14 Realistic Ways to Get a Cheap (or Free) Laptop (2026)

shieldAnnette Miller calendar_todayOct 13, 2018 updateUpdated Jun 17, 2026 schedule6 min read verifiedFact-checked

Saving money on realistic ways get cheap does not have to be complicated. We rounded up the essentials so you can spend less and skip the guesswork.

Key Takeaways

14 Realistic Ways to Get a Cheap (or Free) Laptop Several organizations, including the government, offer ways to get a free laptop for colle...
Here's how to get one.
Written by Annette Miller Last Updated: September 25, 2023 Reviewed by Zina Kumok Home Money Management Save Money Some of the links on Doll...

14 Realistic Ways to Get a Affordable (or Free) Laptop

Several organizations, including the government, offer ways to get a free laptop for college, work, or even just for personal use. Here's how to get one.

Written by Annette Miller Last Updated: September 25, 2023 Reviewed by Zina Kumok

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Trying to find ways to get a free laptop might seem impossible. And there are numerous scams out there that promise a free computer in exchange for basic personal information.

But there are ways to get a free computer, or at least a deeply discounted one.

In most cases, status as a student or low-income household will increase your likelihood of getting a free laptop.

However, there are ways to score a free laptop regardless of your circumstances.

Here’s how to get a free laptop for college, work, or personal use.

Free Computers for Low-Income Families

Computers can help break the cycle of poverty, but a shocking number of families in the richest nation in the world go without one. These organizations empower low-income families with the technology they need to be engaged citizens in their communities and more competitive applicants in the labor market.

1. Freecycle.org

Source: Freecycle

The Freecycle Network is a national organization with local chapters in almost every major city. Search for your city, join their group, and then start searching for free laptops or computers. Everything listed is free, but the selection will be limited.

Try to check multiple times a day since free computers will probably go fast. You can also get email notifications, but these may not include all the new offers.

2. The On It Foundation

Source: On It

The On It (Opportunities Necessary to Increase Technology) Foundation lets you low-income families with elementary-age children by providing free computers, computer training, and internet access. Kids will qualify for the program if they qualify for free or reduced lunch at their public school.

There may be limited availability, but you can join the waiting list to be notified as soon as a computer is available.

The organization is funded in part via its discounted computer program, which sells refurbished Microsoft computers starting at $99, including a warranty.

3. Computers with Causes

Source: Computers with Causes

Computers with Causes is a non-profit organization that provides free computers to people in need. You have to prove financial need, undergo a background check, and provide references to qualify.

According to the website, veterans and those living in foster care are particularly good applicants for this program. The application is short and includes just a few questions.

4. Alliance for Technology Refurbishing and Reuse

Source: Alliance for Technology Refurbishing and Reuse

The AFTRR is a network of non-profits associated with a broad educational mission. They refurbish and distribute computers as a low-cost or free service to those in need.

Because they partner with local groups, you have to find a local organization near you that participates in this group. You can find the nearest location online. Select the pin closest to you to find out more information on your local “Reuse Coordinator.”

5. EveryoneOn

Source: EveryoneOn

EveryoneOn is a non-profit that supports social and economic development by helping communities access the internet. They help people find low-cost computers and low-cost or free internet.

To get started, punch in your ZIP Code and answer a few questions about your eligibility. This application process is fairly brief. According to their site, computers are approximately $150.

Attend a College with a Laptop Special Offer

Several reputable colleges and universities offer incentives to entice students to enroll with the promise of a free laptop.

It’s less common, but some schools also offer a zero-cost lease, which means they would request the laptop back at the time of graduation. Like leasing a car, you’d probably be offered a significant discount to purchase it outright.

Here are some well-known, high-ranked schools offering free computers for students.

6. Seton Hill

Location: Greensburg, PA Tuition Cost: $37,396 per year Reputation: Ranked #25 in Best Value Schools (Regional Universities North) by US News

A private Catholic school home to just 2,200 students, Seton Hill takes the savvy approach by utilizing technology in the classroom.

They provide all traditional undergraduates with a MacBook and iPad, which are integrated into the teaching curriculum across the campus.

Mobile integration is also practiced at Seton Hill. Apple’s website about The Mobile Learning @ The Hill has named the school an Apple Distinguished School 2017 through 2019, which signifies “educational excellence and leadership.”

A handful of graduate programs are also included:

All undergraduate students - MacBook Air
M.S. in Physician Assistant - MacBook Air
M.A. in Art Therapy - MacBook Air
M.S. in Orthodontics - MacBook Air
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) - MacBook Air

7. Wake Forest

Location: Winston-Salem, NC Tuition Cost: $57,760 per year Reputation: Ranked #27 overall nationally by US News

Wake Forest is one of the top schools in the country and provides a free laptop if you receive need-based, academic, and athletic scholarships.

If you qualify for the financial aid package, you’d be eligible for a Technology Grant to pay for the standard “WakeWare laptop.”

All other undergraduate students are eligible for a deeply-discounted laptop.

Colleges with Deeply Discounted Laptops

Numerous colleges offer discounts to their students. Here’s an in-depth look at some of these schools.

8. Purdue University

Location: West Lafayette, IN Tuition Cost: $9,992 (in-state); $28,794 (out-of-state) per year Reputation:

Final Thoughts

The bottom line: a little research on realistic ways get cheap goes a long way. Compare your options, watch for seasonal offers, and never pay full price when a better deal is one click away.

Originally published at dollarsprout.com.

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Annette Miller

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