Getting online for less

Sometimes you’ll buy a device and internet connection together. When you take out a mobile phone contract, you’ll often pay for a smartphone and mobile internet connection at the same time. At other times you’ll have to get your device and internet connection separately, so we’ll look at them one at a time.

Smart devices can be expensive, but you may be able to get one for free.

The charity Wavelength gives tablets to people who are lonely and on a low income. You can’t apply to them yourself so you’ll need someone like a friend, neighbour or care worker to apply for you. Visit their website to find out how to apply.

Smart devices can be expensive, but you may be able to get one for free.

Your local council may have a scheme to lend tablets free of charge. Charities like your local Age UK may run similar schemes. Devices will often come with a mobile internet connection, but there will probably be a limit to how long you can borrow it for. Try searching for ‘tablet loan scheme’ and the area where you live to see what schemes there are near you.

If you choose to buy a device, think about what features you’ll need. Prices of different models vary and a budget model might suit your needs.

It’s important to shop around as prices for the same model can vary with different retailers. If you’re considering buying a new device online, follow advice to shop online safely.

To save money, you could consider:

• second-hand devices
• refurbished devices – pre-owned devices that have been restored to good working order by the manufacturer
• older models.

These are usually cheaper, but bear in mind that technology companies may eventually stop providing software and updates for outdated models.

If you’re buying an older mobile device – like a smartphone or tablet – make sure it supports 4G. Mobile services use different generations of internet technology – 4G means fourth generation. Mobile providers started switching off their older 3G networks early in 2024.

The National Databank gives free mobile SIM cards to people on a low income. A SIM card slots inside a smartphone or tablet so you can connect to the internet. You can use these with a smartphone or tablet to get online. Use this map to find your local National Databank.

When you’re out and about with a smart device, you’ll often be able to connect to public WiFi ‘hotspots’ for free. This can be useful if you don’t have your own mobile internet connection or you don’t want to eat into your data. Libraries, cafés and even public transport may provide free hotspots. They’ll often ask you to provide personal details like an email address before you can connect. Think about how they may use your information and if you’re comfortable sharing it with them.

Public WiFi is often slower than home broadband or mobile internet. It’s also less secure. Criminals are more likely to be able to see the information you share, so avoid using public WiFi for tasks that involve sending personal data like internet banking, shopping or email. Read more about internet safety on our Staying safe online webpage.

If you’re going to pay for a broadband or mobile internet connection, it’s important to shop around to get the best deal.

If you already have an internet package, there may be cheaper deals out there. Switching is easier than it used to be. Visit Ofcom’s website on switching broadband or mobile provider to find out more about how to do this. Check if you’re still in contract with your provider. You may have to pay charges if you want to end your contract early.

Some internet providers might offer special deals for older people. However, these might not be the cheapest.

You can use comparison sites such as Uswitch to find the best deals on broadband or mobile internet.

If you’re claiming Pension Credit or some other benefits, you may be able to get a cheaper broadband package called a social tariff. Visit our Social tariffs webpage to find out more.