It’s Black Friday 2025, and the biggest Apple discounts of the year are live — not from Apple itself, but from its retail partners. Amazon.com, Inc. has kicked off its annual sale with prices on AirPods, MacBooks, and iPads that haven’t been seen since before the pandemic. At 12:21 PM UTC on November 28, 2025, Tom's Guide’s veteran Apple reporter confirmed the deals are real, widespread, and moving fast. The United States and United Kingdom are seeing the same steep drops — and consumers are scrambling. Here’s the thing: these aren’t just good deals. Some are historic.
Record-Breaking Prices on AirPods and AirTags
The standout? Apple AirPods Pro 3 at $219.99 — a 12% discount off its $249 launch price just two months ago. TechRadar’s Amazon deals expert called it the "lowest price ever" for the model, which launched in September 2025 with improved noise cancellation and 10-hour battery life. That’s not a typo. You’re getting the latest flagship earbuds for less than the original AirPods Pro cost in 2019.
Even more surprising: the Apple AirPods 4 are now $79 — the lowest price ever recorded. That’s $50 under retail. Tom's Guide calls it "the best Black Friday Apple deal right now." Meanwhile, the 4-pack of Apple AirTags is $64.99 at Amazon, down from $119. For parents tracking backpacks or students keeping tabs on laptops, that’s a $54 savings. And yes, it’s still in stock — for now.
iPad, MacBook, and the $275 iPad That’s Actually a Steal
The base Apple iPad (11-inch) is now $274.99 at Amazon — the lowest price ever for a new model. That’s $125 off. The upgrade? A faster A16 chip, double the storage (128GB), and the same sharp Liquid Retina display. TechRadar notes it’s "the best iPad for casual streamers and scrollers." And if Amazon sells out? Best Buy Co., Inc. is matching the deal.
MacBook lovers aren’t left out. The 13-inch MacBook Air M4 is $749 — $250 under retail. That’s a machine with Apple’s latest chip, a 13.6-inch display, and all-day battery for under $800. It’s the kind of price that makes you wonder why anyone would pay full retail anymore.
Verizon’s Free iPhone 17 Offer — But There’s a Catch
Here’s where it gets tricky. Verizon Communications Inc. is giving away a free iPhone 17 — along with a free iPad and Apple Watch — if you sign up for a new cellular plan on the tablet and watch. Sounds incredible, right? Until you read the fine print.
"You’re locking into a two-year contract," warns Tom's Guide’s senior tech analyst. "The monthly bill jumps $45-$60. And if you cancel early? You owe the full retail price of the devices — which could be $1,500+."
It’s a classic bait-and-switch disguised as generosity. For those who were already planning to upgrade their plan, it’s a win. For everyone else? It’s a trap wrapped in a ribbon.
Apple TV+ at $5.99 for Six Months — A Rare Move
One of the most unexpected discounts? Apple TV+’s six-month subscription for $5.99 — down from $12.99. That’s less than $1 per month. Apple rarely discounts its streaming service, especially not this deeply. Experts believe this is a play to lure subscribers before the holiday content slate drops. If you’ve been on the fence about Apple’s original shows or sports streaming, now’s your moment.
Why This Black Friday Is Different
For years, Apple products were the last to go on sale — if they went on sale at all. Retailers would offer $20 off AirPods and call it a day. But 2025 changed everything. With global demand softening and inventory piling up after the iPhone 17 launch, retailers are clearing stock aggressively. And Amazon? They’re using Apple deals as loss leaders to drive traffic to their entire Black Friday site.
"This isn’t just a sale," says Tom's Guide’s lead Apple analyst. "It’s a signal. Apple’s pricing power is weakening. And retailers know it. If you’ve been waiting to upgrade, this is the moment. But don’t wait too long. These deals vanish faster than pumpkin spice lattes in December."
What’s Next?
These deals are live now and expected to last through Cyber Monday — but stock is limited. The AirPods Pro 3, in particular, sold out in under 90 minutes during a similar promotion last year. Best Buy is expected to match Amazon’s prices by Sunday. Verizon’s free device offer expires in 72 hours. And Apple’s own website? Still at full price. As always, the real winners aren’t the brand — they’re the shoppers who know when to click.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these Apple Black Friday deals actually the lowest prices ever?
Yes — for several products. The AirPods Pro 3 at $219.99 is the lowest price since its September 2025 launch. The base iPad at $274.99 is the lowest ever for a new model. Even the AirPods 4 at $79 beats last year’s Black Friday record by $15. These aren’t just seasonal discounts — they’re historic lows driven by inventory pressure and retail competition.
Should I buy the free iPhone 17 from Verizon?
Only if you’re already planning to upgrade your cellular plan. The catch? You’re locked into a two-year contract with a higher monthly fee. If you cancel early, you’ll owe the full retail value of the iPhone, iPad, and Watch — potentially over $1,500. For most people, buying the devices outright at today’s discounted prices is smarter than the "free" offer.
Which retailers are offering the best Apple deals?
Amazon leads with the deepest discounts on AirPods, iPads, and MacBooks. Best Buy is matching most prices and offers in-store pickup. Verizon’s deals are only valuable if you need a new plan. Apple’s own store isn’t participating — so don’t wait for them. Check Amazon first, then Best Buy. Prices can vary by region, so compare before buying.
Will these deals last through Cyber Monday?
Most will — but not all. The AirPods Pro 3 and 13-inch MacBook Air M4 are already selling out in batches. Amazon’s inventory updates in real time, and restocks are rare. If you see your desired model at a record-low price, buy it now. Cyber Monday may bring similar discounts, but stock levels won’t be the same. Don’t gamble on it.
Why is Apple letting retailers discount so deeply?
Apple doesn’t control third-party pricing — and it benefits from volume. Lower prices mean more units sold, which drives ecosystem loyalty. More people using AirPods and iPads means more subscriptions to Apple Music, iCloud, and Apple TV+. It’s a long-game strategy: sacrifice margin on hardware to lock in users for recurring revenue.
Is it safe to buy Apple products from Amazon during Black Friday?
Yes — if you buy directly from Amazon.com, not third-party sellers. Amazon fulfills and warranties these items, so you get genuine Apple products with full U.S. coverage. Avoid "used" or "refurbished" listings unless you’re certain of the seller. Stick to "Ships from and sold by Amazon" for guaranteed authenticity and return policies.
Comments
Post Comment