We know 2020 has been a looong year, and the holiday shopping season has been no exception. After Black Friday itself, it’s understandable if you’re feeling all bargained out, but here’s the thing: Thanks to Cyber Monday, many of the best deals are still to come!
That’s in part because Cyber Monday tends to see more sitewide (as opposed to category-specific) deals than Black Friday, according to our deals editor, Nathan Burrow. (That said, Nathan has also noticed that Cyber Monday usually bests Black Friday pricing in certain product categories, particularly bedding and apparel.) In addition, while Cyber Monday deals historically haven’t lasted long, Nathan thinks that this year’s price drops will experience a more enduring shelf life than usual.
Many DIYers use Cyber Monday to find great deals. Here are some of the best categories to look out for, along with items that are already on sale.
When is Cyber Monday 2021?
Cyber Monday 2021 will fall on November, 29. It’s directly following Black Friday (26th), which in turn follows the prior Thanksgiving holiday (25th).
We will, however, most likely see a ton of Cyber Monday deals before that date – both as retailers launch their promotions early and because a lot of stores tend to carry their sales over from Black Friday. You might not see ‘Cyber Monday’ branding on their sites before Monday AM, but it’s very common to have a ton of leftovers from Black Friday still running. That said, Monday tends to bring a fresh wave of separate deals – many of which will be worth waiting for.
Another likely scenario we could see play out is retailers expanding their one-day event into a larger ‘Cyber week sale’. This is a more common occurrence in the past few years and a welcome one – even though it’s probably worth making your purchases on Monday just in case.
Is Cyber Monday better than Black Friday?
In short, no – Cyber Monday and Black Friday should feature deals of similar quality. This could vary depending on what items you’re looking to pick up, however.
According to an interview conducted by Business Insider, Steve Koenig of the Consumer Technology Association stated that “Black Friday equals big-ticket items” and that “many [people’s] purchases end up being for themselves or their own households”. Blackfriday.com, in a similar article, specifically narrowed down deals on TVs, toys, gaming consoles, and appliances as being better on Black Friday, whereas Cyber Monday was better for deals on laptops, clothing, and travel.
Our own experience is that Cyber Monday deals are generally a continuation of the prior Black Friday sales, both in width and content. Since Black Friday comes first, you can expect retailers to start strong by offering those ‘big ticket’ items for sale. Things like games consoles or other highly sought-after items are likely to sell out extremely quickly, so you’ll want to keep your eye out over Black Friday for those. That said, it’s worth noting that the vast majority of deals do not sell out over either sales event. Cyber Monday deals on things like cheap laptops, TVs, clothing, and appliances will all still be fantastic and in some cases could possibly exceed those offered on Black Friday.
Best Cyber Monday Tool Deals 2021:
1. FLEXIMOUNTS 2-Pack 2x6ft Garage Shelving
These classic black wire shelves from FLEXIMOUNTS are a study in simplicity. The company prides itself on manufacturing storage products that are easy for one person to install on his or her own. Clear and detailed instructions are included, along with all the hardware you’ll need, and even a bubble level to help you ensure accuracy. Each kit comes with two wire shelves and the high-quality screws and brackets you’ll need for mounting. Arrange the shelves however you like—side by side or stacked. Thanks to their heavy-duty steel construction, each shelf can bear up to 400 pounds.
2. Little Giant Ladder Systems 15422-001 Velocity Ladder with Wheels
Unfolded, this multi-position ladder—which doubles as an extension ladder—folds out to 22 feet, so feel free to toss out that old wooden dinosaur in your shed and take full advantage of the many ways to put this ladder to use. Plus, it has two wheels for easy transport to wherever you need it.
Diversity is the name of the game with the Little Giant Velocity Ladder, which is designed for several different uses. In other words, this is a worthy addition to any home, whether you’re in need of a new staircase ladder, trestle-and-plank ladder, 90-degree ladder, A-frame ladder, extension ladder—or all of the above. You can expect to get a lot of use out of this ladder, but keep in mind that it weighs a little on the heavy side, clocking in at nearly 40 pounds.
3. Tekton 30-piece combination wrench tool set
If you need wrenches of various sizes and aren’t averse to spending a bit more to get something nice, this 30-piece Tekton wrench tool kit is an excellent option. It comes with both standard and metric size wrenches, plus nifty plastic organizers to keep the combination wrench set tidy in your toolbox drawer. Sizes range from ¼ inch to 1 inch on the standard side and from 8 mm to 22 mm in metric land.
The open ends of these wrenches are angled 15 degrees to make it easier to access reclusive fasteners, and the boxed ends are designed to grip the sides of nuts or bolts to reduce the chances of rounding them off when torque is applied. With a mirror-like chrome finish, these tools not only look great, they’re built to last as an integral part of your mechanics tool set.
4. Maytag M400 Speed Heat Iron and Vertical Steamer
The Maytag M400 checks a lot of boxes for an iron that usually costs less than $50. It’s quick and effective at busting wrinkles, and it’s the most affordable iron I’ve tested that works reliably, with no leaking. It begins producing steam in about 25 seconds, faster than any other iron I’ve tried, and although it has the smallest water tank (6.5 ounces) of our three picks, it produces steam for about 30 percent longer than our upgrade pick, the Rowenta SteamForce, which typically costs almost three times as much.
The Maytag is also the lightest of our picks, which makes it easy on the hands and arms. Although heavier irons can be useful to flatten wrinkles, I was still able to easily smooth fabrics with the Maytag’s strong, solid burst of steam. It has a two-year warranty (longer coverage than the SteamForce, but the same as our runner-up, the Black+Decker Allure), and we’ve long-term tested it for two-and-a-half years so far with no problems.
5. SimpliSafe: Reader favorite DIY security system
SimpliSafe does home security on its own terms. That means ditching some of the things that turn customers off about security companies: brash salespeople and long contracts.
With SimpliSafe, you get to choose the equipment and monitoring level you want. It offers no-pressure online shopping and provides professional monitoring service on demand (that means no contracts).
Straightforward pricing makes it easy to know what you’ll spend out of pocket, but it can be challenging to shell out a few hundred dollars up front. The good news is that once you buy your SimpliSafe digital security system, you don’t have to spend another dime if you don’t want to.
6. Makita XT507PT 18V LXT Brushless 5‑pc Combo Kit
Makita, DeWalt, and Milwaukee really go head to head for the best overall in this group. When it came down to it, we just liked the grouping and value in the Makita kit a tiny bit more. All the top kits take advantage of brushless motors and are awfully close in performance specs. They also give you outstanding tools all the way around and are a step above the rest with their circular and reciprocating saws.
Makita, DeWalt, and Milwaukee also have very deep product lines to keep you on the platform for all your cordless tools. At around $749, you get a lot of bang for your buck when jumping into the Makita 18V LXT platform. This is also our pick for the best Makita power tool combo kit. They have larger kits, but this hits the sweet spot.
7. DeWalt 108-Piece Mechanic’s Tool Kit and Socket Set
If you need a decent set of essential tools but your budget is tighter than a pair of skinny jeans, check out this set from DeWalt, which goes for just $70. It’s not entirely comprehensive, lacking wrenches, pilers and a few other things, but it still comes with an impressive 108 pieces. This includes a nice smattering of metric and imperial sockets with corresponding 1/4- and 3/8-inch drive ratchets that feature a 72 tooth ratchet, so they work better in tight spaces. DeWalt’s kit also includes an array of Allen wrenches, a screwdriver-bit set and even a range of adapters and extension bars. Keeping things nice and tidy, this toolkit comes with a carrying case that latches up nice and tight. But perhaps best of all is the rating; this DeWalt offering has a score of 4.9 stars out of five after nearly 4,900 user reviews!
8. Klein Tools 32500 Multi-Bit Screwdriver
With its Multi-Bit Screwdriver, Klein Tools has made a do-all screwdriver with all the necessary bits in one spot. Its 11 driver bits include #1 and #2 Phillips; 3/8-, 5/16-, and 1/4 inch nut drivers; T10 and T15 Torx bits; #1 and #2 square drivers; and 1/4- and 3/16-inch slotted drivers.
The screwdriver houses all of the driver bits within a shaft that snaps securely into the cushioned handle with a ball detent. This clever design makes for simple bit changes and a streamlined tool kit that includes one screwdriver rather than many.
9. Channellock Tool Roll-5E E Series Set in a Tool Roll
Pliers play an absolutely critical part in every tool kit. The E Series set from Channellock contains some of the most essential types: adjustable pliers, diagonal cutters, nippers, linesman’s pliers, and needle-nose pliers, covering all the bases for most projects.
Channellock’s durable high-carbon steel and laser heat-treated edges and jaws ensure that these pliers last. XLT Xtreme Leverage Technology helps the user put sufficient clamping or cutting pressure on a fastener or nail without excessive effort. Channellock Blue grips provide slip resistance and shock absorption.
10. Stanley 33-735 Fatmax Tape Rule
Good tape measures are a cornerstone of a DIY-friendly tool kit, and Stanley’s Fatmax definitely fits the bill. The 33-735 Fatmax Tape Rule has plenty of features that stand out from the crowd, including a heavy-duty heat-treated spring and a special mylar-polyester blade for durability.
Stanley’s tape measure features BladeArmor, a coating that protects the first 6 inches of the blade—the most frequently used section. Several features make for extra-easy use: an oversize hook with catches on both the top and bottom, a whopping 11-foot extension, and a locking feature to maintain extension during multiple measurements. A built-in belt clip helps keep the tape measure close by between measuring tasks.
11. Craftsman Adjustable Wrench Set
It’s hard to place a value on a quality adjustable wrench, and this set of three from Craftsman is no exception to that rule. It includes 6-inch, 8-inch, and 10-inch wrenches, so users may choose the appropriate wrench for the job and leverage required.
Strong and durable all-steel alloy construction resists rust and corrosion. Clear markings on the jaws make it easy to dial the wrench to the appropriate size or determine the size of a fastener in seconds. The jaws on the 6-inch model adjust up to 15/16 inch. The 8- and 10-inch models adjust up to 1 3/16 inch and 1 3/8 inch, respectively.
12. DEKOPRO 168 Piece Mixed Hand Tool Kit with Case
Jump-start your tool collection with the DEKOPRO 168-piece hand tool kit. The set includes the most commonly used hand tools, including a hammer, handheld screwdrivers in a few common sizes (plus a screwdriver bit set to cover the rest), several wrenches including a ratchet wrench, two pairs of pliers, a measuring tape, and much more. Designed for automotive work and around-the-house repair projects, the DEKPRO tool kit has something for most situations. There’s even a level to make sure that painting is hanging straight on the wall. The hand tools come in a heavy-duty molded plastic case for easy organization, and the tools are made from high-quality steel and designed for durability.
13. CARTMAN 39-Piece Hand Tool Set with Case
Don’t let a tight budget keep you from getting the tools you need to make repairs around the house. The CARTMAN 39-piece set features the tools DIYers reach for most often—a hammer, pliers, four precision screwdrivers, a screwdriver bit set, a set of Allen wrenches, a measuring tape, and both a utility knife and scissors. You’ll have the hand tools you need for many home projects and repairs, such as replacing drawer pulls or assembling furniture, at an attractive price point. The tools come in a molded plastic case for storage.
14. TEKTON 6-Point Socket & Ratchet Set, 55-Piece
Make quick work of auto, lawn mower, or other engine repairs with the TEKTON 55-Piece Ratchet Set that offers a complete set of socket sizes, ranging from 5/32 inch to 9/16 inch, in 1/16-inch increments in both standard and deep-depth sockets. You’ll also receive a quick-release ratchet, a drive-spinner handle, extension bars, and a hex bit holder. Socket measurements are stamped into the metal of the socket instead of just being printed on the surface so they won’t wear off. Both the sockets and the holders come with polished chrome plating to help reduce rust, and they come in a handy storage case for keeping them organized.
15. METAKOO Hacksaw with Mini Hacksaw
Cut through copper, steel, and PVC pipes in a jiffy with the METAKOO Hacksaw with Mini Hacksaw. This hacksaw comes with two hacksaw frames, a standard saw frame and a mini frame. The set includes three saw blades: one designed for metal, another for PVC, and a third for wood. The blades will fit either hacksaw frame (in the mini frame the blade will stick out in front), and both saws feature ergonomic grips to reduce hand fatigue.
16. BLACK+DECKER 12V Max Drill 60-Piece Home Tool Kit
It’s hard to imagine any basic DIY project or household repair you couldn’t tackle with the BLACK+DECKER 12V Max Drill 60-Piece Home Tool Kit. This handy tool kit contains not just the basic hand tools you’ll reach for most often, including a hammer, screwdrivers, tape measure, pliers, wrench, ratcheting screwdriver with nut drivers, utility knife, and a level, it also comes with a BLACK+DECKER 12V Max Cordless Drill along with 10 assorted drill bits and 32 assorted screw-driving bits.
That means you’ll make short work of assembling furniture, tightening screws, hanging pictures, fixing that drooping door or garden gate, or any other common tasks on the honey-do list. And while these tools might not be professional quality, they are sturdy enough so that just about any average DIYer can rely on dependable performance use after use after use.
17. RYOBI 18-Volt ONE+ Lithium-Ion Cordless 6-Tool Combo Kit
Power tools are a must-have for tougher jobs, and the RYOBI 18-Volt ONE+ Lithium-Ion Cordless 6-Tool Combo Kit will help you tackle a wide range of tasks. The kit includes six popular power tools, two batteries, a charger, bag, and several accessories—basically, everything you need for a solid at-home workshop.
In this set, you’ll get an electric drill, impact driver, reciprocating saw, circular saw, multi-tool, and worklight, as well as a 1.5 Ah battery and 4 Ah battery. Because the tools are all part of the brand’s ONE+ platform, you can use the same batteries in all of them, as well as in other RYOBI ONE+ tools. The tools even come with a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty.
18. Flyshop 1-1/4 Inch Rubber Caps
Looking to hammer your Ikea pieces together without damaging the wood veneer? Rubber chair caps are a cheap hack to turn your everyday claw hammer into a rubber mallet. All you have to do is pick right diameter for your hammer (Tip: Most claw hammers are between 1 to 1.5″), and slide it on. Your neighbors will also thank you for turning the volume down, the rubber cap doubles as a sound dampener.
19. Finder Standard Size 10oz Silicone Caulking Gun
If you’re renting you can call your super for a quick fix, but as a homeowner its up to you to plug the leak and keep the heat in. My mother always keeps a caulk gun and two colors of quick seal tubes in her home at all times, one white and one clear, to stop holes in their tracks. Windows getting drafty? Re-caulk the frame before winter with a putty knife, sander and gun. Bathtub coming unglued? Tape it off and re-seal.
20. Husky Mechanics Tool Set 194-Piece H194MTS
If you plan to work on your car, you’ll need a quality mechanics tool set, such as this 194-piece kit from Husky. Designed for both professionals and DIYers, this kit is extremely comprehensive with quick-release ratchets in three sizes, 125 sockets, 14 combination wrenches, numerous drive sockets, and so much more.
The tools in this kit are forged from chromium-vanadium for unbeatable strength, and they have a polished chrome finish that you can easily wipe clean. They have large, hard-stamped size markings to help you quickly find the tool you need, and the plastic storage case has size markings, as well.