Is Amazon Prime Day REALLY worth it? MailOnline's shopping experts have been writing about it for years - here's what they really think

Shopping Finder - who we are, editorial guidelines and standardsAmazon Prime Day 2024: All you need to know about the BIGGEST deal event of the year - from sale dates to best early offers

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Amazon Prime Day is a key sales date in the realm of online shopping events. Launched in 2015, it promises blockbuster deals and discounts exclusively for Amazon Prime members.

But amidst the hype and anticipation, the question lingers: Is Amazon Prime Day genuinely worth it, or should you wait for Black Friday sales later in the year instead?

Fear not, because we’re answering the important questions ahead of Prime Day 2024. We'll help you decide whether to splurge or save, plus we've got some expert tips up our sleeve to ensure you navigate the virtual aisles like a pro and snag the best bargains for yourself.

Will Prime Day 2024 be worth it?

Unbeatable deals on Amazon devices

Prime Day is particularly advantageous for those looking to purchase Amazon devices, as many will be reduced to their lowest prices of the year. Whether it's an Echo Dot, a Kindle, or a Fire TV Stick, Prime Day is the perfect time to upgrade your tech at a fraction of the usual cost.

A perfect time for gifting

Prime Day isn't just about tech deals. It's an excellent opportunity to stock up on toys and other gifts. With substantial discounts available, you can ease the financial burden of birthdays, Christmas, and other celebrations throughout the year well in advance while saving money.

Is Amazon Prime Day genuinely worth it, or should you wait for Black Friday sales later in the year instead?

Lightning deals

Prime Day Lightning Deals are typically short-term discounts that last only a few hours or until the stock runs out. Popular products often get discounted, and last year, for instance, Echo Buds sold out shortly after going on a Lightning Deal.

Amazon gives advance warnings and showcases upcoming savings on their deals homepage. This includes start times and information on how close the deal is to selling out. You have the option to set up alerts in your account to be notified when the deals go live, so you can easily grab these limited-time offers.

More than just shopping

Beyond the savings, it's often a great time to save on Amazon subscriptions like Prime Video and Prime Music etc. There are already early deals available including five months of free Amazon Music Unlimited, a three-month membership to audiobook service Audible.

Our editor's buying advice 

MailOnline Commerce Publisher Emily Knott shares what she actually buys during the Prime Day sales and how to shop like a pro: 'Ultimately, the worth of Amazon Prime Day hinges on individual circumstances - specific needs, budget constraints, and shopping habits.

But there's no doubt that it's a great opportunity to purchase items in advance, such as for Christmas, or to stock up on household essentials like dishwasher tablets (a recurring top seller). You can even buy back-to-school essentials, from stationary and clothing to laptops and tablets for less.

MailOnline Commerce Publisher Emily Knott shares what she actually buys during the Prime Day sales and how to shop like a pro

I've become very adept at buying gifts ahead of time and often have at least 70 per cent of my Christmas shopping done before Amazon's second Prime Day event, which took place in October last year. I prefer finding bargains and giving gifts that are more valuable for less, rather than presenting unwanted items - let's be honest, we all have unwanted Christmas gifts gathering dust.

Last year, several members of my family received Amazon devices (a sensible and handy gift - no one appeared to be disappointed...). We all enjoy having an Echo Show in our kitchens for setting cooking timers, listening to music, and even syncing with our Ring doorbells to see who’s at the front door.

Outside of spending on my relatives, my Amazon order history shows that I typically repurchase my go-to Maybelline mascara and my favourite drinks from Trip. My top tip is to add items you're eyeing to your shopping basket, or wishlist ahead of time. My Echo Show alerts me if anything goes on sale, but you can set notifications on the app, too.'

What are the downsides of Amazon Prime Day?

Limited-time offers

Lightning deals are known for their limited quantity and short duration, often selling out quickly. This can be frustrating for shoppers who miss out on desirable items.

Impulse buying

As Prime Day approaches, it's important to be cautious of the hype surrounding the event. The enticing deals may lead to impulsive purchases and overspending on items that may not be essential.

Although deals can be pretty tempting it's important to make sure we don't end up splurging on things we might not really need

Competing sales

During Prime Day, other retailers may offer competing sales, possibly undercutting Amazon's prices and causing confusion among consumers. Although Prime Day is unique to Amazon, you can also discover great deals at other major retailers such as John Lewis and Very.

Deals to avoid

When shopping for big appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers, or ovens on Amazon, it's worth noting that it may not always offer the best prices.

If you come across an item on sale, it's a good idea to compare prices at other retailers such as Currys, Very, or John Lewis before making your purchase.