F8Y5%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-22%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-22" data-link-merchant="Amazon AU"">Apple MacBook Air (2020) | M1 / 8GB RAM / 256GB SSD | AU$1,499 AU$1,246 on Amazon (save AU$253)

Amazon is now offering 17% off this laptop, which isn't as good as the 20% off saving that was available over the official Black Friday weekend. While it's not the lowest price we've seen (that was AU$1,149), it's still a good deal. If this price looks right to you for the 256GB storage option, all three colourways are on sale for AU$1,246.

Motorola Razr Plus (2023; 256GB)AU$995AU$715 on Bing Lee eBay

<a href="https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/166352766426?mkevt=1&mkcid=1&mkrid=705-53470-19255-0&campid=5338048699&customid=hawk-custom-tracking" data-link-merchant="ebay.com.au"">Motorola Razr Plus (2023; 256GB) | AU$995 AU$715 on Bing Lee eBay (save AU$280)

The Motorola Razr 40 offers a huge display that folds neatly into half, and it's surprisingly thin when opened up. When it's closed, you've got a nice external screen that makes it feel like an entirely new device, and it's actually useful. If you're keen to get a folding phone without having to spend over a grand, consider this discount from Bing Lee's official eBay store. Get this deal by entering the code HGTNOV at checkout.

Apple iPad 10.9 (2022, Wi-Fi, 64GB)AU$749AU$647 on Amazon

<a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=8428&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com.au%2Fdp%2FB0BJMCMBXZ%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-22%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-22" data-link-merchant="Amazon AU"">Apple iPad 10.9 (2022, Wi-Fi, 64GB) | AU$749 AU$647 on Amazon (save AU$102)

Looking for an iPad with some good value? There's a little over AU$100 off on the 2022 (10th gen) Apple iPad 10.2-inch base model with just Wi-Fi connectivity and 64GB storage. It's available in some fun colours, all at the same 14% discount on Amazon. We don't think this offer will last long, so don't dally on this one.

The <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=8428&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com.au%2Fdp%2FB0BJLFD3PT%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-22%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-22" data-link-merchant="Amazon AU"" data-link-merchant="Amazon AU"">Wi-Fi+Cellular 64GB option also gets 10% off its RRP, down to AU$897 from AU$999.

Meta Quest 2 (256GB)AU$609.99AU$499.99 on Amazon

<a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=8428&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com.au%2Fdp%2FB08FSZ8QWH%2F%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-22%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-22" data-link-merchant="Amazon AU"">Meta Quest 2 (256GB) | AU$609.99 AU$499.99 on Amazon (save AU$110)

Meta Quest 2 is a great choice for an accessible VR headset at a reasonable price, especially now that it's got a AU$110 discount for the 256GB version available via Amazon. The headset hasn't been this cheap since... well, ever! Even though it is an older model, this discount is most welcome. It remains a great piece of kit thanks to its ease of use, comfortable weight, and vast catalogue of supported games. 

Bose QuietComfort Ultra EarbudsAU$449.95AU$360 on Amazon

<a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=8428&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com.au%2Fdp%2FB0CD2FSRDD%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-22%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-22" data-link-merchant="Amazon AU"">Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds | AU$449.95 AU$360 on Amazon (save AU$89.95)

20% off the rather premium RRP of Bose's latest true wireless noise-cancelling earbuds may not seem like much, but you have to remember it's only recently been announced. We weren't expecting these buds to get any significant offers this year, but if this price looks right and you're in need for good noise-cancellation without compromising sound, grab this while the going is good.

LG 65-inch G3 OLED evo TVAU$5,299AU$3,445 on Appliance Central

<a href="https://getprice.com.au/prodhits.aspx?refname=gplink&shopid=2496&subtag=hawk-custom-tracking&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.appliancecentral.com.au%2Foled65g3psa-lg-65-inch-g3-oled-evo-4k-smart-tv-2023" data-link-merchant="appliancecentral.com.au"">LG 65-inch G3 OLED evo TV | AU$5,299 AU$3,445 on Appliance Central (save AU$1,854)

The creme de la creme of LG's OLED TV lineup for 2023, the G3 OLED evo is one helluva screen. Employing Micro Lens Array (MLA) technology to help better distribute light, resulting in improve contrast and greater brightness, the G3 helps to bridge the gap between OLED TVs and their LED counterparts. Still an investment at this price we admit, but if you want the best possible OLED picture, the G3 is unrivalled.

Other sizes: <a href="https://getprice.com.au/prodhits.aspx?refname=gplink&shopid=2496&subtag=hawk-custom-tracking&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.appliancecentral.com.au%2Foled55g3psa-lg-55-inch-g3-oled-evo-4k-smart-tv-2023" data-link-merchant="appliancecentral.com.au"" data-link-merchant="appliancecentral.com.au"">55-inch: AU$3,499 AU$3,090 | <a href="https://getprice.com.au/prodhits.aspx?refname=gplink&shopid=2496&subtag=hawk-custom-tracking&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.appliancecentral.com.au%2Foled77g3psa-lg-77-inch-g3-oled-evo-4k-smart-tv-2023" data-link-merchant="appliancecentral.com.au"" data-link-merchant="appliancecentral.com.au"" data-link-merchant="appliancecentral.com.au"">77-inch: AU$8,399 AU$5,730 | <a href="https://getprice.com.au/prodhits.aspx?refname=gplink&shopid=2496&subtag=hawk-custom-tracking&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.appliancecentral.com.au%2Foled83g3psa-lg-83-inch-g3-oled-evo-4k-smart-tv-2023" data-link-merchant="appliancecentral.com.au"" data-link-merchant="appliancecentral.com.au"" data-link-merchant="appliancecentral.com.au"" data-link-merchant="appliancecentral.com.au"">83-inch: AU$10,999 AU$7,635

TCL 65-inch C845 Mini-LED TVAU$1,995AU$1,398 on Appliance Central

<a href="https://getprice.com.au/prodhits.aspx?refname=gplink&shopid=2496&subtag=hawk-custom-tracking&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.appliancecentral.com.au%2F65c845-tcl-65-inch-mini-led-4k-google-tv" data-link-merchant="appliancecentral.com.au"">TCL 65-inch C845 Mini-LED TV | AU$1,995 AU$1,398 on Appliance Central (save AU$597)

OLED TVs get pricey, so if you want to save a little more, you might want to consider one of the best alternatives in Mini LED TVs. Now delivering deep blacks and contrast while still maintaining great brightness, TVs like the TCL C845 are a nice option for bargain hunters, especially when discounts of up to AU$597 are on the table. 

Other sizes: <a href="https://getprice.com.au/prodhits.aspx?refname=gplink&shopid=2496&subtag=hawk-custom-tracking&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.appliancecentral.com.au%2F55c845-tcl-55-inch-mini-led-4k-google-tv" data-link-merchant="appliancecentral.com.au"" data-link-merchant="appliancecentral.com.au"">55-inch: AU$1,175 | <a href="https://getprice.com.au/prodhits.aspx?refname=gplink&shopid=2496&subtag=hawk-custom-tracking&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.appliancecentral.com.au%2F75c845-tcl-75-inch-mini-led-4k-google-tv" data-link-merchant="appliancecentral.com.au"" data-link-merchant="appliancecentral.com.au"" data-link-merchant="appliancecentral.com.au"">75-inch: AU$1,820

Echo Pop AU$79AU$29 on Amazon

<a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=8428&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com.au%2FIntroducing-sound-compact-speaker-Charcoal%2Fdp%2FB09WXH9BH7%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-22%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-22" data-link-merchant="Amazon AU"">Echo Pop | AU$79 AU$29 on Amazon (save AU$50)

Compact and stylish with a range of bright colours, the Echo Pop smart speaker is perfect to slot into small spaces. With Alexa built in and ready to take on your commands, you’ll be jamming out to tunes and setting timers and alarms without having to whip out your phone. Plus at just AU$29, it’s a great stocking stuffer if you’re stuck for a gift for a tech lover.

Google&nbsp;Nest Hub (2nd Gen)AU$149AU$89 at The Good Guys

<a href="https://www.prf.hn/click/camref:1101ljjE9/pubref:hawk-custom-tracking/destination:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thegoodguys.com.au%2Fgoogle-nest-hub-2nd-gen-charcoal-ga01892-au" data-link-merchant="thegoodguys.com.au"">Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) | AU$149 AU$89 at The Good Guys (save AU$60)

The Google Nest Hub 2 was discounted down to AU$79 over the Black Friday weekend, but the ticket price has since gone up to AU$89. If you missed out then, this is the best price we're currently seeing on this handy-dandy little smart home display.

2022 Apple Watch SE (40mm, GPS)AU$399AU$348 on Amazon

<a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=8428&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com.au%2FApple-Watch-Smartwatch-Aluminum-Starlight%2Fdp%2FB0CHXF7S9S%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-22%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-22" data-link-merchant="Amazon AU"">2022 Apple Watch SE (40mm, GPS) | AU$399 AU$348 on Amazon (save AU$51)

This is a record-low price, and the best-value Apple Watch you can buy right now. While the Apple Watch SE isn't as full-featured as the Apple Watch 8 or 9, it still packs a fast processor, plus great health and fitness features. Note that this price is only on the 40mm GPS version in the <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=8428&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com.au%2FApple-Watch-Smartwatch-Aluminum-Starlight%2Fdp%2FB0CHXF7S9S%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-22%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-22" data-link-merchant="Amazon AU"" data-link-merchant="Amazon AU"">Midnight/Aluminium colourway and the <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=8428&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com.au%2FApple-Watch-Smartwatch-Aluminum-Starlight%2Fdp%2FB0CHX938N3%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-22%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-22" data-link-merchant="Amazon AU"" data-link-merchant="Amazon AU"" data-link-merchant="Amazon AU"">Starlight colourway. The <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=8428&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com.au%2FApple-Watch-Smartwatch-Aluminum-Starlight%2Fdp%2FB0CHX9JPL5%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-22%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-22" data-link-merchant="Amazon AU"" data-link-merchant="Amazon AU"" data-link-merchant="Amazon AU"" data-link-merchant="Amazon AU"">Silver chassis is AU$1 more at AU$349.

GoPro Hero 12 BlackAU$649AU$487 on The Good Guys eBay

<a href="https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/145360416564?mkevt=1&mkcid=1&mkrid=705-53470-19255-0&campid=5338048699&customid=hawk-custom-tracking" data-link-merchant="ebay.com.au"">GoPro Hero 12 Black | AU$649 AU$487 on The Good Guys eBay (save AU$162)

We rate this as the <a href="https://www.techradar.com/news/best-action-camera" data-link-merchant="techradar.com"" data-link-merchant="ebay.com.au"">best action camera for 2023, and The Good Guys on eBay has taken a little over AU$160 off its asking price for Black Friday. The GoPro Hero 12 Black offers beautifully stabilised images, excellent battery life and it's crammed full of features you are definitely going to use. It shoots sharp with high-res 5.3k video, but low light remains its Achilles heel. To get this deal, enter the code HGTNOV at checkout.

Canon EOS R100 + RF18-45mm lensAU$1,099AU$794 on Amazon

<a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=8428&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com.au%2FCanon-R100-Single-Mirrorless-Camera%2Fdp%2FB0C8HCLQVC%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-22%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-22" data-link-merchant="Amazon AU"">Canon EOS R100 + RF18-45mm lens | AU$1,099 AU$794 on Amazon (save AU$305)

The Canon EOS R100 has only been available since May this year, and it's Canon's most affordable RF-mount camera. It's a beginner's camera with a 24MP APS-C sensor, and while that sensor has been around for while now, you'll still be getting Canon's fantastic image quality on a budget. It can shoot 4K video up to 25fps, but it is cropped. If you want to pick up a camera with a lens kit, this option is now just AU$794 at Amazon.

Samsung Bespoke Jet Complete Extra |AU$1,299AU$999 at Samsung

<a href="https://t.cfjump.com/14042/t/78236?UniqueId=hawk-custom-tracking&Url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.samsung.com%2Fau%2Fvacuum-cleaners%2Fstick%2Fvs9500al-bespoke-jet-complete-extra-blue-vs20a95943b-sa%2F" data-link-merchant="samsung.com"">Samsung Bespoke Jet Complete Extra | AU$1,299 AU$999 at Samsung (save AU$300)

This is our pick of not just the <a href="https://www.techradar.com/best/best-cordless-vacuum-cleaners-au" data-link-merchant="techradar.com"" data-link-merchant="samsung.com"">best cordless vacuum cleaner in Australia, but also the <a href="https://www.techradar.com/au/news/best-vacuum-cleaners" data-link-merchant="techradar.com"" data-link-merchant="techradar.com"" data-link-merchant="samsung.com"">best vacuum, period. We like it because not only does it offer powerful suction, it also empties itself into its charging dock. It does that so well that long hair tangled around the inner grill also gets sucked out, leaving the canister clean. It also ships with two batteries so you can keep cleaning for up to 120 minutes.

Also available from <a href="https://getprice.com.au/prodhits.aspx?refname=gplink&shopid=3846&subtag=hawk-custom-tracking&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.jbhifi.com.au%2Fproducts%2Fsamsung-bespoke-jet-complete-extra-stick-vac" data-link-merchant="jbhifi.com.au"" data-link-merchant="techradar.com"" data-link-merchant="techradar.com"" data-link-merchant="samsung.com"">JB Hi-Fi and <a href="https://www.prf.hn/click/camref:1101ljjE9/pubref:hawk-custom-tracking/destination:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thegoodguys.com.au%2Fsamsung-bespoke-jet-complete-extra-cordless-vacuum-vs20a95943b" data-link-merchant="thegoodguys.com.au"" data-link-merchant="jbhifi.com.au"" data-link-merchant="techradar.com"" data-link-merchant="techradar.com"" data-link-merchant="samsung.com"">The Good Guys for AU$999.

Dyson Airwrap Multi-styler Complete longAU$949 AU$599 at Dyson

<a href="https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=HlvbvYZP82I&mid=43020&u1=hawk-custom-tracking&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dyson.com.au%2Fdyson-airwrap-complete-long-copper-nickel" data-link-merchant="dyson.com.au"">Dyson Airwrap Multi-styler Complete long | AU$949 AU$599 at Dyson (save AU$250)

Shipping with practically all the essential tools you'll need for the perfect coif, including the Flyaways attachment, it's Dyson that (perhaps surprisingly) is currently offering the best discount we can find, having dropped further in price from AU$697 to just AU$599. Hurry before stocks run out. The colourways available for AU$599 are:
• <a href="https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=HlvbvYZP82I&mid=43020&u1=hawk-custom-tracking&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dyson.com.au%2Fdyson-airwrap-complete-long-460718-01-blue-blush" data-link-merchant="dyson.com.au"" data-link-merchant="dyson.com.au"">Blue Blush Complete Long
• <a href="https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=HlvbvYZP82I&mid=43020&u1=hawk-custom-tracking&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dyson.com.au%2Fdyson-airwrap-complete-long-nickel-copper" data-link-merchant="dyson.com.au"" data-link-merchant="dyson.com.au"" data-link-merchant="dyson.com.au"">Nickel / Copper Complete Long
• <a href="https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=HlvbvYZP82I&mid=43020&u1=hawk-custom-tracking&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dyson.com.au%2Fdyson-airwrap-complete-long-copper-nickel" data-link-merchant="dyson.com.au"" data-link-merchant="dyson.com.au"" data-link-merchant="dyson.com.au"" data-link-merchant="dyson.com.au"">Copper / Nickel Complete Long (yes, it's different)
• <a href="https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=HlvbvYZP82I&mid=43020&u1=hawk-custom-tracking&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dyson.com.au%2Fdyson-airwrap-complete-fuchsia-nickel" data-link-merchant="dyson.com.au"" data-link-merchant="dyson.com.au"" data-link-merchant="dyson.com.au"" data-link-merchant="dyson.com.au"" data-link-merchant="dyson.com.au"">Fuchsia / Nickel Complete
• <a href="https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=HlvbvYZP82I&mid=43020&u1=hawk-custom-tracking&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dyson.com.au%2Fdyson-airwrap-complete-blue-copper" data-link-merchant="dyson.com.au"" data-link-merchant="dyson.com.au"" data-link-merchant="dyson.com.au"" data-link-merchant="dyson.com.au"" data-link-merchant="dyson.com.au"" data-link-merchant="dyson.com.au"">Prussian Blue / Copper Complete

DON'T MISS THESE CYBER MONDAY DEALS!

Assorted tech products on blue background with cyber monday deals text overlay

(Image credit: Future)

Missed Black Friday? Don't fret, there's still time to bag a bargain via our best Cyber Monday sales hub, where we've rounded up over 200 expert-selected discounts that are still available!

More Black Friday deals

Can't find what you're looking for? We have dedicated guides to a whole range of different products and retailers for Black Friday:

  1. Best Amazon Black Friday deals
  2. Best Black Friday TV deals
  3. Best Black Friday phone deals
  4. Best Black Friday laptop deals
  5. Best Black Friday coffee machine deals
  6. Best eBay Black Friday deals
  7. Best Apple Black Friday deals
  8. Best Dyson Black Friday deals

Black Friday 2023: key information

You can find a snapshot of all the key dates and information related to Black Friday 2023 just below. We’ll be feeding any important news or key retailer announcements into this section as we continue to approach Black Friday, so you can be in the best position once the sales get underway this year.

When is Black Friday 2023?

Black Friday 2023 sales will kick off at 00:01am AEDT on Friday, November 24, meaning there is less than one month to go. 

We’ve been seeing retailers start their Black Friday sales about a week early, and it wouldn’t surprise us at all if they come a little earlier this year. That said, we’re likely to see the best offers during the actual four-day Black Friday weekend itself, which also includes Cyber Monday on November 27.

Where can you find the best Black Friday deals?

Most online retailers offer Black Friday deals, but it's our job to sort through all the offers to find the very best bargains from the bunch. You'll typically find the best deals on tech from big-name retailers like Amazon, eBay, JB Hi-Fi, Myer, The Good Guys and Bing Lee leading the pack.

Amazon, of course, is a Black Friday favourite, not only because of the record-low prices seen during big sales, but because it offers discounts on a wide variety of categories. So whether you're looking for tech items like laptops or AirPods, or searching for discounts on clothing, kitchen appliances, or toys, Amazon is likely to offer Black Friday deals on the product you're after. 

Other retailers that offer impressive Black Friday sales include eBay Australia, JB Hi-Fi, Dell, Lenovo, Microsoft, Rebel Sport, The Gamesmen, Target, The Iconic, just to name a few.

It can be overwhelming with so many retailers and promotions, but that's where our deal expertise comes in. We go through every retailer to pick out the very best Black Friday deals – particularly in the electronics and tech space – so you can be sure you're getting the lowest price available. We also keep a live list of the best Black Friday sales from all the top online retailers, so you can easily jump to the offer you want. 

If you don't want to wait till November to shop for Black Friday deals, check our dedicated tech deals page that we keep updated a few times a week in the lead up to Black Friday, or our best Amazon Australia deals page.

When will we see official Black Friday deals?

Good question. With a move to the competitive arena of online sales, we're going to be seeing more retailers on the web than ever, and with Amazon leading the charge, there's going to be some fierce price wars later this month. That will likely work in your favour, with plenty of retailers vying for the lowest price on the latest gadgets. 

That means we might see Black Friday deals happening far ahead of the scheduled November 24 start date. You'll want to get prepped early, and we can help by bringing you all the latest Black Friday 2023 information as it happens right here. We'll show you where to shop, what to shop for, and when to get that credit card ready to make sure you don't miss a single saving this year, so keep this page bookmarked throughout the next couple of months. 

In 2020 we saw the vast majority of Black Friday deals moving online because of the pandemic and that trend is still in place. Keep your eyes peeled for early Black Friday teaser deals about a week – maybe two – in advance as retailers will likely want to pique your interest. However, the discounts may not be impressive, which will happen about two to three days before the official Black Friday date.

All of this is going to make Black Friday's online deals all the more important. You'll have a better chance of finding Black Friday AirPod deals at home sitting in your PJs more than waiting in line outside of a physical store.

How much do prices drop on Black Friday?

In Australia, we typically see average discounts of about 25% to 30% on various items during Black Friday sales. However, there are bigger discounts to be had. Laptops, for example, can go down all the way to 40% off on average, while personal audio – like Bluetooth headphones and speakers – average around 27% off. Of course, there are items that drop well below the half-price mark too. Take Garmin’s multi-sport watches as an example – when shopping on Amazon, you could get them for up to 52% off sometimes. Each category of tech sees a different discount at different retailers, but rest assured they’ll all by vying for your attention, so expect some seriously good offers.

Black Friday 2023: our predictions

Black Friday deals 2023

(Image credit: Future)

As we approach the tail end of 2023 and edge closer and closer to Black Friday, it makes it a bit easier to predict what deals we can expect over the Black Friday and Cyber Monday weekend. This is especially true since we've now had two Prime Day sales this year, so we can at least make some relatively safe assumptions as to what Amazon Black Friday deals to expect. 

And of course, we can extrapolate from previous Black Friday sales. So while it’s hard to predict what could happen this year, here are some safe bets:

  • Amazon Australia will be leading the pack with some seriously good discounts to match what it had during Prime Day 2023 in July and October, particularly on its own smart devices and Kindle ereaders
  • Alongside Amazon, other retailers like eBay and JB Hi-Fi will push hard on sales
  • You’ll want to hold off buying a new computer as laptops always get a big discount
  • It will be a great time to upgrade your home entertainment system with Black Friday deals on TVs and sound bars likely to be slashed
  • You should definitely find some great deals on some of the best wireless headphones
  • Cameras, in all forms, will focus on savings too, provided stocks aren’t a problem

Black Friday 2023: Frequently asked questions

What is Black Friday?

The term ‘Black Friday’ has two meanings in Australia and they butt heads and cause some controversy. To older Aussies, it refers to the day 71 people in Victoria lost their lives in destructive bushfires in 1939.

However, these days Black Friday is associated with the mega shopping event held annually in November and that’s what we’re discussing here. But how did such a sale event come to be? Below is a quick history lesson.

Why is it called Black Friday sale?

The first known mention of Black Friday related to this shopping experience was in November 1951, when the journal Factory Management and Maintenance used it to describe people calling in sick the day after Thanksgiving so they could have an extra day off work. At the same time, US police were using the phrases ‘Black Friday’ and ‘Black Saturday’ to describe the horrendous traffic that crowded the streets at the beginning of the pre-Christmas shopping season. In 1961 there was a movement from the local governments to change the shopping season to “Big Friday” and “Big Saturday”, but it clearly never caught on, and the notion that it was the time when retailers moved 'back into the black' was seen far later and clearly an attempt to bring positivity to the term.

When did Australia start having Black Friday sales?

While we didn’t have a proper Black Friday sale in November till about 2011, it still took a few years more for it to gain traction. In 2013, Apple held a Black Friday in Australia, becoming one of the first big tech companies to help make it a popular sale. By 2017 there was no turning back – Black Friday was well established and so popular that shoppers knew to wait till November to spend on deeply discounted items.

How long does Black Friday last?

While the Black Friday sale event is typically over four days that starts on the Friday after Thanksgiving in the US and ends on the following Monday (called Cyber Monday), it is no longer just a four-day sale. Over the last few years, Aussie retailers have started their Black Friday campaign a week before the actual date. However, the offers tend to change over this time and the best deals are usually over the actual Black Friday four-day weekend.

What is the difference between Black Friday and Cyber Monday?

There was a time, especially in the US, when Black Friday meant physically going to a brick-and-mortar store to shop, mostly to shake off the turkey sweats, while Cyber Monday was exclusively for online deals. Now, however, there’s barely any difference since most deals offered through the November sale period are available online.

As an online sale, Cyber Monday is obviously a more recent development, coming after the advent of the internet and e-commerce. It traditionally marks the point when people realised they needed to get a wriggle on and start buying Christmas presents.

Another point of difference that’s more valid in the US than anywhere else is that Black Friday was traditionally more about electronics and other high-ticket items, while Cyber Monday was more about lifestyle goods. Nowadays, though, they’re both just one big smooshed-together shopping spree over an entire week.

Is Black Friday worth it in Australia?

Considering most retailers offer excellent discounts during Black Friday, your chance of getting the best price on a specific item increases significantly. Retailers will try and price match to help you get the best bargain. So Black Friday is most definitely worth waiting for. That said, Amazon is known to offer great prices on plenty of tech throughout the year, even outside of major sales like Prime Day, so it helps to keep an eye on its dedicated deals page, but even Amazon tries to outdo itself during Black Friday.

Top tips for shopping during Black Friday

As we've said: this isn't our first rodeo. As veterans of many Black Friday sales in Australia, we've picked up a few tips and tricks in order to find the best deals and get the biggest savings on your most-wanted items. You can find all that combined knowledge right here for a crash course in becoming a Black Friday deals expert.

How to find the best Black Friday 2023 deals

Getting the best Black Friday deals often comes down to how much research you do ahead of the event. Use the time you have in the lead up to the event to make sure you know exactly what you want to get out of the sale. That means going beyond finding a TV brand or laptop model that suits you, but looking at what features and specs you will need to fit into your budget. Double check previous sales to see if your shopping list matches prices that have been seen before so that you stay realistic during this step. 

How does TechRadar prepare for Black Friday?

A woman holds a bunch of shopping bags, including one that says "Black Friday"

(Image credit: Shutterstock)

Black Friday is one of the most important times of the year for TechRadar to help our readers – we spend weeks ahead of the big day (or weekend) making sure the whole site is ready for people looking for the information they need to make the right buying choice. Whether that's knowing which is the best laptop, TV or iPad, or just seeing great deals for them through our Hawk price comparison widget, we've got everything you need to know.

Once you've got your spec and features down, you'll want to consider which parts of your wishlist you can stand to drop if you do spot a particularly low price. That way you'll know exactly what to look for when the heat is on.

Once you've found the deal you're looking for, though, it's also crucial to widen your net and make sure you can't get a better price elsewhere before heading to checkout. Bigger retailers tend to price match each other, but during particularly competitive events like Black Friday they also look to get an edge by offering additional incentives like bundles and free gifts. Of course, we're bringing the best Black Friday deals from around the web, so you can stick with us for the biggest value savings – however, if you are going it alone, be sure to check other retailers' offers before committing.

We do generally find that the best Black Friday deals land on the week of the sale itself, with the biggest products seeing discounts during the main event. However, you'll be seeing discounts landing as early as the start of the month in some cases. If you do spot a price that you like but you're hesitant to commit too early, it's worth going for it – especially if it’s a deal you were waiting for.

There's a lot less competition in these earlier discounts, which means you might be able to get your hands on some of the bigger savings or more desirable colorways before the crowds swarm. However, we'd recommend keeping your find boxed up until the Black Friday deals are fully over, as you may well see a much better price later on in the month and you can always return your previous purchase.

When will the best Black Friday deals be available?

In previous years, we'd usually say that you would want to wait until as close to Black Friday as possible before making a purchase in order to get the best price. The last two years have completely changed our advice, though.

We've seen that when retailers start their sales from early or mid November, the prices on offer are rarely beaten on Black Friday. There may be a small spike in deals during the week leading up to Black Friday itself, but many of the offers you see in the weeks prior are actually as good as they are going to get.

So, with that in mind, if you have a specific product you're looking out for this year, you should really consider buying it as soon as that first deal becomes available. This is especially true if it's a big-ticket item like a games console, 4K TV or tablet. We've seen these haven't been reduced any further on Black Friday and could also suffer from stock issues if they are particularly popular. So, you don't want to miss out on something entirely, we strongly suggest buying early.

Are Black Friday deals real?

If you’ve been shopping during November over the last few years, you’ll know that Black Friday sales are now an established event on the Aussie shopping calendar. Not only are Black Friday deals real, you’ll be able to shop both in store and online.

Generally speaking, there are two types of deals offered during Black Friday. The first has been pre-agreed between brands/retailers and suppliers, so they’re not as off-the-cuff as you might expect. The other is sudden price drops, whether that’s an algorithm working out the best way to attract users to buy (as brands like Amazon often will) or just the big names price-matching one another. 

As with any sales, you’ll see a mix of genuine bargains, discounted end-of-line stock and mysterious things found in the back of a warehouse somewhere.

Can I get cashback on Black Friday deals?

Sometimes, yes. While brands themselves won’t typically offer cashback on Black Friday deals, your debit card or credit card may. It’s definitely worth looking into – not just for Black Friday 2023 but for any online shopping – when you'll be spending money online.

Am I protected when shopping online during Black Friday?

Yes. In Australia, anything you buy from a company online is covered by a wealth of consumer protection legislation, which gives you the same rights as with any other online purchase.

Unfortunately, Black Friday brings out the scammers as well as the sellers. So be wary of unsolicited emails or links to deals on social media, no matter how legitimate they look: anything asking for card or login details may be a scam. Phishing sites do big business on Black Friday, so be extra suspicious – and if you’re on a PC, make sure your security software is up to date. Many security suites automatically block known scam sites.

Top retailers with Black Friday deals from last year

Sharmishta Sarkar
Managing Editor (APAC)

Sharmishta is TechRadar's APAC Managing Editor and loves all things photography, something she discovered while chasing monkeys in the wilds of India (she studied to be a primatologist but has since left monkey business behind). While she's happiest with a camera in her hand, she's also an avid reader and has become a passionate proponent of ereaders, having appeared on Singaporean radio to talk about the convenience of these underrated devices. When she's not testing camera kits or the latest in e-paper tablets, she's discovering the joys and foibles of smart home gizmos. She's also the Australian Managing Editor of Digital Camera World and, if that wasn't enough, she contributes to T3 and Tom's Guide, while also working on two of Future's photography print magazines Down Under.

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