How Much Does Computer Repair Cost?

Have you got an old computer or maybe it’s one you’ve just bought? Have you ever considered what you would do if it breaks down?

Getting your computer fixed can be annoying in the best of circumstances but given the current Coronavirus situation, it can even more of a nightmare. You might not be able to get to a computer store in person and you might even be tempted to fix your machine yourself.

With everyone feeling the pinch of the economic downturn you might also want to try and save some money. So how much does computer repair cost?

Here’s everything you need to know.

Mac Vs Windows

The cost of your repairs will depend on the type of computer you have. If you have a Mac computer, you may be able to get it fixed for free at an Apple Genius Bar desk inside the Apple Store.

To get your computer fixed for free, the fault must not be your fault and your machine must be within warranty. You can generally have this extended by buying an Apple Care Plan when you purchase your machine.

Water or liquid damage is considered your fault and they do take into account whether the machine has been subject to condensation if you’ve taken your Mac into a bathroom with steamed up windows (tip: never do this!) or you’ve sweat on it.

Third-Party Fixes

Apple doesn’t take too kindly to you fixing your machine at a third-party repair store, and this could lead to you voiding your warranty so always remember this.

If your warranty is expired anyway, then there may not be that much benefit to having it fixed by an official Apple store.

If you have a Windows machine, then you don’t’ need to worry about this too much as you are free to have it fixed by any third-party company.

You need to be aware of the risks that come with this though. A third party store will no doubt offer cheaper repairs than sending your machine to Apple or the company that made the hardware.

But not all computer repairs shops are legitimate. Some might patch up your computer so it appears that it works when all they’ve done is made the problem worse.

Some third-party repair shops might offer to repair a computer but they don’t have the skill set to correctly fix the problem. They could give you back a faulty machine that then blows up and could cause you harm or even death.

Be sure to do your research first rather than simply using Google and opting for the cheapest repair store. Do check out this computer repair site that could offer some useful tips and great service.

This is one of the key steps when considering how much is computer repair?

Software vs Hardware

Another important consideration to take into account is whether the problem you are experiencing with your machine is to do with software or hardware.

Hardware problems are generally more expensive because they deal with the actual physical components of your computer. Software is easier to fix because it can generally be adjusted with programming.

Software is also a marketplace so if you find that one piece of software is not working well with your needs or it’s patchy you can find an alternative program that might meet your needs better. Some software is also more compatible with other operating systems.

Word, Pages, and Docs

A prime example of crucial software is Microsoft Office. Although most people traditionally use Microsoft’s word processing program, Word isn’t always the best match for Mac computers. It’s also not that great for collaboration. 

When updates like Big Sur are released they can fix some of the bugs but they can also widen the gap between the software and the Operating System.

Instead, you might want to opt for Pages or Google Docs. Both of these are free and are more stable if you have a Mac — it offers many of the same tools.

Other issues you might encounter include the developer not updating the software for the latest releases meaning you can’t open the app or the program at all.

Older Computers

If you have an older computer, then it might be worth asking whether it’s worth paying to repair a computer or to buy a new one instead.

If you have a serious problem with your computers such as the hard drive or motherboard that has stopped working, then it could cost hundreds of dollars to have it fixed. For this price, you could buy a whole new computer. The same can be said if you smash the screen.

When you buy a computer you should consider how much money you want to invest in it and how long you want it to last. Apple computers are generally seen as more reliable and have great customer service. But they come with a hefty price tag. 

Computer Repair Cost? Depends on Your Needs

How much to repair a computer? The answer is this varies a lot and every scenario is going to be different.

If you have a Mac computer that is still in warranty you might be able to have your problem fixed for free by the Genius Bar at the Apple Store. If you have an older computer with serious hardware issues then it may well set you back hundreds of dollars.

If you are interested in reading more about a computer repair cost then be sure to check out the rest of our site.