Early Black Friday Sales Drive Record Discounts on Apple Watch Ultra and Macs

Key points

• Apple Watch Ultra 3 is priced at $549 at Best Buy, a $250 discount from its $799 retail price.
• Apple Watch Ultra 4, launched in September, is available for $699.99 on Amazon, representing a $99 reduction.
• The M6 Mac mini (16GB/256GB) is $779, and the M5 Max Mac Studio is $2,299, both matching October Prime Day lows.
• Amazon offers the base iPad 11 for $399.99 and the M4 iPad Air for $649.99.
• AirPods Pro 3 are discounted to $199 on Amazon, a $50 drop from their $249 retail price.
• Apple Watch Series 12 and SE 3 remain at full price, with retailers noting previous Prime Day discounts may return.

Background

Retailers began early Black Friday promotions in early November 2026, ahead of the main event on November 27. Previous coverage noted that Mac and iPad discounts in early November matched the lowest prices seen during October Prime Day. Best Buy launched its sitewide sale on November 6, while Amazon and B&H Photo introduced targeted discounts on Apple accessories and devices.

How outlets are covering it

MacRumors and Cosmopolitan emphasize the record-low prices for the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Ultra 4, highlighting them as the best current deals. AppleInsider focuses on the iPad lineup, noting discounts of up to $200 on high-end models. Gear Patrol highlights the AirPods Pro 3, noting that no new flagship earbuds are expected until fall 2027, making the current $199 price a safe purchase. Cosmopolitan advises caution, suggesting that entry-level models like the Series 12 and SE 3 may see deeper discounts closer to Black Friday, as they are currently full price.

Why it matters

Early Black Friday sales allow consumers to secure major discounts on premium Apple hardware before stock runs out. While high-end devices like the Ultra 4 and Mac Studio offer significant savings, the lack of discounts on entry-level models suggests that price volatility may continue until the main Black Friday event.

What to watch

Retailers are expected to introduce new deals weekly through November 28. Consumers are advised to monitor prices for the Apple Watch Series 12 and SE 3, which may see deeper discounts closer to November 27. Stock for popular items like the Ultra 3 may sell out early, prompting buyers to purchase now if they do not want to wait.