Strategies for purchasing a student's laptop at a significant discount
In the spirit of shopping smarter, not spending more, this year, families can save money on laptops for back-to-school by considering refurbished or open-box devices from trusted retailers. These options, such as those offered by Amazon Renewed, Best Buy Outlet, and eBay Refurbished, can provide significant discounts while often including warranties and return policies.
One key way to save is by looking for certified refurbished programs that partner directly with manufacturers, like Apple Certified Refurbished, to ensure quality and warranty coverage. Another option is to explore special low-income assistance programs, such as Computers for Classrooms, which provide discounted or free computers to low-income families for educational use.
For example, Best Buy Outlet and Amazon Renewed offer discounted Apple devices and Windows laptops with warranties. MacBooks and iPads can be discounted by hundreds of dollars compared to new prices. eBay Refurbished and platforms like PC Liquidations provide inexpensive refurbished laptops with decent specs, such as Intel i3 or i7 with 8GB RAM and SSD storage, priced between about $200 - $450, suitable for general student use.
When purchasing refurbished devices, it's essential to check the warranty terms, return policies, and buyer reviews to ensure reliability. Certified refurbished purchases offer peace of mind with manufacturer backing or retailer warranties, making them a smart choice for budget-conscious back-to-school shoppers.
In addition to refurbished devices, many school districts offer students the option to check out a laptop if they don't have access to a computer at home. Programmes like Fresno Unified's "The Student Laptop 1:1 Program" and Central Unified's School2Home Technology Assistance Program can be valuable resources for families in need.
For those seeking brand-new laptops, using sites like RetailMeNot for coupons and cashback offers can help save money. Parents can also purchase a laptop at a discounted rate through their partner LaptopSchools, which offers benefits like help with service and repairs.
This year, the National Retail Federation predicts families with students in elementary through high school will spend an average of $860 on back-to-school shopping. By considering the tips outlined above, families can make the most of their budget while ensuring their students have the tools they need for a successful school year.
Expanding your shopping horizons, you might find excellent deals in home-and-garden sections, too, such as garden tools, outdoor furniture, or home decor, often available at discounted prices as people prepare for the coming season.
After securing devices for back-to-school shopping, don't forget to enhance your home-and-garden lifestyle with style by visiting discounted home improvement stores like Home Depot, Lowe's, and Wayfair for stylish furniture, appliances, and gardening essentials.
