Black Friday sales are starting earlier than ever, and Walmart is among the first major retailers to launch its offers. This year, the event runs from November 25th through November 30th, with Cyber Monday exclusives following on December 1st. The competition for consumer spending is fierce, and Walmart is positioned as a major player by offering both in-store and online discounts.
Why this matters: The shift towards earlier sales is becoming standard practice. Retailers are vying for customers’ attention before the peak shopping days, spreading out promotions to avoid overwhelming consumers and maximize revenue. This also forces shoppers to stay vigilant, as deals can change rapidly.
Walmart+ Early Access: A Key Advantage
Walmart+ members receive a significant advantage: five hours of early access to Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales, starting at 7 PM ET the day before the official launch. This is a clear incentive to join the membership program.
Membership Perks: Beyond early access, Walmart+ includes free delivery (including grocery), streaming subscriptions (Paramount+ or Peacock), and pharmacy benefits. Currently, new members can get 50% off an annual membership, bringing the cost down to $49.
Store Hours and Availability
Walmart stores will open at 6 AM local time on Black Friday (November 28th), but exact hours can vary by location. Checking the Walmart store locator is recommended for precise timings. The sale spans both physical stores and online platforms, giving shoppers options for how they shop.
Top Deals to Watch
Walmart’s Black Friday ad features substantial discounts across various categories. Here are some highlights:
- Electronics: Apple AirPods Pro 3 ($219.99, down from $249), Apple iPad 11″ (2025 release, $274, down from $349), and Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones ($248, down from $399.99) are among the best deals.
- Home & Security: Blink Outdoor 4 camera 5-pack ($159.99, down from $399.99) and Shark AI robot vacuum ($249.99, down from $599) offer significant savings.
- TVs: Vizio, Philips, LG, and Samsung TVs are heavily discounted, with some models slashed by over $300. For example, the Samsung 85-inch Crystal UHD 4K Smart TV is available for $698 (down from $999).
- Laptops: HP and Lenovo laptops are on sale, with some models dropping by over $200. The HP 14-inch Chromebook is $112 (down from $409.99).
Gaming: PlayStation 5 Pro is discounted to $649, down from $749.
What to Keep in Mind
Walmart’s Black Friday strategy emphasizes aggressive pricing and early access for members. The sale is designed to draw shoppers in quickly, with limited quantities on many doorbuster deals. The ongoing trend of early sales means consumers need to stay informed to secure the best offers before they expire.
The Bottom Line: Walmart’s Black Friday sale is a major event for budget-conscious shoppers, but it requires planning and quick action to maximize savings. The key is to leverage the Walmart+ early access if possible, and compare prices across retailers to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
