Black Friday is the biggest shopping event of the year, when retailers offer their biggest discounts and hottest deals. But the benefits don’t stop at just the markdowns—store memberships and loyalty programs can give you an extra edge, helping you save even more.
To get the most out of Black Friday 2024, we offer you to compare Walmart+, Target Circle, and the Best Buy Credit Card memberships. Whether you’re after exclusive early access to sales, cashback rewards, or free shipping perks – these tools are designed to make your shopping experience smoother and more rewarding.
What Are These Programs?
Walmart+ Membership
Walmart+ is Walmart’s premium membership program designed to enhance your shopping experience year-round. For a monthly or yearly fee, members get free shipping on almost all online purchases without any minimum, making it perfect for Black Friday shopping. Plus, Walmart+ members get early access to Black Friday deals, which can help you score the best items before they sell out. Additional perks include fuel discounts (up to 10¢ off per gallon) at Walmart, Murphy, and Sam’s Club stations—ideal for holiday road trips.
Target Circle Membership
Target Circle is a completely free loyalty program that’s all about giving you personalized savings based on your shopping habits. Members can earn 1% back on almost every Target purchase, which can be redeemed on future buys. For Black Friday, Target Circle members often enjoy special deals, personalized offers, and sometimes even bonus savings days where discounts are even better. Since it’s free and easy to join, it’s a no-brainer if you plan on doing some Black Friday shopping at Target
Best Buy Credit Card
The Best Buy Credit Card is a must-have for tech lovers, offering significant rewards on every purchase at Best Buy. Cardholders can earn 5% back in rewards on all Best Buy purchases or opt for special financing on big-ticket items, which is particularly useful during Black Friday when electronics deals are everywhere. Plus, Best Buy Credit Card users often get early access to Black Friday sales, giving them a head start on grabbing the most popular items before they’re gone.
Comparison Table
Let’s take a look at each program advantages and offers:
| Feature | Walmart+ | Target Circle | Best Buy Credit Card |
|---|---|---|---|
| Discount | No general storewide discounts, but members get exclusive deals on select items. | Extra discounts and offers personalized based on shopping habits; up to 5% off select items on Circle Bonus days. | 5% back in rewards on Best Buy purchases with no annual fee. |
| Cashback | None | 1%–2% cashback in the form of rewards on eligible purchases (varies by offer). | 3% cashback on gas, 2% on dining and grocery stores, 1% everywhere else when using the card outside Best Buy. |
| Shipping | Free shipping with no minimum (often next-day or two-day delivery on eligible items). | Standard shipping fees apply; free shipping available on certain promotions. | No free shipping benefit, but cardholders can earn rewards on Best Buy purchases, which could be used for future shipping fees. |
| Reward Points | No direct point-earning system, but fuel discounts and exclusive deals count as rewards. | Earn 1% on every purchase (equivalent to $1 per $100 spent). Special earning rates during promotions. | Earn 5% back in rewards on Best Buy purchases (1 point per dollar). Special financing options on large purchases. |
| Membership Cost | $98/year or $12.95/month | Free to join, no membership fees. | No annual fee for the card. |
| Other Benefits | Free Paramount+ Essential subscription, mobile scan & go, early access to sales, and pharmacy savings. | Exclusive access to members-only sales, personalized offers, birthday rewards. | Exclusive financing options (0% APR for large purchases), early access to sales, member-only events. |
| Trial Period | 30-day free trial | No trial, always free. | No trial, but there are occasional sign-up bonuses for new members. |
| Gas Benefits | Up to 10¢ off per gallon at Walmart, Murphy, and Sam’s Club fuel stations. | None | None |
| Pharmacy Savings | Discounts on prescriptions at Walmart & Sam’s Club. | None | None |
| Store Card Integration | No direct card integration, but Walmart credit cardholders may use Walmart+ benefits. | No direct card integration, works alongside Target RedCard for extra savings. | Credit card program directly tied to rewards and financing offers at Best Buy. |
Black Friday Advantages with Each Program
Walmart+ for Black Friday
Walmart+ shines during Black Friday because of its free shipping with no minimum requirement. This is huge when online deals are dropping left and right, and you don’t want to worry about hitting a minimum to avoid shipping fees. On top of that, Walmart+ members get early access to Black Friday deals, which is key to avoiding the disappointment of items selling out. And if you’re traveling for the holidays, the fuel savings you get with Walmart+ (up to 10¢ per gallon) are a nice bonus to keep in mind.
Target Circle for Black Friday
Target Circle members can expect some special love during Black Friday, with personalized offers that could make already great deals even better. Keep an eye out for bonus savings days during big sale events—Target often drops additional discounts for Circle members that can be stacked with other promotions. Plus, since it’s free, signing up for Target Circle is a no-lose situation for anyone looking to maximize their Black Friday haul.
Best Buy Credit Card for Black Friday
With the Best Buy Credit Card, you can earn 5% back in rewards on all your Black Friday electronics purchases, making it easier to save on future buys. For larger purchases, like TVs or laptops, the card’s special financing options let you spread out payments without interest—perfect for keeping your holiday budget in check. Plus, early access to Best Buy’s Black Friday sales can be a game-changer if you’re after hot items like gaming consoles or smart home tech.
Black Friday Disadvantages of Each Program
Walmart+ for Black Friday
- Membership Fee: The $12.95 monthly or $98 annual fee might not justify the savings for infrequent shoppers. If you only shop at Walmart occasionally, you may miss out on better deals elsewhere.
- Limited Deals: While Walmart offers discounts, they might not be as aggressive as competitors during Black Friday, especially for electronics and high-demand items.
- Stock Issues: Early access doesn’t guarantee that items will be in stock, especially for popular items that can sell out quickly.
Target Circle for Black Friday
- Limited Discounts: The discounts available through Target Circle may not be as substantial as those from other retailers during Black Friday, making it less appealing for shoppers looking for the biggest savings.
- No Free Shipping: While Circle members can earn rewards, they don’t receive free shipping unless promotions apply, which could lead to additional costs.
- Personalization Limits: Not all deals may apply to every shopper, as personalized offers are based on previous shopping habits, potentially leaving some members with fewer savings options.
Best Buy Credit Card for Black Friday
- Credit Card Dependency: To fully benefit from the rewards, you need to use the Best Buy Credit Card, which may not be ideal for those who prefer not to rely on credit for purchases.
- High-Interest Rates: If you don’t pay off the balance promptly, the interest on purchases can quickly negate any rewards you earn.
- Limited Redemption: Rewards earned can only be used at Best Buy, limiting flexibility for spending them elsewhere.
How to Choose the Right Program for You?
- Walmart+ Shoppers: If you’re looking for a convenient shopping experience with free shipping, fuel savings, and early access to deals, Walmart+ is the way to go. It’s especially great if you’re a frequent Walmart shopper or plan on making multiple purchases during Black Friday.
- Target Circle Shoppers: For those who like flexible, no-cost memberships with personalized savings, Target Circle is the perfect choice. It’s free to join, and you can stack the savings with Black Friday deals and bonus offers.
- Best Buy Shoppers: If you’re a tech enthusiast planning to grab electronics during Black Friday, the Best Buy Credit Card offers significant rewards and financing perks. It’s ideal for shoppers who want to earn back on big purchases and enjoy early access to hot-ticket items.
In conclusion, choosing the right membership or credit card can significantly enhance your Black Friday shopping experience. Whether you opt for Walmart+, Target Circle, or the Best Buy Credit Card, each offers unique advantages and disadvantages. Evaluate your shopping habits to maximize savings. For more tips on making the most of shopping events, stay tuned to CouponX Blog for the latest updates and deals!