Introduction—Why AliExpress 11.11 Is a Big Deal
Ready to dive into the world’s biggest shopping party—but wonder if it’s actually worth it?
The AliExpress 11.11 Sale 2025 has turned into a global mega‑event: early access, stacked coupons, big‑name brands, and jaw‑dropping discounts.
But here’s the kicker: not every deal is the steal it claims to be—hidden markups, inflated “original” prices, and rushed purchases can turn a “bargain” into regret.
In this article you’ll discover:
- Exactly how the sale works and what’s new this year.
- Smart, scannable tips to verify real discounts—so you don’t fall for faux savings.
- The best categories to target (and the ones to skip).
- A user‑approved game plan so you walk away with value—not just impulse buys.
Swipe up, scroll smart, and let’s cut through the noise—so you shop with confidence, crisis‑free.
History of the AliExpress 11.11 Sale
Origin of Singles Day in China
Singles’ Day (also called “Double 11”) began in China as a celebration for single people, held annually on November 11 (11/11). The date, repeating four “1”s, symbolized singleness.
Evolution of AliExpress’s Participation
AliExpress (part of Alibaba Group) leveraged the Singles Day momentum to become part of the global 11.11 shopping festival. For example, in a 2023 press release, AliExpress announced “millions of products… with discounts as high as 50%” for the 11.11 event.
Growth in Global Popularity
Over the years, the 11.11 sale has grown far beyond China. Sales volumes have reached record levels—Alibaba alone pulled in USD 38.4 billion in a single 24‑hour period back in 2019. Meanwhile, platforms like AliExpress now hold global campaigns with multi‑day sales, warming‑up phases, and country‑specific deals.
How to Identify Real Discounts vs. Fake Deals
Step 1 – Compare Historical Prices
Before clicking “Buy,” check how the price has changed over the last few weeks. Many sellers raise a product’s price just before the AliExpress 11.11 sale and then call the drop a “big discount,” when in fact you’re paying the same or even more.
“Some products are genuinely cheaper, and some have prices elevated… Everyone just needs to hunt for real discounts.” Reddit
Tips:
- Install a price‑tracker browser extension (e.g., AliPrice, Keepa) and monitor your wishlist items for at least a week.
- If you see the “original” price just a few days before 11.11 is far higher than usual, treat the “discount” as suspicious.
Step 2 – Check Seller Ratings & Reviews
Even if the discount seems real, the deal’s value depends on the seller’s reliability.
What to examine:
- Store rating (aim for 95%+ if possible)
- Number of orders the seller has fulfilled
- Recent reviews—look for mentions of delivery time, product quality, and “as described” status.
- How long the seller has been active
On trusted forums, one shopper warns, “The store name ‘Store934520…’ with few followers and a 95% rating doesn’t reassure me.”
Step 3 – Beware of Inflated Pre-Sale Prices
A common trick: raise the price a week or two before the sale, then reduce it during 11.11 and claim “50% off,” but the sale price is actually the same as the pre-raise price.
Actionable check:
- Add the product to your cart now and note its current price.
- Use the “Add to Wishlist” or save the link, then check after the price drops—if you saved nothing, the deal isn’t strong.
- Compare the sale price with alternative sellers offering the same product. The post from Aliholic contains examples where the “discounted” price was still higher than another seller’s day‑to‑day price.
Step 4 – Use Price‑Tracking Tools
Tracking tools give you an edge. They help you spot true price drops, track seller behaviors, and receive alerts.
Recommended tools & methods:
- Browser extension or marketplace plug‑in (e.g., AliPrice) to show historical price graph.
- Set up alerts when the price crosses your desired threshold.
- Check “Similar items” or alternate listings to verify whether the same product appears elsewhere at a lower price. One forum user shares how they found identical items cheaper than the 11.11 “deal.”
Top Categories & Products Worth Buying
Electronics & Gadgets
- This is the top‑performing category during AliExpress’s 11.11 sale—think smartphones, wearables, docking stations, and high‑capacity power banks.
- What to look for:
- Global‑version smartphones from brands like Xiaomi, OnePlus, etc.
- Smartwatch or fitness band bundles at big markdowns.
- Laptop/tablet or peripheral deals (SSD, USB‑C docks, gaming gear).
- Why it stands out: Discounts of 30–70% are common. For example, “Up to 70% off” category savings are noted.
- Action cue: If you’ve been waiting for a major gadget upgrade, bookmark what you want now and monitor price history so you’re ready the moment the deal drops.
Fashion & Accessories
- Not just electronics—fashion & accessories (clothing, watches, jewelry, and bags) also see heavy discounts.
- What to keep in mind:
- Authentic branded watches, jewelry, or designer‑style pieces from reliable sellers.
- Trendy items (bags, sneakers, and seasonal wear) are often bundled with extra coupons.
- Action cue: Add your size/style to your wishlist ahead of time. Many fashion deals are limited‑stock and move fast.
Home, Kitchen & Lifestyle Items
- Big savings aren’t limited to tech or fashion—home appliances, kitchen gadgets, décor items, and hobby gear all show up with substantial markdowns.
- What to watch for:
- Smart‑home devices (robot vacuums, smart plugs, and air fryers).
- Kitchen essentials: blenders, cookware, and high‑capacity appliances. Example listed: a 3.5L smart air fryer for ~€59 in one guide.
- Hobby gear: DIY electronics, 3D printers, and creative tools.
- Action cue: Because shipping and import fees may apply for larger items, check warehouse origin, shipping time, and return policy early.
Limited Edition, Exclusive & Collectible
- During 11.11, rare or limited‑edition items often appear—e.g., collectible toys, special bundles, and exclusive versions of popular gadgets.
- What to target:
- Official‑brand stores on AliExpress with “Flagship” status.
- Pre-sale promotions where you commit a small deposit now to guarantee a deal later.
- Action cue: If you’re after something niche or collectible, set alerts and keep a tab open—these deals vanish fastest.
Mini Table: Quick Category Summary
| Category | Typical Discount Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Electronics & Gadgets | ~30%‑70% off | Tech upgrades, gaming gear |
| Fashion & Accessories | ~40%‑60% off | Style items, seasonal wardrobe refresh |
| Home & Kitchen Lifestyle | ~30%‑60% off | Appliances, home‑improvement gifts |
| Limited Edition / Collectibles | Very high volatility | Unique finds, collector’s items |
Final Takeaway
Focus your 11.11 game plan around two to three categories you care most about—for example, “smartphones + wearables” or “home appliances + décor.” Pre-add to cart, monitor prices, and stack coupons, and when you see a true drop (vs. an inflated “sale” price), hit it. The payoff: you get value and avoid buyer’s regret.
Coupon Strategies & Price‑Tracking Tips
How to Stack Coupons Effectively
- Begin by collecting seller/store coupons directly on the product page—click “Get Coupon” before adding to cart.
- Next, add the item to your cart and delay checkout slightly—this sometimes triggers select or personalized coupons (especially during big sales like 11.11).
- Then apply the platform/site‑wide coupon (if available) at checkout once the cart meets the minimum threshold.
- After that, apply your accumulated coins or other internal rewards.
- For example, “100 coins = approx. $1 off” in many regions.
- Finally, include any external cashback or affiliate deals you can stack post‑purchase (if your region allows).
- Here’s a user insight: “Seller’s coupons apply before coins discount … Combine it with choice days, and you get an extra discount.” Reddit
- Tip: Always check that applying a coupon doesn’t drop your cart below the threshold needed for another coupon or discount layer.
Using AliExpress Coins & App‑Only Offers
- Coins are earned in the mobile app through tasks like daily check‑ins, adding items to a wishlist, and playing games.
- Once you’ve collected coins, go to Coins & Coupons → Exchange Coins for Coupons in the app.
- Important user note: “You can not use coins at your own discretion. … the discount is only a bunch of cents.” Reddit
- Coins often offer small additional savings—they may not create massive discounts alone, but when combined with coupons, they boost savings.
- Checklist:
- Use the mobile app for coins & exchange—features are often app-only.
- Monitor when red/flash coupons drop during big sale events (like 11.11).
- Ensure the product allows coins and coupons together (check product page).
- Don’t rely solely on coins—use them as an extra layer on top of a strong deal.
Price‑Tracking Tools & Timing Your Purchase
- Use tools/extensions (or apps) that show historical price graphs, recent price drops, and alerts when your desired price is reached.
- During big events like 11.11, fill the cart with the item ahead of time and track the “normal” price vs. the sale price to spot if the discount is real.
- Strategy: Set your target price, and when the sale hits or goes below that, apply your coupon stack + coins and checkout.
- Why it matters: Many sellers raise pre‑sale prices so that the “discount” seems larger. Tracking helps avoid those traps.
Putting It All Together—Your 5‑Step Savings Game Plan
- Wishlist & track your target products in advance of 11.11.
- Collect all available store, select, and platform coupons ahead of time.
- Accumulate coins via app tasks, check‑ins, and games ahead of sale day.
- Monitor price history and set an alert or target price.
- At checkout, apply coupons in the correct order → coins → confirm final discount → complete purchase before stock runs out or price rises.
Using this plan gives you the best chance of real savings instead of just “sale hype.”
AliExpress 11.11–User Experiences: Reviews & Reddit Insights
✅ Positive Experiences
- Some users found genuine savings if they tracked items ahead of time: “Not a scam at all. I got around $100 off the stuff I’ve been watching for a year.” Reddit
- Deals were achieved by stacking coupons + coins + pre‑sale prep. Reddit
- One user: “The 11.11 Sale treated me with some upgraded audio gear. Saved almost $200 on the price!” Reddit
These show that yes, real value can be found—but under the right conditions.
⚠️ Negative & Cautionary Experiences
- Many users report fake discounts or inflated prices: “The sale has not started yet… I just checked the prices of them, and jeez, all of them have gone up 20‑30%, and the marked-down ‘Black Friday’ prices are even more than what I paid for!” Reddit
- Large number of comments: “Waiting all year for a deal, but the 11.11 price was only a few dollars off normal.” Reddit
- Some reflect a sense of disillusionment: “This sale is a complete scam … Many items I had on my list stayed with the same price (going up/down 1‑2%), but a hefty shipping price was added.” Reddit
🧠 Insights & Learnings from the Community
- Track prices ahead of time— Many complaints stem from not knowing the baseline price. Without that, you can’t judge a “deal.” Reddit
- Coupons and stacking matter—users who got the best value combined coupons and coins and picked the right items.
- Seller credibility & shipping are major pain points—delayed shipping or flimsy seller service ruined some deals even when the discount looked good. Reddit
- Regional variation affects value—some users in certain countries got fewer coupons, higher shipping fees, or weaker deals. Reddit
📝 Summary Verdict
While the 11.11 sale can deliver strong value, it’s far from guaranteed. For it to be worth it:
- Know the true pre‑sale price of what you want.
- Be ready to stack coupons/coins and act when the deal appears.
- Don’t assume the “sale price” is significantly lower—sometimes it just seems lower.
AliExpress 11.11 vs. Other Global Sales
How They Stack Up—Scope & Scale
- The 11.11 (Singles’ Day) sale, originally in China, has grown into the world’s largest online shopping event. For example, one report showed the event was “2.5 times bigger than Black Friday and Cyber Monday combined.”
- One breakdown:
- 11.11 in 2023 reached about USD 156 billion in gross merchandise value (GMV), according to a summary.
- In contrast, many Western sales events (Black Friday/Cyber Monday) were much smaller in past years.
Key takeaway: If you’re shopping on AliExpress, the 11.11 event tends to offer larger-scale deals, more global participation, and deeper marketing than many other single‑sale events.
Timing, Duration & Global Reach
- The 11.11 event typically begins with a warm‑up phase days (or even weeks) prior to 11 November and continues for several days after. For example, AliExpress’s 2022 event started earlier than ever with the “longest ever sales period.”
- By contrast, Black Friday is concentrated around one weekend (the fourth Friday in November) and is often shorter in duration.
- Global reach: AliExpress’s 11.11 is positioned as a “global shopping festival” with sellers and buyers in many regions; even within Europe AliExpress noted sharp year‑on‑year increases in participating sellers and transactions.
Implication for you: A longer window to prepare, browse, collect coupons, and observe price history before the peak of 11.11—unlike “rush weekend” sales.
Discount Depth & Mechanics
- Many analysts cite that 11.11 offers deeper potential discounts on AliExpress than comparable sales on that platform. For example, one comparison shows certain products were cheaper on 11.11 vs. Black Friday.
- Mechanics differ: 11.11 often relies heavily on coupon stacking, coins, pre‑sale deposits, and flash deals. Black Friday is more straightforward and discount-centric for many Western retailers.
- However—note caution: Some sellers raise the pre-sale price so the “discount” isn’t as big as it looks. This occurs at any large sale but is particularly discussed around 11.11.
Regional Considerations
- Shipping, import fees, local warehouse availability, and regional coupon accessibility may differ between sales. While 11.11 is global, many deals might favor regions with stronger logistics or local stock.
- Black Friday deals might appear in Western markets with local warehouses/fulfillment, meaning for Bangladeshi shoppers the “true cost” (shipping + duties) may offset apparent savings.
- Tip: For Bangladesh shoppers on AliExpress—track total landed cost, not just discount percentage, and compare across sales events.
Which Sale Should You Prioritize?
- If you only pick one major sale event on AliExpress, 11.11 is arguably the top candidate—especially if you have items in your wishlist and want the maximum coupon stacking and global competition.
- If you miss 11.11 or want to diversify timing, Black Friday or other regional events can still be good—but likely with less discount depth or fewer stacking possibilities (on AliExpress).
- Also consider: timing your buy depends on your region, category, shipping urgency, and whether you tracked the item for price history.
Mini Comparison Table
| Event | Typical Timing | Discount Potential | Unique Mechanisms |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11.11 (AliExpress) | November 1–13 (warm-up → main) | High (deep discounts + stacking) | Coupons + coins + flash deals + global stock |
| Black Friday | Late Nov (around Thanksgiving) | Medium to high, but variable | Traditional discounts, more Western region focused |
Bottom line for your readers: As a Bangladeshi shopper on AliExpress, 11.11 offers the best shot at major savings—if you prepare, stack correctly, and factor in shipping/fees. But don’t assume it’s automatically the best deal for every item—always check price history and compare across events.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When diving into the AliExpress 11.11 sale, it’s not just about spotting good deals—it’s also about avoiding pitfalls that can turn savings into regrets. Here are the biggest mistakes shoppers make, and how you can skip them:
Impulse Buying & FOMO
- Feeling pressured by countdowns, “only X left” alerts, and massive discount banners.
- “I’m pretty disappointed … The coupons are country‑specific; they’re not working for me.” Reddit
- Solution: Add items to your wishlist first. Revisit them after tracking price and coupon stacking; buy only if it ticks all your boxes.
- Key question: Would I buy this if there was no big sale banner? If the answer is “no,” hold off.
Ignoring Shipping, Import Fees & Delivery Time
- The “deal” may look cheap, but if shipping is slow or duties/import fees are high (especially for Bangladesh), the final cost can balloon.
- “Check shipping origin… goods can take a bit longer due to this being a MASSIVE sale.”
- Solution: Before checkout, check the “ships from” location, estimated delivery to Bangladesh, and any local import/customs implications. Factor that into your savings.
Falling for Fake Discounts or Price Inflation
- Sellers might raise prices before the sale and then “drop” them during 11.11 to claim big discounts.
- “In practice, most discounts … turn out to be fake.”
- Solution: Use a price‑tracking tool (extension or app) to check the price history of the product. Make sure the sale price is actually lower than the recent regular price.
Buying from Low‑Rated Sellers Without Due Diligence
- A strong discount is no guarantee of good quality or reliable shipping.
- “I bought a ton of stuff … Now I’m afraid this seller is likely not going to ship…” Reddit
- Solution: Check seller rating (ideally 95%+), number of orders, and read recent reviews. Prefer “Official Store” badges for brand items.
Neglecting to Read Product Details, Specifications & Return Policies
- Many disappointment cases stem from differences in size, spec, or condition not matching expectations.
- “The worst mistakes … buying without reading item descriptions.”
- Solution:
- Read the full item description, and check sizes & color options (especially for clothing/accessories).
- Check return policy: Does the seller accept returns? Who pays for shipping back?
- Save screenshots of the product page and specs in case you need to open a dispute.
Using Coupons Blindly or Not Verifying Their Conditions
- Coupons may have minimum spending limits, specific item eligibility, or expire quickly.
- “Using fake or expired codes … make sure the coupon is valid.”
- Solution: Before checkout:
- Verify that the coupon applied properly.
- Check the combined final price after the coupon, coin discount, and shipping.
- Confirm you are within coupon terms (region, seller, category).
✅ Final Takeaway
By avoiding these common mistakes, you position yourself to gain real value during the 11.11 sale—rather than falling into traps. In short: plan ahead, verify deals, choose trusted sellers, factor in shipping/duties, and buy what you actually need.
Step‑by‑Step Buying Guide
Here’s your practical walkthrough to purchase on AliExpress during the 11.11 sale—optimized for mobile/scanning and tailored for shoppers in Bangladesh (and similar markets). Each step is built for clarity and action.
1. Create Account & Prepare Payment Info
- Download the AliExpress app or visit the website and register (email or mobile).
- Add your shipping address (full details: address, postal code, and phone number) for Bangladesh delivery.
- Pre‑save a payment method (card, PayPal if available, or other supported local method) so checkout is smooth.
- Tip: Enable notifications so you catch flash deals/coupon drops early.
2. Build Your Wishlist & Pre‑Select Items
- Before the sale day, search for items you’re planning to buy and add them to your wishlist or cart. (This helps you monitor price changes.)
- For each item, check:
- Seller rating & feedback.
- Shipping origin/warehouse location (important for Bangladesh).
- Estimated shipping time and shipping cost.
- Use this prep phase to collect available store coupons, add to your coin balance, and set price alerts if using tracking tools.
3. Price Monitor & Coupon Stack Before 11.11
- Use a price‑tracking tool or manually check your wishlist items to see normal/typical price history. This gives you baseline data to evaluate the sale price.
- Collect all possible coupons: seller‑specific, platform‑wide, and region‑specific.
- Exchange coins (if applicable) via the app to stack on top of other discounts.
- Set your target price: i.e., “If the item drops to X BDT or lower, and shipping and duties are under Y, then buy.”
4. During the Sale: Add to Cart & Checkout Smartly
- On sale day (or just before the big drop), add your preselected items to the cart (or use “Buy Now” if you’re ready).
- Double‑check:
- Has the price dropped compared to your baseline?
- Are all applicable coupons applied (store, platform, coins)?
- What is the total cost (item price + shipping + import duties or local fees)?
- For Bangladesh: ensure the “Ships from” option is favorable (ideally a warehouse closer to your region or reliable shipping).
- Click Checkout and select your preferred shipping method—choose the fastest/most reliable option you’re comfortable with (balance cost vs. time).
- Confirm payment. Be sure you’re paying via AliExpress’s payment gateway (not outside the platform) to maintain buyer protection.
5. After Purchase: Track Order, Inspect on Arrival, Dispute If Needed
- Once placed, go to My Orders → Track Status (“Processing,” “Shipped,” “In Transit”). If there’s a long delay, message the seller.
- When the item arrives, inspect it carefully. Check if it matches the description (model, specs, condition).
- Important: Do not confirm receipt until you’ve checked everything. Confirming ends buyer protection.
- If there’s an issue (wrong item, damaged, non‑delivery), open a dispute within the buyer protection window. Provide photos, descriptions, and chat logs if needed.
- Leave a review of the seller and product—this helps future buyers and bolsters your own history of reliability.
6. Final Checklist Before You Hit “Buy”
- ✔ Is the sale price genuinely lower than the regular price you monitored?
- ✔ Have you stacked all available coupons and coins?
- ✔ Are shipping costs and expected import/local fees factored in for Bangladesh?
- ✔ Is the seller rating high and are the reviews recent and positive?
- ✔ Did you verify the shipping origin & estimated delivery time (so you’re comfortable with it)?
- ✔ Do you have a payment method saved, and are you ready for the checkout?
- ✔ Are you purchasing because you need it / want it (not just because the flash deal is flashy)?
Why this method works:
By following these steps, you’re turning sale‑season pressure into controlled action—you avoid last‑minute regret, you buy only when the deal truly meets your target, and you protect yourself from hidden costs or unreliable sellers.
FAQ
Q1: Is the AliExpress 11.11 sale really worth it?
A: Yes—but only if you plan ahead, track real discounts, stack coupons/coins, and factor in shipping/import costs. Otherwise, the “sale slump” can leave you paying close to regular price.
Q2: When does the AliExpress 11.11 sale start and end?
A: For 2025 the key timeline is:
- Warm-up: Nov 1–7
- Pre‑sale: Nov 8–10
- Main event: Nov 11–19
- Extra deals (Black Friday/Cyber Monday window): until Dec 3.
Q3: Are all discounts on AliExpress real?
A: No. Some sellers inflate pre‑sale prices, then “drop” them to claim big discounts. Always check price history and compare.
Q4: How can I get extra savings on 11.11?
A: Stack value by combining:
- Platform‑wide coupons
- Store/seller‑specific coupons
- Exchangeable “coins” in the AliExpress app
- Monitoring flash deals and early‑bird items
Q5: Can I trust AliExpress sellers during 11.11?
A: You can, if you apply due diligence:
- Prefer sellers with high ratings (95%+ if possible) and many orders.
- Review past reviews, especially for shipping & product authenticity.
- Factor in “ships from” location, especially for Bangladesh or similar regions.
Q6: Does the sale work differently in different countries (e.g., Bangladesh)?
A: Yes. Shipping costs, import duties, local warehouse availability, and coupon eligibility can vary by region. For Bangladesh shoppers, include total landed cost (price + shipping + duty) when judging deals.
Final Verdict: Is the Aliexpress 11.11 Sale Worth It?
✅ When the 11.11 sale is worth it
- If you’ve prepared ahead: tracked the item’s price history, added it to your wishlist/cart, and collected store and platform coupons.
- If you’re shopping in the right categories (electronics, gadgets, smart home, fashion), deeper discounts are more common.
- If you’re stacking savings: coupons + coins + flash deals + trusted seller = strong chance of real value.
- If you’ve considered total cost: item price + shipping + import/customs (especially important in regions like Bangladesh).
When those conditions align, you can walk away with genuine savings and a satisfying purchase.
⚠️ When it might not be worth it
- If you go in without preparation: no price‑history check, no coupons, no trusted seller vetting.
- If you fall for the hype and buy just because something looks “on sale” but the price hasn’t really dropped. For example:
“From my AliExpress experience… the prices… will indeed be lower than regular ones, but usually by literally several cents.” Reddit
- If shipping, duties or slow delivery (due to high volume) eat up your savings (one user said delivery delays were more obvious during the 11.11 rush).
- If you buy from low‑rated sellers or accept inflated “base” prices so the “discount” is misleading.
🎯 Our Verdict
If I had to give one clear statement:
Yes, the AliExpress 11.11 sale can be worth it—but only for prepared, selective, and informed shoppers. Without that, the “sale” may just feel like hype.