The best Amazon Prime Day deals for gamers live: the final hours of discounts as they happen
Prime Day deals will end at midnight - these are all the biggest final offers
Prime Day deals have entered their final hours now, so the clock is ticking on this year's sale. There's still plenty of time at the moment, but that will change - and considering I usually start to see some of the biggest offers running off the shelves at this point in the sale I wouldn't wait long before jumping on any savings you like.
I've been tracking Prime Day deals for years now, so I've learned a thing or two about spotting the best value on the shelves. I've put all that expertise to good use here, sorting through all of Amazon's biggest deals for gamers and bringing you only the golden offers. That means price checking each and every deal to make sure it really is as good as Amazon says, but also making sure the features, components, and overall value of each product in this guide is up to scratch.
I'm taking you through all the biggest Prime Day deals for gamers right here, but you'll also find the GamesRadar+ Hardware team's expertise on which gadgets and gizmos should be on your radar this Prime Day. I'll show you which deals to prioritize and help you avoid any rogue offers that aren't actually as good as they seem to be - all in real-time. Let's dive in.
The best Prime Day deals for gamers at a glance
- PS5: games starting from $19.99
- Switch: all consoles discounted
- Xbox: renewed consoles from $295
- PC: RTX 4060 rigs from $849.99
- Handhelds: $100 off ROG Ally at Best Buy
- Meta Quest 3: now $429.99 at Walmart
- Controllers: now starting at $17
- Components: CPUs from $120
- Games: Switch games from $16.99
- Headsets: Razer from $34.99
- Keyboards: mechanical decks from $29.99
- Laptops: starting at $549.99
- Mice: Razer from $21.38
- Monitors: up to $370 off Samsung
- Storage: SSDs from $17.99
UK
- PS5: games from £12.92
- Switch: OLED now £269.95
- Xbox: consoles from £224
- PC: budget rigs from £199
- Handhelds: ROG Ally now £549 at Very
- Meta Quest 3: now £429.99 at Very
- Controllers: starting from £13.59
- Components: save up to £190 on GPUs
- Games: Switch games from £12
- Headsets: Turtle Beach from £24.99
- Keyboards: Logitech from £37.99
- Laptops: up to £500 off MSI
- Mice: now starting at £9.99
- Monitors: panels from £79.93
- Storage: SSDs from £19.99
My top 7 Prime Day PS5 deals
My top 7 Prime Day Nintendo Switch deals
My top 7 Prime Day Xbox deals
My top 7 Prime Day PC deals
And we're off! I'm already seeing plenty of new deals hitting the shelves at Amazon this afternoon, but Best Buy has also launched its own sale. I'm not going to lie, things are looking particularly tasty at the latter retailer, with savings across a whole wad of PC rigs and accessories. With Bezos's camp actually raising some of its prices ahead of the main event tomorrow, there are a few things to watch out for.
Stick with me and I'll see you through it all, though. I've got my snacks and I'm ready to shop.
Do you need a membership for Prime Day?
Yes, you will need an Amazon Prime membership to take advantage of official Prime Day deals. But ‘official’ is the operative word here. There are a massive number of discounts live on Amazon’s shelves right now that don’t require a fully fledged Prime membership, and other retailers have their own discounts to boot. All isn’t lost if you don’t have a subscription, then - but you will have a better time over the next couple of days if you do.
That’s because a Prime membership opens you up to far more deals on the site - and these are going to be the ones that count. We generally see the real show-stoppers reserved for Amazon’s members, so it’s worth grabbing a free trial if you can.
Amazon Prime | 30 day free trial available
The competition's on - Walmart and Best Buy have launched their own sales
Walmart and Best Buy have both now launched their own competing sales, muscling in on Amazon's impending offers. Walmart actually dumped a load of discounts on us last week, with its Prime-coded 'July deals' event bringing a whole wad of savings to the forefront. We got our first look at some of the heavier savings coming our way (I expect that $429.99 sale price on the Meta Quest 3 to see some repeats at Amazon tomorrow), as well as some rare savings on seldom discounted tech (though the DualSense Edge has now been run off the shelves).
Meanwhile, Best Buy has saved its 'Black Friday in July' offers for today, running that clock all the way down to the wire before launching its own Prime Day deals into the ether. I'm noticing that Best Buy is winning in the PCs category in particular, with gaming laptops and keyboard / mice deals offering far better value than Amazon.
I've had a quick scrub through the both competing sales - these are the three best deals I've found so far:
Nintendo Switch Lite | Animal Crossing: New Horizons | $159 at Walmart
Meta Quest 3 | $499.99 $429.99 at Walmart
Xbox Series X | $50 gift card | $499.99 $449.99 at Best Buy
Buying a PC on Prime Day? Here are Duncan's top tips
Future-Proof with DDR5
The most affordable gaming PC deals (ie, the ones under $700), are tempting if you're on a really tight budget, but if you want something you're going to be able to upgrade and play games on well into the future, look for something that's DDR5 compatible. That means something that has either an Intel 12th, 13th, or 14th generation CPU, or if you're on the AMD side, a Ryzen 7000 Series processor. Some prebuilds hide the names of their motherboards, so it is worth doing some digging to check that what you’re buying will be compatible.
Check out pre-builds
For folks whose current systems are locked behind the DDR5 wall, my advice is to check out the prebuilt aisle. It’s not what a lot of PC builders want to hear, but the best value is probably in buying a full machine at the moment. The good news is that DDR5 systems have never been more affordable. Your other option is likely buying a new motherboard, CPU, and RAM - and at that point, you're going to have a harder job rooting your current ones out of your case and starting from scratch anyway.
You'll have to work for a good SSD price right now
If you're buying an SSD, don't always believe the prices a retailer says one is reduced by. I can guarantee you they're vastly different than they were last year. As well, look to other retailers, not just Amazon. Newegg, Walmart, and Best Buy always have PC deals worth knowing about, and sometimes they're better.
Don't panic
My final tip is for first-time buyers. It's easy to get intimidated and bogged down by enormous price tags when you first get into PC gaming, but don't fret. Have fun with it, do your research on what specs you actually need versus the expensive ones your favorite streamer has, and don't let all the confusing product names and scary redditors intimidate you. If you have any questions, I’m always happy to help where I can on Twitter or in an email.
Happy bargain hunting!
Can you get Amazon Prime for free?
Good news everyone! If you don’t have Amazon Prime you won’t be able to take part in most of today’s sales - but Bezos has a trick up his sleeve. You can nab yourself a 30-day Amazon Prime free trial and still take advantage of all this week’s discounts, and the Prime Video, speedy shipping, and other benefits that come with it.
But wait there’s more! Students can grab a whole six months of Prime for free - you just need to prove that you’re either aged 18-24 or currently enrolled.
I've just noticed Amazon has put its prices up on loads of games and tech that were much cheaper even last week. That's a surefire sign that these devices will be discounted for Prime Day. I see it every year, Amazon raises its prices just before its major sale only to 'drop' them again for the main event. I've scoured my own notes on the last couple of weeks' worth of deals to find the newly increased prices on the shelves.
The Asus ROG Azoth was the first one I saw. This has been a $199.99 keyboard for a little while now, but it's suddenly up to $209.99? Suspicious.
Assassin's Creed: Mirage was sitting at a beautiful $24.99 sale price just before the weekend, but in a recent whip round I've noticed it's gone all the way up to $32.35! This has been a $29.99 game for months now.
The Razer Viper V2 Pro has also caught my attention. This has been rock solid at a $99.99 sale price since March. This morning it nudged back up to $103.49.
Price hikes like this are the reason it's so important to price check your deals if you are jumping in early. That Asus keyboard, for example, might look like a solid deal considering its $249.99 MSRP - but it's poised to drop much lower on the day itself.
When does Prime Day start?
I'm pretty excited by these early offers, but if you're holding out for the main event you don't have long to wait. Amazon Prime Day officially starts at midnight tonight, running all the way through to the very end of July 17. You'll want to get in on day one, though. That's normally when I see the highest quality discounts on the best tech - stock on the biggest deals can start to run dry by the second day and there aren't as many new offers hitting the shelves to compensate.
Deal!
This deal has been living rent free in my head all afternoon. If you're on the hunt for a new console this Prime Day, it might be worth jumping in early here. Best Buy has the Xbox Series X available for just $449.99 - no biggie, I've seen that $50 discount come and go a few times this year. But you're also getting a free $50 gift card included. The extra value there is well worth it, especially with so many other offers on accessories available.
Which Switch games should you be watching out for this Prime Day?
I've been tracking Prime Day Nintendo Switch deals for some time now, and there are always a few friendly faces that show up year in year out. Sonic Frontiers, Octopath Traveler, and Minecraft are all surefire bets, for example. I'm going to be keeping a close eye on these titles over the next two days - they offer excellent value whenever they drop their price - but there are a few newer titles I reckon are poised to take some even more impressive savings.
Editor's Pick!
The Razer Blade 16 is something of a pipe dream of mine. With a $3,000 MSRP it's a tough buy, but ever since I had my hands on its premium OLED 240Hz panel (the best I've tested yet) it's been in the back of my mind. This is a luxury device through and through, with that staple Razer minimalism and high-end CNC milled body. While it commands a severe price tag, it's the best gaming laptop in a 16-inch form factor on paper. Impressive performance for its form factor, a solid battery life, and super slick aesthetic means this is one to take note of.
Amazon's just announced three games that will be completely free tomorrow
As it tends to do every year, Amazon is running a bunch of free games through its Prime Gaming service (open to anyone with a membership). There's a whole wad of titles ready to claim from the lead up to Prime Day, but tomorrow will see the addition of Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, Chivalry 2, and Rise of the Tomb Raider to the roster. If you're collection is lacking, you can claim a whole host of games via the site right now.
- Starting July 16: Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League
- Starting July 16: Chivalry 2
- Starting July 16: Rise of the Tomb Raider
- Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic 2
- Alex Kidd in Miracle World DX
- Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge
- Tearstone: Thieves of the Heart
- The Invisible Hand
- Deceive Inc.
- Heaven Dust 2
- Soulstice
- Card Shark
- Call of Juarez
- Forager
- Wall World
- Call of Juarez: Bound in Blood
- Samurai Bringer
Editor's Pick!
You don't have to be left-handed to enjoy the Corsair M75 Wireless. I'm not, and it's been a constant in my roster since I reviewed it back in March. Ambidextrous mice are rarely this comfortable - prioritizing a neutral ergonomic design over the curves and slopes you might need for pure right-handed use. I prefer the chunkier body for more relaxed play, even if proves a little too big for me personally during more competitive endeavours. The fact remains, though, you're unlikely to find a wireless gaming mouse with this high-quality sensor and extra features for this price anywhere else.
Should you buy the Asus ROG Ally on Prime Day?
Ah the Asus ROG Ally, the little handheld that could. Of course, this is an extremely powerful device, but when I received one for testing ahead of its launch it felt like pretty much everything was borked. Fast forward to today, and it's my daily driver - my poor PS5 barely gets a look in and if you think I'm busting out a whole gaming laptop just to tap around in Octopath you're overestimating my energy levels.
It's one of the best gaming handhelds on the market, and there are plenty of Prime Day Asus ROG Ally deals to take advantage of. But should you take this opportunity to give the portable PC a shot? I've been playing since day one, here are my recommendations.
Buy it if:
✅ You want more than Steam
The Steam Deck has an inherent problem; Valve's only going to make it easy for you to play games purchased via Steam. While you can get Xbox Game Pass and Epic working on the classic model, there's a bit of janky effort to put in. I've barely touched my Steam library on Ally, moving between Xbox Game Pass and Epic on the regular. It's fluid, streamlined, and the Armoury Crate launcher keeps everything in one place anyway.
✅ You're happy to plug in
The Ally's battery life isn't perfect. It's not as strong as the MSI Claw, and it only just beats the Lenovo Legion Go because of a reduced system load. If you're happy to keep a power outlet nearby and drop your settings every now and then for lighter games on-the-go it's fantastic, though. I've made it through three-hour plane journeys without even having to reach for a portable charger with my launch model (running Moonlighter and Arcade Paradise), and even managed to get some good off-charge time in with Assassin's Creed: Odyssey. That also means this is the go-to model for docking your handheld.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You prioritize portable performance
Nobody's going to blame you for wanting to be able to take your portable PC out and about. If you're going to need a bigger battery for longer trips or you simply don't want to rely on a cable, I'd recommend holding off on Prime Day. Asus ROG Ally X pre-orders are live, with the new release hitting the shelves on July 22. It's a premium option (starting at $799.99) but it's got a beefier battery and extra RAM and storage to boot.
Best Buy is winning for PS5 game deals right now
I've crawled through Best Buy's entire anti-Prime Day sale and found that the yellow label is actually beating Amazon for PS5 game deals right now. There's a bunch of (admittedly older) titles going for $19.99 that Bezos can't seem to match today. That will likely change tomorrow, but I still don't see those numbers dropping any further in the near-future.
Dead Island 2 | $29.99 $19.99 at Best Buy
Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1 | $39.99 $19.99 at Best Buy
Sackboy: A Big Adventure | $59.99 $19.99 at Best Buy
Uncharted: Legacy of Thieves Collection | $49.99 $19.99 at Best Buy
Remember that Razer Blade 16 deal I just found - I've got a better one... and it'll save you a grand
I was looking for more RTX 4070 gaming laptop deals when I came across this $400 discount on the Asus ROG Zephyrus G16. It's a machine I tested fairly recently, and while it doesn't quite outperform the Blade below I'd argue it's the better pick for most players right now. You're still getting a similar configuration with an OLED (albeit a weaker OLED) panel, but you're only spending $1,599. That's a cool K less than Razer's current sale price.
Can you see Prime Day deals in advance?
Amazon usually keeps its Prime Day deals close to its chest until the big day, but I have seen the retailer offering sneak peaks in the past. Invite-only deals seem to be the ticket here - you can view the exact items Amazon reckons will be of interest to you before they go on sale but this is hit and miss.
I have, however, seen lightning deals teasing themselves before going live on the day. If you want a heads up for new deals, that's where I'd camp.
How often is Prime Day?
Traditionally, Amazon Prime Day only rolls up once a year - around the middle of July. However, the last two years have given us something extra - another Prime event taking place in October. I've grown used to this double dip now, as have many other shoppers itching for more deals come the fall. That means I would expect to see another event later on this year as well. The short answer? Amazon Prime Day used to only take place once a year, but it's more likely twice annually now.
Does Prime Day apply to everything?
Amazon makes a big deal about Prime Day, but not everything is included in its annual sale. I often see more specialist devices like gaming PCs, components, and gaming phones left out of the equation - but there's no guarantee that a Prime deal will land on anything across Amazon's site. Well, apart from an Echo Dot maybe.
Everything you need to know about buying a gaming headset on Prime Day
If I know Prime Day like I think I do, I can pretty confidently say we're going to be seeing a lot of discounts on gaming headsets tomorrow. But it's important to know exactly what you want from a headset before diving into the offers - that way you know you're getting the best value for your cash and your setup. Here's a quickfire guide to everything you want to be thinking about when those offers roll in at midnight.
Connection: If you're on PC, a wireless connection isn't going to be as big a factor as it would on PS5, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch. Adding a cord into the mix can save you a considerable amount of cash and means you don't have to worry about charging. However, if you do want to go without the tether, it's important to consider not just your 2.4GHz options but also Bluetooth. A lot of headsets are shipping with both connection features these days - and the latter makes for a particularly versatile device.
Mic: Flip to mute or detachable? Always there or never even taken out of the box? If you play online regularly you'll want to invest a little more in the quality of your microphone, but also make sure its form factor suits your Steam library. If you never play with chat, for example, it's going to get pretty annoying having a constant non-detachable arm in front of your face.
Style: I know, it doesn't really matter what a headset looks like when you're using it - but if you plan on doubling up your gaming device as an everyday set of headphones it's worth making sure they look the part. Commuting with something like the Cyberman-styled Astro A50 X is going to look a little odd.
Size: It's incredibly important to ensure your gaming headset fits right - otherwise you're going to have some uncomfortable late-night sessions. If you know you have a particularly large or particularly small noggin, make sure you double-check the adjustment options around the headband and ensure the earcups have a good 180-degree swivel.
Deal!
The Alienware AW3423DWF is a fantastic piece of kit with some truly next-gen features. It's also packed into a particularly impressive price tag right now - I haven't seen any other $699.99 gaming monitors rivalling the kind of value Dell is. This offer has just appeared direct at Dell's site, but if my experience with discounts like this is anything to go by it's not going to last long.
Editor's Pick!
The Endgame Gear KB65HE quick climbed the ranks to become my favorite 65% gaming keyboard on the market after I reviewed it back in February. It's got everything you could ask for from an ultra-customizable deck (aside from a wireless connection that is). Hot-swappable switches mean you can easily plug and play with whatever clackers you want, though I'd really keep those stock Gaterons inside. These are magnetic hall effect switches, which means their actual actuation point can be personalized. Not only that, but you've got a much wider range of sensitivity options compared to the far more expensive SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL.
This was already a well-priced deck considering its feature list, so I'm pretty excited it's taken an extra discount ahead of Prime Day.
Deal!
This is a deal I've been waiting to write up, and it's only started appearing in the last couple of weeks. The Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro is the best gaming phone we've tested so far here at GamesRadar+, but it carries a price tag to match. The slick design, excellent performance, and still-solid camera (trust me, that's rare on devices like this) make for a premium experience overall. If you use a mobile controller, though, it's worth noting that there's an offset USB-C port here, which can make plug-in models a bit tricky.
Good morning! We're back for official Prime Day deals! I'll be scouring the web for new discounts today, bringing you all the biggest offers up for grabs. Yesterday's early offers were already looking particularly sweet (how sad is it that I actually dreamt that Nintendo Switch Lite bundle went out of stock last night) - but I'm seeing even more savings up for grabs right now.
Prime Day Top Tip: Check other retailers!
Don’t let Bezos fool you - Amazon doesn’t have all the answers. In fact, when it comes to certain product areas like gaming laptops, gaming PCs, and components it’s actually pretty sparse. That’s certainly what I’m seeing today, which brings me to my first Prime Day top tip: check other retailers!
Walmart, Dell, Best Buy, and Newegg are all running their own competing sales in the US and it’s well worth checking out the alternatives. If you’re planning on picking up something more specialized, I often see a much wider range on the shelves certain stores. Gaming laptops are far easier to find at Best Buy and Dell, for example, while those upgrading their GPUs might need Newegg’s help. The story’s the same in the UK, with Currys, Very, Argos, and Ebuyer being your best anti-Prime Day bets.
Your job’s not done if you do find what you’re looking for at Amazon, though. It’s super important to price check. I often see other retailers pricing themselves just a little cheaper than each other to keep the upper hand during major sales events like this - and some stores even throw in extra free subscriptions to sweeten the deal as well.
Amazon drops new Prime Day deals all the time - here's how to find the best ones
If you're playing Prime Day hard this year, you'll need a few links in your arsenal to make sure you're getting a good overview of the sale. Now that we're a good few hours into the event, the majority of Amazon's day one Prime Day deals are going to be live - but more will be trickling onto the shelves as thing progress.
Of course your first port of call is going to be the Amazon deals homepage. I'm not finding it particularly helpful this year, though - everything seems to have been thrown in one place making it a little difficult to decipher which discounts are actually new. I'd recommend checking in here often, as well as the dedicated page for the area you're interested in.
For the real good stuff, you're going to want to toggle the 'Prime Exclusive' option, make sure your reviews are set high, and select a strong discount percentage (50% or more should leave you with some gold). The resulting deal page looks much more valuable.
It's also important to keep a close eye on those all-important Lightning Deals for speedier savings as well.
These are the biggest new deals I've found this morning:
OK, things are getting off to a good start. I've scrubbed through the main Prime Day deals page for all the gaming deals actually worth your time. It took some diving, but these are the first few that have really struck me as particularly impressive. From gift cards to my favorite gaming keyboard, this is where the best value is right now.
Elgato Stream Deck Mk. 2 | $149.99 $109.99 at Amazon
Logitech G29 racing wheel (PlayStation) | $299.99 $199.99 at Amazon
Asus ROG Azoth gaming keyboard | $249.99 $199.99 at Amazon
Samsung Odyssey G5 32-inch monitor | $329.99 $239.99 at Amazon
Gigabyte RTX 4070 Aero OC V2 | $599.99 $509.99 at Amazon
Roblox $50 gift card | $40 at Amazon
I'm normally waiting for the second day of Amazon's Prime Day deals for gift cards, but this Roblox offer has caught my attention in the last ten minutes. You can save 20% on a range of cards right now, scoring some serious Robux for less. I wouldn't wait too long, though - these offers rarely last long.
- 2,200 Robux |
$25$20 at Amazon - 3,600 Robux |
$40$32 at Amazon - 4,500 Robux |
$50$40 at Amazon - 10,000 Robux |
$100$80 at Amazon - 13,000 Robux |
$125$100 at Amazon - 16,000 Robux |
$150$120 at Amazon - 22,500 Robux |
$200$160 at Amazon - 34,000 Robux |
$300$240 at Amazon - 57,000 Robux |
$500$400 at Amazon
Coming at you with more gift card deals now - and Valorant is up. If you're a longtime player of the free hero shooter, you're going to want to check out these savings on $10 - $100 top ups.
- Valorant $10 gift card | $8 at Amazon
- Valorant $25 gift card | $20 at Amazon
- Valorant $50 gift card | $40 at Amazon
- Valorant $100 gift card | $80 at Amazon
I've just spotted another round of gift card deals making their way to the shelves. League of Legends is also 20% off for those who partake - though note these codes will only be redeemable in North America.
- $10 gift card | $8 at Amazon
- $25 gift card | $20 at Amazon
- $50 gift card | $40 at Amazon
- $100 gift card | $80 at Amazon
How long does Amazon Prime Day last?
If you can't quite dedicate some time to shopping right now, it's worth noting that we've still got two days of Prime Day to go. Amazon's annual sale event runs for 48 hours midnight to midnight each year, so official offers will close out tomorrow night. However, I often see plenty of deals hanging around after the fact, so some prices should still be looking sweeter than usual for the rest of the week.
Editor's Pick
This is one of my favorite gaming keyboards of the year, and it's just hit its lowest price yet. The Asus ROG Falchion RX Low Profile converted me away from the chunky keycaps I've been so loyal to over the years. Before this deck, I hated the feel of a thinner cap - why invest in a gaming keyboard and receive a MacBook-style set of keys? But this thing is built different.
It keeps the satisfying clack of the keyboards I know and love, while still providing the extra speed of a lower deck. There's also a comforting softness to the whole experience. That's all before mentioning that this keyboard also features something rare in 65% decks; dedicated media controls (via a super cool touch-capacitive panel at the top no less).
Deal!
I could only hope to own this kind of OLED panel, but with $600 off the launch price it's going to be much easier for heavy players to get there. This is the newer version of the LG UltraGear 45GR95Q that Phil reviewed last year, but with added speakers and better brightness levels. That means you're still getting the incredible vibrancy of that 45-inch OLED panel that we so loved last year, while getting some neat upgrades as well.
How to make sure you're buying the right gaming laptop this Prime Day
Buying a gaming laptop can be tricky at the best of times - when there are hundreds on sale it’s even harder. Once you know the right components for your playstyle and the extra features you absolutely need, things get a lot easier. I’ve had my hands on some of the best gaming laptops on the market, all to bring you the biggest Prime Day gaming laptop deals this week. Here’s everything I’ve learned about nailing that spec in roughly five minutes.
GPU:
This is the first thing you want to think about - the graphics card you choose is going to pretty much set your price bracket. Light indie games won’t need more than an RTX 4050, and you can still get away with this GPU for slightly more demanding titles if you’re happy to drop some settings and lean on Nvidia’s DLSS 3 features more.
However, if you’ve got a more robust library and you want to run High settings at QHD+ resolutions you’ll need an RTX 4060 at least. This is the sweet spot for most players, and it’s where you’ll be looking to spend around $900 - $1,300. An RTX 4070 GPU is for those who want to start pushing into Highest / Ultra settings at full QHD+, achieving three-figure framerates in lighter games and closer to 60fps in more demanding modern titles. An RTX 4080 rig can start moving things in the direction of 4K at playable framerates, but if you really want to go all out at the top end of the spectrum you’ll need to cash out at RTX 4090.
Processor:
Of course, you’ll need to back that GPU up with some processing juice. Intel is in its 14th generation of processors now, but I’d still recommend staying open to 13th generation models. There are plenty of them about, and the performance jump between the two is minimal. AMD’s Ryzen 8000 processors are harder to find in gaming laptops, with the majority still sticking to 7000-series models. In general, you’ll want an Intel i7 or Ryzen 7 and above, and if you’re splashing out on an RTX 4070+ machine, make sure you’re getting some extra power in an HX or HK model.
RAM:
Don’t take 8GB RAM, no matter how cheap the laptop. 16GB is the default now, and should be your baseline. Still, if you want a little extra room to play around with (and you have the funds), 32GB is your go-to for a high-end machine.
Display:
With only small updates under the hood in this year’s roster of gaming laptops, many brands have taken to upgrading the displays of their devices. That means we have OLED panels running at a speedy 240Hz on the market now, and if you’re prioritizing you’re on-the-go experience they’re well worth a look. They’re also pricey (just look at the Razer Blade 16, for example). If you’re docking your laptop, just make sure your display resolution matches that of your monitor for the best experience possible. If you just need a decent screen, aim for a 165Hz or 240Hz QHD+ IPS panel.
Ah the Asus ROG XG Mobile, a massively powerful eGPU with very little point outside of the truly hardcore gaming handheld fans among us. Unfortunately, I find myself edging closer and closer to that circle of friends every day - and I've been waiting for a deal like this. Of course, you have to really know you want to use your Asus ROG Ally as your full gaming system to have the peace of mind spending this amount of cash. But ever since I tested an older version with the Asus ROG Flow Z13 a few years ago, I've been dipping back to the docking powerhouse. If you're like me, and you've been waiting for that $2,000 MSRP to soften up a little, this is a fantastic opportunity.
I've just bought my first Prime Deal deal of the year!
Ok, so it's not my first - I actually grabbed a bulk box of dishwasher tablets early this morning, but that's not as exciting as the Govee RGB lights and extendable monitor arm I just pulled the trigger on. I upgrade my desk setup every year when Prime Day deals are around to help out, and these were my first two accessories. Basically, I hate the super-massive wide stand on the Samsung Odyssey G5, but not as much as I hate the cheap RGB strip lights I currently have plastered around the edge of my desk. Both should be arriving tomorrow, and I am buzzed.
Suptek gas spring monitor arm | $28.99 $19.49 at Amazon
Govee smart LED light bars | $49.99 $37.49 at Amazon
Do Amazon Prime Day deals change?
Some Amazon Prime Day deals change all the time, others will hold their position until they run out of stock or Amazon's event comes to an end. That means some prices can go up and others down (I've already seen some offers run off the shelves already this morning). Crucially, though, it's important to remember that day one tends to be the best. I see far more products upping their prices on the second day of deals than on the first, so if you spot a price you like before midnight strikes I wouldn't wait too long to dive in.
Walmart's just posted a counter offer
I've just noticed that Walmart is currently offering 50% off its annual membership in its own anti-Prime Day deal. That means you're paying $49 for the year rather than the standard $98 - solid value if you regularly shop here. Walmart is price matching quite a few of Amazon's own Prime Day deals, and this subscription will net you free delivery on all of them.
Walmart+ | $98/year $48/year at Walmart
Deal!
I've started scanning through RTX 4070 gaming laptops, and found this beauty. The Asus TUF A16 is a newer version of the Asus TUF A15 that I tested earlier in the year, with that more modern 16:10 display tacked on. Considering the Ryzen 9 processor and high-end graphics card, this is an excellent price - and one I'd recommend scaling up to if you're considering the slightly cheaper (but ultimately lower value overall) RTX 4060 model (currently $1,189 at Amazon).
Deal!
Hold the phone! I've found another RTX 4070 gaming laptop deal that might require your attention. The Acer Predator Helios 16 is actually $100 cheaper than the Asus TUF A16 I found earlier - and still packs an RTX 4070, solid processor, and 1TB SSD. You're even getting a better 240Hz panel up top.
Are lightning deals really worth it?
I get the appeal of lightning deals - I really do. There's something itchy about watching that Claimed meter rising when you're undecided on whether to pull the trigger on that multi-pack of dishwasher tablets - Bezos certainly knows what he's doing. Are lightning deals really worth it, though?
From what I've seen so far today, the answer is generally no. If you're going into Prime Day with a shopping list of kitchen cleaner, dog poo bags, and men's socks then you're going to have a field day - but for us tech hunters things are a little different.
Take the last few lightning deals I've spotted, for example. They've generally been on generic Amazon-only brand controllers, headsets, and cables and after a quick dive into price histories - their $19.99 or $6.99 sale prices are generally their everyday rates anyway. If you spot something you like, a lightning deal can be your best friend - but I wouldn't recommend staying up late to keep an eye on them.
Saying that, I'll probably find a fantastic one now and will have to humbly add it as the next post.
Fancy a game night? Ben shares the 5 board games he's camping on this Prime Day
As my job title would suggest, there's nothing I like more than breaking out tabletop games for an evening in - I'll often turn up at game nights with at least two or three options in tow. Because what's better than throwing fistfuls of dice or bluffing your way to victory?
With Prime Day now at our door, there's no shortage of board game discounts. But which ones should you focus on? The team and I have gone into more detail in our guide to the latest Prime Day board game deals, but here are the five tabletop must-haves I'm personally keeping an eye on during the sale.
Prime Day Top Tip: Keep to your budget
I promise I’m not being boring - we all know it’s easy to get wrapped up in Prime Day deals and overspend, you don’t me to tell you that. In fact, I’m talking about the opposite. Major sales like this often excel in value more than they do price. You can get far more for your money overall, so it’s important not to be tempted by some of the rock-bottom discounts.
If you’ve put aside $500 for a new laptop but find one with the specs you need at $250 then you’re all set to go. But it’s always worth seeing what your original $500 can get you in sale conditions. For example, you might have only expected to pick up an older i5 processor and 512GB of storage space for that cash but I’m seeing plenty of i7 laptops offering massive 1TB SSDs at in this price range right now. You’re future-proofing while you have the chance.
Editor's Pick
The Logitech G Pro X 2 certainly impressed me with its graphene drivers and comfortable form factor when I reviewed it back in July of last year. The successor to the brand's hugely popular PC headset packs an incredible soundstage, which makes it a go-to for anyone playing wider open-world adventures or competitive arena shooters. I didn't get on too well with the microphone, so it's not one for the most discerning of chat members, and that USB-A dongle will mean you might be fighting for port space, but at $180 this is an easy recommendation.
My not-so-secret weapon for Prime Day: The Camels
If you want to make sure you’re actually getting a good price this Prime Day, let me show you the best tool in my arsenal. CamelCamelCamel is a free Chrome extension that can look at any Amazon page and show you the full price history of the product featured. That means you can find out if that excellent-looking discount really is as good as it appears, or if the small saving you’re considering is particularly rare. It’s easy to set up, just pop it on your widgets and open it up for the full price history graph!
Walmart has a Nintendo Switch deal worth catching
The Nintendo Switch has just soared down to a fantastic $242.98 price point at Walmart, and normally I wouldn't be recommending this deal - if it wasn't for one factor. This shipment is actually fulfilled by Walmart itself, rather than through the third party seller on the site. That's a big deal - it means you're getting a fantastic price and you're not gambling on a marketplace seller. This is always something to watch out for at Walmart (you'll see similarly priced consoles without Walmart's fulfillment out on the shelves right now).
Two Xbox storage cards want your attention this Prime Day
Seagate vs WD Black, a long-standing war between two speedy factions that has culminated most recently on the Xbox battlefield. The former has always held a monopoly over expanded storage cards, but that all came to a head when WD Black muscled in on this territory. Now we have two fairly similarly priced 1TB cards vying for your attention this Prime Day.
Seagate 1TB storage card | $159.99 $123.49 at Amazon
WD Black C50 1TB storage card | $157.99 $117.79 at Amazon
Both cards are pretty comparable, offering quick resume features and a simple plug and play design. WD Black gets the edge in price, coming in $6 cheaper, but if you want a 2TB option you'll need to stick with Seagate. If I were upping my storage this Prime Day? WD Black's the winner for me.
Editor's Pick!
The Razer Viper V2 Pro is the best gaming mouse I've tested yet - and that includes the newer Viper V3 Pro. Why? Because it's effortlessly light, super streamlined in its design and features, and now cheaper than ever. The V2 Pro packs a serious punch, but it still maintains a skinny form factor that feels more flickable on the battlefield. If you have larger hands you'll want to check out the chunkier V3 model, but this is a personal favorite of mine.
I've just scrubbed through Prime Day's under $50 deals - these are my top picks
Not everyone goes into Prime Day with a three-figure budget, and some of the highest value offers on the shelves are often the cheapest. That's true for the kinds of deals I'm seeing today, so I've scrubbed through Amazon's under $50 category to find the biggest gaming deals for bargain hunters right now. I bring you the following treasures:
SteelSeries QcK XL RGB Prism gaming mouse pad | $59.99 $29.99 at Amazon
HyperX SoloCast condenser mic | $59.99 $33.23 at Amazon
Razer Basilisk V3 gaming mouse | $69.99 $39.99 at Amazon
Razer Wolverine V2 controller | $99.99 $49.99 at Amazon
Redragon K673 Pro 75% gaming keyboard | $76.99 $49.99 at Amazon
HyperX Cloud II gaming headset | $79.99 $49.99 at Amazon
Lightning deal alert! 4% claimed
I know Phil uses this mClassic upscaler a bunch whenever they dive into some Nintendo Switch games and I have to say, the results are impressive. The extra dongle takes your Switch's 1080p picture and boosts it up so that it's far more visually appealing on a 4K panel. While it's not quite on par with native UHD resolution it's certainly far crisper than the dock alone.
Are Amazon Fire tablets worth it?
‘Tis the season of the Amazon Fire tablet, your go-to time to pull the trigger on that budget slab you’ve been eyeing up. But are Amazon Fire tablets actually worth it? I’ve reviewed the latest 10-inch and 11-inch models, and for the cash (and certainly when discounted) yes, they are. For certain users.
The long and short of it is the Amazon Fire HD 10, or even the Fire Max 11, is never going to hold up to an iPad but they also cost far less. If you're looking to watch some YouTube, stream all your shows and movies, play a few mobile thumb tappers, and read some books and magazines, they're excellent value for money. Just don't expect it to be the same kind of productivity wizard you'll find further up the price scale.
PSA: Move fast on these Roblox gift cards
I've just checked back and Amazon is running out of Roblox gift card deals fast. You can still save 20% on cards over $25, but $10, $15, and $20 cards have all gone back up to normal price now. If you're looking to stock your Robux wallet I'd take the leap sooner rather than later!
20% off Roblox gift cards at Amazon
Deal!
This is some serious value - I can't remember the last time I saw a 1440p curved gaming monitor doing for this kind of cash. That 1500R curve is less severe than the 1000R I use every day, but still promises a wraparound effect when viewed head on. I picked up similar specs in a Samsung Odyssey panel a couple of years ago and paid over $250 for the privilege (with a reduced 144Hz refresh rate) - this is a fantastic offer.
PSA: This PS5 HD Camera lightning deal is running out!
I've done a quick sweep through the world of lightning deals and noticed that the PS5 HD camera is nearly at full capacity. It's currently 82% claimed at Amazon, and that's moving faster as we get closer to the evening. If you're on the hunt for an excellent value addition to your PS5 setup, I'd move fast on this one.
PS5 HD Camera | $59.99 $41.30 at Amazon
Slightly off topic... but the 10th gen iPad just hit its lowest price yet
I have to admit something to you all now. I'm an Apple fan. I've always been this way, since my first iPod Nano, and it's why I just had to bring this iPad deal here when I saw it. The 10th generation model (the most recent base iPad) has just hit a new record-low price at Amazon. That's not just exciting from a productivity or Netflix standpoint, this is actually a solid gaming tablet as well. Aside from Apple Arcade I regularly use my device for Xbox Game Pass streaming and Remote Play for that big-screen experience.
Amazon's 'Deals' page is actually super unhelpful on Prime Day
I've been at this for a few hours now - and this certainly isn't my first time at the Prime Day rodeo - but I've only just realized that I rarely use the actual Prime Day deals portal to find offers. There's just so much fluff around the real good deals it's difficult to see the gold right in front of your eyes sometimes.
That's why it's so important to go into Prime Day knowing what you want to get out of it. When I'm hunting for discounts I nearly always find myself searching for exactly what I need in the main nav bar. Whether it's a bonafide 'Prime Day' deal or just a good price all the same, the results are much more inclusive of more than just hodge-podge sale pages.
Editor's Pick!
The EasySMX X10 took me by surprise. All I wanted was a wireless gamepad with tactile mechanical clickers, but after reviewing the PC / Switch controller earlier in the year my whole setup has changed. This already offered excellent value before any discounts, with a sturdy connection, excellent feel, and compatibility across a wide range of platforms. At $39.99 it's an absolute steal.
Deal!
If you're using today's Prime Day deals to upgrade your PC, this is the first thing you need to check out. MSI's latest ATX board opens you up to Intel's 14th generation processors and DDR5 RAM - excellent news if you're still running an older rig and ready to make the change. That's an intimidating job, but this is where you should start.
Does Amazon launch new deals on day 2 of Prime Day?
We're well into Amazon's summer sale now, so you might be wondering what comes next. Amazon runs its Prime Day deals across two days, but it's worth noting that these days aren't quite built the same as each other. We see Amazon launching its best and brightest offers on the first day of its sale, when buzz it at its highest point and nobody's bored of the event yet. That comes much later, and while Amazon will continue putting new deals onto its shelves over the next 24 - 36 hours, they won't be the headline-grabbing discounts we've been used to today.
How to buy a TV on Prime Day - Phil shares some tips and tricks
Prime Day will provide plenty of deep dish display discounts for you to feast on, but it’s easy to find yourself overwhelmed when selecting a tasty TV. Rather than being caught up in a sea of big screen savings, I’d always recommend narrowing down your search to a selection of panels that perfectly suit your budget, gaming preferences, and size requirements.
Size matters
First and foremost, you’ll want to figure out what size of TV you actually need. Yes, some of the biggest display discounts apply to massive cinema screens, but sensational savings can turn sour if you’ve not got the space. You’ll find you’ll also naturally save money if you opt for a smaller screen, so if your setup has just the right space for a 43-inch panel, it makes more sense to pick one up over something larger.
Consider refresh rates
Once you’ve settled on a size, it’s time to check over your setup’s consoles and devices. If you’re rocking a PS5 or high-end PC, investing in something with a faster refresh rate could be beneficial. That said, there’s no point investing in a 120Hz or 144Hz screen if you use a lower-spec system like the Nintendo Switch, a gaming handheld, or something like the PS4, and sticking with 60Hz will help you spend less.
Newer isn't always more valuable
Lastly, I’d make sure you compare older TV models against their new release counterparts, as picking up a screen from last year versus a 2024 panel could be the key to big savings. More often than not, Amazon will slash the prices of these older screens first to make room for fresh stock, and some boast almost the same specs and qualities as their predecessors. Sure, if you’re looking for the latest OLED screen, you’ll hardly want to opt for a much older LED model. However, if it’s a tossup between something like the LG OLED C3 and the new OLED C4, you could end up with a very similar viewing experience for a chunk less.
Deal!
I'm seeing a whole wad of these Corsair Vengeance gaming PCs on sale for Prime Day, and they're offering pretty solid value considering their age. The RTX 4070 Super model above would be my go-to. You're getting a nice balance of power and value in that spec, though a 1TB SSD feels a bit tight for $2,000 still. Still, with the RTX 4060 model not that far behind in price, and the boosted i7-14700KF configuration still at over $2,500 this is a sweet spot.
More configurations:
- Intel i5-14600KF / RTX 4060 |
$1,699.99$1,531.99 at Amazon - Intel i5-14600KF / RTX 4060 Ti |
$1,899.99$1,614.99 at Amazon - Intel i7-14700KF / RTX 4070 Ti Super |
$2,899.99$2,517.99 at Amazon
Editor's Pick
I'll admit it, the deal itself isn't jaw-dropping. The Last of Us Part 1 has been cheaper in the past, and it's only $5 off its usual day-to-day sale price. But the game itself more than makes up for that - if you only pick up one title this Prime Day, let it be this. There's a reason Ellie and Joel's adventure has been remade so many times since its first outing on PS3, it's a masterpiece that anyone who loves story should be playing.
Deal!
The Turtle Beach Atom is a chunky mobile controller, but at $29.99 its features absolutely sing. You're getting full-sized Xbox style controls here, with a 20 hour battery life and a compact portable form factor. iPhone and Android users are served with their own models, and Turtle Beach promises a low latency Bluetooth connection to keep you snappy as well. This is one for the game streamers among us - especially those making the most of Game Pass's features.
Amazon just launched a new discount on one of my favorite gaming accessories
The CRKD Nitro Deck has been doing the rounds at GamesRadar+ and it's a fantastic piece of kit. This is a Joy-Con alternative that houses the entire handheld system, providing a larger surface to hold and all the motion controls and rumble you could ask for. It's a direct competitor to the Hori Split Pad Pro (currently on sale for $42.99) but one with a few more bells and whistles.
Who's winning Prime Day at the moment?
I won't lie to you, I came into today thinking Best Buy or Walmart might have stolen Prime Day from Bezos. I've looked through all the deals, though, and it does look like Amazon's back on top now. I know, shocker. But both other retailers posted such excellent offers in the lead up to the main event, I was excited to see a little more competition when the heat was on. Amazon has the widest spread of gaming offers on the shelves right now, and is often coming out on top for the biggest price drops as well. Best Buy and Walmart are failing to match Amazon's Prime Day deals far more than they're offering their own standout discounts.
Of course, there are exceptions. If you're after Nintendo Switch consoles you'll still want to check out Walmart's selection. Best Buy is also easily winning for gaming laptops and PCs, but on the whole Amazon's still on top this year.
Where are all the Switch game deals?
I've noticed something missing during our Prime Day coverage this year; Switch games. Yes you've got your Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Super Mario RPG, there's even been a quick discount on Tears of the Kingdom (though nothing to worry the previous record-low price. But we're usually inundated with discounts on the previous year's games and things are just a bit quiet.
There's not a single 'Prime Day deal' banner on a quick search of Amazon's Nintendo Switch games, and all the smaller discounts featured are the kind that we see day to day anyway.
Best Buy's a bit better, with $20 off Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe, Pokemon Legends: Arceus, and Kirby and the Forgotten Land. But we've still got much older games like Switch Sports, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and Super Mario 3D World up at full price. These would have been an easy win in previous Prime Days - I've seen them all take their own discounts during major sales.
Walmart is the best of the bunch as far as I'm concerned, and that's only really because it's actually discounted Luigi's Mansion 3, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and The Legend of Zelda Breath of the Wild. Still, these aren't earth shattering discounts.
Editor's Pick!
Here's the big one. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is the best gaming headset I've tested yet - and it's started dropping to $279 with more regularity in the last few months. Amazon's gone one step further with an extra saving for Prime Day, and I couldn't be happier. I've been waiting for this one ever since the white model launched earlier in the year. Prices things were wiggling here, and now they've hit a record-low.
It goes without saying this is an easy recommendation from me. The Nova Pro Wireless features a whole host of extra features that make it a go-to for anyone playing across consoles and PC, like hot-swappable batteries, ANC, an EQ hub that also cross-connects between platforms. Throw in fantastic audio and a comfortable form factor and you've got an excellent piece of kit. My white model sits in pride of place next to the PlayStation.
While you're checking out the Nova Pro Wireless...
As soon as I uploaded that last post I noticed that the SteelSeries Nova Booster Pack was also on sale. That's a result if you want something a little more interesting to look at - I've got a light blue version that adds a nice pop of color to the whole device. You get two replacement side panels and an extra ski-style headband to accessorize with in each booster. At $26.99 (was $39.99), these packs are going cheaper than ever - a great excuse to pick up a little extra something.
SteelSeries Nova Booster Pack | $39.99 $26.99 at Amazon
And we're back for day two of this year's Prime Day deals, and things seem to have shifted overnight. I'm seeing a couple of deals sadly run off the shelves (the Marseille mClassic upscaler, Princess Peach Showtime, and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart have all travelled north), but there are also a few standout extra discounts flying about.
I'm scurrying across the shelves right now to find all those additional savings, but these are the two biggest ones I've spotted so far.
Are there many new deals on Prime Day 2?
Amazon drops new deals regularly during Prime Day, but things do start to slow in terms of value on the second day of Prime Day. That said, the Xbox Core Wireless controller and Samsung 990 Pro SSD are proving me wrong already this morning, so I'll be keeping a close eye on the prices of all the biggest tech on the shelves over the course of today.
I've also seen Amazon dropping entirely new discounts on gadgets and games that weren't even featured in the first day of the sale in the past. The majority of these deals will land in the morning, though, with that momentum slowing towards the end of the day.
I wouldn't wait too long, though, I've already seen a couple of offers get away from me today. Stock is going to start to wobble as the sale goes on, and that's when we tend to see prices heading back up. If you spot a deal that makes sense for you, it's time to jump in.
When is the next Amazon Prime Day?
We're only halfway through this year's Prime Day deals, but if you haven't quite been served up the discounts you were hoping for you might be wondering when your next shot will be. Traditionally speaking, the next Prime Day would be in July 2025, but Amazon might have a trick up its sleeve.
The last couple of years have given us an extra Prime event in October, launching the holiday sales season ahead of time. While it remains to be seen whether we get the same thing in 2024, it's likely the retailer will want to keep the good vibes going. On paper, we'll be waiting a year for the next Prime Day but those prices could be dropping again in just a few months time.
Amazon Prime vs Best Buy Total: who should you side with?
Of course, we all know by now that you need a Prime membership to truly take advantage of Amazon's sales event. But I've noticed Best Buy has been offering its own exclusive discounts to its Total members. That's very Bezos-like, and means it might be time to pick a side, but which do you choose?
I will say, Best Buy's Total-exclusive offers are a little more frequent than Amazon's. Yes, Prime Day is built solely around these subscribers, but I saw Best Buy doing a similar thing over Black Friday last year. Amazon was doing a similar thing in 2023, but not nearly as much. If you want year-round special treatment, then, Best Buy might actually be the better option.
In terms of core benefits, though, Amazon wins out. You get faster delivery, Prime video, Amazon Music, Prime Gaming, Prime Reading, extra subscriptions to GrubHub or Deliveroo (depending on where you are), grocery delivery, early access to lightning deals, access to the try before you buy scheme, and more.
Best Buy is more of a tech program, with AppleCare+ and other protection schemes in place, as well as extended returns, 24/7 tech support and 20% off repairs.
Prime is also marginally cheaper ($179.88 over the course of the year compared to Best Buy's $179.99), and paid monthly ($14.99/mo) rather than yearly.
Amazon Prime | $14.99/mo at Amazon
Best Buy Total | $179.99/year at Best Buy
Let's talk about the TCL Q65 deal...
I know QLEDs are getting cheaper by the day now, but this has to be one of the cheapest I've seen so far. TCL is a budget brand by name, but it still puts out high-value panels, and picking up the extra contrast of a Quantum LED screen for just $350 is a fantastic shout. I'm pleased to see there are a few gaming features built in - Game Accelerator is a fancy word that looks like it just means motion handling, pushing that 60Hz refresh rate a little further.
Amazon is back in the Meta Quest game!
Walmart was leading the pack in Meta Quest deals this Prime Day, but has now bumped its price back up to $499. Amazon's come through on the second day of its sale with its own offer, though, dropping the latest VR headset back down to the $429.99 sales price we were celebrating yesterday. Considering I wasn't even seeing this 128GB model stocked at Amazon at the top of the week, that's a fantastic result.
Meta Quest 3 | $499.99 $429.99 at Amazon
Should you buy this $75.98 portable monitor?
This Arzopa portable monitor deal is looking pretty hot right now, dropping its $129.99 MSRP in favor of a $75.98 sales price. But is it actually worth it? If you're a handheld gamer it may well be. I've always been curious about portable displays, but only really for work purposes. This 1080p model is boasting specs it lists as being suitable for Xbox and PS5 thanks to its HDMI compatibility. Of course, you're not going to get the best display tech on the market here, but with the USB-C port beckoning it might make an excellent Steam Deck or Asus ROG Ally accessory. It's by no means a must-have, but for those times when you might want a little extra detail without plugging in a whole dock? I can see it.
PSA: Best Buy isn't price matching
Price matching is a retailer's last defense in competitions like this, but Best Buy has counted itself out of the race. If you're a Total member, you won't be able to have the retailer meet Amazon's own price in this year's Prime Day deals, because of this line in the store's terms and conditions.
Best Buy's list of sales its Price Match Guarantee doesn't cover includes "Pricing only available to select groups of customers including Membership Program members, loyalty offers, discounts relating to non-warehouse membership or paid loyalty programs and government exchange store offers." That sounds like Amazon Prime to me.
I've been getting back into projectors recently, after reviewing the BenQ X300G earlier in the year. So I've taken a little stroll down the home cinema aisles for this next deal. This is the treasure I've brought back - a sub-$1,000 price on a portable 4K projector from LG. That's a deal you don't see every day.
This is a smaller device, but it's perfect for karting around - and it looks gorgeous to boot. That 60Hz refresh rate isn't going to push your PS5 or Xbox Series X games to their full potential, but if you're after a home entertainment steal this is well worth a look.
Some of the best processors on the market just got Prime Day'd
I've been looking through our favorite tech, and found that three of the best CPUs we've tested so far are on sale for Prime Day. The 13th generation i7-13700K and i9-13900K are looking particularly tasty right now, and while the former is our top pick for its overall value for money, the latter proves itself in a far more powerful way.
Gift cards are the Prime Day deals that keep on giving - these are the best ones I've seen
If you haven't quite found the Prime Day deals to suit you this year, there's another avenue to explore; gift cards. Amazon doesn't just drop its prices on tech in its summer sale, it can also score you some free cash with your favorite brands or games. I've been considering grabbing a few of these cards myself over the course of the last couple of days - these are my top picks:
Roblox | 10,000 Robux | $100 $80 at Amazon
Roblox | 4,500 Robux | $50 $40 at Amazon
Valorant | $50 gift card | $40 at Amazon
League of Legends | $25 gift card | $20 at Amazon
ICYMI: The Xbox Core Wireless controller just hit a record-low price
This is perhaps my favorite Prime Day deal of this second day so far - for its pure simplicity. The official Xbox Core Wireless controller has just dropped back down to its record-low price, shaving a further $5 off the $44 sale price we were celebrating yesterday. It's only an extra $5, but this is the first time I've seen that $39.99 sale price outside of Black Friday - so this is a must-see.
Xbox Core Wireless Controller | $59.99 $39.99 at Amazon
Lightning Deal Alert! 87% claimed!
I've just stumbled across a lightning deal on a 42,800mAh power bank with 15W fast charging. It's down to a record-low $31.99 after only starting life at $39.99 in the past. That's exceedingly cheap for those kinds of specs, especially with the solar charging panel up top. Surprisingly, the reviews are looking pretty good as well. I wouldn't rely on this to change your life (it's only $30!) but I'm certainly intrigued.
GoodA 42,800mAh power bank | $39.99 $31.99 at Amazon
The Lenovo Legion Go and Asus ROG Ally are both on sale for Prime Day
But which should you buy? I asked our resident handheld nut, Phil.
Trying to choose between the Asus ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go this Prime Day? Well, I’ve spent a lot of time with both, and while Lenovo’s larger handheld has elevated specs on paper, I firmly believe Asus’ Windows 11 warrior is the better buy. That’s not to say the 8.8-inch portable PC doesn’t have a target audience, as there are plenty of players out there who will appreciate its QHD screen and 144Hz refresh rate. However,.I do think the laptop maker has failed to strike a good balance between specs and price with its Steam Deck rival, not to mention you’ll pay more compared to the Ally.
My main beef with the Lenovo Legion Go ties to the fact it feels like a handheld by a laptop maker. Rather than opting for intentional design choices that are in line with its performance capabilities, the company has instead armed its handheld with a 1600p 144Hz display that feels frankly unnecessary. Sure you’ll be able to run older PC romps and boost fps to satiate the screen, but your chances of successfully playing new releases above 1080p without stuttery visuals are slim. Keep in mind both the Go and Ally feature the same AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU, and Asus’ portable ultimately boasts better fitting screen specs.
Additional arguable shortcomings include its LegionSpace software, which fails to make using Windows 11 for on-the-go gaming any less frustrating, and its JoyCon-inspired TrueStrike detachable gamepads. I’d be fully on board with the portable’s removable controls if they didn’t upset my thumbs, as it sadly feels like Lenovo has sacrificed adding quality buttons to a set of pads that pale compared to Nintendo’s OG concept. In a nutshell, the Asus ROG Ally commits less of these sins for $50 less this Prime Day, making it my Windows 11 handheld of choice during the sale.
Asus ROG Ally Z1E | $649.99 $549.99 at Best Buy
Lenovo Legion Go | $699.99 $598.99 at Amazon
The number 1 gadget under $10 I buy every Prime Day
My keyboards can get pretty gross. I'm tapping away at one all day every day - and at the end of a two week stint I have to take a bunch of photos for reviews. That means I need a solid cleaning system. Don't run off to TikTok shop and buy a silly little keyboard vacuum, or one of those ridiculous tiny brushes, though. Check out some goo.
I buy this ColorCoral keyboard stuff every Prime Day (it's cheap anyway, but it's such an easy add-on during main sale events). Give it a squish over your keys and they're photo-ready within minutes - it's the only thing I use before taking review pictures. You do have to replace it every six months or so, which can get annoying (definitely do replace it, I've tried to last it out and ended up with melted gunk all over everything).
ColorCoral keyboard cleaning gel | $9.99 $5.58 at Amazon
Editor's Choice
If you have a Nintendo Switch, you really should be checking out this lightning deal. I've been using the Genki Covert Dock for a long time now - it's the best thing I ever bought for my handheld, allowing me to hook up to pretty much any big-screen I find. All you need is an HDMI cable and you're good to go. While the full-fat Covert Dock isn't taking part in today's sale, you will find the Mini up for grabs. You guessed it, this is a smaller version that does away with the extra USB-A slot and faster 45W charging speed (though you'll still be absolutely fine with the 20W available here for Switch).
Let's talk Prime Gaming
There's a lot of buzz around one of Prime's less talked about features right now; Prime Gaming. The service is relatively new, and I've only really used it when testing Amazon Fire tablets in the past. However, it's essentially a gaming service that provides a few free games to its Prime members every month. The majority of the games on the subscription are mobile-esque titles, but you can also get some time in with bigger launches for a fee. Where it benefits its members most, though, is exclusive in-game rewards as well as other perks for use with your favorite titles.
I don't think this Xbox Series X deal will be around tomorrow
Yes, I know some Prime Day deals stick around after the main event has actually closed - but I bet this one will be snapped off the shelves as soon as midnight hits. Amazon is currently offering a renewed Xbox Series X for just $369.99 - that's the cheapest I've ever seen the console. It's flying off the shelves as well, so if you're on the hunt for the Xbox deal of the year I wouldn't wait too long to dive in.
What are anti-Prime Day deals? And are they any good?
Anti-Prime day deals is a term I see floating around the web this time every year, and has basically come to represent any competing retailer's sale event that just so happens to run across the same days as Amazon. It's a way of other stores making sure you know that they're matching a lot of Amazon's own discounts in their own virtual aisles - but there are some areas where competitors win.
Gaming laptops, everyday laptops, and gaming PCs are the main ones. Amazon doesn't tend to do very well in these areas, with its marketplace system leaving us with strange prices on even stranger configurations. That's why Best Buy and Newegg are your go-to for this kind of tech. In this respect, anti-Prime Day deals can be a lifesaver.
Walmart is a different beast altogether. While the retailer will match the majority of Amazon's own Prime Day offers, it's been a little more aggressive this year I've noticed. I've seen Walmart winning in things like Nintendo Switch and PS5 games over the last few hours, with prices Bezos just can't beat.
If you're after a budget headset, this is a fantastic option. The Razer BlackShark V2 X used to be all over the sales pages, but it's been a little quiet in recent months. In fact, this has been at full price since May - a rarity considering it's a 3.5mm connection and the cheapest in Razer's current range. Still, this is a tried and tested go-to for anyone on the hunt for a no-fuss gaming headset this Prime Day.
When will Prime Day end?
I've been live blogging this event for just over two days now - and while I love a bargain, I'm also glad the end is in sight. This year's Prime Day sale will come to an end at midnight tonight, but there will likely still be some hangover discounts on the shelves tomorrow. While they won't be the heaviest of price cuts or the most impressive of savings, from what I've seen in the past, it will be a few days before all of Amazon's prices go back to normal.
Since that Xbox Series X deal, I've done some more digging through Amazon's renewed devices - and there's a bunch of kit on here. Of course, all of it is supported by Amazon's 90 day guarantee, after having been professionally cleaned, repaired, and tested. This is a solid service, and an excellent way to score even bigger savings on tech this Prime Day.
Editor's Pick!
I've been waiting for this one. The Audeze Maxwell has been stubborn in its price for months now, but I've been checking back for new offers constantly. This is one of my personal favorite gaming headsets, but it commands a more niche audience than usual. Its 90mm planar drivers and slightly heavier form factor mean it's more geared towards audiophiles, but that wide soundstage and excellent detailing makes it a fantastic headset in its own right. This is my go-to for both blockbuster action sequences and my favorite music.
Editor's Pick
The Razer Hammerhead Hyperspeeds are the best gaming earbuds I've tested so far, with excellent noise cancellation, wide compatibility, solid sound quality, and a super-fast connection. While the touch gestures are a little unreliable, the overall package is well worth a look if you're after some speed-focused buds this Prime Day. This PlayStation version also features a neat light gray aesthetic which feels oddly retro.
After a new Steam Deck dock? Two of our favorites are on sale
A Steam Deck dock can completely revolutionize your setup, and you don't have to spend big to pick up a good one. Two of our favorite models are at record-low prices at Amazon right now, and the cheapest is just under $20. That's the iVoler docking station, and it's our favorite budget option thanks to its excellent functionality and simple aesthetic. However, if you want to push it a little further, we'd recommend the JSAUX 6-in-1 model. It's a little pricier but it does offer fast 100W charging.
Duncan's Top Prime Day Pick!
There's one thing I've noticed as I've started doing the majority of my gaming on a PC. Even if I review the latest, fanciest gaming chairs, I do wish I got to spend more time sat on my couch. I work from home, so when my gaming time revolves around my desk as well, it's harder to find that sweet work-life balance everyone keeps telling me about. But you can't play with a mouse and keyboard from the comfort of a sofa, so what am I supposed to do?
Lately, the Couchmaster Cycon2 has been heroically solving this problem for me, and it's discounted for Prime Day. Down from $199 to $189, you get a slightly more affordable chance to grab this for yourself. The Cycon2 is made up of two velvety cushions that sit on either side of you, and a tabletop with six integrated USB 3.0 ports that rests on top of them. If you set your gaming PC up on your TV, you get the ultimate couch desk that hooks up to your rig, and gives you the best of both worlds.
I've been using it for work, play, content creation, and even menial things like organising a holiday trip with my girlfriend. This thing has been a total game changer for me, and it doesn't seem like something that gets discounted regularly. If you ask me, this is a Prime Day deal worth jumping on.
Couchmaster Cycon2 | $199 $189 at Amazon
Whether you're a streamer or just a productivity powerhouse, the Stream Deck has always been a gold-standard addition to a desk setup. I've been pining over these for some time now, though my current Mountain DisplayPad is seeing me through. Still, Elgato's massive roster of user-generated plugins and much wider compatibility makes for a compelling reason to upgrade - especially when it's this cheap. We celebrated the Mk 2's expansive streaming control schemes as well as its easy-to-use software when Alex reviewed it back in 2022.
Speaking of Elgato...
I'm actually seeing a bunch of Elgato devices at their lowest ever prices now that I look properly. If you're a streamer looking to update your setup this Prime Day, there are a couple of deals you need to know about. Some offers aren't exactly cutting the mustard, but these savings on the Facecam Mk 2, Wave DX microphone, and the Wave Mic Arm LP are all record-breakers.
- Elgato Facecam Mk. 2 |
$149.99$119.99 at Amazon - Elgato Wave DX microphone |
$99.99$69.99 at Amazon - Elgato Wave Mic Arm LP |
$99.99$69.99 at Amazon
Editor's Pick
The Asus ROG Azoth remains my daily driver to this day, over a year after first reviewing it. It's the best typing experience I've had in a gaming keyboard, but still packs the speed and extra functionality you'll need for more competitive endeavors as well. Hot-swappable switches, a gasket mounted design, and dedicated media controls all in a slimmer 75% form factor, this is as good as it gets.
Deal!
After an open-backed headset? The Corsair Virtuoso Pro is one of the best in the business, and it's at a record-low price right now. You're getting excellent audio from those graphene drivers and wide, open-back design that offers rich, detailed soundscapes. This is one for streamers or PC players looking for that extra audio prowess - though that does mean its wired design and two-way sound bleed won't be best for console players.
PSA: Some Prime Day deals might end before midnight
I'm seeing more and more Prime Day deals running of the shelves now, with some of the heaviest discounts leaving the shelves in the last couple of hours. I'd recommend heading to checkout as soon as possible, then, these price increases are happening across the aisles right now.
Ok, I've found some Nintendo Switch games
I noticed yesterday that there was a lack of Nintendo Switch game deals on the shelves this year. Things aren't much better today, but if you are looking for some new titles to add to your collection you will have some luck at Best Buy. Of course, Amazon is still the best place to check out Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Super Mario RPG, but if you're after $20 discounts on some older titles, I'd check in with the big yellow label.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder | $59.99 $48.97 at Amazon
Super Mario RPG | $59.99 $39.99 at Amazon
Kirby and the Forgotten Land | $59.99 $39.99 at Best Buy
Pokemon Legends Arceus | $59.99 $39.99 at Best Buy
Oh, go on then - these are the PS5 game deals still live this Prime Day as well
PS5 games have been seeing their own discounts over the last two days, but more have been run off the shelves over the last few hours compared to Nintendo Switch. Some of my favorites are included in that pile; Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart being the most heartbreaking. You'll still find plenty of discounts up for grabs in these final few hours if you know where to look though.
Sackboy: A Big Adventure | $59.99 $19.99 at Best Buy
Dead Island 2 | $29.99 $19.99 at Best Buy
Assassin's Creed Mirage | $49.99 $23.70 at Amazon
Final Fantasy XVI | $49.99 $28.49 at Amazon
Demon's Souls | $69.99 $29.99 at Amazon
Elden Ring | $59.99 $39.99 at Amazon
Tekken 8 | $69.99 $39.99 at Amazon
The Last of Us Part 1 | $69.99 $45.99 at Walmart
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth | $69.99 $54.99 at Amazon
We're into the final evening of Prime Day now, so I wouldn't recommend waiting before heading to checkout. As we've seen today, deals can come and go at any minute and the closer we get to that midnight countdown the more those numbers can move. I'm not expecting any major new Prime Day deals to hit the shelves from now on - the best offers are now behind us (and some have already been picked clean).
Xbox Game Pass's price is going up - but Prime Day can still help you save
The Xbox Game Pass price is increasing in September, with monthly subscriptions to the Ultimate service moving from $16.99 to $19.99. That would put a three month code at $60 all in - a considerable boost from today's $49.99 rate. The good news, though, is that Game Pass Ultimate codes are stackable, which means you can load up your account now and protect yourself from the price increase in a couple of months time.
If that sounds like your kind of plan, you'll want to head over to CDKeys where you can pick up a three month Ultimate subscription for $31.99 (normally $49.99). Say you load up with a year's worth of credit for $127.96 - that's still far cheaper than the $239.98 total price for the same 12 months if paid one at a time. You're saving $111.92 in total in that scenario.
3 months Xbox Game Pass Ultimate | $49.99 $31.99 at CDKeys
Editor's Pick
I picked up this Super Mario Lego set as soon as it hit the shelves at the start of the year, and haven't looked back. Bowser now sits in his bright purple chariot in pride of place next to my TV, and even though I don't really partake in the full Super Mario platforming side of the Lego franchise it's one of my favorite builds. Bowser was already pretty well priced at just $30 as well, but today's offer takes things a step further.
Don't want to spend $200 on the PlayStation Portal? The Backbone One is jusst $70 right now
I first reviewed the Backbone One when the original model launched a few years ago, now we're in 2024 and we have the full Backbone One PlayStation Edition for all your Remote Play needs. I've been using both for some time now, and while I'm still yet to take the leap on a PlayStation Portal, this really is the next best thing. You're getting full PS5 controls in here, with a super handy app to keep all your games in one place. Everything looks and feels nicely premium to boot.
PSA: Amazon has a 'new deal drops' section
I'm not expecting to see too many new Prime Day deals hitting the shelves in the next few hours (at least not too many major ones), but if you are curious about what these final offers might be it's worth noting there's a whole section dedicated to the latest offers. Amazon's main deals page has now been split into both lightning deals and 'New Deal Drops' - that means you can head straight to the latest offers.
I'm not seeing anything too spicy in there for gamers at the moment (unless you're particularly strapped for play time and need the help of a robot hoover), but it's worth keeping an eye on for those last minute discounts.
These are the three best Prime Day deals still live right now, and I wouldn't take them for granted. With the full event coming to an end in just five hours, I don't know when we'll next see prices like this.
