The holidays only last about a week. Therefore, Black Friday and its sweet deals are closer than you think. Now that cable TV is out and streaming has taken off, many people are subscribing to multiple platforms and buying devices that host them, like Rokus, Firesticks, and Chromecasts — all of which can prices increase rapidly. As many streaming platforms have increased their fees over the past few years, finding good deals on the content you love is essential.
Also: The best Black Friday deals available
Luckily, Black Friday and the month ahead is the perfect time to hunt down some holiday streaming deals, either for your own home or to give as gifts. (You can also head to Roku City and for less than usual.) Our deal-hunting experts at ZDNET have rounded up the best pre-Black Friday streaming deals so far.
Our favorite streaming deals for Black Friday 2024
- Roku 4K Streaming Stick: $34 (save $16 at Amazon): This streaming option is compact but packed with capabilities. It would be perfect for a dorm room or smaller space.
- Roku Super: $80 (save $20 on Amazon): Roku Ultra offers a more complete streaming experience. It even has a remote search option.
- Roku Streambar SE: $76 (save $24 on Amazon): This product combines a soundbar and streaming device. This would work well in a living room or large bedroom.
- Amazon Fire TV stick: $33 (save $27 on Amazon): If you don’t like Roku, Amazon offers a great streaming alternative. This one is compact and great for a smaller space.
- Roku Launch: $18 (save $22 at Walmart): This Roku streams in 4K and would make a great gift for a loved one.
- Roku Express: $19 (save $10 at Walmart): The Roku Express is perfect for first-time users, and it’s a great deal for the price.
- Disney+, Hulu and Max bundle: $17-30 a month (save $15 a month): Subscribing to multiple streaming services can be expensive. Luckily, there’s a Disney+, Hulu, and Max bundle that will save you money every month.
- Onn. Google TV: $15 (save $4 at Walmart): This Onn streaming stick is a great way to watch TV on a budget.
- Google Chromecast 3rd generation: $44 (save $6 at Walmart): Google has its own version of the streaming box, so this is a great gift for Google fans.
- Current price: $34
- Original price: 50$
I’ve had a Roku for 5 years without any problems. I highly recommend these for anyone who doesn’t want to deal with a lot of cable maintenance and needs something convenient for a dorm room or small apartment. Be careful, though, because the Roku remote can easily disappear from where you put it down.
- Current price: $33
- Original price: 60$
Amazon also has its own version of the Roku streaming stick. Even though it’s a bit more expensive, it’s still as great as Roku. The compact form factor is plug-and-play and comes preloaded with apps like Prime Video and Netflix. There’s also a marketplace to customize which streaming apps you want on your device.
- Current price: $16 or $30/month
- Original price: $30 or $45/month
There are many subscriptions that add up. Streaming services gatekeeper content, so your favorite movie may be on a different platform than your current show. This can put a big dent in your pocket. With this plan, you can save up to $15 per month by purchasing these three services in one package. There are two options: a less expensive ad-supported option or a more expensive ad-free option. Both are at a higher discount.
- Current price: $44
- Original price: 50$
Are you a Google fan looking to buy a streaming device? Well, this one might be perfect for you. Just like other devices, it hosts a plethora of streaming services and apps. Not to mention, a great gift.
- Current price: 76$
- Original price: 100$
The Roku Streambar SE offers a streaming device and soundbar in one. Amazon rates it at 4.4 stars out of 5, and reviewers love it. A soundbar will help improve your TV’s sound while also giving you access to your favorite platforms—a winning combination.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best streaming service?
This depends on the individual. However, many people believe that Netflix has staying power in the industry and its original content. About face live television servicewe named YouTube TV our tested top pick.
Which streaming service has the most content?
Amazon Prime Video has the most options as it has the option to rent movies or shows that are not included in the subscription.
What is the best streaming device?
A lot of publications have Roku devices as their top choice. Rightfully so, as it has a simple user interface and aesthetically pleasing wallpapers — and of course, the iconic Roku City. However, Amazon Fire Sticks and Google Chrome Casts are also good alternatives.
What is the cheapest streaming service?
Peacock is appreciated for its high quality at a lower price. It has a ton of diverse content for just $8 a month (with ads).
When is Black Friday?
Black Friday takes place on Friday, November 29 or the day after US Thanksgiving.
When is Cyber Monday?
Cyber Monday takes place on Monday, December 2, or the Monday after Black Friday and Thanksgiving in the United States.
Are streaming deals really better on Black Friday?
Yes and no. Certain deals, like Hulu packages, typically last year-round. However, as Black Friday and Cyber Monday get closer, companies are more likely to offer discounts on these services and devices. Amazon and other retailers have steady sales on streaming devices, but they offer bigger discounts for sales events. Stay tuned as the date gets closer.
What is the difference between Black Friday and Cyber Monday?
The only technical difference between these two days is that Black Friday takes place in brick-and-mortar stores. Think of the old-fashioned Black Friday sales at the mall, when people were often more serious about selling. Now there’s an online solution with Cyber Monday, where sales move to online locations as well as in-store. Many stores still honor the Black Friday tradition, but many retailers have shifted their focus to online sales. It all depends on the retailer.
How did we choose these Black Friday deals?
At ZDNET, we only believe in recommending products and services that we would also buy. I’m someone who uses devices and streaming services all the time, so I know how expensive this experience can be. That’s why it’s essential that we recommend things that are of good enough quality to give you a satisfying experience.
At ZDNET, we also test a lot of the devices we recommend. And if not, we commit to thoroughly researching the product to ensure quality. At the end of the day, we want what’s best for our readers.
Where can you shop for the best Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals?
Retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, Target, etc. offer the best deals for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Sales will be in-store and in-person, but there will also be more online sales.
What are the best Black Friday 2024 deals?
ZDNET experts are currently searching live Black Friday sales to find the best discounts by category. These are the best Black Friday deals so far, by category:
You can also find the best Black Friday deals by price:
And the retailer’s best Black Friday deals:
