Best Browser Extensions for Finding Tech Deals

TL;DR

Why You Need a Specialized Tool for Tech Shopping

Tech prices fluctuate like crypto markets. Retailers play psychological games with "discounts" that aren't real deals at all. Here's what you're up against:

• Fake urgency: "Only 3 left in stock!" messages that reset daily
• Inflated MSRPs: Products marked down from artificially high "original" prices
• Hidden coupons: Promo codes buried in newsletters or expired deal sites
• Price cycling: Items that drop $100-300 every few weeks

Manual deal hunting means opening 12 tabs, checking three deal forums, and still missing the best price. Extensions automate this tedious process.

1. PayPal Honey

Honey is the Swiss Army knife of shopping extensions. When you hit checkout on sites like Newegg, Best Buy, or B&H Photo, it automatically tests every available coupon code in its database. No copy-pasting, no tab-switching—just instant savings.

The Droplist feature acts as a personal price tracker for items you're eyeing. Add that RTX 4080 to your Droplist, and Honey pings you when prices drop. You also earn PayPal Rewards points on purchases, which convert to actual money.

Pros of Honey

• Completely hands-off coupon testing
• Works across 30,000+ online stores
• Price drop alerts prevent FOMO purchases
• No upfront cost or subscription

Cons of Honey

• Savings quality depends on available codes
• Won't magically create discounts where none exist
• Price comparison features lag behind specialized tools

2. Rakuten Cashback

Rakuten (formerly Ebates) is your straightforward cashback extension that pays you for shopping you're already doing. Activate it before buying from 2,500+ partner stores, and get 1-40% of your purchase back as real money.

Tech retailers like Microsoft Store, Lenovo, Dell, and HP frequently offer 8-12% cashback through Rakuten. Stack that with manufacturer sales, and you're looking at serious savings. New users typically snag a $10-30 welcome bonus too.

Pros of Rakuten

• Actual cash returns, not points or gift cards
• High cashback rates during promotional periods
• Works on software, subscriptions, and physical tech
• Browser extension and mobile app available

Cons of Rakuten

• You must activate before each purchase (it's not automatic)
• Payouts happen quarterly via PayPal or check
• Some categories have lower cashback percentages

3. The Camelizer

If you find tech deals primarily on Amazon, The Camelizer is non-negotiable. This extension reveals historical pricing data, showing you whether that "Lightning Deal" is actually a deal or just marketing smoke.

The Camelizer displays three price lines: Amazon direct, third-party sellers, and used items. Set target prices for products you want, and get alerts when they hit your number. It's particularly useful for preventing impulse buys during Prime Day or Black Friday.

Pros of The Camelizer

• Data-driven shopping removes guesswork
• Price history charts expose fake discounts
• Custom price alerts save money automatically
• Free with no account required

Cons of The Camelizer

• Amazon-focused (doesn't cover Newegg, Micro Center, etc.)
• No coupon code functionality
• Doesn't offer cashback rewards

FAQ

Are these browser extensions safe to use?

Yes, when downloaded from official sources. Honey, Rakuten, and The Camelizer are owned by major companies (PayPal, Rakuten Group, and camelcamelcamel respectively). They use standard e-commerce tracking methods.

Can I use multiple shopping extensions at the same time?

Absolutely. Use Honey for automatic coupon codes, Rakuten for cashback, and The Camelizer for price history. They don't conflict because each serves a different function.

Do cashback extensions like Rakuten work on software and digital purchases?

Usually yes, but policies vary by retailer. Software subscriptions, digital game purchases, and cloud services often qualify for cashback. However, gift cards and subscription renewals sometimes get excluded. Check Rakuten's store page before purchasing to confirm eligibility.