Black Friday vs. Cyber Monday 2014: Shop the Best Deals

Black Friday signals the start of the holiday shopping season, but this year the sales will extend from Thanksgiving Day to Cyber Monday. If you’re looking for electronics or home appliances, be sure to shop the Black Friday sales. Many stores will open on Thanksgiving afternoon and stay open through midnight on Friday. The top deals on Black Friday will be on smartphones, televisions, laptops, tablets, video games and home and garden items. Inventory on sale items will go quickly, but up to 70% of sales will also be available online for pickup in store or with free shipping. Many local stores will offer good deals on Small Business Saturday, and American Express cardholders can receive statement credits of up to $30 for shopping at local retailers. The best Black Friday sales may be all about electronics and appliances, but Cyber Monday is all about apparel and travel. Top deals will be on clothing and shoes, as will beauty products and toys. Flash sales are usually announced around midnight on Cyber Monday, and again during lunchtime.