How to Save on Back-to-School Tech Amid Chip Shortages and Rising Prices

As the new school year approaches in the U.S., parents are facing steep price hikes for student tech. Many schools now mandate personal devices—laptops or tablets—for homework. However, a memory chip shortage, fueled by the rapid expansion of AI technologies, has driven up costs. Even refurbished devices have seen price increases of 6–15%, as seen with Apple’s lineup.

Experts warn the chip shortage will persist at least until 2028, pushing prices for new and refurbished tech higher. Despite this, purchasing devices remains essential. To save, prioritize certified resellers like Back Market, Amazon Renewed, or manufacturer stores, which offer warranties, return policies, and professional device checks to mitigate risks.

Another cost-saving strategy is leveraging trade-in programs from major retailers. Apple and Amazon, for example, provide gift cards for traded-in devices, usable toward new purchases. Selling old gadgets on platforms like Swappa or ItsWorthMore can also free up funds for upgrades. Don’t overlook student discounts, which sometimes allow buying new devices at refurbished prices.

When selecting tech, consider both price and longevity. Some Intel MacBook models, for instance, no longer receive software updates, posing long-term issues. In such cases, investing in a new device—even at a higher cost than refurbished—may be the smarter choice.