How to save money on back-to-school tech

The new school year is just round the corner and costs are mounting up, from new uniform items and shoes to stationery and textbooks. And then the kids tell you they want a new laptop or tablet.

It’s probably the last thing you need right now, especially as the cost of new tech has shot up in the last few months.

Why is tech getting more expensive?

Prices are soaring because of growing demand for computer chips and memory used to power artificial intelligence.

As tech companies build larger AI data centres, they're buying huge amounts of these components, and that’s putting pressure on global supplies.

So manufacturing costs are heading upwards and major brands are having to increase the prices of laptops and tablets.

And that means higher prices in the shops, at exactly the time your child says they need a new device for school.

How can I get tech for less?

If your child needs a laptop, tablet or smartphone, it’s worth looking at lower-cost options before you pay full price or borrow money to cover the cost.

Buy pre-loved tech

If you’re trying to make your money stretch further, see what second-hand devices are available.

More people, especially younger buyers, are snapping up pre-loved smartphones and laptops to save money.

You can find loads of good deals on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, eBay and Vinted.

Where possible, choose refurbished devices that have been professionally checked and come with a warranty for extra peace of mind.

Look for deals

Sign up for retailer newsletters, loyalty schemes, discount platforms and cashback sites, so you’re first in line for special deals and promo codes.

Reach out to charities

If buying a laptop or tablet simply isn't possible right now, you could get help through a charity or support scheme, such as:

National Device Bank

The National Device Bank is powered by Good Things Foundation and provides free laptops, phones and tablets if you don’t currently have access to a device.

Little Lives UK

The children’s charity Little Lives UK donates tablets and laptops to schools and organisations, and can provide up to 25 devices per request.

Wavelength

The fighting loneliness charity Wavelength offers free TVs, radios, and tablets if you’re experiencing loneliness and can’t afford them.

Solidaritech

Solidaritech repurposes unwanted laptops, desktops, tablets and smartphones, and passes them onto asylum seekers and refugees to help with studies and settling into life in the UK.

Family Fund

The disabled children’s charity Family Fund provides computer and tablet grants to support disabled, or seriously ill, children.

Find out if you qualify for free data

O2 runs a scheme in partnership with the Good Things Foundation to help people experiencing “data poverty”.

Through the National Databank, struggling people can get free data, texts and minutes.

You may be eligible if you:

• are aged 18 or over
• are on a low income
• have limited or no internet access at home or on the go
• can’t afford your current mobile plan

You can access it by visiting a participating organisation, such as:

• Virgin Media O2
• Vodafone
• Three
• local community organisations offering the service

You can also search online for a National Databank location near you.

For more money saving tips, check out our 10 ideas on how to keep back-to-school costs under control.