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DSA Suppliers overcharging?

Been offered a laptop as my current one is very old and low grade cpu. I recall documents saying upgrades are VAT free, but after looking around, DSA suppliers overprice the products they sell. I get that they need to make profit, but it's actually cheaper for me to pay full price, including VAT at currys or argos.
They listed a printer as 65/78 (w/ and w/out VAT prices) but i can see the exact same one as £50 at currys website. 25/30 for a recorder that it £20. £405 for a laptop that can be bought for £330, only a 1TB is added which cost less than £50.
I want to upgrade the laptop, would i be better off asking DSA if i can buy my own, have them install the software and then get reimbursed or would the supplier price match what i can buy, if they arent already at the same level?
Original post by shahryair
Been offered a laptop as my current one is very old and low grade cpu. I recall documents saying upgrades are VAT free, but after looking around, DSA suppliers overprice the products they sell. I get that they need to make profit, but it's actually cheaper for me to pay full price, including VAT at currys or argos.
They listed a printer as 65/78 (w/ and w/out VAT prices) but i can see the exact same one as £50 at currys website. 25/30 for a recorder that it £20. £405 for a laptop that can be bought for £330, only a 1TB is added which cost less than £50.
I want to upgrade the laptop, would i be better off asking DSA if i can buy my own, have them install the software and then get reimbursed or would the supplier price match what i can buy, if they arent already at the same level?


Most DSA suppliers do charge more than major retailers. They are generally smaller businesses providing a more specialised service so generally cannot price match - although there is no harm in asking. If you do decide to buy your own laptop then there is generally no issue with getting DSA software installed on it provided it meets their requirements in terms of specifications.

It might be best to speak to your DSA advisor to see what they would suggest in your situation.
Reply 2
Avatar for Lovesick
Lovesick
8
The price you are quoted by the DSA approved supplier includes comprehensive after purchase care and support, rather than just a 1 year guarantee. That's why the price is higher.

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