My laptop broke a couple of months back, and as I looked for a replacement, I started wondering if there were any ways to get a free laptop.
Why?
When I came to look for a new one online, I was taken aback by just how much they cost. I forgot how expensive they can be.
Currently, a laptop will set you back anywhere from $500 to $1000 on average. You can get budget models for less than $500, but even they’re still not super cheap.
When money is tight and you need a laptop, you’ll want to know how to get one for free.
Is it even possible?
It is. It’s a good thing that it is too since much of our modern world is digitally dependent.
From ordering groceries to applying for jobs to making money, so much of our day-to-day lives is dependent on having access to a digital device like a laptop.
However, not everyone can afford one. If you’re in a financial bind, find free laptops at the places on our list below.
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How to Get a Free Laptop
Here are a few websites, organizations, government programs and charities that give away free laptops to those who qualify.
1. PCs for People
PCs for People offers free computers to people who currently participate in a government-based assistance program, or have a qualifying household income of less than 200% of the federal poverty guidelines or 60% of area median income.
If you fit the criteria, then check to see if you can get a free computer from PCs for people.
2. Computers with Causes
Get refurbished computers from Computers with Causes. This nonprofit organization helps individuals and organizations to get refurbished computers through its Free Computer Program. Anyone can complete the application on the site.
The company helps students, teachers, struggling military families, parents, the elderly, foster homes, shelters, disabled US veterans, and like-minded nonprofit organizations.
3. Amazon Trade-In
You may have some old devices lying around that you no longer use. If so, trade your old devices for Amazon gift cards through Amazon Trade-In.
This program basically allows you to trade your old devices for Amazon gift cards that can be used to buy a new laptop.
Amazon is a good place to shop for electronics, featuring devices from a variety of brands at a variety of price points.
There are also plenty of customer reviews on there, which can be useful when shopping for new devices.
When you trade in Amazon Devices or products from other manufacturers, you can get 20% off a qualifying Amazon Device and an Amazon gift card.
4. Check with your state or local government
Your state or local government may offer programs that provide free laptops. Usually, these programs are geared towards low-income individuals, particularly those who are enrolled in programs like SNAP or housing assistance.
Just check with your local state or local government to see if they have any programs available that provide free laptops.
5. Everyone On
Everyone On doesn’t provide free computers. It does, however, provide low-cost internet service and computers to those in need.
Everyone On partners with internet service providers and computer refurbishers. It features low-cost internet services and computers from these partners on its Offer Locator Tool.
6. Colleges
You may be able to get a free laptop from your college or university if you’re a student.
Some colleges and universities provide free laptops to students, or at least a discount.
Here are some universities that have been known to offer free laptops for students:
- University of Minnesota Crookston
- Strayer University
- Dakota State University
- Seton Hill University
- Wake Forest University
- Full Sail University
- Northwest Missouri State University
- Chatham University
- Bethel University
- Moravian University
- California State University, Fullerton
- Indiana State University
- San Diego State University
- St. John’s University
- American National University
- Seton Hill University
- Drexel University
- Saint Leo University
- Ohio State University
- Park University
- Stevens-Henager College
- Harvard University
- Liberty University
- University of Arkansas Grantham
- Valley City State University
Check with your college or university to see if it offers free or discounted laptops to students.
Also, Apple offers education pricing and student discounts. Students, teachers, and staff can get a discount on a new Mac or iPad for their studies with Apple Education.
7. Freecycle
Freecycle is a site where people can give stuff away and get the stuff they need for free.
You may be able to find someone giving away a laptop for free on there. It’s certainly worth checking.
8. The Salvation Army
If you require a laptop because you’re on a low income or you need one to find a job, then the Salvation Army may be able to help.
Just get in touch with your local chapter to ask.
- Find your local Salvation Army Chapter here.
9. Alliance for Technology Refurbishment and Reuse
The Alliance for Technology Refurbishing and Reuse (AFTRR) is a network of nonprofit technology refurbishers that seeks to distribute low-cost and free computers to those in need.
- You can use the map on the AFTRR website here to locate and learn about nonprofit refurbishers and recyclers in your area.
10. Facebook Buy Nothing Groups
Facebook Buy Nothing Groups allow members to give away the items that they no longer need and get the items that they do need. You could use these groups to find a free laptop.
Search the internet for “Facebook buy nothing groups [name of your town, city, or state]” to find your local group.
11. Craigslist
You can find lots of free items on Craigslist. You may find a free laptop there.
Just go to the “For Sale” section of your city’s Craigslist, and you’ll see a link to the “Free” section. Click this, and you’ll be able to view free stuff near you.
Filter the results by searching for “laptops”. This will show you if there’s anyone giving away free laptops near you.
It’s worth a look. Even if you can’t find a free laptop there, you still may be able to find a used one for a low price.
12. Facebook Marketplace
Although it’s known as a place to buy and sell locally, Facebook Marketplace also features free stuff. You may be able to find someone giving away a free laptop on there.
Wrapping Up: How to Get a Free Laptop and Save Money!
Getting a laptop for free may not be as easy as getting a free phone or other smaller electrics, but as you can see there are a few legit options out there.
Whether you are a student looking for a laptop for college or money is tight and you want to get a laptop at no cost, it’s good to know that there are plenty of ways to get free laptops.
Be sure to give our tips a try and get a laptop without breaking the bank.
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