Electronics

Sales on TVs: 7 Shocking Trends Dominating 2024

Ever wonder why your favorite TV suddenly drops in price every few months? The world of sales on TVs is more dynamic than you think—driven by tech leaps, fierce competition, and seasonal madness. Let’s dive into what’s really shaping your next big screen deal.

Sales on TVs: The Evolution of Consumer Electronics Retail

Modern living room with a large smart TV displaying vibrant colors during a sales promotion
Image: Modern living room with a large smart TV displaying vibrant colors during a sales promotion

The journey of how televisions are sold has transformed dramatically over the decades. From bulky cathode-ray tube (CRT) sets sold in local electronics stores to today’s ultra-slim 4K OLEDs available with one click, the evolution mirrors broader shifts in technology, consumer behavior, and retail innovation. Understanding this evolution is key to grasping why sales on TVs happen the way they do today.

The Rise of Big-Box Retailers

In the late 20th century, the emergence of big-box electronics retailers like Best Buy, Circuit City, and Future Shop revolutionized how TVs were sold. These stores offered consumers the ability to compare multiple brands and models side by side, often with in-store demos and knowledgeable staff.

This shift empowered buyers with more information and created a competitive environment where price and promotions became central to sales strategies. Retailers began using TVs as loss leaders—selling them at or below cost to draw customers into stores, hoping they’d purchase higher-margin accessories or appliances.

  • Best Buy’s “Geek Squad” service added value beyond the hardware.
  • In-store displays allowed customers to experience picture quality firsthand.
  • Seasonal promotions like Black Friday started gaining traction in this era.

The Digital Shift: E-Commerce and Direct-to-Consumer Models

The 2000s brought the rise of e-commerce giants like Amazon, which disrupted traditional retail models. Suddenly, consumers could browse hundreds of TV models, read thousands of reviews, and have a new television delivered to their doorstep in two days.

Brands like TCL and Hisense leveraged online platforms to enter the U.S. market without relying on physical retail space. Meanwhile, premium brands like LG and Sony began offering direct-to-consumer sales through their own websites, cutting out middlemen and offering exclusive bundles.

According to Statista, online sales of consumer electronics in the U.S. grew from 18% of total sales in 2015 to over 40% by 2023, with TVs being one of the top categories.

“The internet didn’t just change how we shop for TVs—it changed how manufacturers think about selling them.” — TechRetail Insights, 2023

Impact of Global Supply Chains on Sales Cycles

Modern sales on TVs are deeply tied to global manufacturing and logistics networks. Most TVs are produced in South Korea, China, and Vietnam, with components sourced from across Asia and Eastern Europe.

Disruptions—like the 2021 chip shortage or pandemic-related factory shutdowns—can delay product launches and alter pricing strategies. When supply is tight, discounts shrink. When inventory piles up, retailers slash prices to clear stock.

This dependency means sales on TVs often follow a predictable rhythm: new models launch in spring (aligned with CES in January), followed by aggressive discounting on previous-year models in summer and fall.

Top 5 Factors Driving Sales on TVs in 2024

Understanding what drives sales on TVs isn’t just about price. A complex mix of technological, economic, and psychological factors shapes when and how consumers buy. Here are the top five forces shaping the market this year.

Technological Advancements and Model Refresh Cycles

TV manufacturers release new models almost every year, often touting incremental improvements in picture quality, smart features, or design. These refreshes create a natural sales cycle: older models are discounted to make room for new ones.

For example, Samsung’s 2024 Neo QLED lineup introduced AI-powered upscaling and anti-glare screens, making the 2023 models instantly less desirable—despite being nearly identical in core specs.

Consumers aware of these cycles often time their purchases to coincide with model transitions, maximizing value. This anticipation fuels seasonal sales spikes, especially during Q2 and Q4.

Seasonal Promotions and Holiday Shopping Events

No discussion of sales on TVs is complete without mentioning the calendar. Certain times of year are synonymous with deep discounts:

  • Black Friday and Cyber Monday: The biggest sales events, with discounts up to 60% on select models.
  • Super Bowl Season: Retailers push large-screen TVs in January, capitalizing on football hype.
  • Prime Day (Amazon): Mid-year deals on smart TVs and streaming bundles.
  • Back-to-School and Labor Day: Often overlooked, but great for mid-tier models.

A 2023 report by National Retail Federation found that 62% of consumers planned to buy a new TV during a holiday sale, up from 54% in 2020.

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Consumer Demand for Larger Screens and Immersive Experiences

There’s a clear trend: people want bigger TVs. The average screen size sold in the U.S. has grown from 42 inches in 2015 to over 55 inches in 2024, according to Omdia.

This desire for immersion—fueled by 4K content, streaming services, and home theater setups—means consumers are willing to spend more, but only when deals align. Sales on TVs that offer 65-inch or larger screens at competitive prices see the highest conversion rates.

Brands like Vizio and LG have capitalized on this by offering “value flagship” models—large screens with premium features at mid-range prices—especially during promotional periods.

How Major Brands Influence Sales on TVs

The strategies of leading TV manufacturers play a massive role in shaping the sales landscape. Each brand brings a unique approach to pricing, innovation, and marketing, influencing not just their own sales but the entire market’s rhythm.

Samsung: Market Leader with Aggressive Innovation

Samsung has consistently held the largest global market share in TVs, thanks to its blend of innovation and marketing power. The company invests heavily in R&D, introducing cutting-edge technologies like MicroLED and Quantum Dot displays.

But Samsung also understands the importance of timing. It often announces new models at CES in January, then partners with retailers to launch exclusive deals during Super Bowl season. This creates a sense of urgency and exclusivity.

Their “Trade-In + Bonus” promotions during Black Friday—where customers get extra discounts for recycling old TVs—are a masterclass in driving volume sales while promoting sustainability.

LG: OLED Dominance and Premium Positioning

LG is the world’s largest producer of OLED panels, giving it a near-monopoly on high-end OLED TVs. This allows LG to position itself as the premium choice for cinephiles and audiophiles.

While LG doesn’t always offer the deepest discounts, it leverages partnerships with streaming platforms (like Netflix and Disney+) to bundle content with hardware. For example, some 2024 LG TVs come with a year of Disney+ included—a subtle but effective sales driver.

Additionally, LG’s “OLED Experience Centers” in major cities let customers see the technology in person, reducing hesitation and boosting confidence in high-ticket purchases.

Sony: The Audiophile’s Choice with Niche Appeal

Sony doesn’t compete on price, but on performance. Its TVs are favored by filmmakers and content creators for their color accuracy and motion handling.

Sony’s sales strategy focuses on bundling with its ecosystem—PlayStation, Bravia TVs, and soundbars. During PlayStation 5 restocks, Sony often runs “Complete Home Theater” promotions, increasing TV sales indirectly.

While Sony’s market share is smaller, its profit margins are among the highest, proving that not all sales on TVs are about volume—some are about value.

Sales on TVs: The Role of Retailers and Marketplaces

Retailers are the battlefield where sales on TVs are won and lost. From brick-and-mortar giants to digital marketplaces, each player uses different tactics to attract buyers and move inventory.

Best Buy: In-Store Experience Meets Online Convenience

Best Buy remains a dominant force in TV sales, thanks to its hybrid model. Customers can touch and test TVs in-store, then buy online with price-matching guarantees.

Their “Open Box” deals are particularly popular—refurbished or demo units sold at 20–40% off. These are often indistinguishable from new models and come with full warranties.

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Best Buy also offers extended protection plans and installation services, adding layers of value that pure online sellers can’t easily replicate.

Amazon: The Algorithm-Driven Sales Machine

Amazon’s dominance in online sales on TVs comes from its data-driven approach. The platform uses customer behavior, search trends, and inventory levels to dynamically adjust pricing and promotions.

“Lightning Deals” and “Deal of the Day” create urgency, while personalized recommendations increase conversion rates. Amazon also partners with brands for exclusive models—like the Amazon Fire TV Edition TVs from Toshiba and Insignia—giving shoppers a reason to buy through their ecosystem.

According to Digital Commerce 360, Amazon accounted for 38% of all online TV sales in the U.S. in 2023.

Walmart and Target: Value-Focused Competitors

Walmart and Target compete on price and accessibility. Both offer in-store pickup, which appeals to customers who want instant gratification.

Walmart’s private-label Onn brand has gained traction with budget-conscious shoppers, offering 4K TVs under $200. Target, meanwhile, partners with brands like Hisense to offer stylish, mid-range models that fit modern home aesthetics.

Their holiday ad circulars are still widely circulated, proving that even in the digital age, print promotions drive foot traffic and TV sales.

Emerging Technologies Reshaping Sales on TVs

It’s not just about selling more TVs—it’s about selling smarter. New technologies are changing how consumers discover, evaluate, and purchase televisions.

AI-Powered Personalization in Online Shopping

E-commerce platforms now use artificial intelligence to recommend TVs based on browsing history, room size, and even viewing habits. For example, if you watch a lot of sports, the algorithm might prioritize models with high refresh rates and low input lag.

Some sites, like BestBuy.com, use AI chatbots to guide users through technical specs, helping them choose between OLED, QLED, and LED based on their needs.

This personalization reduces decision fatigue and increases the likelihood of purchase—especially for first-time buyers overwhelmed by options.

Augmented Reality (AR) for Virtual Try-Before-You-Buy

Brands like Samsung and LG have integrated AR into their mobile apps, allowing users to project a life-size image of a TV into their living room using their smartphone camera.

This feature helps customers visualize how a 75-inch TV will look on their wall, reducing return rates and boosting confidence in online purchases.

According to a 2023 study by Gartner, retailers using AR saw a 30% increase in conversion rates for high-ticket electronics.

Smart Home Integration as a Sales Driver

Today’s TVs aren’t just displays—they’re hubs. Sales on TVs increasingly depend on how well they integrate with smart home ecosystems.

For example, Google TV and Amazon Fire TV OS allow voice control via Assistant and Alexa. Samsung’s SmartThings platform lets users control lights, thermostats, and security cameras directly from the TV remote.

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This convergence makes TVs more valuable, justifying higher prices and driving upgrades. A 2024 survey by Parks Associates found that 44% of consumers cited smart home compatibility as a key factor in their TV purchase decision.

Consumer Behavior: What Drives Purchase Decisions in Sales on TVs?

Understanding the psychology behind TV purchases is crucial for both retailers and consumers. What makes someone click “buy now” on a $1,500 OLED TV?

The Psychology of Discounts and Perceived Value

Consumers love a deal—even if they don’t need it. Retailers exploit this with tactics like “was $1,999, now $1,299,” creating a sense of savings regardless of the actual cost.

Studies show that people are more likely to buy when they feel they’re getting exclusive access or limited-time value. This is why “early bird” pricing and “first 100 buyers” promotions work so well.

The perceived value of a TV isn’t just about price—it’s about the narrative. A “cinema-quality display” sounds better than “good picture,” even if the specs are identical.

The Role of Reviews and Social Proof

Before buying, most consumers read reviews. Platforms like Rtings.com, CNET, and YouTube reviewers like HD Tech have enormous influence.

A single negative review about motion blur or poor smart OS can tank sales, while glowing endorsements can create instant demand. Brands now actively engage with reviewers, sending early units and responding to feedback.

Social proof extends to user reviews on Amazon and Best Buy. Products with 4.5+ stars and hundreds of reviews outsell lesser-reviewed models—even at higher prices.

Environmental and Ethical Considerations

A growing segment of buyers cares about sustainability. They want to know if a TV is energy-efficient, recyclable, or made with conflict-free materials.

Brands are responding: LG’s 2024 OLEDs use 30% recycled plastic, and Samsung’s packaging is now 100% recyclable. These features are highlighted in marketing and can sway eco-conscious buyers.

While not the primary driver for most, ethical considerations are becoming a differentiator—especially among younger consumers.

Future Trends: What’s Next for Sales on TVs?

The TV market isn’t standing still. As technology evolves and consumer habits shift, new trends are emerging that will redefine sales on TVs in the coming years.

The Rise of Modular and Upgradeable TVs

Companies like LG and Sony are experimenting with modular designs—where the display, processor, and speakers can be upgraded independently.

This could extend a TV’s lifespan and reduce e-waste, but it also changes the sales model. Instead of selling a complete unit, brands might sell “core kits” and charge for upgrades later—similar to how smartphones work.

If successful, this could shift sales from one-time purchases to recurring revenue streams.

Subscription-Based TV Models

Imagine paying a monthly fee for a high-end TV, with automatic upgrades every three years. Companies like Dell and HP already do this with monitors and PCs—could TVs be next?

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Some retailers are testing “TV as a Service” programs, where customers pay a flat monthly rate that includes the TV, warranty, and even content subscriptions.

This model appeals to renters, tech enthusiasts, and businesses, and could disrupt traditional ownership models.

AI-Generated Content and the Need for Better Displays

As AI-generated video and virtual experiences become mainstream, the demand for high-fidelity displays will grow. Gamers, creators, and remote workers need accurate color, high refresh rates, and low latency.

This could drive a new wave of premium sales, especially for professional-grade monitors and large-format TVs used as secondary displays.

Sales on TVs may increasingly target niche markets—creators, streamers, and hybrid workers—rather than just general consumers.

Why do TV prices drop so quickly after launch?

New TV models typically see price drops within 3–6 months of release as retailers clear inventory for upcoming models. This is especially true during major shopping events like Black Friday or Prime Day, where competition drives aggressive discounting.

Which TV brands offer the best value during sales?

TCL, Hisense, and Vizio consistently offer the best value during sales events, combining solid performance with aggressive pricing. Samsung and LG lead in premium segments, while Sony excels in picture quality for cinephiles.

Are OLED TVs worth the extra cost during sales on TVs?

Yes, for most buyers. OLED TVs offer superior contrast, perfect blacks, and wider viewing angles. During major sales, discounts can make OLEDs competitive with mid-range QLEDs, offering exceptional value for the picture quality.

What’s the best time of year to buy a TV?

The best times are Black Friday, Super Bowl season (January–February), and Amazon Prime Day. These periods see the deepest discounts on both current and previous-year models.

Can I trust online reviews when buying a TV during a sale?

Absolutely. Trusted review sites like Rtings.com, CNET, and Wirecutter provide in-depth, lab-tested evaluations. User reviews on Amazon and Best Buy also offer real-world insights into reliability and performance.

The world of sales on TVs is a complex, fast-moving ecosystem shaped by technology, psychology, and global markets. From seasonal promotions to AI-driven shopping experiences, the way we buy TVs has never been more dynamic. Whether you’re a bargain hunter or a tech enthusiast, understanding these trends empowers you to make smarter decisions. The next time you see a “limited-time deal,” remember: there’s a whole industry behind that price tag.

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