Black Friday is the most anticipated shopping event of the year—and for good reason. It’s when retailers pull out all the stops to offer jaw-dropping discounts on everything from holiday gifts to everyday essentials. For millions of shoppers, Target is a non-negotiable stop: its blend of wide product selection, convenience, and unbeatable value makes it a Black Friday powerhouse. But with so much hype around Target Black Friday 2024, how do you navigate the chaos? And how does Target compare to another retail giant, Best Buy, when it comes to scoring the best savings? We’ve got you covered with everything you need to know to shop smarter, save bigger, and avoid the holiday stress.
Target Black Friday 2024: Key Dates to Lock In
The first rule of Black Friday success? Know when to shop. Target is famous for launching its sales early—far earlier than most retailers. In 2023, Target dropped its online Black Friday deals on October 29, with in-store doors opening on Thanksgiving Day (November 23) at 6 PM local time. For 2024, we expect a nearly identical timeline:
- Online Deals: Late October (think October 28–30). Target typically releases a “Black Friday Preview” ad in mid-October, so keep an eye on its website or app for a first look at top discounts.
- In-Store Deals: Thanksgiving evening (November 28) or Black Friday morning (November 29). If you love the thrill of in-person shopping, mark your calendar for 6 PM local time on Thanksgiving—Target’s doors will be open for early birds.
Pro tip: Sign up for Target’s email newsletter or download the Target app. You’ll get instant alerts when deals go live, plus exclusive access to early-bird offers on popular items like iPads, Dyson vacuums, and Nintendo Switch consoles.
What to Buy on Target Black Friday 2024: Top Deals by Category
Target’s Black Friday magic lies in its versatility. It’s not just a place to buy electronics—though those deals are stellar. Here’s what to prioritize this year:
1. Electronics: TVs, Laptops, and Gaming Consoles
Target is a go-to for budget-friendly electronics, especially mid-range 4K TVs and laptops. In 2023, we saw:
- A 55-inch Samsung 4K Smart TV for $299 (down from $599).
- An HP 15-inch laptop with 16GB RAM for $349 (normally $699).
- A Nintendo Switch OLED model for $349 with a free $50 Target gift card.
For 2024, expect similar discounts on brands like Samsung, LG, and Sony. Keep an eye out for bundle deals—Target often includes gift cards with TV or console purchases, which you can use for streaming devices (like a Roku or Apple TV) or accessories (like extra controllers for gaming).
Gamers: Target’s Nintendo Switch deals are hard to beat. Last year, the Switch Lite was $199 (down from $209) with a free $25 gift card—perfect for kids or casual players. If you’re debating between Target and Best Buy for gaming, Target’s gift card bundles give you extra value.
2. Home Goods: KitchenAid, Dyson, and Bedding
Holiday baking? Target’s Black Friday deals on kitchen appliances are a game-changer. In 2023, the iconic KitchenAid Stand Mixer (5-quart, multiple colors) was $249 (down from $449)—a steal for a lifetime appliance. Dyson vacuums are another big seller: last year, the Dyson V11 Animal was $399 (normally $699).
Bedding and bath are also worth checking out. Target’s in-house brands like Threshold and Studio McGee offer stylish sheets, comforters, and towels at 50%–60% off. If you’re hosting family for Thanksgiving or Christmas, this is the perfect time to refresh your guest room without overspending.
3. Toys: Lego, Barbie, and Pop Culture Merch
Toys are a Black Friday staple, and Target doesn’t disappoint. Last year, Lego sets were up to 50% off (including Star Wars and Harry Potter lines), and the Barbie Dreamhouse was $199 (down from $299). For 2024, expect deals on the latest hot toys—think Bluey playsets, Pokémon cards, and Fortnite action figures.
Pro tip: Target’s “Price Match” policy applies to toys. If you see a cheaper price at Best Buy or Walmart, Target will match it—just bring a screenshot or ad to the register (or use the Target app for online orders).
4. Fashion: Nike, Adidas, and Winter Wear
Target’s clothing section is often overlooked on Black Friday, but it’s a goldmine for affordable winter wear. In 2023, Nike and Adidas sneakers were 40%–50% off, and women’s puffer jackets from Universal Thread were $39 (down from $80). For kids, Target’s Cat & Jack line offers durable jeans, hoodies, and jackets at 50% off—perfect for updating their winter wardrobes without breaking the bank.
Target vs. Best Buy Black Friday: Which Is Better for You?
The debate between Target and Best Buy is as old as Black Friday itself. The answer depends on what you’re buying and what matters most to you. Let’s break it down:
1. Product Selection: Target Wins for Variety
Best Buy is a specialist—its focus is electronics, especially high-end items like Alienware laptops or Sony PlayStation 5 bundles. Target, however, is a generalist: you can buy a TV and a KitchenAid mixer and a new coat and groceries (yes, Target sells groceries!) all in one trip. If you’re doing a big holiday haul, Target is more convenient.
2. Deals: It Depends on the Category
- High-End Electronics: Best Buy often has better deals on premium items (e.g., $500 off a Samsung Odyssey G9 gaming monitor).
- Mid-Range Electronics & Bundles: Target shines—think TV + gift card or laptop + accessories.
- Home Goods/Toys/Fashion: Target is the clear winner—Best Buy doesn’t sell these categories.
- Gaming: Tie. Target offers gift cards with consoles; Best Buy has exclusive bundles (e.g., PS5 + extra controller).
3. Shopping Experience: Target Is More Flexible
Target’s convenience factor is unbeatable:
- Drive Up: Order online and pick up in 2 hours or less—no need to leave your car.
- Same-Day Delivery: Use Shipt to get items delivered to your door in as little as 1 hour.
- Lenient Returns: 90 days for most items (even if you opened them!).
Best Buy has perks too—like Geek Squad support for electronics (great if you need help setting up a new TV) and in-store pickup. But if you value speed and flexibility, Target is better.
4. Savings: Target’s Perks Add Up
Target Circle (its free rewards program) lets you earn 1% back on every purchase, plus exclusive discounts (e.g., 20% off home goods for Circle members). If you use a Target RedCard (credit or debit), you get an extra 5% off everything—that’s 5% off Black Friday deals! Best Buy’s My Best Buy Rewards offers 5% back, but it’s only on eligible purchases, and there’s no equivalent to the RedCard’s 5% discount.
Target Black Friday 2024: Pro Tips to Maximize Savings
Now that you know the basics, here’s how to make the most of Target Black Friday:
- Sign Up for Target Circle: It’s free, and you’ll get early access to sales and exclusive discounts.
- Get a Target RedCard: The 5% discount applies to all Black Friday deals—if you spend $500, that’s $25 extra savings.
- Create a Wishlist: Add items to your Target app wishlist now. You’ll get alerts when they’re discounted.
- Shop Early: Online deals sell out fast (especially gaming consoles and Dyson vacuums). Don’t wait until Black Friday—shop the late October pre-sales.
- Price Match: If you see a cheaper price at Best Buy, Walmart, or Amazon, Target will match it. Bring proof (a screenshot or ad) to the register.
- Avoid Impulse Buys: Stick to your wishlist—Black Friday is full of “too good to be true” deals, but if you don’t need it, don’t buy it.
Final Thoughts: Why Target Black Friday 2024 Is a Must-Shop
Target Black Friday 2024 isn’t just about deals—it’s about simplicity. You can get everything you need (electronics, home goods, toys, fashion) in one place, with flexible shopping options (online, in-store, Drive Up) and savings that add up (Target Circle + RedCard). And when you compare it to Best Buy, Target’s versatility makes it a better choice for most shoppers.
So mark your calendars, download the Target app, and get ready to shop. Target Black Friday 2024 is going to be big—and with our guide, you’ll be ready to score the best deals without the stress.
Happy shopping!