Looking to score the best deals on gaming consoles? Let's dive in!
When Do Gaming Consoles Go on Sale? Best Times to Buy in 2026
This comprehensive guide will help you discover the prime times to buy your next PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars.
1. Black Friday & Cyber Monday (November)
The ultimate shopping season offers the year's deepest discounts on gaming consoles. Major retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, and Amazon typically offer bundles including games and extra controllers, saving you $50-150 off regular prices. Look for bundle deals that include popular games and accessories.
2. Prime Day (July)
Amazon's Prime Day has become a major gaming deal event, with other retailers matching prices. You'll find particularly good deals on Nintendo Switch bundles and Xbox Series S consoles, often with $30-70 in savings. Amazon Warehouse deals can offer even deeper discounts on open-box consoles.
3. Holiday Season (December)
The weeks leading up to Christmas feature excellent bundle deals, especially at GameStop and Target. Expect to see PS5 bundles with latest-release games and Xbox Series X packages with Game Pass subscriptions included, saving $40-100.
4. Spring Sales (March-April)
Many retailers clear inventory before the new fiscal year. Watch for special Easter sales events at major electronics retailers, with discounts ranging from $30-80 off standard prices. This is also when you might find good deals on gaming laptops if you're considering alternatives.
5. Memorial Day (May)
The first major summer sale often brings gaming deals. Dell, HP, and other electronics retailers typically offer competitive console bundles with games and accessories, saving you $40-90.
Tips for Getting the Best Deals
- Sign up for retailer newsletters at GameStop PowerUp Rewards, My Best Buy, and Target Circle for early access to sales
- Follow deal trackers like @Wario64 and @IGNDeals, on Twitter for real-time alerts
- Check price history on CamelCamelCamel for Amazon deals and DekuDeals for Nintendo Switch prices
- Consider refurbished options from Nintendo's Certified Refurbished Store or Amazon Renewed
- Compare bundle values using price comparison tools like PriceCharting for game values
Final Words
Timing your gaming console purchase right can lead to significant savings. While major shopping holidays offer the best deals, you can find good discounts throughout the year if you know where to look. Remember to compare bundles and consider whether waiting for the next major sale is worth it for your gaming needs.