The Thursday deals roundup highlights a wave of compelling price cuts across Apple hardware, home tech, and outdoor wear, anchored by notable drops on the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and the M1 MacBook Air. Shoppers can expect strong value on heated jackets, a self-bagging trash can, and a suite of other everyday essentials, all designed to help readers maximize savings without sacrificing performance. This comprehensive briefing breaks down the top offers of December 12, 2024, with in-depth context to help buyers weigh each choice and plan strategically for end-of-year tech purchases and home upgrades.
Apple deals and ecosystem offers
Apple remains a focal point for this deal day, with multiple devices on sale and a few surprising price movements that could shift buying decisions for the week. The standout item is the Apple Watch Ultra 2 in Black Titanium, listed at $719, which edges down from a $799 MSRP and sits just above its all-time low by a narrow margin. The same price applies to the Apple Watch Ultra 2 in Natural Titanium, presenting a rare symmetry in color option pricing that makes both finishes equally attractive to buyers who value rugged design and extended outdoor usability.
In addition to the Ultra 2, several other key Apple products feature discounts or aggressive low prices that can influence consumer purchases across the broader Apple ecosystem. The M1 MacBook Air, renowned for its combination of portability and efficiency, is highlighted as a standout value, with a compelling price point on the day’s best-buy channel. Specifically, the model has been observed at $509.99, representing the lowest price seen to date at Best Buy, a figure that surpasses its standing in other retail channels where the price remains competitive but not as low. This particular price move reinforces the ongoing appeal of the M1 generation for users who prioritize light workloads, portability, and excellent battery life over the latest processors.
Beyond watches and laptops, the Apple-themed portion of the day’s deals features a broader spread of devices and accessories that align with the broader Apple user base. Several items are offered at historically favorable prices, including legacy devices like the iPad lineup and AirPods, as well as accessories that extend the Apple experience through better tracking, audio quality, and wearable convenience. While some prices reflect ongoing promotions rather than definitive markdowns, the overall trajectory points to a favorable window for shoppers who want to upgrade or round out their Apple setup before year-end.
To provide a snapshot of the broader Apple-centric landscape in the roundup, the following items are highlighted as part of the “Apple Deals” section:
- The Apple Watch Ultra 2 (GPS + Cellular, 49mm) in Black Titanium at $719, mirroring the all-time low territory and signaling strong demand for the rugged, outdoor-oriented variant.
- The Apple Watch Ultra 2 (Natural Titanium) at $719, offering an alternative finish at the same budget-friendly level.
- The M1 MacBook Air price point moving to a new low at Best Buy, with the laptop priced around $509.99, a historic low that underscores the ongoing value proposition of the M1 design for everyday productivity and travel-friendly computing.
- A broader slate of Apple-related devices potentially appearing in the week’s promotional mix, including AirTags, iPads, AirPods, and older Apple Watch iterations at discounted levels, all aligned with readers’ interest in maximizing value across the Apple ecosystem.
These Apple-led deals sit within a larger milieu of cross-category discounts designed to capture the attention of readers who rely on Apple devices daily while offering strategic entry points for those considering upgrading to a newer model or complementing their existing setup with accessories and add-ons. The pricing dynamics reflect a combination of retailer-driven promo events and manufacturer ecosystem promotions, which can be leveraged by shoppers who are careful with timing and inventory awareness.
For readers seeking the most strategic Apple buys on this day, the mix favors the Ultra 2 for durability and outdoor-oriented features, paired with the M1 MacBook Air as a standout value for portable computing. The combination supports a balanced approach: upgrade where it makes sense for daily workflows (MacBook Air) and extend outdoor or fitness capabilities with the Ultra 2, all while maintaining flexibility to add accessories like AirTags or AirPods if needed.
Key takeaways for Apple-focused shoppers:
- If portability and budget are paramount, the M1 MacBook Air at a historical low price presents a strong case for immediate purchase, especially for students, travelers, or professionals with light to moderate workloads.
- For outdoor enthusiasts or users who require rugged readiness and extended battery life, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 at $719 provides a compelling price-point that matches performance and resilience.
- Color variants on the Ultra 2 (Black Titanium and Natural Titanium) both sit at the same price, offering choice without additional cost difference, which can simplify decision-making for design-conscious buyers.
- Additional Apple accessories (AirTag packs, AirPods, iPad deals) are part of the broader ecosystem strategy and can yield meaningful savings when bundled with the primary devices listed here.
As always with Apple-related promotions, timing and stock levels matter. Fans of the ecosystem should consider their long-term use cases, potential trade-in values, and whether it’s worth pairing a desired device with accessories to maximize overall value. The day’s highlights center on two premium devices with broad appeal and a highly competitive price point that marks a rare window of opportunity in a high-demand category.
Computers and laptops: flagship value and productivity boosts
This section delves into the computer-focused offers of the day, with emphasis on the M1 MacBook Air’s standout pricing, as well as other portable computing options that readers are likely to consider in a technology shopping cycle that blends performance, price, and future-proofing.
The M1 MacBook Air remains a central pillar of bargain-conscious buyers seeking a blend of light form factor and dependable performance. The model is highlighted for its record-low price at Best Buy, where it’s listed at $509.99. This price point marks a watershed moment for individuals who require reliable macOS portability for daily tasks such as document editing, web browsing, email, light photo editing, and on-the-go productivity. The M1 architecture, though not the latest generation, continues to offer impressive efficiency margins and a compelling price-to-performance ratio that keeps it relevant in a market that simultaneously pursues new silicon and practical value.
In the same breath, other Apple-related computers appear in the broader roundup with pricing that illustrates the current retail landscape for Apple hardware. The reference to a Walmart listing for the M2-powered Apple 2022 MacBook Air at around $899 showcases how the M2 generation positions itself as a premium but increasingly accessible choice for users who want more muscle for multitasking, more RAM headroom, and improved graphical performance for casual media creation. While the all-time low price story centers on the M1 Air, the presence of M2-based options in the same sale environment signals a continuum of value across Apple’s lightweight laptop family, with readers able to pick the generation that aligns with their performance needs and budget constraints.
In addition to the MacBook Airs, the roundup touches on iPad-related entries that carry price reductions and feature enhancements, emphasizing how Apple users often pursue cross-device synergy. Budget-conscious shoppers may find the iPad 10th Generation entry at a lower street price, while more demanding users might consider the iPad Pro models as part of a larger ecosystem upgrade plan. The general narrative here is that Apple’s laptop and tablet portfolio remains a robust focal point for deals, with price dips creating meaningful opportunities for students, professionals, and casual users alike.
Shopping guidance for laptop buyers on this day includes several practical considerations:
- Prioritize needs: If the workflow is primarily text-based, app use with light multitasking, and on-the-go productivity, the M1 MacBook Air at $509.99 is a compelling choice that balances performance with portability.
- Performance-critical tasks: For users who need smoother multitasking, better integrated graphic performance, or more future-proof RAM configurations, the MacBook Air variants with M2 or higher-tier specs become more attractive, even if priced above the M1’s low.
- Ecosystem benefits: For those already invested in the Apple ecosystem, aligning purchases with accessories (Apple Pencil, keyboards, protective cases) and software subscriptions can amplify value over time.
- Price history awareness: The all-time low context provides a useful benchmark against which new promos should be measured; if a model dips below the known floor, it may indicate a limited-time window or stock constraints that buyers should monitor.
Beyond these specifics, this section reinforces a broader shopper strategy: identify the device that most closely matches your daily compute needs, then weigh price against anticipated usage and lifetime value. The M1 MacBook Air’s position as a standout value in the current landscape creates a rare opportunity for readers who want reliable macOS computing at a historically attractive price, particularly as the academic year ends and holiday season demands peak.
Home and smart home gadgets: cleaning, organization, and comfort on sale
The home goods category features a broad array of practical upgrades that can noticeably improve daily routines, from automatic trash management to cleaning efficiency and winter warmth. The running theme is value-driven hardware that delivers tangible benefits, whether it’s a self-sealing trash can that reduces odors and maintenance or a carpet and upholstery cleaner that restores a fresh look to living spaces.
One of the most notable entries is the Airdeer Automatic Trash Can, a 4-gallon self-sealing and self-changing model. It has been marked down from $149.99 to $129.99, a 13% reduction that makes a high-tech waste-management solution more accessible for households seeking convenience and cleanliness. The self-sealing mechanism minimizes contact with waste, while the automatic bag-changing feature reduces manual bag replacements, offering a practical, everyday benefit for kitchens and offices alike. The pricing move reflects a broader trend toward automated home solutions that streamline routine chores without sacrificing reliability or performance.
Another standout is the BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner. This compact cleaning device, designed for quick spot cleaning and on-the-go maintenance, has seen a price adjustment that brings it to a more affordable level for households that frequently deal with spills, pet messes, or accidental stains. The current price point sits well below its previous peak, underscoring BISSELL’s ongoing emphasis on portability and ease-of-use in home cleaning tools. The Little Green’s versatility makes it a practical addition for households with children or pets, where stain management and odor control are persistent concerns.
The Debut of a higher-end cleaning and automation lineup is accompanied by additional offers that broaden the home-tech category. Among them, compact Bluetooth speakers and portable audio devices sit alongside more robust cleaning solutions, expanding the potential use cases for readers who want to streamline chores with technology. The overall message here is clear: the day’s home deals emphasize value across a spectrum of tasks—from waste management to stain removal to general comfort—demonstrating that the seasonal promotion period is presenting opportunities to upgrade essential household tools without overspending.
Within this section, you’ll also find a suite of other home and utility deals designed to improve everyday living:
- Cutting-edge trashcan models with self-rebagging or automatic features, offering a higher level of hygiene and convenience.
- High-performing carpet and upholstery cleaners at reduced prices, enabling quick touch-ups between professional cleanings.
- Accessories and devices that support a smarter home environment, including smart plugs or compact automation devices that integrate with broader home ecosystems.
- Seasonal warm-weather or winter-ready gear, enabling homeowners to optimize comfort as temperatures shift.
To maximize value in this category, readers should consider factors such as the size of their living space, typical waste volume, cleaning frequency, and whether the home benefits more from automation or straightforward, reliable manual tools. The deals presented are particularly relevant for households aiming to refresh their cleaning routines and home organization with minimal disruption and strong price-performance ratios.
Audio, wearables, and entertainment devices: headphones, watches, and streaming-ready tech
The audio and wearables segment captures readers’ attention with iconic products and headline-grabbing price points. Among the featured items, high-quality headphones, portable speakers, and wearables deliver a mix of performance and convenience that resonates with a broad audience—from audio purists to everyday listeners who value portability and battery efficiency.
In the audio space, the Sony WH-1000XM4 wireless headphones sit prominently in the lineup, continuing to be a benchmark for noise cancellation and sound quality. The current pricing on this model reflects ongoing promotional activity that makes premium listening more accessible for a wider audience. Readers looking for a reliable pair of over-ear headphones with active noise cancellation can find a compelling value proposition in the XM4 lineup, especially when bundled with complementary accessories or in the context of other headphone deals in the catalog.
For wearables, the Apple Watch lineup dominates reader interest, with the Ultra 2 at $719 standing out as the premier rugged option in Black Titanium and Natural Titanium finishes. The pricing symmetry across finishes simplifies the decision for customers who prioritize performance, build quality, and the broader Apple ecosystem’s health and fitness features. The Apple Watch’s ongoing popularity is reinforced by the presence of other Apple wearables, such as the more entry-level Apple Watch SE at $189 and other watch models that offer varied feature sets and price points to accommodate different budgets and needs.
In terms of portable entertainment and smart devices, AirTags and AirPods represent crucial components of Apple’s accessory ecosystem, designed to complement the core devices and improve overall user experience. The AirTag 4-pack and AirTag 1-pack listings highlight the continued demand for item-tracking solutions, while AirPods 2 and AirPods Pro 2 entries demonstrate the perpetual appeal of wireless audio with active noise cancellation and improved sound profiles. These accessories deliver practical value for everyday use, including travel, commuting, and home organization, and they tie into the broader strategy of optimizing the Apple-powered user experience.
Additionally, the section touches on a wide spectrum of consumer electronics that round out the listening and wearable experience, such as the AirPods with active noise cancellation and the AirPods Pro 2. Each item is positioned to attract readers who are looking to upgrade their audio quality, enjoy immersive sound experiences, and expand their device ecosystems through complementary accessories and upgrades.
For readers evaluating these audio and wearables options, several key considerations emerge:
- Noise cancellation quality and comfort: For headphones like the XM4, real-world comfort and transportable case size are meaningful, particularly for frequent travelers or long listening sessions.
- Ecosystem alignment: AirPods and AirTags shine most when used with an Apple device lineup, offering seamless integration for calls, music, Find My functionality, and device handoffs.
- Battery life and charging convenience: Portability and day-long use are critical in wearables and wireless earbuds; price points should be weighed against expected daily usage patterns.
- Product variety: The range of AirPod generations and watch models provides options for budget-conscious buyers and enthusiasts who want the latest features.
Overall, this section underscores the appeal of high-quality audio hardware and wearables that continue to be central to consumer technology, with price flexibility that makes premium choices more accessible during the day’s deals window.
Gaming, consoles, and entertainment hardware: consoles, controllers, and accessories on sale
This section covers the console ecosystem, including PlayStation hardware and accessories that are commonly sought after by gamers and home theater enthusiasts. The deal lineup features multiple PlayStation products at promotional prices that can significantly affect a buyer’s decision-making process when planning a holiday gaming setup or a post-holiday upgrade.
Key items highlighted include:
- PlayStation 5 Slim console priced at a competitive level, along with the PlayStation 5 Slim Digital Edition, signaling a shift toward more compact designs while delivering strong performance and streaming capabilities. These entries reflect ongoing demand for the latest generation of Sony’s gaming hardware, which remains a focal point for readers seeking next-gen experiences with robust game libraries.
- PlayStation DualSense wireless controllers, available at discounted prices, offering an affordable path to expand a gaming setup without committing to another full console purchase. The availability of these controllers supports multiplayer experiences in households and among friends, aligning with the social and entertainment value that gamers seek.
- PlayStation VR2, positioned at a lower price compared with the original launch price, makes immersive virtual reality more accessible to a broader audience. This promotion can be especially relevant for readers who want to explore VR content, simulate immersive environments, or enjoy VR-enabled gaming experiences on a budget.
For readers who are evaluating gaming and entertainment hardware, several practical considerations come into play:
- Platform compatibility and library availability: The decision to buy a PS5 Slim or a Slim Digital Edition should align with the preferred media and game catalog, including exclusive titles and cross-platform availability on other consoles or PC.
- Controller and accessory ecosystem: Discounted controllers and VR accessories can significantly reduce the overall cost of building a comprehensive gaming setup, enabling enhanced multiplayer experiences, motion controls, and immersive VR sessions.
- Storage and performance: Readers should consider whether their primary use cases require more internal storage, faster load times, or higher frame rates, and whether the corresponding console variant supports those needs within the price band.
The gaming and entertainment hardware section reinforces the ongoing appeal of modern consoles and accessories, emphasizing value-driven moves that make advanced gaming more accessible. For readers, the combination of new-generation hardware at discounted prices and compelling bundles can be a strong incentive to upgrade or expand their home gaming setups.
Home office and kitchen essentials: smart plugs, cookware, and more
This portion of the roundup focuses on practical home upgrades that enhance everyday living, from smart plugs for a more connected space to essential cookware sets that enable better meal preparation and kitchen efficiency. The curated deals aim to deliver tangible improvements without overextending budget commitments, highlighting items that readers can incorporate into their routines with minimal friction.
Notable entries in this category include the TP-Link Kasa mini smart plugs, which are offered at a new all-time low price for a four-pack—an excellent entry point for readers seeking to automate lighting, appliances, and devices around the home. The value proposition centers on simple, reliable connectivity and the potential for energy savings and convenience, particularly for households looking to automate routines or integrate voice control with their existing smart ecosystems.
The cookware segment brings a 15-piece CAROTE cookware set into the spotlight, priced at a significantly reduced level that makes it an attractive option for both new and seasoned home chefs. This set provides a broad range of cookware pieces designed to cover essential cooking tasks, making it an appealing upgrade for kitchens aiming to improve cooking outcomes or expand culinary capabilities without a prohibitive upfront cost.
In addition to these core items, readers will encounter a broader mix of kitchen and home tools that complement the smart-plug and automation themes. These include reliable cookware selections, compact home electronics, and other everyday essentials that pair well with a modernized home environment. The objective here is to offer a practical array of upgrades that improve the day-to-day experience, from better energy management to more efficient meal preparation and organization.
Shopping guidance for this category emphasizes practicality and user-friendly value:
- Start with small automation steps: A four-pack of smart plugs provides a quick and visible ROI by enabling automation and remote control for lamps and devices.
- Expand gradually: Once comfort with basic automation is established, readers can grow their system by adding smart hubs, sensors, and more advanced devices that integrate with other smart home platforms.
- Evaluate cookware quality and materials: While promotions on cookware sets are enticing, readers should consider material durability, heat distribution, and compatibility with their cooking styles to ensure long-term satisfaction.
Overall, this category highlights how thoughtful home upgrades—whether through simple automation or practical kitchen gear—can meaningfully improve everyday living, particularly as readers prepare for the holiday season and year-end routines.
Health, fitness, and outdoor gear: jackets, bags, and seasonal essentials
Outdoor and cold-weather gear makes a strong appearance in the day’s deal lineup, with heated jackets and related accessories designed to help readers stay warm during the winter months while maintaining a comfortable budget. The DEWBU heated jacket for women, equipped with a 12V battery pack, is listed with a discount, moving from $169.99 down to $109.98, a price cut that makes this performance-oriented apparel accessible to a broader audience. The 12V power option adds reliable warmth for outdoor activities, commutes, or evenings outdoors, addressing a common need during colder seasons.
The emphasis on warmth and outdoor practicality extends to other products that support comfort and convenience in chilly weather. The heated jacket category, in particular, represents a segment where performance and price intersect, offering readers a chance to invest in warmth-efficient gear that can mitigate cold-related fatigue and discomfort. The price reduction underscores the retailer’s strategy of promoting functional outerwear that aligns with seasonal demand and everyday usability.
In parallel, the roundup includes accessories and gear that support outdoor activities and personal well-being, such as compact portable speakers and durable wearable tech suited for outdoor use. The inclusion of such items reflects a broader trend toward combining comfort with technology in a way that supports an active lifestyle. For readers who enjoy outdoor hobbies, commuting, or seasonal travel, the deals provide an opportunity to upgrade gear without overextending the budget.
The health, fitness, and outdoor gear section can be approached with a practical framework:
- Prioritize core warmth needs: If you live in climates with cold seasons, investing in a high-quality heated jacket can deliver meaningful comfort and energy savings.
- Assess battery life and charging: When considering heated apparel, verify battery capacity, charging methods, and compatibility with existing power sources to ensure reliable warmth during extended outdoor activities.
- Combine with complementary gear: Pair heated jackets with other outdoor essentials—like portable sound devices, compact backpacks, or weather-ready accessories—to maximize both comfort and functionality.
- Consider durability and safety: Look for materials that provide insulation, wind-resistance, and overall durability for long-term use in variable outdoor conditions.
Together, these items form a practical and appealing subset of the day’s deals for readers who want to stay warm and prepared without sacrificing performance or reliability.
Deals summary: best-value highlights and what they mean for shoppers
This concluding portion of the main content distills the most impactful price moves and explains why they matter for readers planning purchases from this deal day. The overarching narrative centers on two anchor products—the Apple Watch Ultra 2 at $719 (Black Titanium and Natural Titanium) and the M1 MacBook Air at $509.99—paired with a spectrum of complementary offers across home tech, audio, gaming, and outdoor apparel. The combination of these price points presents readers with a diversified set of opportunities to upgrade essential devices and everyday gear without paying a premium for peak demand periods.
Key takeaways from the best-value highlights include:
- Apple Watch Ultra 2 pricing: A $719 price for the Ultra 2 across finishes signals a strong balance between rugged features, health and fitness capabilities, and outdoor-ready construction, making it a good moment for readers who want durability alongside the refined Apple experience.
- M1 MacBook Air at an all-time-low price: The $509.99 price at Best Buy stands out as a milestone for budget-conscious buyers seeking dependable portability and efficiency without chasing the latest processor advances.
- Self-sealing and automatic trash cans: The Airdeer 4-gallon model’s discount to $129.99 emphasizes practical home automation and convenience that can meaningfully reduce daily chores and odor management in kitchens and office spaces.
- Portable cleaning technology value: The BISSELL Little Green at a marked-down price showcases how compact cleaning devices can deliver quick wins for homeowners dealing with spills and pet messes.
- Heated outerwear and seasonal gear: The DEWBU heated jacket’s pricing supports buyers who want warmth without compromising on style or comfort, particularly when paired with seasonal outdoor activities.
For readers seeking to maximize savings across the promotion period, a prudent approach is to consider both immediate needs and longer-term value. The Apple Watch Ultra 2’s robust build and fitness features align with ongoing health tracking and outdoor activity goals, while the M1 MacBook Air’s portability makes it an enduring investment for students and professionals who value battery life and light-weight design. The home and outdoor gear deals provide practical, everyday upgrades that can improve comfort and convenience throughout the year, making this deal day a well-rounded opportunity to refresh multiple facets of daily life.
In addition to the core items, the broader catalog includes a wide range of discounted accessories and devices—from AirTags and AirPods to gaming peripherals and smart plugs. While individual prices vary by retailer, the overall emphasis remains on value, versatility, and the potential for readers to curate a well-balanced tech and lifestyle portfolio at reduced costs. The day’s deals exemplify how a single promotional event can deliver cross-category savings that resonate with diverse readers—from tech enthusiasts seeking the latest gear to homeowners aiming to simplify household tasks and stay warm during colder months.
Conclusion
As this Thursday round-up demonstrates, a single day can deliver a spectrum of savings that touch on core tech, home comfort, and everyday practicality. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 price points, combined with the M1 MacBook Air’s record-low discount, establish a compelling narrative for readers who want to invest in high-value devices without paying premium prices during a peak shopping period. Simultaneously, the slate of home, audio, and outdoor gear deals offers meaningful improvements to daily routines, from improved waste management and automated home tasks to enhanced warmth and performance in cold-weather gear.
The overarching takeaway for readers is to leverage careful consideration of use-case needs, price history, and retailer promotions to maximize savings. By evaluating each product within the context of personal priorities—whether it’s upgrading a primary computing device, arming a smart home setup, or equipping yourself for winter outdoor activities—shoppers can capture significant value across multiple categories. The deals presented on December 12, 2024, reflect a thoughtful blend of essential upgrades and practical enhancements, designed to help readers navigate a busy holiday shopping season with confidence and clarity.
