Black Friday 2011

Articles
Below are our archived articles from 2011:
November 22, 2011

2011 Tablet Buying Guide

Tablets are set to become one of the hottest items this holiday season, so we couldn't pass up on doing a buying guide specifically for them. Sadly, you won't find any iPads on here, but we highlight some deals to consider from worthwhile competitors. READ MORE

November 22, 2011

2011 Camcorder Buying Guide

As we all know, technology changes fast, and camcorders are one of the key areas where we can see this change in full effect. Camcorders, previously too expensive for most, can now be found for under 50 dollars. Our 2011 Camcorder Black Friday Buying Guide showcases the best deals at several price points, from budget to full-feature camcorders. READ MORE

November 22, 2011

Why Black Friday Is Still a Great Time to Shop

As retailers start the push for holiday shopping earlier in the year, it can seem like Black Friday is practically last-minute shopping. Plus, with more retailers offering deals in the weeks running up to Thanksgiving, are Black Friday deals still significant? READ MORE

November 22, 2011

2011 Appliance Buying Guide

If you’re looking to replace or upgrade an appliance this holiday season, don’t overlook Black Friday. Don’t sleep on these deals, because some of our picks offer several hundred dollars of total savings. We offer our picks on washers and dryers, microwaves, ranges, dishwashers, and more. READ MORE

November 21, 2011

2011 Digital Camera Buying Guide

One of the hot electronics that people still clamor for on Black Friday is digital cameras. Whether you’re looking for a simple point-and-shoot or hope to upgrade to a digital SLR, we have recommendations for all price ranges. Read on for our picks. READ MORE

November 21, 2011

The 5 Worst Deals of Black Friday 2011

Since Black Friday is widely known as one of the best single days to shop, some may be quick put on the blinders and believe everything advertised is available at a great place. Unfortunately, we regret to inform you that this isn’t true, as retailers can offer more than a few deals in their ads that are far from great. To cover some of the biggest deals to avoid, we offer you five “deals” that you should surely pass on this year. While they may seem good at first, our article will explain why none of these deals are worth buying. READ MORE

November 20, 2011

2011 Top Black Friday Tool Bargains

We’ve taken a look at all the tool deals available this Black Friday and have compiled a list of our highlights. From hammers to ladders and vacuums to tool sets, we have a set of deals that cover a wide price range, so you’ll be equally satisified if you’re looking for a stocking stuffer or hope to find a big box deal. Also, this may just be the start of your total savings, as certain charge/store credit cards or coupons could add to these savings. READ MORE

November 20, 2011

Top 5 Black Friday Deals of 2011

We’ve offered you the best deals at different price points on some of the most popular items this Black Friday, but we felt like that wasn’t enough. We felt it necessary to list the cream of the crop, the best of the best. So we did it. Here are the five best deals, the five that are getting the most hype this Black Friday. READ MORE

November 20, 2011

3DTV Black Friday Buying Guide

To meet popular demand, we decided to add a bit of an addendum to our television buying guide. For those looking to bring the theatre fun of 3D to the home, here are our recommendations for the best deals available on 3D televisions this Black Friday. Read on for deals that are sure to pop right out of the screen! READ MORE

November 19, 2011

2011 Video Game Buying Guide

In our 2011 Video Game Black Friday Buying Guide, we highlight our picks for the best deals on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and Nintendo Wii consoles available this Black Friday. We also pick a few of the best deals on console-specific and multi-platform video game titles. READ MORE

November 17, 2011

2011 Laptop Buying Guide

Here’s what you’ve been waiting for: our picks for the best laptop deals available this Black Friday. We offer you picks and runners-up in four categories, from the sub $200 range to the best high-end deal available for under $700. Chances are these will go fast, so if you plan to pick one up, you may want to plan accordingly. READ MORE

November 16, 2011

2011 Mobile Phone Buying Guide

People are more connected than ever, and that’s no secret. It was hilarious in the movie Clueless when a phone rang, prompting everyone to whip out a mobile phone and answer. That scene has become a reality of sorts, and now there’s dozens of options to choose from if you’re looking to snag a mobile phone this Black Friday. READ MORE

November 15, 2011

2011 Television Buying Guide

Televisions are among the most sought after deals on Black Friday, and these picks will be sure to have several people lining up hours before stores open. However, despite the low prices, not all deals are created equal. We present to you our 2011 Television Buying Guide, with our personal picks for the best deals available in four different size ranges this Black Friday. READ MORE

November 15, 2011

2011 GPS Buying Guide

If you're still looking to pick up a GPS, Black Friday looks like the perfect time to purchase one this year. With several available and some prices lower than they've ever been, read on for our recommendations in the sub $100 and sub $200 categories. READ MORE

November 14, 2011

Using Store Credit Cards for Holiday Shopping

Is utilizing a store credit card a good method of holiday shopping? There are both positive and negative aspects, and it's important to weigh them carefully. Here, we offer you 5 benefits, and five consequences, of using a store credit card this holiday season. READ MORE

November 14, 2011

A Guide to Price Matching

If you're a seasoned Black Friday shopper, you'll pick out your favorite items ahead of time, find the cheapest retailers, utilize some of the best Black Friday shopping apps and grab the deals before they run out. But some experienced shoppers will take it one step further and use the Black Friday circulars to price match items at other retailers. READ MORE

November 10, 2011

A Guide to Streaming Media Services

With countless movies and TV shows now available at the click of a button, it’s the perfect time to look into subscribing to a streaming media provider, especially if you’re sick of dealing with late fees. If you’re already a subscriber, you may still want to read through to see if another service may better suit your needs. In this guide, we cover streaming media and how to set it up then offer an introduction to three streaming services: Netflix, Hulu Plus and Amazon Prime. READ MORE

November 4, 2011

An Overview of Digital Media Players

Last year marked our first time covering digital media players, and as is the case with most technology nowadays, a new year brings with it a new generation of set-top boxes. In this article, we update you on the features of the new crop of popular digital media players. This is a must-read for those who would like to access programs like Netflix and Hulu Plus from their television or would like to enjoy sites like Pandora and YouTube from more than just their computer. READ MORE

November 3, 2011

Layaway Plans for Holiday 2011

A 2011 update of our layaway piece from last year, contributed by our friends at Money Crashers. Find out who is offering layaway this holiday season, how much you'll be paying upfront, and just how long you'll have to pay off your item. Also, find out where signing up for a store credit card may actually be worth it. READ MORE

November 3, 2011

What To Look For in a Tablet

Apple’s iPad ushered in the mainstream start to the tablet era last year, and in the months since, tablets have become the hot new item on the electronics market. With plenty to choose from -- and many now able to compete with the iPad -- now’s a great time to think about picking one up. If you aren’t quite sure where to start, let our buying guide give you a few key tips on what to look for. READ MORE

November 2, 2011

What to Look For in a Digital Camera

If you feel like it’s finally time to upgrade your old camera or you would simply like to be a bit more versed in camera terminology, check out our general digital camera guide to learn about a few things to look for when buying. Whether you’re picking up another point-and-shoot or want to get serious with photography and upgrade to an SLR, this guide will cover all levels of photo interest. READ MORE

October 31, 2011

Ten Hottest Video Games for the Holiday Season

Interested in picking up a game or two for loved ones over the holidays? This guide will give you an idea of what will be in demand this year. Just like last year, you'll find something for everyone – family titles and first person shooters, plenty of anticipated sequels, and even a reboot of a groundbreaking franchise. READ MORE

October 31, 2011

Hot Holiday Toys of 2011

Interested in what toy has the best shot of becoming the must-have item of the year? Take a look at our hot holiday toys list to see our picks.
READ MORE

October 27, 2011

3DTVs: Key Buying Tips

3D has a lot of momentum behind it, and if you’ve decided you would like to dip your toe into the pool of 3D TVs available this holiday season, here are some key tips you should be aware of before you dive in. READ MORE

October 27, 2011

eReader Overview: 2011 Redux

This year, with new releases from both the Kindle and Nook, the second round of the eReader wars is ready to begin. In the coming weeks, expect several ads to include great deals on eReaders for Black Friday. But with so many to choose form, how do you decide which one is right for you? We're here to help you with just that. READ MORE

Below are our archived articles from 2010:
November 22, 2010

Tips for Buying an eReader

Are you considering going paperless this year? Read our guide for some tips on what to look for as well as a few of our picks this Black Friday season. READ MORE

November 22, 2010

5 Bad Black Friday Deals

While Black Friday can be a time for great bargains, this is not the case with all items you’ll see advertised. Be sure to avoid those listed in this article, as they are nowhere near the deals that they may seem. READ MORE

November 21, 2010

Digital Camera Buying Guide

If you’re looking to pick up a digital camera on Black Friday, take a look at this year’s buying guide to see our picks for the best deals you’ll find. READ MORE

November 21, 2010

Is Now the Right Time to Upgrade to Blu-ray?

Are you thinking about upgrading to Blu-ray this year but aren’t sure what it will cost, or curious about the difference between standard DVD and Blu-ray and what all the talk is about? If so, read further to see if now is a good time for you to make the switch. READ MORE

November 21, 2010

HDTV Buying Tips

If you aren't sure of the finer points regarding HDTV, or would like a quick brush-up, consult this guide to find out more about resolution, plasma vs. LCD, LED and 3D technology, and more. READ MORE

November 20, 2010

2010 Television Buying Guide

With so many televisions on sale on Black Friday, it can be hard to discern which are truly the best deals. In this article, we break down our picks according to size, one of which may be among the best deals on Black Friday. READ MORE

November 20, 2010

2010 Video Game Buying Guide

If you’re looking into buying a gaming console, you’ll find competitive pricing, and surprising choices at several retailers this Black Friday. Read on to see our bundle picks for home, and portable, systems. READ MORE

November 19, 2010

GPS Buying Guide

GPS devices are once again in high demand, and with many of those on sale on Black Friday offering plenty of features for great prices, now may be the time to finally pick one up or upgrade a dated model. Take a look at our buying guide for the best deals available as well as our personal picks at each price point. READ MORE

November 19, 2010

Laptop Buying Guide

Laptops are one of the most popular items for purchase on Black Friday. Year in and year out, stores like Best Buy, Wal-Mart and Staples offer some of the best laptop deals of the year. As we have done in years past, we will take a look at the deals available at the major retailers and let you know just what you should grab and why. READ MORE

November 17, 2010

HD Pocket Camcorders

In this article, we take a look at the features of HD pocket camcorders and compare popular choices. READ MORE

November 16, 2010

Apple TV, Google TV, and Other Digital Media Players

Heard of Apple TV or Google TV but aren’t quite sure what they are? Our guide should help you become better acquainted with these two devices, as well as a few others you may not have heard about. READ MORE

November 12, 2010

Hot Toys of 2010

Not sure what toys are getting kids excited this year? Check out this guide for a start. It features new items as well as a few toys that look to be just as popular as they were last year. READ MORE

November 11, 2010

Sears Black Friday Vs. Family & Friends 2010

Our new article offers a comparison between the Sears Black Friday ad and its Family and Friends Sales Event. Which items are worth waiting for and which ones should you consider picking up this weekend? The results may surprise you. READ MORE

November 8, 2010

The iPad: A Look at Apple's Newest Product

The long awaited iPad is finally here, but was the hype really worth the wait? In this article, we take a look at some features and weigh the pros and cons of Apple's latest product. READ MORE

November 6, 2010

Xbox Kinect vs PlayStation Move vs Nintendo Wii

The Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and Nintendo Wii all look to be popular gifts once more this holiday season. However, interest this year lies in an innovative new addition: motion-sensor accessories, designed to compete with the highly popular feature already found on the Wii. This looks to be Microsoft and Sony’s attempt to tap into the family-friendly market the Wii has had so much success with. Our guide will cover the Xbox Kinect, PlayStation Move, and Nintendo Wii, as well as a handful of motion-sensor games offered by each console. READ MORE

November 6, 2010

10 Hottest Video Games of 2010

This guide will give you a general overview of the 10 most anticipated video game titles this holiday season as well as a top 6 breakdown by platform. These include action games, family games, anticipated sequels, and buzz-worthy originals – truly a little something for everyone. Take a look to see what fits your interest! READ MORE

November 5, 2010

The Return of Layaway: An Overview of Layaway Programs

Want to skip the holiday crowds this year? Get your shopping done early in the year and the paying done later with layaway programs available at some of the country's biggest retailers. With layaway, you pick out your items, pay a down payment, and then make biweekly payments on the remaining balance usually for 8 to 12 weeks. Then, when the balance is gone, you simply stop in and pick up your items. To help prep you for all of the layaway options out there, I've researched seven of the biggest retailers to find out the details on their layaway programs. READ MORE

Below are our archived articles from 2009:
November 24, 2009

Washer and Dryer Buying Guide for Black Friday 2009

Chances are it has been a while since you last purchased a washing machine or dyer. This buying guide will ease you into understanding the basics in the latest technology, with looking into some of the best deals offered this Black Friday. READ MORE

November 23, 2009

Digital Camera Buying Guide for 2009

Looking to buy a camera on Black Friday? In this guide, we explore the large variety of cameras on sale and makes some recommendations. READ MORE

November 23, 2009

Blu-Ray Buying Guide for Black Friday 2009

Blu-ray has been growing in popularity since around 2007, as both Blu-ray players and discs have substantially dropped in price over time. This Black Friday will be the first time that a lot stores will be offering deals on Blu-Ray Players, and the first time we will see a Blu-ray player well under $100. READ MORE

November 23, 2009

GPS Buying Guide for Black Friday 2009

If you are planning on purchasing a GPS device this year, you have quite a few options available. This article will make a few recommendations towards specific units to select while bargain hunting. If you missed our basic introduction to a GPS article, we recommend you read that over to introduce yourself to the ins-and-outs of GPS. READ MORE

November 22, 2009

Video Game Buying Guide for Black Friday 2009

Interested in purchasing a video game console this year but not sure which one is right for you? Our article can help you decide which one is the best fit for you and your household. READ MORE

November 22, 2009

Top 10 Toy Deals for Black Friday 2009

A quick and simple drill-down of the top ten can't miss toy deals for Black Friday 2009. READ MORE

November 22, 2009

Television Buying Guide for Black Friday 2009

One of the most sought after items this Black Friday is high-definition televisions. Purchasing the center-piece of your home theatre is not, and should not, be a quick and easy decision. There are many factors to consider before purchasing a HDTV and this guide should answer a majority of your questions along with a detailed list of our favorite HDTVs on sale. Updated for Black Friday 2009! READ MORE

November 19, 2009

Laptop Buying Guide for Black Friday 2009

Laptops are always a hot item on Black Friday and unfortunately, most models available during Black Friday are manufactured almost exclusively for one sale. There are currently over 25 different laptops being offered and we have narrowed down our 6 overall favorite laptops, spanning three different price tiers. READ MORE

November 17, 2009

An Overview of the GPS

GPS devices have come a long way the past couple of years and with prices dropping, features rising, and more people hopping aboard the GPS bandwagon, you might be wondering if it's time to throw out your old paper maps and make your travel plans easier. If so, you've come to the right place. Let this guide help you in your search for the perfect digital navigator! We'll be providing an overview of the most useful GPS features inside. READ MORE

November 16, 2009

Hot Holiday Toys for 2009

The market for toys is huge and always changing. By the time you're done sorting through all of your options, odds are that what was hot will be old news and the next big thing will be sweeping into the market, putting you back at square one in your search for the perfect gift. This guide highlights the hottest toys for the 2009 Holiday Season. READ MORE

November 12, 2009

What to Look for in a Laptop

The variety in laptop capabilities can make the buying process seem overwhelming. separates a good laptop from a bad laptop? What is the importance of the processor, RAM, hard-drive? Are the commercials with the cool, laidback young Macintosh and the dorky, uptight, and old PC are being candid or deceitful. We here at BFAds want to make your buying process as smooth as possible, so we've constructed a buying guide to bring you up to speed on the ins and outs of laptops. Note that much of the information below is applicable to desktop computers as well. READ MORE

November 10, 2009

Helpful HDTV Buying Tips

High-Definition televisions are often on the list of big-ticket sales at many Black Friday retailers. A good television should hopefully last you for several years, so this is not a decision to rush into! Big discounts on these expensive sets can tempt you into a quick purchase, but do your homework beforehand and you'll wind up with a great TV for a great price. READ MORE

November 9, 2009

Should I Purchase a Blu-Ray Player?

Blu-Ray discs have been out for two full years, is it time to make the jump from DVD to Blu-Ray? Will the upgrade benefit me? How much of a quality difference is there between DVD and Blu-Ray? All these questions and more answered inside. READ MORE

November 9, 2009

Netbook vs. Notebook Differences Explained

Black Friday deals on laptops are usually among the best values a shopper is likely to find. If you're in the market for a laptop this year, you'll probably see a lot of great offers on netbooks in particular. Not entirely sure what a netbook is? Confused on how they compare to a regular notebook/laptop? This article addresses the key differences between the two products. READ MORE

Below are our archived articles from 2008:
November 25, 2008

Laptop Buying Guide for Black Friday 2008

Laptops are always a hot item on Black Friday and unfortunately, most models available during Black Friday are manufactured almost exclusively for one sale. As of November 24th, there are currently 30 different laptops being offered and we have narrowed down our 7 overall favorite laptops, spanning five different price tiers. READ MORE

November 20, 2008

Television Buying Guide for Black Friday 2008

One of the most sought after items this Black Friday is high-definition televisions. Purchasing the center-piece of your home theatre is not, and should not, be a quick and easy decision. There are many factors to consider before purchasing a HDTV and this guide should answer a majority of your questions along with a detailed list of our favorite HDTVs on sale this Black Friday. READ MORE

November 19, 2008

GPS Buying Guide for Black Friday 2008

This holiday season we have received many questions about GPS devices. There are quite a few GPS devices available on Black Friday in the $100 to $200 range. What are some things to look for when choosing a GPS? READ MORE

November 17, 2008

2008 Video Game Console Comparison

Interested in purchasing a video game console this year but not sure which one is right for you? Our article can help you decide which one is the best fit for you and your household. READ MORE

November 17, 2008

Top 10 Video Games for the 2008 Holiday Season

We have hand-picked our Top 10 Video Games for the 2008 Holiday Season along with our personal Top 5 Favorite Games for each console. READ MORE