How to Get Free Laptop from Apple? [Simple Guide]

While Apple is known for its exclusive laptops like MacBooks, they typically don’t give them away for free. This might seem surprising considering Apple’s success. As per report by Statista, Apple laptops and iPhone contributed over 383 billion dollars revenue in 2023. This shows that the company makes money by selling high-quality devices and doesn’t rely on giveaways for promotion.

However, there are some situations where Apple or its partners might offer free or heavily discounted laptops. These programs are usually targeted at specific groups, like students and educational organizations.

Free Laptop from Apple

In this post, I will share my expertise on free laptops and will explore some ways you might be able to get a free laptop from Apple.

How to Get Free Laptop from Apple? Top 4 Ways

There are several ways to get a laptop at a much lower price or even for free. Today, we will look at top 4 options!

First, we’ll check out educational discounts, which Apple offers to students and teachers. Next, we’ll look at refurbished MacBooks, which are used laptops that Apple carefully checks and sells at a discount. We’ll also explore deals from stores and second-hand websites. Finally, we’ll talk about charity and donation programs that might give out laptops, although they might not always be from Apple.

1. Educational Discounts

According to Apple, Apple offers a variety of educational discounts on Apple products including Macs and iPads. Students, faculty, and staff can qualify for a discount on AppleCare+. There is also a limited-time offer where you can get a gift card up to $150 when you buy a Mac or iPad.

How to Qualify? To see if you qualify for the educational discount, you will need to visit the Apple Education Store here. Once you are on the webpage, you can click on “Shop Now” to see what products are currently available at a discount.

Check with your school to see if they have a partnership with Apple. Many schools have negotiated special discounts for their students and staff. It also has arrangements for college students.

2. Refurbished Laptops and MacBooks

According to the Apple website, Apple sells certified refurbished MacBooks. These are pre-owned devices that Apple has inspected and brought up to their quality standards. They come with a one-year warranty and are a great way to save money on a MacBook.

Here’s a step-by-step process to get a free laptop from Apple:

  1. Visit the Apple Certified Refurbished section of the Apple website here.
  2. Browse the selection of available refurbished MacBooks. You can filter your search by product, display size, storage capacity, and more.
  3. Once you have found a MacBook that interests you, click on it to learn more about its specifications and condition.
  4. Select the configuration you want and add the MacBook to your cart.
  5. If you have a current device to trade in, you can get credit towards your purchase by selecting “Start trade-in” during checkout.
  6. Follow the checkout process to complete your purchase.

Additional Tips:

  • Refurbished MacBooks are popular and sell out quickly. If you see one that you want, don’t hesitate to purchase it.
  • Be sure to check the warranty coverage of the refurbished MacBook before you buy it.
  • You can sign up for email alerts from Apple to be notified when new refurbished MacBooks become available.

3. Special Deals

a) Back-to-School Promotions

Apple often runs back-to-school promotions that can include free accessories, gift cards, or discounts when purchasing a MacBook or other Apple products.

  • Timing: These promotions typically run from June to September.
  • Incentives: Past promotions have included free laptops or Apple Store gift cards with the purchase of a qualifying Mac or iPad.
  • Eligibility: Usually available to students, parents, and educators.

b) Special Deals from Retailers

Authorized Apple retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, and B&H Photo often offer discounts on Apple laptops, especially during sales events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and back-to-school season.

  • Price Matching: Some retailers offer price matching, so keep an eye on various retailers for the best price.
  • Exclusive Offers: Retailers might have exclusive bundles or financing options.

c) Second-Hand Marketplaces

Purchasing a second-hand MacBook-air can offer significant savings. Websites like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace often have listings for used and free laptop from Apple.

  • Caution: Always check the seller’s reputation, ask for detailed photos, and verify the laptop’s condition before purchasing.
  • Warranty and Support: Be aware that second-hand purchases typically do not come with a warranty, so factor in potential repair costs.

d) Trade-In Program

Apple’s trade-in program allows you to exchange your old device for credit toward a new purchase. This can significantly reduce the cost of a new MacBook.

  • Eligibility: Trade-in values vary based on the device’s condition, age, and model.
  • How to Trade-In: Use Apple’s online trade-in tool to get an estimate and either mail in your device or bring it to an Apple Store.

4. Donation & Charity

Several nonprofit organizations focus on providing free iPhones to underserved communities. These organizations may occasionally receive donations of Apple laptops, which they can then distribute to those in need.

a) Computers for Learning: This program transfers surplus computers and related equipment from federal agencies to schools and educational non-profits.

b) EveryoneOn: This non-profit connects low-income families to affordable internet services and computers.

  • Eligibility: Families with household incomes below certain thresholds.
  • How to Apply: Visit the EveryoneOn website and complete the eligibility form.

c) PCs for People: This organization refurbishes and redistributes laptops to low-income individuals and families.

  • Eligibility: Individuals with an income under 200% of the federal poverty level or who are currently enrolled in an income-based government assistance program.
  • How to Apply: Visit the PCs for People website to check eligibility and apply for a laptop.

Conclusion and Our Verdict

In summary, getting a free laptop from Apple is uncommon because they are very valuable. However, there are good ways to save money on them. Students and teachers can get big discounts through Apple’s educational programs. Buying refurbished MacBooks is another great option since they are cheaper and still high-quality because Apple checks and certifies them.

Additionally, nonprofit organizations and donation programs can help people in need get laptops. By looking into these options, you can find ways to get an Apple laptop at a lower price or even for free.

Our verdict is that while it’s not easy, it is possible to get a free or discounted Apple laptop through specific programs and smart shopping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does Apple offer free laptops directly to consumers?

No, Apple does not typically give away free laptops directly to consumers. However, there are specific situations, such as educational discounts, refurbished sales, and special promotions, where you can obtain Apple laptops at reduced prices.

Can students get free laptop from Apple?

Yes, students, educators, and staff can get significant discounts on Apple laptops through the Apple Education Store. Occasionally, Apple runs back-to-school promotions that offer additional incentives like free accessories or gift cards with purchases.

What are refurbished MacBooks, and how can they save money?

Refurbished MacBooks are pre-owned devices that Apple has inspected, repaired, and certified to ensure they meet quality standards. These laptops are sold at a discount and come with a one-year warranty, providing a cost-effective alternative to buying new.

Are there any non-profit organizations that provide free Apple laptops?

Yes, several non-profit organizations, such as EveryoneOn and PCs for People, work to provide laptops to low-income individuals and families. While not always Apple-branded, these organizations sometimes receive donations of Apple laptops.

How can I trade in my old device for a discount on a new Apple laptop?

Apple’s trade-in program allows you to exchange your old device for credit towards a new purchase. The trade-in value depends on the condition, age, and model of your device. You can get an estimate online and either mail in your device or bring it to an Apple Store.

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