As an international student in the USA, having a reliable laptop is essential for your studies and staying connected with family and friends. However, buying a laptop can be expensive. Here are some smart saving options to help you afford the laptop you need without breaking the bank.
1. Set a Budget and Stick to It
Before you start looking for a laptop, decide how much you can afford to spend. Consider your monthly expenses like rent, food, and transportation. Then, determine a reasonable amount you can save each month. This will help you stay within your budget and avoid overspending.
In addition to setting a budget, check the minimum requirements for the applications you need to use during your study. This will ensure you buy a laptop that can handle your coursework without unnecessary expenses on features you don’t need. Look at your course requirements or ask your professors for recommendations.
2. Look for Student Discounts
Student discounts can significantly lower the cost of your laptop. Many laptop manufacturers and retailers understand the financial constraints students face and offer special pricing to help. Here’s how to make the most of these discounts:
- Manufacturer Discounts: Major brands like Apple, Dell, and Microsoft frequently offer student discounts. For example, Apple’s Education Store provides price cuts on MacBooks and iPads, often bundled with free accessories like AirPods. Dell offers the Dell University program, which provides discounts on laptops and other electronics. Microsoft’s Education Store also offers discounts on Surface devices and software like Office 365.
- Retailer Discounts: Retailers such as Best Buy, Amazon, and Newegg offer student discounts and deals. Best Buy’s Student Deals program provides exclusive offers on laptops and other electronics. Amazon offers Amazon Prime Student, which includes a six-month free trial and then half-price membership, providing access to exclusive discounts and free shipping.
- Samsung Discounts: Samsung also provides good discounts for students. They offer trade-in programs where you can exchange old equipment for brand-new Samsung laptops or other devices at a reduced cost. Samsung’s Education Store features exclusive student deals on their latest technology.
- Verification: To access these discounts, you typically need to verify your student status. This can be done through your school email address or via a service like UNiDAYS or Student Beans, which partner with various brands to offer student discounts.
- Software Discounts: Beyond hardware, students can also get discounts on essential software. For instance, Adobe offers discounts on its Creative Cloud suite, which includes Photoshop, Illustrator, and more. Many of these discounts can be found on the official websites or through portals dedicated to student savings.
- Local Campus Deals: Check if your college or university has partnerships with any local or online retailers. Some schools have technology stores or agreements with certain brands to provide students with discounts on laptops and other tech.
- Laptop Lease Options: Most universities offer laptop lease options to students. Check with your university’s technology office as soon as you enroll in your program to see if this option is available and if it suits your needs.
3. Wait for Sales and Promotions
Timing your purchase to coincide with major sales events can save you a substantial amount of money. Here are some key periods to look out for:
- Black Friday and Cyber Monday: These are two of the biggest shopping days in the USA, occurring right after Thanksgiving in late November. Retailers offer significant discounts on a wide range of products, including laptops. Deals can start a week in advance and continue through the weekend and into Cyber Monday.
- Back-to-School Sales: Late summer, usually July and August, is another prime time for laptop deals. Retailers know students are preparing for the new school year and offer discounts and bundles specifically targeting back-to-school shoppers. Look for deals that might include free or discounted software, extended warranties, or accessories.
- Amazon Prime Day: This annual event typically occurs in July and offers exclusive deals to Amazon Prime members. You can find deep discounts on laptops and other electronics during this event. If you’re not already a Prime member, you can sign up for a free trial to take advantage of these deals.
- Holiday Sales: Leading up to major holidays like Christmas, New Year's, and even smaller holidays like Memorial Day or Presidents' Day, retailers often have sales that include electronics. These sales can offer significant savings, and it's worth checking prices during these times.
- End-of-Year Clearance: At the end of the year, retailers often clear out older inventory to make room for new models. This can be a great time to find deals on last year’s laptop models, which still have plenty of power for most student needs but come at a lower price.
- Email Alerts and Newsletters: Sign up for email alerts and newsletters from major retailers and manufacturers. They often send out exclusive discounts and early access to sales events to their subscribers. This way, you can stay informed about upcoming promotions and act quickly when a deal matches your budget.
- Price Tracking Tools: Use online tools and apps like Honey, CamelCamelCamel, or PriceBlink to track prices and get alerts when a laptop you’re interested in goes on sale. These tools can help you identify the best time to buy.
Being patient and checking all your options can lead to significant savings. During this time, you can use computers and laptops available in public libraries or your university's library, common rooms, or residential halls.
4. Buy Refurbished or Used Laptops
Refurbished laptops are a great way to save money. These are laptops that have been returned, fixed, and tested to ensure they work like new. You can find refurbished laptops on the manufacturer’s website or trusted retailers like Best Buy and Amazon. Used laptops are also an option but make sure to buy from a reputable source to avoid any issues.
5. Use Price Comparison Websites
Before making a purchase, compare prices on different websites. Websites like PriceGrabber, Google Shopping, and CamelCamelCamel allow you to see the prices from various stores. This way, you can find the best deal available.
6. Consider Financing Options
Some stores offer financing plans that allow you to pay for your laptop in monthly installments. This can make it easier to afford a more expensive laptop without having to pay the full amount upfront. Here are some financing options to consider:
- PayPal Credit: PayPal Credit offers a six-month financing option with no interest. This can help you spread the cost of your laptop over six months without paying extra fees.
- New Credit Cards: Many credit card companies offer promotions where you get 12 to 18 months with no APR when you open a new account. This can be a good period to pay off your laptop in installments without incurring interest charges. Make sure to read the terms and conditions to understand all fees and avoid high-interest rates after the promotional period ends.
Just be sure to read the terms and conditions to avoid high-interest rates or hidden fees.
7. Save on Extras
When buying a laptop, you might be tempted to buy additional accessories like a mouse, keyboard, or case. While these can be useful, try to prioritize your spending. You can always buy these extras later when you have more funds available.
8. Sell Old Electronics
If you have old electronics like phones, tablets, or even an old laptop, consider selling them. Websites like eBay, Gazelle, and Swappa allow you to sell your used electronics for cash. This extra money can go towards your new laptop.
9. Use Cashback and Rewards Programs
Some credit cards and online shopping portals offer cashback or rewards points when you make a purchase. Check if your credit card has a cashback program or use websites like Rakuten to earn cashback on your laptop purchase.
10. Create a Savings Plan
Finally, set up a dedicated savings plan for your laptop. Put aside a certain amount of money each week or month into a separate savings account. This way, you’ll have the money you need when it’s time to buy your laptop.
Additionally, almost all big retailers give you between 30-90 days return policy if you don't like your purchase. Check the return policy before making your purchase to ensure you have the option to return the laptop if it doesn’t meet your expectations.
Conclusion
Buying a laptop as an international student in the USA can be a significant expense, but with careful planning and smart savings strategies, you can find the perfect laptop without straining your budget. Remember to explore all your options, take advantage of discounts, and be patient for the best deals. Always check student deals and discounts in any store and brand, as there's always something available.
By following these tips, you can manage the cost of living in the USA and the cost of studying in the USA more effectively. Studying in the USA can be challenging, but finding the right resources, like a suitable laptop, can make your experience at US universities much smoother. Happy shopping!
