Black Friday falls on 27 November 2026, and the sales have already started. Takealot began its Black Friday deals on 26 October and runs weekly offers until 23 November, before its main event at midnight on the 27th. Phone shoppers who prepare now will save more than those who browse on the day.
| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| 26 October 2026 | Takealot’s Black Friday deals begin |
| Until 23 November 2026 | New deals every week, plus partner flash sales while stock lasts |
| 27 November 2026 | Black Friday, with exclusive deals from midnight |
Start early, because the sale season is longer now
Retailers no longer squeeze everything into one Friday. Takealot says new deals land every week, and partner brands such as Xiaomi run flash sales while stock lasts. That means a phone you want may be cheaper next week, or gone tomorrow. Decide your budget and two or three target models before the sales peak.
Check the price history, not the “was” price
A crossed-out price tells you little. Before you buy, check what the same model cost over the past month at two or three retailers. If the “discount” only brings the phone back to its usual price, wait or look elsewhere.
Read the exact model, RAM and storage
The same phone name can hide different versions. A cheaper listing may have less RAM or storage than the model reviewed online. Match the specification line by line, and confirm the warranty is local and valid in South Africa.
Contract or outright?
Contract deals look cheap per month, but you pay over 24 to 36 months and the total is often higher than buying outright. Add up the full contract cost (monthly fee multiplied by the term, plus any upfront payment and insurance) and compare it to the cash price. Outright buying also leaves you free to switch networks.
| Factor | Contract (24 to 36 months) | Outright |
|---|---|---|
| How you pay | A monthly fee for the whole term | One payment for the phone |
| Total cost | Monthly fee multiplied by the term, plus any upfront payment and insurance; often higher | The cash price only |
| Switching networks | Tied in until the term ends | Free to switch at any time |
| Best for | Buyers who prefer smaller monthly payments | Buyers who can afford the cash price |
Set a realistic budget
Flagships such as the Galaxy S26 Ultra launched at R30,999, so a Black Friday discount still leaves a very large bill. If that is out of reach, mid-range phones in the R8,000 to R14,000 range are where most buyers find the best value.
Quick checklist
- Set a maximum price and stick to it.
- Compare at least three retailers for the exact model.
- Confirm RAM, storage, colour and warranty.
- Work out the full contract cost before signing.
- Keep the invoice and box, in case you need to return it.
Disclaimer: Dates, prices, specifications and availability are accurate at the time of writing (5 November 2026) and may change without notice. This article is for general information only and is not financial or purchasing advice. Always confirm the final price, terms and stock with the retailer or network provider before you buy. Brand and retailer names belong to their owners and are used for information only.