The 5 Electronics You Should Buy on Clearance in 2025
Written by
Jordan Rosenfeld
Edited by
Molly Sullivan
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With the cost of living likely to rise in 2025 due to factors like higher energy prices and new tariffs on imported goods, finding ways to save on everyday expenses, including electronics, will be more important than ever.
Luckily, retailers are constantly clearing out last year’s tech to make room for new models and typically offer deep discounts on quality gadgets.
If you’re looking to upgrade without overspending, here are the best electronics to buy on clearance in 2025.
Smartphones
If you’re looking to buy a new iphone but don’t want to pay the price of the latest release, the last generation flagship phones are typically a great value, according to Nick Drewe, CEO of Wethrift, which helps shoppers find discounts at online stores.
He recommended:
- The iPhone 16 series when the iPhone 17 comes out, which is reportedly in September 2025
- Samsung Galaxy S25 models when the S26 is released. While the new model may not formally release until early 2026, it may be available for purchase in late 2025, and end-of-year clearance sales could definitely happen.
- Google Pixel 9 models when the Pixel 10 is available
“These types of products generally receive 30%-40% off during sales events when they still provide 90% of what a new model can provide,” Drewe explained.
The ideal time to purchase is around two to three months after a new model is available since retailers are trying to move inventory.
Smart Home Devices
Consumers are becoming more convenience-minded, which is leading to more frequent change in the the smart home consumer market, Drewe said. He recommended looking for:
- Older generation smart speakers, such as Amazon Echo, Google Nest. These tend to be discounted significantly when their newer versions are released.
- Ecobee and Nest smart thermostats are usually put on clearance when a new model is released.
- Ring, Arlo and Eufy video doorbells and security cameras will likely be cross-promoted with other smart home accessories during sales to sell through more quickly.
Laptops and Computing
Computer innovations move fast, so computing hardware is one of the places where clearance shopping makes sense, Drewe explained. He recommended looking for:
- Intel-based MacBooks as Apple transitions to their own chip
- Gaming laptops with RTX 40-series GPUs as new models arrive
- Windows laptops with last-generation processors when new chips are available
For the best deals, he recommended searching for open-box or display models at big-box stores like Best Buy. These typically include full warranties but at 15% to 25% lower prices.
TVs and Home Entertainment
The television market is well suited for clearance shoppers, Drewe said. He expects 2024 model year TVs to experience deep discounting as 2025 models become more popular. He recommended checking out:
- LG and Sony OLED TVs in particular as the cost to produce them continues to decrease
- 8K TVs as they move into mainstream use and prices move in a downward direction
While January through March is generally when last year’s TV models reach their sale prices, it’s also around the same time that new Super Bowl deals are unveiled.
Wearable Tech
The wearables segment remains popular, and with quick turnover, Drewe said. Thus, look for:
- Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 as newer models arrive
- Fitbit, Garmin and Samsung fitness trackers
- Sony, Apple and Samsung’s last year’s model wireless earbuds
“Find these items during back-to-school and holiday sale seasons when stores open up space for newer stocks,” he said.
Assess Your Actual Needs
Before any potential price increases occur, it’s a good time to think about the tech items you’ve had on your wish list, and which of those items could be affected by price hikes, according to Trae Bodge, smart shopping expert at TrueTrae.com.
“This depends on what country they originated from, are made in or contain parts from. It could make sense to purchase these items sooner rather than later, and to look for available savings,” she said.
Buy Used
Additionally, buying used can save you a lot of money if price hikes are looming, Bodge said. She recommended scoping out what retailers like Best Buy, Target and Amazon are discounting, and checking out brands like HP and Apple, which offer discounts on pre-used items.
“There are also sites like MPB.com that sell thoroughly inspected camera and videography equipment at about 30% off retail. When buying used, look for items that have been inspected and come with a warranty,” she said.
Other Shopping Strategies
Drewe concluded by suggesting some additional shopping tips to reduce your costs on electronics this year, including:
- Create price alerts for the models you’re interested in.
- Purchase from stores that have price-matching policies for sales.
- Shop for certified refurbished versions at company stores.
- Find bundle deals including accessories or warranties.
Timing is also important in clearance shopping, he said. “The most excellent deals usually appear with model releases, quarter-end makeovers and after-holiday season sales.”
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