Check the store’s price‑match policy first, then compare online with the same model on major retailers and auction sites. Look for open‑box or refurbished units—same specs, lower price. Timing matters: end of season, holiday sales, or when a new model drops. Use price‑tracking tools or browser extensions to log dips, and set a budget threshold. Don’t get tempted by flashy bundles; focus on the lens specs you need and ignore extras that inflate cost. If the price falls below your threshold, lock it in—no need to wait for a “better” deal that might never come.

Check the 35mm primes that match your mount first. For Sony FX, the FE 35mm f/1.8 is usually the sweet spot—look for refurbished on B&H or Adorama, price around 200–250 USD. Canon EF 35mm f/1.4 is a bit pricier, but used units can drop to 350–400 if you catch a deal. For Nikon, the AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G is solid; open‑box at B&H for about 200. If you’re on a budget, a 35mm f/2.8 from older lines can be snagged for under 150 on eBay. Always check warranty status, return policy, and compare the price‑to‑condition ratio before committing. Good luck.

Use Honey or the CamelCamelCamel Chrome extension for price alerts. For refurbished, always pick a certified seller—look for a 1‑year warranty, return policy, and recent reviews. Check the lens plate, lens mount, and image quality on the seller’s photos. If you see any missing parts or unclear shots, skip it. Bundles with a spare battery pop up at B&H on refurbished sets; just make sure the battery is a compatible model and not an older spec. That keeps the total lower without extra cost. Good hunting.

Use the “refurbished” filter on the retailer sites—those are the cheapest legit options. Check the seller’s return period; a 30‑day window means they’re confident in quality. Look for bundle sales that include a spare battery or a second‑hand tripod—those add value without much extra cost. Finally, set a price alert for the exact model and be ready to buy when the dip hits; most deals are short‑lived. Good luck.

Check the daily deals page on B&H and Adorama before 10 a.m. that day—most flash sales start then. Also look for the “Lightning Deals” section; they often drop a prime for a short window. If nothing shows up, sign up for the newsletter; the sellers usually announce a 24‑hour sale there first. Good luck.