Amazon, the nation's biggest online retailer, held its annual Prime Day sale - and shoppers snapped up deals.

Retail expert Marshal Cohen, from the Long Island-based NPD Group, says Amazon's decision to move Prime Day to October from its traditional time in the summer has shifted retail trends.

Now the two-day sale is extending out the holiday shopping season by over a month.

One of the big categories for discounts is electronics, including Amazon's own branded products.

MORE: Deals from Amazon and other companies

​Other retailers aren't letting Amazon get all the sales - Target, Walmart and others had their own specials Wednesday as well.

But during the pandemic this year, there has been a lack of supplies for some popular items.

So, is it worth buying early? Experts say if you have the money and it's something you need, then the answer is probably yes.

Even though the major online retailers are offering big discounts, retail experts say don't forget smaller local stores. They may also be offering deals as well.