US Adults Have Tighter Holiday Shopping Budgets Amid Rising Tech Costs, CNET Finds
Can the average $808 holiday shopping budget squeeze in more pricey tech?
The US adults are preparing for a more challenging holiday shopping season as tech costs rise, according to a CNET survey. Close to three-quarters (73%) of holiday shoppers plan to purchase tech products and services, with an average spending of $808. However, the RAM shortage is driving up everyday costs, making even steep discounts less effective in lowering prices.
CNET's director of commerce content, Russell Holly, emphasizes that the best time to buy is when a product is on an actual discount, as increased prices can come at any time.
Most US adults are not waiting until traditional Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales in November to start holiday shopping. In fact, nearly one-third (32%) plan to begin shopping before November, with 27% planning to shop in November and 18% in October. By month, 11% of US adults plan to shop in December. Over a quarter (27%) of shoppers plan to take advantage of savings events like Amazon's and Walmart's upcoming holiday sales, while 18% of those shopping between October and November don't plan to.
According to Holly, the best time to buy is when a product is on an actual discount, as increased prices can come at any time. Even if tech isn't high on your shopping list, the right deals may make you reconsider. CNET's deals team ensures sales are legitimate and tracks deals on devices like laptops, headphones, wearable devices, and smart home gadgets, as well as alternatives to more costly tech, to help shoppers determine what's worth buying now or later.
Written by urgent.news from CNET's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
