What we think
Our basic look into broadband bundling shows that there is no such thing as a free laptop: you pay for it in one way or another.
It literally pays to 'do the math' and calculate how much extra you'll be paying over a regular £15pm mobile and £10pm fixed-line connection. Also be wary of the contract length, as most operators will attempt to tie you in for 24 months.
Out of the laptops and tariffs listed, the ASUS Eee PC from Orange and the more-powerful HP 550 from 3 aren't bad if you starting a-fresh and want mobile broadband that's not tied to a home. For most others, negotiate a dongle-only 3G contract and opt for a shorter tie-in length as the market will undoubtedly change in the upcoming 18 months.
However, if you need a laptop and find it difficult to shoulder the initital outlay, there's intrinsic merit in some of the deals.
Let us know if you've come across any stonking 'laptop-included' deals, and what the service has been like if you've gone for a mobile package. As always, we'd be keen to hear your thoughts.
