Unveiling the Truth: Where to Find the Best Deals on 65 Inch TVs

Top Retailers for 65-Inch TV Deals

Finding the absolute best deal on a 65-inch TV involves more than just looking at the price tag. It's about knowing where to look and when. Different retailers have unique strengths, from rock-bottom prices on budget models to incredible value packages on premium sets. Here’s a breakdown of the top contenders for your next big screen purchase.

1. Walmart

Walmart is a powerhouse in the world of budget-friendly electronics, and 65-inch TVs are no exception. Their primary strategy revolves around offering an incredibly wide selection that caters to every price point. This includes major brands like Samsung and LG, but their biggest advantage for deal-seekers is often their house brand, Onn. These TVs are designed to hit the lowest possible prices, providing a large screen experience without the premium cost. Throughout the year, Walmart also features "Rollback" prices and clearance events, making it a reliable place to check for everyday low prices.

However, Walmart truly shines during major sales events, especially Black Friday. The retailer is famous for its "doorbuster" deals, which often feature 65-inch TVs from various manufacturers at jaw-droppingly low prices. It's important to note that these specific models are sometimes manufactured exclusively for the sale, meaning they might have slightly different specifications than standard models. Despite this, for shoppers whose main priority is screen size for the lowest possible cost, Walmart's holiday sales are nearly impossible to beat.

2. Best Buy

Best Buy positions itself as a specialist electronics retailer, offering a carefully curated selection of TVs from mid-range to high-end. They are an excellent destination for those who want a great deal on a well-known brand like Sony, Samsung, or LG. You can often find competitive sale prices in their weekly ads and during their "Deal of the Day" promotions. Their physical stores also provide the significant advantage of being able to see the picture quality of different models in person before making a decision.

One of Best Buy's most significant advantages for savvy shoppers is its "Open-Box" section. These are typically customer returns that have been inspected, tested, and certified by the Geek Squad to be in perfect working order. You can often find premium 65-inch models, including OLED and QLED TVs, at a substantial discount. Combining these open-box deals with their price match guarantee ensures you can secure a top-tier television at a price that's much more manageable.

3. Amazon

As the world's largest online retailer, Amazon’s strength lies in its massive, ever-changing inventory and competitive, dynamic pricing. You can find nearly every 65-inch TV model imaginable, from budget-friendly options to the latest flagship releases. Amazon’s own Fire TV lineup, often manufactured by brands like Hisense and TCL, represents some of the best value in the smart TV market. These TVs integrate seamlessly with the Amazon ecosystem and are frequently discounted.

Amazon's two biggest sales events, Prime Day (typically in the summer) and the Black Friday/Cyber Monday period, are prime times to hunt for a 65-inch TV deal. During these events, you'll find widespread discounts across major brands, as well as aggressive price drops on their own Fire TV models. Keep an eye out for "Lightning Deals," which offer steep, time-sensitive discounts on specific TVs. These deals can sell out in minutes, so being prepared is key to snagging one.

4. Costco

Costco's approach to TV deals is centered on overall value rather than just the lowest sticker price. While their everyday prices are highly competitive, the real benefit of buying a TV from Costco is the package of perks that comes with it. Most televisions sold at Costco automatically include a second year of warranty coverage, on top of the standard manufacturer's warranty. Furthermore, Costco is known for its exceptionally generous return policy, giving customers peace of mind with their purchase.

The selection at Costco is more curated than at other retailers, meaning they don't carry every model, but they focus on popular, well-regarded sets from top brands. The included warranty and technical support concierge service can add hundreds of dollars in value, often making a Costco deal the smartest financial decision in the long run, even if the initial price is a few dollars higher than a competitor's sale price.

5. Target

Target competes directly with Walmart and Best Buy, offering a solid range of 65-inch TVs from trusted brands like LG, Samsung, and Vizio. They frequently run weekly sales and promotions, especially around holidays and major sporting events. Their in-house electronics brand, Heyday, focuses on accessories, but they often partner with manufacturers for exclusive TV models you won't find elsewhere.

The secret to maximizing deals at Target is leveraging their loyalty programs. Holding a Target RedCard (debit or credit) gives you an automatic 5% discount on nearly all purchases, including large electronics. This 5% can be stacked on top of existing sale prices. Additionally, the Target Circle app often has special offers and manufacturer coupons that can be applied to further reduce the final cost, turning a good deal into a fantastic one.

Understanding the TV Sales Cycle: Why Timing Matters

The price of a television is not static; it fluctuates throughout the year based on a predictable industry cycle. Most major TV manufacturers, like Sony, Samsung, and LG, unveil their new flagship models in the spring, typically between March and May. This annual refresh is the most important event for deal hunters to understand. When the brand-new models hit the shelves, retailers need to clear out their existing inventory of the previous year's models.

This creates a golden opportunity for consumers. The TVs from the previous year are suddenly "old," yet they are often technologically superb and only incrementally different from the newest versions. From late spring into early summer, you can find deep discounts on these outgoing models. This period is arguably the best time to get the most performance for your money, as you can acquire a high-end TV from last year for the price of a mid-range TV from the current year. This is a different kind of deal than a Black Friday doorbuster, as it focuses on getting premium features at a heavily reduced price.

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying a 65-Inch TV

What is the absolute best time of year to buy a TV?

While deals can pop up anytime, there are three distinct periods that consistently offer the best prices. The first and most famous is Black Friday and Cyber Monday. This late-November shopping frenzy is unmatched for deep discounts, especially on entry-level and mid-range 65-inch models. Retailers use these "doorbuster" TVs to draw customers in, but be aware that stock is often limited.

The second key period is in late January and early February, right before the Super Bowl. Retailers know that fans want the biggest and best screen to watch the big game, so they heavily promote and discount large-screen TVs, including many 65-inch models. This is a great time to find a sale on a TV you've been eyeing since the holidays.

Finally, as mentioned earlier, the spring clearance cycle (April-June) is a fantastic time for deals on performance. This is when retailers clear out last year's models to make way for the new ones. You might not find the absolute lowest price of the year, but you will find the best value, allowing you to get a more feature-rich television for your budget.

Should I consider an open-box or refurbished TV?

Absolutely, but with caution. An "open-box" TV is typically a product that was purchased and then returned by a customer within the store's return window. These TVs are usually in like-new condition and have been inspected and verified by the retailer. A "refurbished" TV is one that was returned due to a defect, repaired by the manufacturer or a certified technician, and then put back on sale. Both can offer significant savings, especially on premium models.

The key is to buy from a reputable source. Retailers like Best Buy (with their "Geek Squad Certified" products) and manufacturer outlets are generally safe bets. Before purchasing, always check the warranty. An open-box item from a major retailer usually comes with the full manufacturer's warranty, while a refurbished unit might have a shorter warranty period (e.g., 90 days). Carefully inspect the TV for any cosmetic damage and confirm the return policy in case you encounter any issues. For a savvy shopper willing to do their homework, these options can unlock incredible value.

Besides price, what features are most important in a 65-inch TV?

At the 65-inch size, picture quality differences become much more apparent. The most critical feature is the panel technology. Standard LED-LCD TVs are the most affordable. QLED TVs (used by Samsung, TCL, and Hisense) use a layer of quantum dots to produce brighter, more vibrant colors than standard LEDs. At the top end, OLED TVs (used by LG and Sony) offer the best possible picture quality, with perfect black levels and infinite contrast because each pixel illuminates itself. This results in a stunningly realistic and dynamic image.

Beyond the panel, look for excellent High Dynamic Range (HDR) support. HDR allows the TV to display a wider range of colors and brightness, making the picture look more lifelike. The two premium formats are Dolby Vision and HDR10+. Having a TV that supports one or both will ensure you get the best experience from streaming services and 4K Blu-rays. For gamers and sports fans, a native 120Hz refresh rate is crucial for smooth, clear motion without blurring. Finally, consider the smart TV platform (like Google TV, Roku TV, or LG's webOS), as a fast and intuitive interface will make your daily viewing experience much more enjoyable.

Conclusion

Pinpointing who has the best deal on a 65-inch TV depends largely on your priorities. For the absolute lowest price, especially during the holidays, Walmart and Amazon are often the winners with their aggressive sales on budget-friendly models. For those seeking a balance of great price, brand selection, and expert support, Best Buy is a fantastic choice, with its open-box deals offering a path to premium technology at a discount.

However, for shoppers who value long-term peace of mind, Costco often presents the best overall value. Their competitive pricing, combined with an included extended warranty and a generous return policy, creates a package that is tough to beat. Ultimately, the best strategy is to identify the features you need, watch for sales during key buying periods, and compare the complete value proposition—not just the price tag—from each of these top retailers.