When buying a laptop use a cash back website such as Quidco.com to ensure you are getting the lowest price possible. Also check on hotUKdeals.com for special offers and money off tokens which can reduce the cost of the laptop even further, especially when used in conjunction with a cash-back credit card . Using the comparison websites such as moneysupermarket.com and kelkoo.co.uk will also draw up prices for comparison.
The following are a list of websites specialising in laptops – new and refurbished (which can be a great way to keep the cost down):
Dell.co.uk – Computer specialists who allow you to build a laptop of your own specification over the phone or the website. It’s a well known brand name offering good support
Novatech.co.uk^ – The company don’t advertise so their success is solely due to word of mouth, highlighting their success providing excellent quality at low prices
Bigpockets.co.uk – A low priced easy to use website
Ebuyers.com – Offers a wide selection of laptops and electrical goods, easy to use with the price on screen the price you pay.
Misco.co.uk – A more specialised website offering good prices with knowledgeable employees
Laptopsdirect.co.uk^ – An online company which delivers laptops quickly
Laptopsuperstore.co.uk – The site offers new and reconditioned laptops in all the leading brands enabling the cost to be even lower - an added bonus for students
Computerbargains.co.uk – A Manchester based company aiming to provide excellent quality at affordable prices
Don’t rule out high street retailers completely. Many of them do provide cheap computers and as long as you know specifically what you want, and aren’t swayed by sales staff, you can have great success. It is only when you are a little unsure of what you need that these stores fail to provide.
Some universities may have a special laptop scheme set up, where you can loan a laptop for the semester or buy one (old or new) at a discounted rate. It may be worthwhile asking the IT department.
Older computers (and printers) may also be available on freecycle.org , gumtree.com and ebay.co.uk so consider them as alternative sources when researching your new purchase.
