Memorial Day falls on May 25, 2026, and the sales wave usually starts earlier—often with smartphone discounts appearing on Friday, May 22 and continuing through the weekend and into Monday. ZDNET says it only covers deals it would recommend, focusing on price
A few days before Memorial Day, the shopping frenzy usually starts at the places that feel most personal: your headphones, your everyday tech, the things you actually use. In 2026, the holiday lands on May 25, a Monday, and the deals typically spread out across the entire weekend.
The timeline is already lining up. You’ll likely see smartphone discounts arrive on Friday, May 22, with sales running through Memorial Day weekend and continuing into Monday.
Behind the deals is a clear set of rules for what gets included. ZDNET says it only writes about discounts that match what its experts genuinely want. need. or would recommend to readers—plus friends and family. The bar is practical: deals should be at least 20% off. or at least something that’s “hardly ever on sale. ” not just a small markdown that won’t change the price calculus for anyone shopping carefully.
To figure out whether the discount is real, the outlet says it relies on established price-comparison tools and trackers. It also leans on customer reviews and adds its own hands-on experience with new tech—because a headline price cut is one thing. but a product that feels right in daily use is what ultimately decides whether the deal is worth it.
The goal, according to ZDNET, is simple and aimed at the shopper who’s tired of scrolling past hype: deliver accurate advice and flag price drops so readers can shop smarter when the Memorial Day rush peaks.
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