By Carey Rossi on November 19, 2012 in
Every year ConsumerSearch editors analyze the Black Friday flyers to determine what deals are worth your Black Friday dollars. We realize that many are brand loyal to stores so this year we create cheat sheets for electronics and home and kitchen appliances by store. Here are the best and worst of what you can find at Target.
In addition to their "It's on, Black Friday sale" that runs from 9 p.m. on Thanksgiving until 11 p.m. Friday and then 8 a.m. - 11 p.m. on Saturday, they are running a "Beat the Rush" sale, which we did not analyze since it is done regionally. Also, all Black Friday deals are available at Target.com.
Best
If you're looking for a no-contract Apple iPhone,
Virgin Mobile version of the iPhone 4 and 4S for about $500 each, plus a $100 gift card. Right now these phones sell at Virgin Mobile for about $550 and $650, respectively.
If you are in the market for a television...
50-inch Westinghouse CW50T9XW LCD TV $349, normally $599.99. This doorbuster TV set has no track record and Westinghouse is an iffy brand.
50-inch Samsung UN50EH5000 LCD TV $699, normally around $1,000. Our Best Reviewed basic LCD TV is available for a similar sale price at Walmart.
Available: Right now at Black Friday price
... Or want to add to your kitchen
Ninja Master Prep $29 is a good deal if the blender is on your list and you already plan to be shopping at this store.
Better deals elsewhere
Apple iPad regular price but with $60 gift card. Also good on the iPad 2 but Walmart has better deal.
Barnes & Noble Simple Touch eReader $49. Normally $99 but available for $39 at Sears.
Avoid
32-inch Apex LM3288M LCD TV $147. There are better 32-inch TVs available for the same price or just a little more elsewhere, and savings over the nominal price of $249.99 is inflated as we spotted this set elsewhere for $190 right now.
Avoid the cheap appliances at Target. They're $8 here, compared to $4 at rival Walmart. Most of the Black Friday bargain slow cookers, hand mixers, mini choppers, toasters and waffle makers are not good buys for long term use. If you really want new kitchen gadgets, spring for the pricier (but oftentimes still on sale) models--they'll last much longer and the recipient will thank you.
