Ask HN: Looking for a donated PC or laptop for freelance work
Hi HN,
I hope you're doing well. I'm reaching out to ask if anyone has a PC or laptop they're no longer using and would be willing to donate. I'm trying to get started with freelance work, but unfortunately, I can't afford to buy a computer at the moment, which is making it really hard to take on projects.
If you have an old device you no longer need and are willing to donate it, I d be incredibly grateful. I'm happy to cover shipping costs if needed. Thank you for taking the time to read and consider this. Any help would mean a lot.
I suggest adding a bit more to this to strengthen idea that someone giving you an expensive piece of hardware is doing real good and isn't just getting scammed in some way.
Things that might help: - what kind of consulting? - have you done that kind of consulting before? - what youre doing now to make things work - do you have work lined up? - some commitment to follow up with info about your progress after getting a laptop - some commitment to paying it forward by passing a laptop on later once you're on your feet
None of this proves this isn't a scam but it might make people more interested in rolling the dice.
If you can afford shipping fees, you can probably buy a raspberry pi 3 or 4 and have enough machine power to get stuff done.
Also, you can find used thinkpads on facebook marketplace and a dozen other places for anything from $50 to $150.
Drive an Uber, make a few bucks and buy one yourself?
Where are you based? Maybe someone closer to your region can help
Can you start on a library computer or something like that? I think some libraries also lend out laptops.
Your local computer store likely has some decent used laptops. IE we have a local store “FruitFixed” that repairs devices and has a rack of used MacBooks.
Freelancing requires selling yourself as able to solve problems with your own wherewithal. EBay has used Thinkpads for $100 or so that are suitable for a lot of freelance work. Good luck.