21 Products on Deep Discount in May
Mother's Day and Memorial Day bring lots of sales on tech gifts, mattresses, grills, and more
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The month of May is usually a great time to shop and save on lots of necessities. Thanks to Memorial Day, we traditionally see numerous sales, especially on mattresses, grills, and appliances, that begin to crop up by the middle of the month. And earlier in the month, because of Mother’s Day sales, there are often deals on tech devices such as smartwatches, fitness trackers, and Bluetooth speakers as well. It’s also a good month to score a deal on a new stroller, a bike helmet, insect repellent, and sunscreen for the summer months ahead.
Consumer Reports tracks the products we test for years, noting the prices at multiple retailers to determine when they usually fall the most. These are the items most heavily discounted in May.
Want to know what’s on deep discount the rest of the year? See our calendar of deals.
Viewing on a mobile device? Click on the links below to skip to each section.
• Grills
• Mattresses
• Fitness Trackers
• Smartwatches
• Blenders
• Air Conditioners
• Leaf Blowers
• String Trimmers
• Strollers
• Wireless and Bluetooth Speakers
• Carpet Cleaners
• Freezers
• Chainsaws
• Bike Helmets
• Blood Pressure Monitors
• Insect Repellents and Sunscreens
• Wood Stains and Paints
• Air Mattresses
• Camcorders
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Grills
May is the true start of the grilling season, so look for discounts on gas and charcoal grills. The earlier you shop, the better chance you have of saving. As Memorial Day approaches, demand increases and popular models tend to go out of stock or sell for full price.
Prices can range from as little as $100 to more than $3,000, depending on what you want. CR tests grills to fit every cooking style and budget, from portable models you can take camping to larger grills designed to feed an extended family. We produce ratings of more than 150 grills to suit first-time buyers and seasoned grill masters searching for a replacement or an upgrade.
There are three main types of grills to choose from, and each has pros and cons when it comes to cost, ease of use, cleanup, and, most important, how it cooks food. So you’ll want to review our grill buying guides if you’re not sure whether you’d be happiest with a charcoal grill, gas grill, or pellet grill.
The Monument Grills 77352 is not only a good large grill for the money but also one of the highest-scoring gas grill in our ratings. It earns top marks across our performance tests for heating evenness, temperature range, and preheating, as well as a solid rating for indirect cooking. And while the grill itself has a typical one-year warranty, it includes an eight-year warranty on the six burners.
Why it’s a good deal: This is the best available price for this grill right now.
Mattresses
May is a fantastic time to shop for a new mattress. With Memorial Day sales, you can typically find big discounts. Mattress companies hold sales all year long, but the discounts tend to be even better around holiday weekends like this.
They often start running their Memorial Day promotions early in the month and continue them into early June. Discounts tend to improve by 5 to 10 percent compared with regular sale prices, which can really add up, especially for pricier models.
There’s a lot to consider when buying a new mattress, and your decision will depend largely on your body type and sleeping habits. Some mattresses use organic materials, some incorporate coils and memory foam, and some have special materials like cooling gels. And mattresses can range in price from a few hundred dollars to well over $1,000, so your budget will affect your choices as well.
You can find out more about mattress options by reading CR’s buying guide and reviewing our mattress ratings. A good mattress should last you eight to 10 years, so do the research and invest in one that will suit your sleeping style for years to come.
If you’re looking for a softer mattress that offers support, the Nolah Natural mattress may just fit the bill. It gets above-average ratings for people of all sleep styles and sizes, and it shines when it comes to durability. The only place it falls short is in stabilization, where it gets middling scores in CR’s tests.
Why it’s a good deal: Nolah’s spring sale takes 20 percent off the list price. We’ve seen this mattress sell for as little as $1,329, though, so you may be able to save more if you wait for Memorial Day, when discounts tend to be bigger.
The Essentia Stratami serves petite and average-sized back sleepers best, earning a top-tier rating in terms of support. (Large/tall back sleepers and side sleepers of all sizes will experience decent support, too, given its almost as impressive scores in those categories.) It’s only 8 inches thick and has a firmness-scale score of 6 out of 10, similar to that of the all-foam Casper. The Essentia is the only mattress from our top-four innerspring and foam lists to receive a top rating in both owner satisfaction and reliability, according to data from our CR members survey.
Why it’s a good deal: This is one of the most expensive mattresses in CR’s ratings, so this sale presents a worthwhile opportunity. The 20 percent discount will automatically apply at checkout.
For more discounts: Best Mattresses Sales Right Now
Fitness Trackers
Fitness trackers are often discounted in May as retailers target shoppers looking for Mother’s Day gifts. They range from simple to sophisticated, with corresponding prices. Some simply count your steps while others use GPS to map your workouts, and many also measure your heart rate and can even monitor your sleeping patterns.
With so many different options, there’s sure to be a fitness tracker that fits your lifestyle and budget, especially if you find one on sale. Take a look at CR’s buying guide if you want a little more guidance to find the right tracker for you.
The Fitbit Inspire 2 fitness tracker has been on sale for a while, but the price continues to fall. It’s now only $7 more than the lowest we’ve seen recently. It gets top marks from our testers for step-count and heart rate accuracy, and it earns a spot among the best fitness trackers for its ease of use, pairing, and readability in low light. The Inspire 2 also has a very generous claimed battery life of 10 days (we don’t test that characteristic) and built-in GPS, a feature not found on many other fitness trackers.
Why it’s a good deal: The black tracker is available at Amazon for the lowest price we’ve seen for any color.
Smartwatches
As with fitness trackers, May is often a good time to start shopping around for smartwatches, according to our data. Look for sales that are likely to crop up at many online retailers, and you can finally take the plunge on some high-tech jewelry without overspending.
You’ll want to make sure the smartwatch you choose is going to fit your lifestyle. First and foremost, it should be compatible with your smartphone. But do you want one that has its own network connectivity? How about a heart rate monitor? Or the ability to pay for purchases? You should also take into account things like size, battery life, and replacement bands.
Apple introduced an updated version of its high-value SE watch in September, which has led to a series of solid deals on the first-generation Watch SE. The first-gen SE uses a less powerful processor than the new model, but it performs most of the functions that make the SE one of our highest-rated smartwatches. The major difference between the prior-gen SE and the Apple Watch Series 8 is that it lacks a blood oxygen sensor, which helps boost sleep tracking accuracy, as well as a temperature sensor that can provide retroactive estimates of ovulation. The previous SE also lacks the high-speed G-force sensor that can sense whether you’ve been in a car crash, a feature found on the latest SE, which starts at $249. But on your wrist, the first-gen SE is almost identical to the new SE or even the Series 8.
Why it’s a good deal: You won’t find a better price for a new Apple Watch.
This latest Apple Watch Series 8 isn’t much different from the previous Series 7 version. The Series 8 features new body temperature sensors for retrospective estimates of ovulation and a high-speed G-force sensor for car crash detection. It also has an ECG function designed to detect unusual heart rhythms. There’s no change in battery size, though the latest version of the Watch operating system adds a new function that can double the life per charge, Apple says, albeit at the expense of some functionality. In our ratings, the Series 8 falls just a bit short of the Ultra, performing less well in the scratch test. However, the Series 8 still ranks toward the top of our smartwatch ratings.
Why it’s a good deal: This is a hefty discount, especially for a current-generation Apple device.
Blenders
In the market for a new blender? CR has found that many tend to drop in price or go on sale in May, which means you might be able to get a better model while staying within your budget.
Blenders can cost anywhere from $30 to well over $500, and how much you should spend will depend on how often you plan to use it and what you want to do with it. Paying more generally means better results and more versatility. But there are exceptions, including high-priced models that cracked under the pressure of our tough tests and bargain blenders that performed well.
Before you start looking at what’s currently on sale, get a better idea of what you can expect to spend for what you want. Start the search for your ideal blender with CR’s buying guide and recommended models.
The Vitamix One is the brand’s simplest blender, so it’s not intended for preparing hot soups or thick nut butters. But it thrives with smoothies, sauces, dips, and frozen desserts. The blender is streamlined yet high-performance, with intuitive controls, a 32-ounce jar, a removable lid plug, and a tamper to push ingredients into its durable stainless steel blades. Like many Vitamix blenders, it’s noisy, but power prevails as it breaks down veggies and frozen fruits.
Why it’s a good deal: This is a nice discount, but if you can wait, the price may drop again. We saw the Vitamix One for as low as $130 last month.
As its Category 5 name suggests, this gunmetal-finish Cuisinart Hurricane Pro blender is noisy, but its commercial-grade horsepower takes blending to the next level. In fact, it’s Cuisinart’s most powerful blender. With variable speed control from 1,500 rpm to a turbo-boosting 30,000 maximum blending power, it also features automatic load sensing, adjustable presets, a digital display, and a memory-setting function. It comes with an extra-large 64-ounce BPA-free Tritan plastic jar with a soft-grip handle.
Why it’s a good deal: A $100 discount is worth a look if you want a workhorse of a blender.
Wireless and Bluetooth Speakers
A wireless speaker can add a groove to any backyard barbecue, and you may be able to score a deal on a new one this month. Decent Bluetooth speakers can range from $20 to $800. Some are waterproof, some have a longer-than-average Bluetooth range or extended battery life, and some may have smart features such as Amazon Alexa compatibility or companion apps. Of course, not all speakers sound the same, so if you fancy yourself an audiophile, be prepared to spend a bit more for quality playback.
CR’s buying guide and product ratings can help you determine the best options so that you can navigate Memorial Day sales and find the speaker you want for less.
The tiny SoundLink Micro is cute, is hyper-portable, and comes with a strap that allows you to lash it to a bicycle, backpack, or stroller. Bose claims that it’s IP67 water-resistant, too, so it’s a good choice for wet and wild action. But if the Micro’s small size isn’t super-important to you and you have a few extra dollars in your budget, you might consider the slightly larger and better-sounding SoundLink Color II instead.
Why it’s a good deal: This speaker is now $5 less than the previous best price, in Midnight Blue only.
The JBL Pulse 4 has a transparent dome that covers an array of LED lights, so you can watch it as well as listen. You can adjust the model’s colors or make the LEDs pulse to the music so you can pump up the light show on Saturday night or tone it down to accent lamp levels after the guests have gone home. The sound quality is more than adequate, with solid but slightly boomy bass, a clear midrange that doesn’t distort vocals, and enough volume to fill a midsized room. That said, you’re paying a lot for the Pulse 4’s visual effects, so you might consider buying the Flip 5 instead and having enough money left over for a nice lamp.
Why it’s a good deal: This was $30 less for Black Friday, but it rarely goes on sale otherwise—every other retailer is selling it for $250—so we don’t expect to see the price drop any further again until another big sale.
For more discounts: Best Deals on Bluetooth and Smart Speakers
Strollers
CR’s data has found a lot of price reductions on strollers in May, so whether you’re getting ready to welcome a new little one or you just want an upgrade for your family walks, this is the time to start looking around. Strollers range in price from $100 to more than $1,000. Styling, lightweight materials, and added features can increase the price, but our tests have found that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a good, safe model.
Buying a stroller requires some research first to ensure that you’re choosing a safe one that’s worth the price. CR’s buying guide can help you determine what you do and don’t want so that you can make a smart decision.
Evenflo Pivot Xplore All-Terrain Stroller Wagon
Our testers call the Evenflo Pivot Xplore stroller wagon “best for littles.” This is a very compact, foldable wagon, and it not only looks like a stroller but also operates the most like a stroller in terms of folding, storing, carrying, and driving. The passenger area is quite small, with two petite seats and a small footwell in between, and it sits pretty low to the ground, with relatively low “walls” of the wagon around it. There’s plenty of room for an adult to walk behind the stroller, but it’s best suited for small children under 39 inches tall.
Why it’s a good deal: You’re saving over $100 off the list price.
Baby Trend Expedition 2-in-1 Stroller Wagon
According to our evaluator, this stroller wagon looks cool, is easy to steer, and has all the accessories to keep both grownups and kids happy. Instead of folding for storage in the middle, like the other products we checked out, this stroller wagon collapses and flattens, which means you don’t have to remove the snack tray or even the shade to put it away. It also comes with a car-seat adapter with secure straps for safely attaching an infant car seat.
Why it’s a good deal: Even though $20 isn’t the steepest discount, we really liked this wagon, and it’s selling for as much as $300 elsewhere.
For more discounts: Best Deals on High Chairs, Strollers, and More Baby Products
String Trimmers
Though we usually see seasonal items go on sale toward the end of their respective season, our data shows that prices tend to drop in April and stay low through May. If you’re a lawn-care enthusiast, you’ll be happy to know that you can find big discounts on string trimmers, especially closer to Memorial Day.
The ideal string trimmer will be able to trim, edge, and cut tall grass with ease, and you can find many top-rated gas, electric, and battery-powered models that handle these tasks. Gas-powered trimmers can handle bigger jobs; electric models tend to be better for smaller properties, and they’re quieter. Corded trimmers are the most lowest-priced of the bunch but may require an extension cord. Battery-powered models tend to give you about 30 minutes on a single charge, which should be good if you have a small property. Otherwise, you may need an additional battery.
Not sure which is right for you? Read our string trimmer buying guide to get a better idea of what’s available.
Leaf Blowers
Leaf blowers are useful in other seasons as well as in the fall. They will make quick work of corralling grass clippings, weeds, and debris on your property all year. So you may want to invest in one this month while you can score a good deal.
Consumer Reports has put more than 50 models, including gas-powered, battery-powered, and corded electric, through rigorous tests to help you find the model that suits your needs. CR’s buying guide will help you learn more so that you can shop with confidence.
Air Conditioners
Air conditioners often go on sale in May, well before the summer heat sets in. But demand starts to increase this time of year, and sales might not last long. So if you find a model you like, especially at a discount, you ought to snatch it up quickly.
You can choose a window unit or a portable AC, and it may have features such as WiFi connectivity and a companion app. CR’s ratings have more than 50 tested models, so be sure to check out our buying guide and recommendations to find the right option for your home.
Carpet Cleaners
If you have a lot of carpeting and a house full of kids and pets, buying a carpet cleaner is a good investment, and they cost less in May. Homeowners who clean their carpets only occasionally may want to hire a professional carpet cleaner. Though nothing beats the ease and results of a professional clean, that might not be an option right now. But some of the machines we’ve tested come pretty close for less money.
You may also be able to rent a carpet cleaner, something worth looking into if you don’t plan to deep-clean more than a few times a year. Rental fees typically run about $20 to $30 per day, but rental models tend to be heavy and harder to use, and they’re not always in the best condition.
Read CR’s buying guide to get a better idea of what’s out there and what will be best for your needs.
Freezers
Stand-alone freezers tend to dip in price around May. During the height of the pandemic, freezers were high in demand and difficult to find in stock, let alone on sale. Now inventory levels are back to normal, with most models CR has tested available at multiple retailers, so you may find a much wider range of availability and discounts.
Check out our buying guide and ratings to find the right freezer for your needs so that you’ll be ready to buy when it’s in stock.
Chainsaws
Spring cleanup isn’t just an indoor affair. If you’re ready to tackle some tree work, look for sales on chainsaws in May. A top-rated model can help you clear out brush too thick for electric loppers, fell a tree that’s threatening a roof, slice off dangerous broken tree limbs, or cut a tree into logs for your fire pit this summer. Chainsaws come in a range of sizes, from small electric models (some with cords, some without) to hefty gas-powered models intended for heavier work. Prices often correlate with engine size for gas saws and voltage for electric saws, along with the length of the cutting bar, the arm of flat metal that guides the chain.
Finding the right model depends on how—and how often—you plan to use your chainsaw. Check out CR’s chainsaw buying guide and ratings to learn more about the various models.
Bike Helmets
Going for a bike ride is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the spring weather. You and your family should be safe when you ride, so you’ll need trustworthy bike helmets, especially if it has been some time since you bought the ones you have.
A proper helmet can significantly reduce the risk of injury if you’re in a crash, and CR has tested 48 models for adults and children to help you find the best, safest options. It’s recommended that you replace your helmet at least every five years—or immediately if you’re involved in a crash, even if you can’t see any damage to it. And May is often a good time to get one for less than usual.
We recommend reading our buying guide so that you know exactly what to look for when you start shopping. Then check out the ratings on bike helmets we’ve tested to find something reliable and safe that fits your needs.
Blood Pressure Monitors
High blood pressure, also called hypertension, doesn’t have any obvious symptoms, but it can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and a number of other serious health problems. And though your doctor checks your blood pressure at every checkup, a single reading might not be giving you the full picture.
If you want to keep a closer eye on your blood pressure, you can get an at-home blood pressure monitor. Consumer Reports has tested 28 models, comparing their readouts with those of a mercury sphygmomanometer (the device that’s considered the gold standard of blood pressure testing) as well as testing ease of use, comfort, and convenience.
Most models usually cost between $40 and $100, and they often fall in price this time of year. You can choose between upper-arm and wrist monitors, both of which can have a number of different features, though keep in mind that our tests have found that upper-arm monitors tend to be more accurate than wrist models. Our in-depth blood pressure monitor buying guide is a great place to start your research.
Insect Repellents and Sunscreens
May is when the days grow noticeably longer and bugs start to appear in droves. So you’ll be happy to learn that there are often sales on insect repellents and sunscreens this month. Even if you’re not going farther than your backyard, you’ll still want to have these on hand.
With so many brands and types to choose from, buying the right products can feel a little intimidating. Check out our buying guides for insect repellent and sunscreen to get a better idea of what to look for when you shop.
Wood Stains and Paints
If you’re finally tackling that home renovation project you’ve been talking about for ages, both wood stains and interior and exterior paints tend to dip in price around May. If you’re planning to refinish your deck, breathe new life into an old dresser, or give your walls a fresh coat of paint, you may be able to find your supplies for less this month.
CR has tested a number of wood stains and paints for things like durability, weathering, fading, and cracking, as well as the number of coats needed to cover dark colors. Read our buying guides for wood stains and paints to learn more about which products are worth buying and why.
Air Mattresses
Consumer Reports no longer tests air mattresses, but when we did, we kept an eye on pricing for every model we looked at. Our data showed that May (along with November) tended to be the best month to get a good price for one, and we expect you’ll still be able to find deals on worthwhile mattresses.
One of the most important factors is deflection, or how much a mattress sags over time. (If you’ve ever slept on an air mattress, odds are you know this all too well.) You should also look at how to inflate the mattress. Some have air pumps built in, while others come with a motorized pump. There are even budget-friendly options that can be blown up with a good pair of lungs.
Our air mattress buying guide lays out these and other factors to consider when shopping. Take a look at models CR has tested over the years, many of which are still on the market. And there are plenty of other options as well, so do your research before you buy.
Camcorders
As with air mattresses, we are not currently testing camcorders in our labs. Most phones can record video, and many new models offer 4K quality. Digital cameras tend to have their own video capabilities, too, making video-only devices less popular.
But this can be advantageous if you’re interested in purchasing one, because lower demand can drive prices down. CR’s historical data shows that camcorders tend to be marked down in May, so start researching models you might want. There are full-sized camcorders and smaller action cams, both of which have a slew of features to choose from, such as resolution, storage capabilities, image stabilizers, autofocus, digital or optical zoom, and more. You can read more about what to look for in our camcorder buying guide.
