Hi All,
I think we should just put these deals in to perspective a bit, as they were never intended to be a way of getting the best laptop for nothing but more of a way of allowing people who cannot go out and simply buy a really decent laptop to get a new one and pay for it over time.
Also, for some, it will be their first foray in to internet/mobile internet and the laptop is the perfect accompaniment.
I know a fair bit about these deals and I would offer the following advice:
- Don't go for a mobile broadband free laptop deal if you are looking to replace your fixed line/calls. The exception would be if you were a really light internet user. The aforementioned Dell deal with Vodafone is from £25 for a paltry 1GB or £30 for 3GB/month BUT you get charged £15 (that's FIFTEEN pounds) for every GB you go over your limit.
- AOL Broadband is the only major ISP to be doing a laptop deal at the moment so that is your best bet for replacing fixed line broadband/calls. You can get laptop, w.router, 8Mbps broadband, 40GB usage and free weekend calls from £19.99 (line rental on top). The deal is currently with a HP 6720 laptop and for just £29.99 you can upgrade to a decent machine with bluetooth. My mate got one and it's a good looking machine.
- Some stores like Comet are doing deals where you can buy the laptop of your choice at the RRP but then get £300 or more back if you sign up to broadband in store.
- Carphone Warehouse is offering laptops with various ISPs including Virgin Media and also do mobile broadband so I would start there.
Also, most contracts will be 18/24 months and be prepared for a credit check.
Hope that helps!
