Wirecutter’s Jason Chen Breaks Down Your Biggest Black Friday & Holiday Shopping Doubts

Jason Chen answers your top Black Friday shopping questions. Jason Chen answers your top Black Friday shopping questions.

22. How to Choose the Best Deal for Laptops & Electronics

Compare specs, check historical prices, and read reviews to find the best laptop and electronics deals.
Compare specs, check historical prices, and read reviews to find the best laptop and electronics deals.

Electronics are among the most searched categories for Black Friday shoppers, and also the most confusing.

Jason Chen’s rules for laptop shopping:

  • Never buy laptops with 4GB RAM in 2025
  • Prefer SSD storage over HDD
  • Compare processor generations (Intel 12th/13th gen or AMD Ryzen 5000+)
  • Look for at least 300 nits brightness in displays
  • Avoid unknown laptop brands unless independently reviewed

TV buying rules:

  • Check panel type (OLED > QLED > LED)
  • Avoid “generic” off-brand TVs
  • Look for local dimming features
  • Compare refresh rates carefully
  • Beware of models made exclusively for holiday sales

Headphones buying rules:

  • Look for ANC performance scores
  • Prioritize comfort for long use
  • Check Bluetooth range and multipoint support
  • Avoid unverified brands

Jason emphasizes that Black Friday is the best time of the year for electronics, but only if shoppers do their research.