The upcoming October Prime Day promises an array of discounts and special offers. While Amazon endeavors to convince shoppers that every deal is exceptional, the reality is that only a handful of these offers truly represent significant savings.

In the midst of the sales frenzy, even experienced shoppers may find it challenging to discern if they’re genuinely saving money. Understandably, it can be tough to navigate this landscape. However, one category of products is guaranteed to shine during Prime Days: Amazon-branded technology. This includes devices such as Fire tablets, Fire TV, and more.

Contrasting with typical tech sales where retailers push a broad range of brands—from iPhones to Androids and PCs to gaming consoles—Amazon operates differently. Retailers generally aim to maximize sales through diverse brand offerings, especially during events like Black Friday. Amazon, however, presents a unique shopping experience.

Amazon’s Dual Role: Retailer and Manufacturer

While Amazon offers a wide selection from various brands, it also produces its own electronic devices. Interested in a new smart TV? Amazon has one available. Prefer a streaming device? They produce that too. For home security solutions, options like Blink and Ring products are readily available. Many of these devices utilize the Alexa voice assistant, prompting buyers to consider smart speakers or displays integrated with the assistant. Additionally, Amazon Basics offers numerous accessories, including USB cables and batteries.

Given its extensive product range, it’s only logical for Amazon to prioritize selling its products over those of competitors. Rather than opting for a Roku, customers are more likely to be directed toward a Fire TV stick. Instead of a Nest Mini, consider the Echo Pop. Amazon offers alternatives across nearly all technology categories; they even produce their own earbuds (Echo Buds).

The quality of these items versus competitors might be a topic of debate. It’s advisable to conduct research before deciding what tech to purchase, whether it’s made by Amazon or another brand. However, when searching for technology on Amazon, especially during October Prime Day, the website is likely to prioritize its in-house alternatives. It’s in the interest of the company to leverage this event for significant promotions on its inventory.

Even as a major marketplace, Amazon benefits from any sale. If a customer opts for a Samsung television instead of an Amazon one, it still counts as a transaction for them. Thus, while it’s possible to find an extensive array of deals on non-Amazon items during Prime Day, expect the greatest emphasis and markdowns on Amazon’s own tech products.

Caution Against Impulse Purchases

Despite the alluring discounts and attractive bundles, avoid purchasing an Amazon device solely because it seems like a remarkable deal. If a specific Amazon product you’ve been considering goes on sale, that’s a smart acquisition. However, if you were more interested in a rival product and find the Amazon variant at a lower price, it might not be worth sacrificing what you truly want for mere savings.

Take the time to investigate the differences between Amazon’s products and those of competitors. If you identify an Amazon device that aligns with your needs, consider setting price alerts to alert you when it reaches your desired price point. This is prudent advice for any Prime Day deal or significant purchase, and particularly relevant as Amazon intensifies its marketing for its products this month. Should you decide to make a purchase during October Prime Day, may it be on the best devices tailored to your preferences, whether they originate from Amazon or another brand.