Cyber Monday vs Black Friday: Which is Best for UK Shoppers in 2025?

The UK’s biggest shopping season is almost here, and the debate over Cyber Monday vs. Black Friday has never been hotter.

Once single-day events, both sales have now stretched into weeks-long promotions, tempting shoppers with discounts on everything from Christmas gifts to personal treats like homeware and women’s designer clothing.

Both Black Friday and Cyber Monday have origins in the US, but the discounted shopping season has now firmly established itself across the pond. Yet, not all deals are equal.Depending on what you want to buy and your budget, one event may be better suited to your needs. This guide will help you answer that burning question: "which is better, Black Friday or Cyber Monday?"

What is Black Friday?

Black Friday's origins are firmly rooted in the US, falling on the Friday immediately after the American Thanksgiving celebration, which is always on a Thursday. The name comes from retailer lingo. This is because Friday is typically the busiest shopping day of the year, retailers would "move into the black," meaning they turned a profit.

In the UK, Black Friday is a more recent phenomenon, introduced in the 2010s by American e-retailers expanding their operations. The promotions were popular, and soon British companies joined in, making it a shopping event in its own right.

In the 2010s, Black Friday was synonymous with chaotic shopping scenes of buyers scrambling to get the best deals on limited inventory. Today, it’ssomewhat morphed into "Black November" to ease the chaos. Officially, Black Friday will fall on 28 November 2025. But savvy shoppers know that this date has become somewhat irrelevant due to the transition to Black November, and many retailers will have the same deals online as they do in-store.

Most retailers, including La Redoute, now start sales earlier to manage the rush. You can visit our sales page anytime for the latest information on all our promotions.

What is Cyber Monday?

Cyber Monday was launched in 2005 by US online-only retailers looking to capitalise on Black Friday’s success. Falling on the Monday after Black Friday, it offered shoppers the chance to avoid crowded stores and shop from home or the office.

Over time, Cyber Monday became the biggest day of the year for online retailers. Today, Cyber Monday has gone global, and is typically the last time shoppers can expect a discount for Christmas shopping. In 2025, Cyber Monday will fall on 1 December.

Unlike Black Friday, Cyber Monday deals are typically only available online. Even if a retailer has a physical location, their Cyber Monday deals are only redeemable at their online store.

The event has evolved into “Cyber Week,” with deals running from Black Friday through to Cyber Monday, often adapted for mobile shopping. Typically, the best deals are still found on Cyber Monday itself.

Cyber Monday vs Black Friday: key differences

While Black Friday and Cyber Monday have somewhat blended into "Black November," there are still some key differences. Understanding what separates the two can help you save time and money.

Timing

• Black Friday: officially Friday, 28th November 2025, though promotions often start weeks in advance. The biggest discounts are usually concentrated on the day itself.

• Cyber Monday: falls on Monday, 1st December 2025, acting as the grand finale. Expect surprise price cuts and deals on overstock items.

Shopping Experience

• Black Friday: retains some in-store excitement and queues - appealing to those who enjoy the rush.

• Cyber Monday: pure convenience - shop from home, no crowds, no queues, pyjamas optional.

Product Focus

• Black Friday: typically highlights big-ticket items like electronics and major appliances.

• Cyber Monday: best for fashion, homeware, small electronics, and digital products.

Types of Deals

• Black Friday: known for “doorbuster” sales with limited stock.

• Cyber Monday: relies on flash sales, discount codes, and online-exclusive bundles.

Is Cyber Monday better than Black Friday?

When weighing up Cyber Monday vs. Black Friday, it really comes down to what you plan on buying and how you prefer to shop.

Cyber Monday is tailored for the online shopper. The process is convenient, crowd-free, and for most people, a more pleasant experience. The digital nature makes it much easier to read reviews, price check items, all from the comfort of home.

Item preference can also sway which sale is better. Generally, Black Friday is better for larger appliances and big items. On the other hand, Cyber Monday tends to have strong discounts for software, small electronics, fashion, apparel, and home goods.

Plus, Cyber Monday is sometimes used as a "clearance" for items that didn't sell well on Black Friday. And depending on market conditions, Cyber Mondays may have more items on discount than Black Friday.

Is Black Friday Cheaper Than Cyber Monday?

The better deals often depend on what you’re buying rather than when you buy it - and which retailer you choose. The smartest approach is to plan ahead: make a list of what you want, where it’s sold, and compare prices before the sales begin.

Be cautious, as some retailers will have "fake sales." They will make an item appear to be discounted, when in fact the final price hasn't changed at all. To avoid falling for these, use reliable price-tracking tools such as:

• PriceSpy: an impartial price and product comparison service. It allows you to compare specifications, view price history, and set up price alerts.

• CamelCamelCamel: free Amazon price tracker. With this tool, you can easily verify if discounted prices are legitimate.

• Which?: a fantastic guide on how to avoid common scams on Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Tips for Getting the Best Deals on Black Friday and Cyber Monday

1. Make a Wishlist and Set a Budget

This is arguably the most crucial step. It's easy to get swept up in the excitement of the sales and end up paying far more than you intended. Setting boundaries for yourself is the best way to ensure an enjoyable Black November.

2. Use Price Comparison Tools and Check Price History

Retailers often inflate the price to make the discount look far more substantial than it really is. Using tools like PriceSpy and CamelCamelCamel can help you verify a discount's legitimacy.

3. Sign Up For Newsletters and Loyalty Programs

Many retailers offer early access or exclusive discounts to subscribers and loyalty members. You can also join our email list via our inspiration page to stay updated.

4. Follow Brands on Social Media

Brands will frequently promote exclusive sales or discounts on their social media accounts. Sometimes these discounts are in limited quantities, so it's important to act fast if it's a product you want.

5. Check Return Policies and Delivery Times

Online purchases come with a 14-day return window under UK consumer law, but if you’re buying Christmas gifts, look for extended return periods. Always double-check delivery times to make sure your items arrive in time.

6. Act Fast

Many deals during Black November sales are based on availability. Big discounts on expensive items will go quickly. If you see something you know you want, be sure to buy it quickly before it's gone.

Which is better for you: Black Friday or Cyber Monday?

While the lines between Black Friday and Cyber Monday have been blurred in recent years, they still maintain some key differences that will help guide you to greater savings. The best day depends on your preferences and which items you want to purchase.

In general, Black Friday is best for big-ticket items like electronics, furniture, or appliances. It suits shoppers who like to act fast and secure limited-stock deals. Cyber Monday, on the other hand, is ideal for smaller items such as fashion, homeware, or gadgets - perfect for those who prefer to browse, compare, and “wait and see.”

Whichever day you lean toward, preparation is key. Sign up for the La Redoute newsletter to get early access to our Black November offers and the latest updates on exclusive deals.