10 Places To Get Free Laptops

Want to get a laptop, but don’t want to spend the money? No problem – here are 10 of the best places to get free laptops and computers that you can use without spending a penny!

1) Public libraries
Most public libraries these days have at least one computer set up for Internet browsing, word processing and email. And a surprising number also offer free Wi-Fi. Even if your local library doesn’t have desktop or laptop computers available, it’s worth a call to see if they have any other free equipment (like laptops or MP3 players) that they might be able to let you borrow. You don’t even need a library card—just make sure you have an ID and proof of address, which can both be as simple as your driver’s license. Check out these locations in your area and see what they can do for you.

2) High school guidance counselors
The most basic place to start is with your high school guidance counselor. Your guidance counselor should have a knowledge of community and scholarship opportunities that are available. If they don’t, it may be worth taking some time to work on your resume, fill out an application, or make some other effort to help you get ahold of something that can put you on your career path sooner. Also keep in mind that your guidance counselor will likely know about free laptop programs offered by local community colleges—and if there isn’t anything immediately available, many offer application assistance as well.

3) Student programs
If you’re a student, or your children are students, then you know that school supplies can be expensive. And what about all those other technology needs? It’s common for kids to need more computers and internet access than most families can easily afford. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to cut down on costs when it comes to getting computers and laptops for school and work. From free programs with restrictions (and some stipulations) to completely free deals, we’ve rounded up 10 places that offer free laptop programs for students and adults alike.

4) Professional societies
Many professional societies and associations have business/startup grants or other types of support. Check with local chapters to see if they have funds or programs that can help you start your business. For example, I’m a member of a bar association in Austin, Texas, which has an entrepreneur committee that connects me with mentors who share my industry expertise and offer helpful tips on how to succeed as an entrepreneur (they also hold monthly meetings where they talk about topics like small-business marketing). If you don’t have local ties, there are national organizations such as SCORE that can connect you with free mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs. Take advantage of what’s available; these services are free and relatively easy to get involved with!

5) Volunteer positions
One of my favorite things about volunteering is that, as long as you’re on a mission to make an impact and are aware of how to get free laptops (and their benefits), you can spend as much or as little time working toward your goal. As an example, if you want to earn $2,000 in one month toward a new laptop, and expect it’ll take 50 hours of your time, you might volunteer at a food bank for four hours per week. Assuming each hour yields $4.00 for clients, you’d earn about 1/4th of your goal in just one day! And who knows?

6) Work study jobs
If you're a student looking for work, your college's financial aid office may offer work study. This is part-time work that can help you pay for school while you earn credit. Your eligibility is determined by federal and state standards, so you'll have to check with your college to find out if it offers these types of jobs and how much they pay per hour. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says typical positions include administrative assistants, medical assistants, teaching assistants and other positions involving direct interaction with students and faculty.

7) Schools or universities where you plan to major in your field of choice
Many college and university computer labs usually have a surplus of computers. Contact your school’s computer lab director to see if you can borrow a computer for free, or at a minimal cost. If you intend to major in any type of engineering or technology, an internship at Google may also be in order. Not only is it great practice, but you get lots of free food too! (See below)

8) Small businesses in your neighborhood
Most communities have small businesses that will give away laptops. Ask around in your area, and see if any local business owners would be willing to donate a laptop to a deserving student or recent grad in exchange for some local exposure and media attention. Plus, you’ll get a free laptop. What could be better?

9) Freecycle Network sites
While most local city or county governments won’t offer you free laptops, your community’s Freecycle Network site will. The service is like Craigslist, but entirely free and aimed at helping people offload anything that isn’t useful to them anymore, from cars to clothes to electronics. These items may not be brand new—they are donated after all—but they will likely work perfectly well. For example, on a site in Manhattan I just found a MacBook Pro laptop in great condition with only 48 hours left before it was sent off to another city. This is exactly what you want if you need a working computer immediately. (Note: You can always donate your laptop to someone who might need it more than you do.)

10) Nonprofit organizations in your area.
Need a laptop for school, work or just to get online? There are many nonprofit organizations that will either provide you with one at no cost or with a small fee. Call or stop by your local community center and ask if they have any deals on used laptops. It’s likely there are some in storage that need to be updated and donated anyway, so go ahead and ask!

Summary
Computers are expensive, especially when you’re looking to buy a new one. Some people may be lucky enough to have someone give them a computer, but if not you have a couple of options. One is to go out and spend thousands of dollars on what’s probably going to feel like an outdated model in just a few months. The other option is to save your money and go for used computers instead.