by Greg Schwartz

Created on: November 23, 2011

Black Friday is a day of mayhem, insanity, and really good deals.  Consumer electronics are a big part of Black Friday discounts, and if you're planning to shop for electronics (either for yourself or as a gift) on Black Friday, here are some tips to consider before you go.

- Know the specs

If you're looking for an electronic item to buy as a gift, unless the recipient specifically asked for that item, make sure you're getting something that's compatible with what they already own.  A digital photo album that can only sync with a computer through a USB cable wouldn't make as great a gift for someone who doesn't own a computer with a USB port, for example.  Check that whatever you'll be buying will work with any other hardware or devices that it will be interacting with.

- Know the dimensions

For TVs, sound systems, or other large electronics purchases, be sure that the item will fit in the space available.  It may seem like a nice thing to do to buy someone a 62" flat screen TV, but if they don't have anywhere to put it, things could get awkward.  If you're not sure about dimensions or whether something will fit, take your best guess or play it safe and get something smaller that you know will fit.

- Know the deal you're getting

Some electronics are dependent on other items to work, or can work better when another item is purchased with them.  For example, a printer requires ink, and if you're getting 70% off of a nice printer, it's a good deal for you, but if the ink costs $65 per cartridge, it may not be a good deal for your recipient.

Cell phones are another category where the value of the deal could vary.  Some phones come with a power cord, a holster or case, and a car charger, while others may be sold entirely by themselves.  Before buying a phone, make sure that if it doesn't come with the accessories you'll need, those items aren't prohibitively expensive (or unavailable).

- Know the return policy

There's always a chance that your gift won't be the right one, or that someone else will get that person the same thing.  Before buying electronics, find out about the store's return policy - whether they accept returns for any reason, whether they give cash or store credit, and how long of a window you have to return a purchased item.

- Know the warranty policy

For expensive electronics such as televisions, computers, or stereos, find out what type of warranty comes with the product.  Depending on the item itself and the person you're giving it to, an extended warranty may or may not be worth purchasing.

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