How audio prices behave
Audio is a fast-moving category with frequent promotions, so a listing marked as a Black Friday deal may only be back at a price it already hit a month earlier. The way to tell is the listing’s own price history, not the label on the listing.
Flagship models from major brands tend to move in smaller steps. Prior-generation models and lesser-known brands can move further.
What to start tracking now
Track the exact listings you would buy, and start early enough to learn what normal looks like for each one.
- The exact model and colour or edition you would buy. Colours and editions are often separate listings at different prices.
- The prior-generation version of a model you like. It is often the biggest saving for the smallest difference in day-to-day use.
- Earbuds and portable speakers you plan to give as gifts. Gift buying concentrates demand near the holidays, so early tracking helps.
New, open-box and used audio on eBay
Wired headphones and speakers usually hold up well used. Earbuds are different: pre-owned pairs can have worn batteries and worn tips, so new-in-box or clearly described open-box listings are the safer choice.
Popular earbud models are also heavily counterfeited. An unusually low price from a seller with little feedback is a warning sign, not a drop. Prefer sellers with strong feedback, read the listing carefully, and be wary of any price far below every other listing for the same model.
Setting your target price
Track the listing for a couple of weeks. Because audio moves often, you will usually see its normal range quickly. Set your target just under the lowest price you have seen.
If you are happy to wait until the Nov 27 to 30 window, a slightly more ambitious target is reasonable, since prices in this category do move. If you need the item sooner, set it at a price you would buy at today.
Your Black Friday timeline
Now to Nov 13
Add the exact models and editions you want and let a couple of weeks of history build.
Nov 14 to 25
Watch for sellers moving early. Check that any big drop is on a reputable seller’s listing.
Thu, Nov 26 (Thanksgiving)
Expect more flash markdowns than usual. You get an email if a listing crosses your target.
Fri, Nov 27 (Black Friday)
On an alert, confirm the seller, condition and return window before buying, especially for earbuds.
Mon, Nov 30 (Cyber Monday)
Sellers with stock left may adjust again. Keep tracking anything that has not hit your target.