Key takeaways
- From no-interest loans (NILS) to student support, there may be low-cost finance solutions to buy a laptop.
- Avoid short-term loans if possible, as they usually come with high fees and interest rates.
- Check your eligibility early (age, income, residency, credit history) to increase your chance of being approved for the right loan.
What is a laptop loan?
Although laptops don't have to be too expensive these days, they can still be a burden to pay for. Whether you simply don't have the extra cash to stretch to a new laptop, you need a more upmarket model for your job, or you're studying and need something reliable, you may need to borrow money to pay for it.
A laptop loan is where you borrow the money and then repay it back plus interest over time. You may not necessarily need a loan, but let's look at your options.
What are my laptop loan and finance options?
Unsecured personal loan
An unsecured personal loan is when you borrow money from a lender, without having to use an asset as security. You then pay the loan back (including interest) in weekly, fortnightly or monthly instalments over an agreed term.
With an unsecured personal loan, you receive the money upfront and then can pay for your new computer or laptop in full.
Credit card
If you have a credit card, you can purchase your new laptop and pay it off over an extended period of time in instalments. You could also consider a 0% purchase card, which will give you a certain period of time to pay off your balance without incurring any interest.
In-store finance
Many shops offer in-store finance to help customers purchase expensive items like laptops. With in-store finance, you can spread the cost of your new laptop over 6, 12 or even up to 18 months. Many companies even offer interest-free loans or a 0% interest period.
Buy now pay later
Buy now pay later apps allow you to shop in-store or online and spread the cost of your item over time. This can be over several weeks or months depending on how much you borrow and the app you're using. You should make sure you're able to meet all the repayments though as charges can stack up.
NILS
If you're on a low income, you may be able to qualify for a No Interest Loan (NILS) to cover the cost of your laptop. NILS are available up to $2,000 for essential devices like laptops.
To qualify for NILS, you must meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Have a Health Care Card or Pension Card
- Earn less than $70,000 per year before tax (or less than $100,000 for couples or people with dependants)
- Have experienced family or domestic violence in the last 10 years
If you are under 18, your parents may be able to qualify on your behalf, depending on their circumstances. Anyone applying for a NILS must also be able to demonstrate that they can afford to repay the loan.
Can I get a laptop loan with bad credit?
You may still be eligible for a loan even if you have bad credit, though you will usually find that your options are more limited compared to someone with good credit. If you are eligible for a No Interest Loan, your credit score will not be checked.
You can check your credit score for free with Finder.
What are my other options?
If you're not looking to purchase a laptop, there are a few ways to borrow a laptop free-of-charge:
Through a university or TAFE
If you're currently enrolled at a university, TAFE or other tertiary institution, you may be able to borrow a laptop directly through your school. Many of the biggest universities offer laptop loan programs through the university library or student centre.
You can generally borrow a laptop or computer for up to a couple of days for free, but may need to pay a small fee if you borrow it for an extended period of time.
Borrow from a library
Like universities, many Australian libraries offer public access computers and laptops that can be used for free. You'll generally need to be a member of the library in order to book a laptop and will normally be unable to take it home with you.
Compare other products
We currently don't have that product, but here are others to consider:
How we picked theseAm I eligible for a laptop loan?
Whether or not you are eligible for a personal loan for a laptop will largely depend on the type of finance that you opt for. However, if you are planning on opting for a standard personal loan from a bank or non-bank lender, the below criteria usually applies:
- 18 years or over
- Australian resident or permanent citizen
- Have a regular income
- Have a good credit rating
Remember to compare your options thoroughly prior to submitting an application.
How do I apply for a laptop loan?
How you apply for a laptop loan depends on the type of finance you're applying for. Typically though, you'll be able to apply via an online application.
For a personal loan or credit card, you can usually apply online and submit all of your required documentation online too. Many personal loan providers now will also give you the ability to connect read-only access to your bank so they can check your bank statements for your income and expenses. The credit provider may also get in touch with you for more information or further documentation.
For finance like BNPL or in-store credit, there are likely to be a few easy steps as the application can take place in the shop.
Why compare personal loans with Finder?
Addicted to details. We know taking out a personal loan is something you'll be hooked up with for a while. That's why we put hours into research for this guide (and still do at least once a month)
Rates obsessed. Lenders come in all shapes and sizes, that's why we don't just track the big banks, but all the digi folk too. Pretty much everyone but your parents to be honest.
Cash for whatever you need. Lending rates verified from 180+ products day and night. Whether you're buying a car, rennovating your home or heck just ready to let loose with the spending - we got you.
Frequently asked questions about laptop loans
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