How to Get Refurbished Computers for Low-income Families – If you belong from a low-income family who can’t afford to buy a desktop PC or a laptop, you might want to buy a refurbished computer instead that is within your budget. The retail price of a brand-new computer is typically 30 to 50% higher than the refurbished computers. Everything you should look for in refurbished computers and the best places to buy refurbished computers near me and refurbished laptops near me are covered in this article.
Highlights of this Post
What Is a Refurbished Computer?
If you notice a computer marked as refurbished, that means:
- It was returned by a customer, and the store is unable to sell it as new.
- It failed to meet the manufacturer’s quality tests, and the seller had to rebuild it.
- It generally came from a canceled order.
What Comes With a Refurbished Computer?
A lot of refurbished laptops don’t come with a monitor, a wireless network card, a DVD or Blu-ray player, an operating system (software such as Windows 10), or a power cord. Find out what you’re getting into and how much it will cost to add the necessary peripherals, hardware, and software you need to make your new PC work as you want it to.
Should You Buy a Refurbished Computer?
Most of the time, refurbished devices don’t have the latest features that new computers do. You probably don’t need a new computer if you mostly use it for word processing, email checking, and surfing the web. However, a refurbished computer might not be sufficient for gamers because playing online games requires a lot of memory (RAM) and processing (CPU) power.
The Best Places to Buy Refurbished Computers For Low Income Families
A computer that has been refurbished may come directly from the manufacturer or from a third party. Assuming a third party restores the machine, you might find that they used anything accessible parts were close by. To put it another way, the parts may not conform to the original specifications.
To see how well the new and refurbished products match up, it’s helpful to compare their specifications. Stay with trustworthy retailers and manufacturers authorized to sell new items as opposed to purchasing from online auctions or Craigslist.
Some of the most well-known companies selling refurbished computers are:
Not All Deals Are Good Deals
Retailers once in a while list the refurbished cost alongside the original proposed retail price. However, because retail prices decrease over time, this practice may be misleading.
Utilizing the model number, conduct an online search for the computer to ensure that the refurbished price is a good deal. At times, you can find free old laptops for less expensive than a refurbished one, and it will accompany a longer warranty.
Warranties for Refurbished PCs
While the general cost of a refurbished computer is significant for saving money, the warranty includes over the long haul. Many refurbished PCs accompany limited warranties, so find an opportunity to grasp the fine print.
The warranty ought to be provided by the manufacturer, not by a third party. Ideally, refurbished computers would be covered for the same length of time as new ones, but this is not always the case. Reputable companies that sell refurbished computers, for instance, might charge extra for a three-month manufacturers’ warranty and extended service plans.
It’s also important to know how quickly the company fixes refurbished computers under warranty that you return. You should be able to find this information by doing a search for the seller’s name on the internet.
Discounted Laptops for Low-income Families
There are other ways to save money on your electronic device if you are unable to find a school or other organization that will provide you with free laptops for your requirements. There are alternative ways you can obtain refurbished Free government laptops.
Find Refurbished And Off-Lease Electronics
There are numerous reasons why manufacturers and retailers frequently can offer discounted prices on laptops. For example, refurbished laptops can be found at an exceptionally competitive cost. These laptops may have previously been owned but were returned to the company for repair due to a malfunction, so they can be purchased at a discount.
It is likewise possible to find laptops with surface damage like scratches or dents. Since floor models are more likely to have cosmetic damage, they may be available for purchase at a more affordable cost. They probably still function perfectly and can be purchased at a discounted price if you are willing to put up with some of their visual flaws.
Last but not least, some companies are willing to sell off-lease laptops used and returned by businesses after two to three years. Because they were only used for business purposes, these may be of higher quality than other refurbished laptops.
Consider Government Surplus Products
You can check your local state surplus store for desktop areas and laptops at affordable prices. That way you may get refurbished government laptops. They may be willing to sell one for $50 or less depending on where you live. If you are unable to travel to a government surplus store in your area, websites like GovDeals.com and PropertyRoom.com may also provide you with a low-cost alternative.
Wait For Black Friday Or Other Seasonal Sales
In general, Black Friday is the best time to purchase a low-cost laptop. Between the end of February and the beginning of April, when there are typically good sales, you might also be able to find and buy cheap desktop, laptop, and tablet computers.
Can I get a Free Laptop from The Government
A family with low income can apply for free government laptops in a variety of ways. Even though there is no singular application, a lot of government agencies and organizations can help you find grants and resources to get a free laptop or computer for your needs.
You might be able to contact your child’s school or the local library if you are unable to purchase a laptop for them. You and your family might be able to get free laptops from guidance counselors, board members, teachers, and other administrators.
This might be especially helpful for students seeking after online learning since they are more likely to have the option to get a computer in order to finish their studies. A public library is another place where a low-income family can get free laptops or computers to rent. They might also be able to guide you to other free device locations in your local area.
If someone in your family has a disability, they may be eligible for additional programs and assistive devices. GiveTech, for instance, offers adaptive software that makes it easier for people with quadriplegia to use computers.
In general, most families who fall below the federal poverty line are eligible for free laptops from the government. You are more likely to qualify for free laptops if you are eligible for Medicaid, food stamps, Veteran benefits, Unemployment benefits, rental subsidies, and other similar programs.
However, it’s important to take note that every application form will have various requirements, for example, a valid proof of ID, address such as utility bill statement, lease agreement, mortgage statement proof of U.S citizenship, tax return slip, credit card statement, social security number, and different items to prove that you belong from a low income family.
Discounted Laptops for College Students
The accompanying nonprofits and online platforms sell refurbished laptops at a discounted rate for students looking for reliable, affordable items. If you want to save money and invest in a device, these are excellent options.
PCs For People
This non-profit charitable organization offers discounted laptop and desktop computers for sale. In addition, it offers a wide range of tech services, including recycling and computer repair. With a mission to close the “digital device”, PCs for People serves low-income families and individuals with disabilities. Beginning at $145 for a laptop, PCs for People at present offers brands like HP, Dell and Lenovo.
Dell Refurbished
Dell Refurbished sells a variety of discounted refurbished Latitude models. With “cosmetic grades” and comprehensive computer inspections, bargain shoppers can acquire a like-new laptop starting around $400.
Notebooks For Students
Notebooks for Students (NFS) that partners with technology brands to offer discounted refurbished laptops to students of all ages, was initially established by college students in California.
The organization’s homepage features an extensive selection of high-performance and school grade level laptops. Products from NFS are available for both PC and Mac products, and prices start around $200.
NFS provides a free four-year warranty with each laptop purchase, in contrast to the majority of sellers of refurbished laptops. Tech support for hardware repair, software installation, and file recovery are included in this warranty.
ConnectAll
ConnectAll is an e-commerce platform that aims to provide low-income individuals and nonprofits with affordable refurbished laptops and desktops.
The form factor, storage capacity, memory, and operating system of the organization’s laptop inventory can be sorted. With choices for Mac and PC, prices range from about $100 to $1,000. This includes free shipping, an extended one-year warranty with Office software and Microsoft Windows being already installed.
Low-cost Laptops for Low-Income Families
The programs listed below provide low-income families with low-cost laptops if you live in the United States.
World Computer Exchange
World Computer Exchange is a good place to start if you want to learn how to get a low-cost laptop from the government. They often provide kids free access to computers and the internet service. In order to provide computers to low-income households, they work with schools, NGOs, libraries, the government, and political parties.
Everyone On
Everyone On is a non-profit that associates people in need with internet service providers and device manufacturers. Their main goal is to convey no-cost, low-cost, or inexpensive laptops to those out of luck, followed by guaranteeing that those equivalent individuals approach a low-cost internet access provider. Additionally, for customers who no longer require their computers, they refurbish obsolete computers.
Computers For Kids
Computers for Kids is a Southern California based non-profit organization. They endeavor to get used and refurbished laptops into the hands of low-income kids who require them. The organization receives assistance from volunteers in locating used, second-hand computer equipment. They work to reassemble and refurbish this equipment to be used once more and verify that any parts that aren’t utilized are recycled.
Interconnection
Interconnection is one such charity that offers low-cost laptops to those who are in need. Although this organization is based in the Seattle area, it is not needed to reside there to benefit from its programs. Interconnection operates an online store that sells low-cost PCs and laptops from manufacturers like Mac, Dell, Lenovo, and so on.
Microsoft Registered Refurbisher
The Microsoft Free Laptop Program is perhaps the biggest program, with more than 2,500 organizations participating in it. They have made a concerted effort to help low-income families gain access to high-quality laptops and software as one of the world’s leading computer technology companies.
They offer a wide range of new and refurbished computers that are of excellent quality and perform just as well as new ones. In addition, to sweeten the deal, all of their authentic software is provided free of charge.
K-12 Refurbished iPads and Computers
If you’ve never purchased a refurbished tech device before, it might seem risky. However, purchasing a brand-new iPad or MacBook at full price, let alone equipping an entire classroom, strains your school’s budget in an unnecessary way. Schools should invest in certified refurbished devices as the best option available.
Reasons Why Schools Should Buy Certified Refurbished iPads and MacBooks for Students
- The value of new devices immediately decreases. A brand-new device can lose up to 25% of its value right out of the box. Devices that have been refurbished help you save money without sacrificing functionality.
- Accidents occur. We as a whole realize that students have slippery hands and occupied minds. When you know that accidents are likely to happen, it doesn’t make sense to pay more for brand-new devices.
- Refurbished devices that have been certified are fully functional and meet your requirements. Students do not require sophisticated computers if they use devices to access the Internet, search, and collaborate on Google apps. When you could use your budget for other classroom initiatives, there’s no need for you to spend more than you need to.
- Reach your educational goals. There are such countless ways that certified refurbished devices support and improve your educational objectives. Certified refurbished devices are an economical, cost-effective way to put your vision into action, whether you’re starting a new school with equipping devices, moving to a 1:1 initiative, or looking to fill another classroom cart with iPads.
- Increase your spending. Simply put, certified refurbished devices will save you a lot of money. When compared to purchasing new iPads, purchasing 10 refurbished iPads (32 GB) would save you 25% more.
- The quality of certified refurbished is guaranteed. The product has been subjected to rigorous testing, auditing, and refresh procedures to guarantee quality, as indicated by the term “certified refurbished.” You can be confident that the devices will work properly with this stamp of approval.
- It is beneficial to the environment. Let’s face it, we tell students to “reduce, reuse, and recycle”. Reusing devices and keeping them in the K-12 ecosystem is a good way to reduce waste and follow our own advice.
How to get a free computer from Dell
Dell doesn’t give away free computers directly to anyone. So you cannot rely on it for the free laptop giveaway. Dell is generally helping support organizations that help low-income students as well as seniors in the United states. Dell is also helping to upgrade the laboratories that are working hard for low income-family students’ education by offering a bunch of scholarship programs.
On the other hand, Dell Refurbished provides refurbished Dell laptops. Since refurbished computers are much cheaper, this is a decent way to get your hands on a laptop from a highly reputed brand, but at a lesser cost. Anyone is able to buy these computers, so even if you’re not on a low-income and want an inexpensive laptop, then this is a good place to shop for a PC.
Free Laptop with Medicaid
The government’s initiated Free Laptop with Medicaid Program provides eligible Medicaid recipients with a free computer or laptop assistance to support telehealth services and remote learning. It does not typically provide free laptops, but all Medicaid-eligible individuals can apply for free laptops from for free laptop providers. To put it more simply, being a Medicaid participant entitles one to receive a free laptop from various Medicaid-affiliated providers.
Bottom Line
There are many ways you can obtain a low-cost laptop or PC through several government programs for refurbished laptops as well as non-profit organizations. Refurbished devices not only help you get a like-new laptop but at the same time it can save you a lot of money. Certified refurbished laptops come with full functionality and year long warranties, as well as additional unique features or bonuses that are not available in most brand-new laptops. Therefore, you now have nothing to worry about when getting your hands on a refurbished laptop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it a good idea to buy refurbished computers?
If you want to get the most for your money, refurbishing is the way to go. It’s a rush to get high-quality products at huge discounts that, in most cases, look and perform just like new, making it easier to keep up with the latest technology.
Can I trust a refurbished PC?
You won’t have to worry about anything as long as they have been properly reset and cleaned. You can always get more cyber security to avoid issues from happening in the future. Refurbished devices may also be a good option if you want to save money on your next purchase.
Why is refurbished cheaper?
Items that are labeled “refurbished” are completely functional however they can’t actually be sold as “new” any longer, because of reasons that differ by manufacturer. As a result, they are typically less expensive, and depending on your purchase, you could save hundreds of dollars.
How long does a refurbished PC last?
A refurbished laptop typically has a lifespan of between two and four years. Naturally, this varies depending on how well the laptop is cared for and how frequently it is used.
Is it ok to buy a refurbished laptop from bestbuy?
The answer is unquestionably “yes.” These computers have been restored to like-new condition through careful testing and inspection, and they frequently come with extra features and bonuses that are not available on newer models.