Monthly Archives: March 2022

Is it cheaper to repair or replace your computer?

close-up of a laptop being repaired

Computer Repair Vs. Replacement

Today, there is a computer almost anywhere you look. In businesses, hospitals, manufacturing, government agencies, and homes – they are everywhere. From the time we wake up until we fall asleep, computers have something to do with our day. All of this has made a strong business in computer repairs

Sometimes though, it may be less expensive to replace a computer than to have a computer repair service. So, how much do computers cost to fix? The cost of computer repairs can have several factors and variables, like if it is a desktop or a laptop. The brand and the model will affect the cost too. When it comes to computer repairs, it is pretty much like automotive repairs. 

A software problem won’t require parts, but other types of computer repairs will be based on labor and parts. And while there aren’t a lot of tools like a mechanic shop has, there is certain computer repair equipment needed for computer repairs, most of it is basic and can be used on any brand and model. For the answer to the question, we found the basic pricing on some common repairs.

Laptop Computer Repairs: 

  • Keyboard Replacement Cost: Averages between $100 and $10 for most laptops, the exception being a Mac laptop because they require being completely dismantled for keyboard computer repair.
  • Water Damage Repair Cost: Minimal water damage, computer repairs average around $100.00 Extensive water damage can start around $250 and go upward. The time the computer was submerged in water will determine the cost. 
  • Fan Replacement Cost: Maybe one of the cheapest computer repairs around $20.00
  • Hard Drive Replacement Cost: Parts and labor for SATA hard drive computer repairs, the cost is around $120.00 with a 500 gigabyte. SSD (solid state drive) computer repairs for parts and labor is around $180.00 
  • Laptop Battery: Computer repairs for battery replacement can be as low as $30 and as high as $250. 
  • Other laptop computer repairs include replacing the Laptop Hinge, around $150, and Laptop Screen Repair between $125 and $195. 

Desktop Computer Repairs can range between $100 up to $1,000.  The labor is the most expensive part and with that in mind, many computer owners will choose to replace the computer before investing in computer repair. A basic rule to follow is if the cost of the repair is ¼ or more than the cost of a new one, buy a new one.

How do I check my computer for problems?

If you’re having issues with your computer running slow, you should know that computers get sluggish over time, usually because of how much has been stored on the hard drive. And if you don’t shut your computer down correctly, the files can be corrupted. Or maybe your computer keeps freezing.  Fortunately, or perhaps unfortunately, you can check your computer for problems before taking it in for computer repairs. 

Starting with Windows XP and 2000, computers came with a tool built in that will help you scan the hard drive to check for errors. This tool, Check Disk can be used following these steps: 

  • Open My Computer or go to the Start button and choose My Computer.
  • Right-click on the drive to be scanned.
  • Select Properties.
  • Select the Tools tab and click on the Check Now button.
  • Now click on Start for the scan to begin.

There is an option for Automatically Fix Errors and Attempt Recovery of Bad Sectors.  By choosing these options, Windows may be able to fix any errors found during the scan. 

How can I repair my laptop?

Today, there are YouTube videos that can walk you through most computer repairs your laptop may need, like replacing the cover, the screen, even the keyboard. You’ll want to make sure you have the proper tools, like small screwdrivers. 

In general, laptops are compact pieces of equipment. A person with large fingers may not be able to do all computer repairs needed and you’ll find taking it to shop for computer repairs. Then that brings the worry is it safe to send a computer for repair and can computer repair shops steal your data? 

If you’re sending your computer to a trusted and certified repair center, yes – it’s safe. However, there are computer technicians with bad intentions, even in the most trusted computer repairs center. So, yes again, your data can be hacked, spying tools or malware software can be installed if your computer gets in the wrong hands. 

technician repairing a computer

In Closing 

When you purchase your computer, whether it is a desktop or laptop, asking the seller where to repair the computer monitor is recommended. In most cases, where you purchase your computer will also offer computer repairs, often offering you a maintenance program that includes monthly updates and checkups. This is often the best place for any computer repairs you may need because they are going to want your repeat business.