MoneyMagpie Editor and financial expert Vicky Parry shares how to get hold of cheap technology in time for the start of term
Studying without a laptop or tablet is almost impossible these days.
Teachers work on the assumption that pupils have access to computers and the internet at home – but this can be prohibitively expensive for families especially during the cost-of-living crisis, and for those with more than one child.
The good news is there are several ways to get discounts on brand-new tech or ways to get free laptops and cheap devices, to keep the bill down but make sure your child is prepared for school and homework.
Don’t buy new
While it is always tempting to look for a brand-new device, there is no need to do so. Most students only need a laptop that can run basic software like word processing, spreadsheets, and PDF readers.
The high-spec devices available are those that can handle heavy graphics loads – so, unless your child is studying something like graphic design, animation, game design, or film, it’s unlikely they need a top-of-the-range device.
However, a laptop should be running an operating system of Windows 11 or later. On an Apple device, it must be able to run Mac OS Monterey, Ventura, or Sonoma. This is because security updates are no longer issued for earlier versions of these operating systems. (The Windows 10 security updates stop in October 2025). This could leave your child’s information at risk.
Free laptops
Families on a low income who claim Universal Credit may be able to access free laptops through the JobCentre. This is for the job seeker, but you could share it with your child when they need to do homework.
The local library will also have free computers to use during open hours, which can provide older students a quiet study space away from the home environment, too. Some libraries may have a lending scheme or know about community schemes, so speak to your local librarian for more information.
Some charities will also offer grants or free laptops. Check the Turn2Us grant finder as a starting point, but also look at local charities in your area that support families. You could also visit Charity Excellence, which is a free resource to help you find grants and support.
If you belong to a trade body or union, they may also offer free or discounted laptop schemes, or grants for technology, so make sure you get in touch to find out if they can help.
Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund
A quick note on the Government’s new Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund. While it’s not up and running for everyone just yet, there will be a £9.5m fund to provide free laptops to state pensioners, job seekers, disabled people and low income households.
Read more about it here and keep an eye on further announcements in case you are eligible for a free device from the fund.
Cheap laptops
The next step to finding a laptop for your child to do their homework on is to look for second-hand models. Ask around family and friends first, as they may have an old device they’re willing to gift you or sell for a low price. You can also try online marketplaces like eBay, although be sure to reset the device fully on receipt to ensure there is no malware installed.
CEX is a reliable second-hand shop for devices, and the great thing about it is you can also trade your old devices to get a voucher to spend in store.
They will also take games consoles, phones, tablets, even DVDs and computer games, which can all add up quickly, especially as the voucher trade-in price is much higher than the cash alternative. Make sure you pick a laptop that is Grade A or Grade B, as it will be in full working condition; Grade C models may have more issues with them.
You could also try buying a refurbished model from a guaranteed reseller, which includes a warranty for repairs. GetOnline@Home is a great example, offering PCs from just £99 for low income families.
Cheap tablets
For some pupils, a tablet is enough to get their work done, although an external Bluetooth keyboard can help make it more comfortable to type essays on.
Tablets aren’t always cheaper than laptops, although they are portable. Compare prices between tablets and laptops before you buy one, as the processing power of a laptop is much better.
You can often get a cheap tablet with a new mobile phone or broadband contract, sometimes you can even nab a completely free one. Shop around to find great deals online before you decide to buy.
As well as CEX and eBay, you can also try coupon websites like Wowcher and Groupon, which often have flash deals around this time of year for older model tablets and iPads, as well as laptops. This can be a great way to get a brilliant deal, but it’s easy to miss the short-term flash sales so make sure you sign up for email alerts.
Free software
Software is the part that can rack up expenses as the school year goes on – especially as many have switched to a subscription model. Gone are the days of buying software on a CD-ROM to install on each device!
This means that even common software, like Microsoft Office, comes with monthly or annual costs. You’re at the whim of the software company if they want to increase their prices, too.
Check with your school if they have free licences for students to use, or can offer discounts for the software they require their pupils to have.
There are also free alternatives, such as Libre Office and Google Docs, which offer very similar functionality to the paid-for software. They are cloud-based, though – so you might need an internet connection to use them, or access saved files. Make sure you always save files on a USB drive or external hard drive, just in case.
Cheap new laptops
If you want to future-proof your child’s device and buy them a new laptop, this is the right time of year to do it! Back to school savings mean there are lots of deals available on the latest devices, and they will often include things like a year’s free Microsoft subscription or security software, too.
Apple Education currently has a deal for any student or parent, offering not only the usual education discount (which is around 10% for most devices), but also a free accessory such as Airpods, Apple Pencil, or Magic Mouse (up to a value of £129). Parents can buy for their children if they can show evidence of their child at school, or if you have a TOTUM card this gives you access to the discount online.
Check with your employer, too. They may have employee discounts available through employee benefit schemes, or be able to purchase on your behalf at a corporate discount.
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