Electronics deals are still out there

Can you still find good deals on electronics now that Black Friday and Cyber Monday are over?

Jim Barry thinks so.

Barry, who is the Digital Answer Man with the Consumer Electronics Association, has witnessed the electronics landscape change drastically during the past 20 years. And he has positive news for Americans, who will spend $175 billion on electronics in the U.S. this year.

“The good thing about electronics is you’re always going to get a good deal,” he said. “There’s never been a better time to buy a TV.”

Barry points out TVs selling for $5,000 a few years ago are now available for $600 to $700.

“You’re always going to get a better deal than the guy who bought it last year,” he says.

Two major factors contribute to the ever-dropping prices of electronics: the pace of change and volume efficiencies. First, yesterday’s technology is today’s bargain, and stock has to be cleared to make room for tomorrow’s toys. Second, there’s a global oversupply of flat panel TVs, Barry says, and they have to be sold eventually. Both factors mean consumers win.

Barry offers these additional tips when buying electronics:

• Shop online and in stores because you can find deals in both places. If you have problems with a product after purchase, it may be easier to troubleshoot or work with a salesperson you already have a relationship with via a storefront. But an online purchase might save you time and effort if everything goes as planned. (Also, check out how to avoid electronics deal “gotchas.”)
• Understand your product. What are you using it for? If you’re purchasing a computer, for example: Do you need to take it with you when you travel? Are you watching movies on it? Do your kids need to work at home on a computer that’s compatible with those at school?
• If you’re not happy with the prices you find, just wait five minutes. It’ll be on sale soon.

Walk down memory lane

I asked Jim Barry for CEA’s holiday wish list from 1995, the first year they polled people. (You can view the 2010 list.) Here’s what people wanted 15 years ago:

1. Personal computer
2. Color TV
3. Camcorder
4. VCR
5. Home stereo system
6. CD-Rom drive
7. Cellular phone
8. Computer printer
9. Video game system
10. Cordless phone

-By Lauren Davidson, Atlanta Bargain Hunter

See a great deal I should know about? Email me at ldavidson@ajc.com. You can also follow me on Facebook or on Twitter @atlbargains.