Until 2024, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) offered eligible households a one-time discount of up to $100 toward a laptop, desktop or tablet. That program has ended. Lifeline continues, but it only discounts phone or internet service. It has never paid for laptops.
Combo Wireless fills that gap with an offer of our own: a free refurbished laptop in a device combo for customers who qualify for Lifeline and enroll in our service.
Compare the three laptops
| Feature | Chromebook 11 | Dell Latitude | MacBook Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 11.6-inch (typical for this class) | — | — |
| Software | ChromeOS with automatic updates | Windows | macOS |
| Best at | Web apps, Google Docs, online classes | Office apps, job applications, full desktop software | — |
| Brand/model | Varies by availability | — | — |
| Class | — | Business-grade Windows laptop | Apple professional laptop |
| Model/specs | — | Vary by availability; confirmed before shipping | — |
| Works with | — | — | iPhone and iPad via iMessage, AirDrop and iCloud |
| Model year/specs | — | — | Vary by availability; confirmed before shipping |
| Best for | Students and anyone who works mostly in a web browser | Job seekers and anyone who needs full Windows software | iPhone and iPad owners who want everything in one Apple account |
| Price (eligible) | Free, refurbished | Free, refurbished | Free, refurbished |
Laptop brand, model year and specifications vary by availability. We confirm your unit before it ships.
Which laptop should you choose?
Chromebook 11
Fast to start, updates itself and hard to break. Best for web browsing, Google Docs and online classes. Check the automatic update expiration date under Settings › About ChromeOS.
Dell Latitude
Business-class Windows laptop. Pick it for Microsoft Office desktop apps, job training software or anything that requires Windows.
MacBook Pro
macOS on a premium build. Best if you use an iPhone or iPad, thanks to AirDrop, iCloud and Messages on the Mac.
Laptop combos
Two combos include a phone (Galaxy phone & laptop, iPhone & laptop) and two let you keep your own phone (tablet & laptop, iPad & laptop).
Getting online with your laptop
Your combo includes one Combo Wireless line, which is on your phone, with unlimited talk & text and a qualifying data allowance on the T-Mobile network. The laptop connects over Wi-Fi, or through your phone's hotspot. Laptops can use data quickly, so save big downloads, updates and HD video for Wi-Fi.
Who qualifies for a free laptop
Qualify for Lifeline through Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance, the Veterans Pension, or income. Our guide to a free laptop with Medicaid covers the most common question we get.
Qualifying through a program is an alternative to qualifying by income.
Source: USAC Lifeline Support – How to Qualify; USAC – Tribal Eligibility; CPUC – California LifeLine Eligibility
Free government laptop FAQs
Does the government give free laptops to low-income families?
Not through a current federal telecom program. Some schools, libraries and nonprofits run their own device programs. Combo Wireless's free laptop is our offer to eligible customers who enroll.
Is the MacBook Pro really free?
Yes, for eligible customers who enroll, subject to availability. It's refurbished, and the model year varies.
Can I get a laptop without a new phone?
Yes. Choose the tablet & laptop or iPad & laptop combo and bring your own compatible phone.
Is there a warranty?
Laptops include the standard manufacturer or provider warranty where applicable.