· Marvin Adams · Tech · 4 min read
How to Save Money When Buying a Tablet in the UK
Tablets are versatile devices, perfect for work, entertainment, and education. However, they can be expensive, especially if you want a high-end model. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to save money when buying a tablet in the UK. Here’s how to get the best deal on your next purchase.
1. Determine Your Needs Before Buying
Before you start shopping, consider how you’ll use the tablet. Do you need it for basic browsing, gaming, work, or streaming? Understanding your requirements will prevent overspending on unnecessary features.
Key Considerations:
- Operating System – iOS (iPads), Android, or Windows?
- Storage – 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, or more?
- Connectivity – Wi-Fi only or cellular-enabled?
- Screen Size – Compact (7-8 inches) or larger (10-13 inches)?
If you only need a tablet for light tasks, a budget model will suffice, saving you money compared to premium versions.
2. Compare Prices Across Retailers
Tablet prices can vary significantly across different retailers. Always compare prices before making a purchase.
Best Places to Check:
- Amazon UK – Often has competitive pricing and deals.
- Currys, Argos, and John Lewis – Reliable for sales and price matching.
- Apple, Samsung, and Microsoft Stores – Direct purchases sometimes come with discounts.
- Refurbished Retailers – Apple Refurbished Store, Back Market, and MusicMagpie offer certified pre-owned tablets at lower prices.
3. Buy During Sales and Promotional Events
Retailers frequently offer discounts during major sales events.
Best Times to Buy:
- Black Friday & Cyber Monday – Huge discounts on tech items.
- Boxing Day Sales – Retailers clear out stock after Christmas.
- Amazon Prime Day – Great for deals on Amazon Fire Tablets and other brands.
- Back to School Sales – Student discounts on tablets, especially Apple and Microsoft products.
4. Consider Refurbished or Second-Hand Tablets
Buying a refurbished or second-hand tablet can save you a significant amount.
Where to Buy:
- Apple Certified Refurbished Store – Comes with a one-year warranty.
- Samsung Refurbished Store – Offers high-quality refurbished devices.
- MusicMagpie & CeX – Trusted UK sites for second-hand tech.
- eBay & Facebook Marketplace – Be cautious and check seller ratings.
Refurbished tablets often look and perform like new but cost 20-40% less.
5. Use Student, NHS, or Employee Discounts
If you’re a student, NHS worker, or work for a company with employee benefits, you may be eligible for discounts.
Discount Programs:
- Apple Education Store – Students and teachers can get up to 10% off.
- Samsung Student Discount – Available through Student Beans or UNiDAYS.
- Dell & Microsoft Discounts – Employees of certain companies can access tech discounts.
- Blue Light Card – Discounts for NHS and emergency service workers.
6. Trade in Your Old Device
Many retailers offer trade-in programs, allowing you to exchange your old tablet for credit toward a new one.
Trade-in Options:
- Apple Trade-In – Get credit towards a new iPad.
- Samsung Recycle Program – Trade in old devices for discounts.
- Carphone Warehouse & Currys – Accepts trade-ins for various tablet brands.
- Amazon Trade-In – Offers gift cards for old tablets.
Trading in your old tablet can save you anywhere from £50 to £200 depending on the model.
7. Buy a Tablet with Lower Storage and Use Cloud Services
Higher storage capacity tablets cost significantly more. Instead of paying extra for storage, use cloud services.
Alternative Storage Solutions:
- iCloud (Apple) – 50GB for £0.79/month
- Google Drive – 100GB for £1.59/month
- OneDrive – 100GB for £1.99/month
A 64GB tablet with cloud storage can be cheaper than a 256GB model.
8. Check for Bundles and Freebies
Sometimes, retailers bundle tablets with accessories or subscriptions, adding extra value.
Common Bundle Offers:
- Free Stylus or Keyboard – Some tablets come with accessories.
- Free Streaming Subscriptions – Amazon and Samsung occasionally offer free months of Disney+ or Netflix.
- Extended Warranties – Some retailers include extra protection at no cost.
Always check what’s included before making a purchase.
9. Consider Buying an Older Model
Tech brands release new tablets every year, but last year’s models are still powerful and often significantly discounted.
Examples of Savings:
- iPad Air 4 (2020) vs. iPad Air 5 (2022) – The 2020 model is £100-£150 cheaper but has similar performance.
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 vs. S8 – The S7 still performs well and is much cheaper.
Unless you need the latest features, an older model can save you money.
10. Avoid Unnecessary Accessories
Retailers often push accessories like cases, styluses, and screen protectors at high prices. Instead:
- Buy third-party accessories from Amazon or eBay.
- Look for generic keyboards and styluses instead of branded ones.
- Use protective sleeves instead of expensive branded cases.
Conclusion
Buying a tablet in the UK doesn’t have to be expensive. By comparing prices, waiting for sales, considering refurbished options, and using trade-in or discount programs, you can save a significant amount on your next purchase.
