Whether it’s a TV to stream Netflix on or a laptop to order our groceries with, if you’re in need of free electronics, we’ve got you covered.
We’ve outlined 12 ways to get your hands on electronics at no cost.
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How to Get Electronics for Free
Here are some of the best ways you can get your hands on everything from computers and laptops to phones, calculators, TVs, radios, and more.
1. Computers with Causes
The nonprofit organization Computers with Causes helps individuals and organizations get refurbished computers through its Free Computer Program.
The organization assists students, teachers, struggling military families, parents, the elderly, foster homes, shelters, disabled US veterans, and like-minded nonprofit organizations. Anyone can complete the application on the site, though.
2. Amazon Trade-In
Amazon Trade-In allows you to trade your old devices for Amazon gift cards. An Amazon gift card can be useful, as many of us shop on Amazon for electronics like headphones, TVs, and laptops.
You can get 20% off a qualifying Amazon device and an Amazon gift card when you trade in Amazon devices or products from other manufacturers.
3. Craigslist
Craigslist is one of the best platforms for finding freebies. You can find pretty much anything for free there, including electronics. Go to the “For Sale” section of your city’s Craigslist, and you’ll see a link to the “Free” section. Check it out to see if anyone’s giving away free electronics near you.
4. PCs for People
PCs for People may be able to help you get a free computer. To get a free computer from PCs for People, you must be currently participating in a government-based assistance program or have a qualifying household income of less than 200% of the federal poverty guidelines or 60% of the area median income.
5. OfferUp
You might think of OfferUp as a place to buy and sell used items. However, it also has free stuff available. Check out the free section. I’ve seen people giving away everything from free game consoles to free TVs there.
6. The On It Foundation
Students in grades K-12 may be able to get a free computer from The On It Foundation.
To get a free PC from The On It Foundation, a student must be in grades K-12, receive a free or reduced school lunch, attend a public school, and reside within the United States.
If you don’t qualify for a free computer from The On It Foundation, you may be able to qualify for a low-cost computer through the foundation’s Jump On It! Program.
7. Microsoft Rewards
I’m a big Microsoft Rewards fan and have used it to get freebies, including gift cards, in the past. It’s a rewards program from Microsoft.
You earn points for activities like searching the internet using Bing, playing games, and taking quizzes.
Points can be redeemed for rewards like gift cards and sweepstakes entries. You can use your gift cards to get discounts on electronics, and some of the sweepstakes offer the opportunity to win free electronics, like Xbox consoles.
8. Amazon Vine
Amazon Vine is a program from Amazon that allows its members to request products from thousands of brands that sell items in the Amazon store. It’s an invitation-only program.
As a Vine Voice, participating vendors send you free products that you’ll need to review. These free products could include electronics. Learn more about what Amazon is looking for when inviting people to become Vine Voices on the page linked in the section heading.
9. Everyone On
Although it doesn’t provide entirely free electronics, you should still consider Everyone On. It offers low-cost internet service and computers to those in need.
Everyone On partners with internet service providers and computer refurbishers and features low-cost internet services and computers from these partners on its Offer Locator Tool.
10. Electronic Product Testing Programs
You may be able to get free electronics from product testing programs. These programs send out free items so testers, like you, can try them out and provide feedback.
Some examples of product testing programs that may offer electronics include Microsoft and Philips.
Doing an internet search for “product testing” or “product testing electronics” can also help you find product testing opportunities.
11. Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace features free items too. You’ll sometimes find people giving away electronics, like TVs, on there.
12. Get Free Electronics from Manufacturers
Following brands and manufacturers of the electronics you’re interested in is a good idea. This is because it helps you stay up to date with things like freebies, giveaways, and promos that could get you some free electronics or at least a discount.
Follow brands on their social media platforms, sign up for their email lists, and join any loyalty or reward programs they might have.
13. Tech Forums and Communities
Sometimes, members of tech forums and online communities host giveaways. Reddit has subreddits like r/giveaways or r/freebies where users post free stuff, including electronics.
14. Electronic Trade-in Programs
Some companies, like Best Buy and Apple, have trade-in programs where you can exchange old electronics for credit or sometimes a free product.
15. Product Testing Sites
Product testing sites like BzzAgent, Smiley360, and Influenster send out free products to their users in exchange for reviews and feedback.
While their products usually include household items, beauty products, and food and snacks, from time to time, you may get lucky and receive smaller devices and accessories like phone cases and chargers.
Since these sites are free to join, it won’t hurt to sign up. You may get lucky!
16. Survey Websites
If you like giving your opinion in exchange for cash and rewards, consider joining a few survey and reward sites like Swagbucks and InboxDollars. These sites not only offer cash as rewards, but some also offer prizes, including gadgets and gizmos. You can also redeem your earnings for gift cards to your favorite electronic stores.
Wrapping Up: Your Guide to Scoring Free Electronics
Electronics don’t come cheap. Thankfully, with so many ways to score cheap or free electronics, you can at least save some money on smaller gadgets and accessories.
