Top Online Stores to Find Cheap Smartphones and Laptops (2025 Guide)

If you’re hunting for a cheap smartphone or laptop in 2025, you’re not alone. Technology keeps getting more advanced every year, but thankfully, prices don’t have to break the bank—especially if you know where to shop. Whether you’re a student who needs an affordable laptop, a freelancer who wants a budget-friendly upgrade, or just someone trying to replace a broken phone without draining your savings, there are tons of online stores that offer great deals on gadgets.

But here’s the thing: the internet is huge, and it can be overwhelming trying to find trustworthy online shops with good prices. That’s where this guide comes in. I’ve put together a complete list of the top online stores to find cheap smartphones and laptops, plus helpful tips that’ll save you money and help you avoid getting scammed.

Let’s jump right in.

Why Buying Smartphones and Laptops Online Saves You More

Before we look at the best stores, let’s talk about why online shopping is even better for buying tech:

1. Prices Are Almost Always Cheaper

Online stores don’t have the same overhead costs as physical shops. That means lower prices and bigger discount opportunities, especially during sales.

2. You Can Compare Prices Easily

You don’t need to walk from store to store. Just open a few tabs and see which site offers the best deal.

3. More Variety

Online stores carry everything—from brand-new devices to refurbished models, open-box deals, and older series.

4. Customer Reviews Help You Choose

Reviews give you real insights into the product’s quality, performance, and potential issues.

5. You Can Find Exclusive Deals

Flash sales, coupons, and discount codes pop up online all the time, especially on big marketplaces.

Now, let’s break down the best stores where you can find affordable gadgets.

1. Amazon—The King of Online Tech Deals

If you want convenience, trusted sellers, fast delivery, and great pricing options, Amazon remains one of the best places to shop.

Why Amazon Is a Top Choice:

  • Huge range of smartphones and laptops
  • Regular discounts and lightning deals
  • Many refurbished and renewed options
  • Fast shipping with Prime
  • Reliable return policies

Amazon also has its popular Amazon Renewed section, where you can get refurbished phones and laptops at half the price of new ones.

Best For:

Shoppers looking for deals on both brand-new and certified-refurbished devices.

2. eBay – The Best Platform for Bargains and Used Tech

If you’re comfortable with buying used or open-box items, eBay is a goldmine for cheap gadgets.

Why eBay Is Great for Budget Buyers:

  • Massive selection of used, refurbished, and new devices
  • Big sellers like Best Buy and Samsung operate official stores.
  • Auction-style listings let you bid for even cheaper prices.
  • Buyer protection policies

You can easily find last-year smartphone models or gently used laptops at prices up to 70% off retail.

Best For:

People who want the cheapest prices available or don’t mind used or refurbished gadgets.

3. Best Buy – Trusted Deals on New and Refurbished Tech

Best Buy is known for selling brand-new electronics, but what many people don’t know is that their online store also includes:

  • Open-box deals
  • Clearance gadgets
  • Refurbished devices

These options can save you a lot of money.

Why Shoppers Love Best Buy:

  • Reliable quality
  • Official warranty options
  • Student discounts
  • Curbside pickup for local orders

Their open-box deals alone can save you hundreds on premium laptops.

Best For:

People who want brand-name quality without paying full price.

4. Swappa – Safe Marketplace for Used Smartphones and Laptops

Swappa is one of the most trusted platforms for buying used tech from real people. Every listing is checked manually, so you avoid scams and broken devices.

Why Swappa Is a Smart Choice:

  • No junk or fake listings
  • Prices are lower than retail.
  • Direct communication with sellers
  • Good for unlocked and carrier-free devices

You’ll find everything from Samsung Galaxy phones to MacBooks at great prices.

Best For:

Buyers looking for reliable used devices without middleman fees.

5. Newegg – Perfect for Laptop Deals and Tech Discounts

Newegg is a favorite among tech lovers. The store carries thousands of laptops, accessories, and computer parts.

Why Newegg Stands Out:

  • Huge selection of gaming and work laptops
  • Frequent promotions
  • Refurbished laptops at very low prices
  • Flash sales and seasonal deals

If you’re building a home office or upgrading your work machine, Newegg is an excellent place to shop.

Best For:

Students, professionals, and gamers looking for powerful laptops at budget prices.

6. Walmart – Affordable Smartphones and Budget Laptops

Walmart’s online store carries both premium gadgets and affordable budget options. Some of their lowest-priced smartphones come from brands like Motorola, TCL, and Samsung.

Why Walmart Is Worth Checking Out:

  • Always-running discounts
  • Clearance tech items
  • Many certified refurbished deals
  • Free shipping on most orders

You can often find brand-new Chromebooks for under $200 and smartphones under $150.

Best For:

People who want cheap new gadgets from trusted brands.

7. AliExpress – Cheap Phones and Laptops Direct from Suppliers

AliExpress is a great option if you don’t mind longer shipping times. It’s especially good for finding:

  • Budget smartphones
  • Affordable laptop options
  • Chinese brands like Xiaomi, Realme, and Lenovo

Why AliExpress Helps You Save Big:

  • Ultra-low prices
  • Huge product variety
  • Flash deals and app-only discounts
  • Free shipping on many items

If you’re comfortable with foreign brands and international delivery times, you’ll save a lot here.

Best For:

People are looking for the lowest prices possible on new gadgets.

8. Back Market—The #1 Marketplace for Refurbished Tech

Back Market specializes in refurbished, certified, and guaranteed electronics. It’s like buying “almost new” devices for a fraction of the price.

Why Back Market Is a Favorite:

  • Strict inspection process
  • 1-year warranty on most items
  • Affordable pricing
  • Eco-friendly approach

Their refurbished laptops and smartphones often look and feel brand new.

Best For:

Shoppers who want refurbished devices with warranty protection.

9. Gazelle – Trusted Store for Pre-Owned Smartphones

Gazelle has been in the business of buying and selling used smartphones for years, and it’s one of the safest places to purchase pre-owned iPhones, Android phones, and tablets.

Why Gazelle Makes Buying Easy:

  • Thorough testing of all devices
  • Affordable pricing
  • Easy return policy
  • Great for unlocked phones

If you want a cheap iPhone or Samsung Galaxy without stress, Gazelle is a solid choice.

Best For:

Buyers who want reliable used phones with verified quality.

10. Micro Center – Discount Laptops and Store-Exclusive Deals

Micro Center isn’t as big as Amazon or Best Buy, but they offer some of the most competitive prices on laptops—especially in-store pickup deals.

Why Micro Center Is Worth Browsing:

  • Deep discounts on laptops
  • Premium-brand deals (HP, Lenovo, Acer, Dell)
  • Great customer service
  • Budget gaming laptops

Their online deals are sometimes even cheaper than Amazon.

Best For:

Students, professionals, and gamers searching for value.

Tips for Finding the Best Deals on Smartphones and Laptops

To help you save even more, here are some smart strategies:

1. Compare Prices Across Multiple Stores

Never buy from the first store you see. Check at least three.

2. Don’t Ignore Refurbished Options

Refurbished tech is often as good as new—just way cheaper.

3. Look for Seasonal Sales

The best times to buy include

  • Black Friday
  • Back-to-school season
  • Cyber Monday
  • End-of-year clearance
  • Amazon Prime Day

4. Check for Coupons and Promo Codes

Use browser extensions like Honey or Rakuten to find automatic discounts.

5. Consider Older Models

Last year’s smartphone is still powerful—and much cheaper than this year’s.

6. Read Reviews Before Buying

This helps you avoid bad sellers and faulty devices.

7. Compare Shipping Times

Sometimes a cheaper price isn’t worth waiting 45 days.

What to Watch Out For When Buying Cheap Tech Online

Although online shopping is convenient, it comes with risks. Here are mistakes to avoid:

Buying from unknown sellers with no reviews

Choosing price over device condition

Not checking warranty or return policy

Falling for “too good to be true” deals

Not checking if a phone is carrier-locked

Being cautious helps you save money and avoid scams.

Conclusion

Finding cheap smartphones and laptops online is easier than ever—especially if you know the right places to shop. Whether you prefer brand-new devices or don’t mind refurbished ones, there’s an online store that fits your needs and budget.

If you want unbeatable deals and fast shipping, Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart are great starting points. If you’re chasing the lowest possible prices, check AliExpress, eBay, and Back Market. And if you want verified refurbished items with warranties, Swappa, Gazelle, and Back Market offer safe and affordable options.

No matter your budget or tech needs, the online stores above can help you get the device you want without overspending. Take your time, compare prices, and always shop from trusted sellers—you’ll be surprised how much you can save.

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