Cyber Monday is here, and it’s the perfect time to grab some great tech deals. While the latest devices from Google, like the Pixel 9 and Pixel Watch 3, are available at a discount, there’s a strong case to be made for choosing last year’s models instead. The Pixel 8 and Pixel Watch 2 offer great value, and for many shoppers, they’re the better buy. Here’s why.
1. The Pixel 8 Is a Better Deal Than the Pixel 9
While the Pixel 9 offers incremental improvements over the Pixel 8 — a slightly faster processor, a bigger battery, and better cameras — the differences aren’t drastic. Both phones will receive Android OS updates until 2031, and for most AI tasks that rely on cloud processing, the Pixel 8 is just as capable.
Pixel 8 at $450
For Cyber Monday, the Pixel 8 is priced at $450, a $250 discount from its original price and $200 cheaper than the Pixel 9. If you’re upgrading from an older device, the Pixel 8 offers a very similar experience to the newer model for a fraction of the price.
Pixel 8 Pro at $599
If you prefer a larger display, the Pixel 8 Pro is also on sale for $599, a $250 discount from the retail price of the Pixel 9 Pro XL.
Pixel 9 at $650
While the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL are better phones overall, the Pixel 8 at $450 is a much better buy for most users looking to save money. If you’re not concerned about having the latest and greatest, last year’s Pixel 8 is a fantastic option.
2. Pixel Watch 2 Is a Solid Buy at $145
If you’re in the market for a smartwatch, the Pixel Watch 2 is a great deal this Cyber Monday. The newer Pixel Watch 3 has a larger, brighter display, longer battery life, and exclusive access to Fitbit Premium’s AI-powered run training, but at $145, the Pixel Watch 2 offers excellent value for most users.
Pixel Watch 2 at $145
On sale for $145, the Pixel Watch 2 offers the same core experience as the Pixel Watch 3, minus the larger display and exclusive run training features. If you don’t mind charging your watch daily, it’s an unbeatable deal.
Pixel Watch 3 at $280
The Pixel Watch 3 is priced at $280 for Cyber Monday, offering a better display and more fitness features, but the Pixel Watch 2 at a much lower price is a great choice if you’re not concerned with those extra perks.
3. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold Is Worth the Extra $300
If you’re considering a foldable phone, skip last year’s model and go for the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold represents a significant leap in both build quality and software improvements over the original Pixel Fold.
Pixel 9 Pro Fold at $1,499
On sale for $1,499 (a $300 discount), the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is a much better foldable experience than the original model. While the Pixel Fold is priced at $1,199, it’s still lacking the refined build and display quality of the newer Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
If you’re willing to spend the money on a foldable phone this Cyber Monday, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is the better option. It’s worth the extra $300 for the improved features and overall experience.
In conclusion, while the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro Fold are great phones, last year’s Pixel 8 and Pixel Watch 2 offer excellent value this Cyber Monday. If you’re looking to save money without sacrificing too much on performance, these older models are a smart choice.