How to Spot a Real Deal Online

A big "% off" badge doesn't always mean a good price. These are the checks we use before posting a deal, and you can use them for anything you buy online.

1. Compare with the usual price, not the list price

The crossed-out "list price" is often a price the product rarely sells for. What matters is how today's price compares with what it has actually sold for recently. Each DealzGrabby deal page shows the prices we've recorded for that product and when the price was last checked.

2. Check the exact model

Electronics often come in several versions with similar names, such as different memory sizes, last year's model, or a retailer-specific version. Compare model numbers before deciding a price is lower than elsewhere.

3. Look for coupons and limited-time deals

• Some Amazon deals need you to tick a coupon box on the product page before the price drops.
• Lightning deals and limited-time deals end at a set time or when a set number is sold.
• Subscribe & Save and Prime-only prices only apply if you qualify, so check the final price at checkout.

4. Check who's selling it

On marketplaces, the same listing can be sold by the retailer itself or by third-party sellers with different prices, shipping times and return policies. "Shipped and sold by Amazon" or a well-reviewed seller is the safer choice for expensive items.

5. Know the return window

A good return policy makes buying on sale less risky. Many retailers extend holiday returns into January for purchases made from November onward.

6. Don't buy just because it's on sale

The best deal is a lower price on something you were going to buy anyway. If it's not on your list, a discount isn't saving you money.