Is your laptop worth repairing? Our computers have a tendency to break down. It is unavoidable. Nothing we own lasts forever, but when our computer starts acting up, it’s a little more heartbreaking since we know whatever the problem is could be quite costly to cure. When something goes wrong with our computer, though, we must decide whether or not it is worth repairing.
Do you want to keep putting money into a laptop that might have a new problem next month? Or do you just throw it out and start over? The solution is complex and depends on a number of factors.
Identify The Problem First
If your computer starts acting up, the first thing you should do is put it in timeout and figure out what’s wrong. In this case, Google is your best friend. Almost any laptop issue may be researched using Google. Granted, if your problem prevents you from using your laptop, it may be difficult to Google the solution. Fortunately, most of us have smartphones or have access to a public library with computers.
If Google is unable to assist you, you can always look them up here or contact a friend or relative who is well-versed in technology. Many workplaces have IT departments to which you can bring your laptop, but if all else fails, you’ll have to take it to a repair shop (e.g. Pronto Arigato LLP) or an IT professional to be diagnosed. This alone could run you anywhere from $50 to $100 though some shops may waive the fee if you end up having them fix the problem
Decide Whether Your Computer or Laptop Worth Repairing
After you’ve pinpointed the issue, you’ll need to decide whether your computer repairs are worthwhile or if you should just replace it. To make that decision, you must first ask yourself a few questions. What does a new laptop cost? What is the age of your present laptop? What is the severity of the issue? Are you still covered by the manufacturer’s warranty? Is it possible to extend your warranty?
Age and Condition
Age and condition – We all know computers don’t last forever and need to be replaced at some point, but how long do we mean by “sometime”? Well, that is a matter of personal taste and perspective, but a frequent client should, at the very least, update their computer every 5-10 years.
Even though 10 years may seem like a long period in computer years, computers nowadays are far more durable than they were in the past. I’m composing this article on a 9-year-old Dell 755 desktop computer (which I updated to an SSD for $60) and it’s running smoothly. Seriously, if I cleaned up the machine’s outside a little, the majority of people would believe it was brand new. After all, age is only a number.
Is There Anything Else Wrong With the PC Except the Age?
A little older computer with a single fault could be worth fixing, but a slightly newer system with a plethora of issues might be better off being taken off the market and replaced. Keep in mind, though, that some computer “solutions” can solve many problems at once. A factory reset, for example, will remove viruses, fix error messages, speed up your computer, and clean up an excessive quantity of garbage all at once, saving you time.
Every computer is different, and on average, higher-priced computers last longer than lower-priced PCs (no surprise there). So, before you run out and purchase a new computer, remember that a factory reinstall and maybe an SSD upgrade may be able to give your existing one a new lease of life.
What to Consider Before Sending Your Computer for Repair?
It’s tough to get too specific here because everyone’s budget is different, but the basic concepts stay the same. A repair will nearly always be less expensive than buying a new computer, but if the repair is estimated to cost 50-70 percent of the price of a new computer, you should always consider the machine’s age and condition before deciding whether to fix or replace it.
Finally, before deciding to skip a repair, always get a free estimate. Make it a point to do it for yourself. Finally, bear in mind that if you decide to upgrade to a new computer, your older computer will have a higher resale value if it is still functional.
Ultimately, It’s Your Preference
Choosing between a repair and a new computer is more than a cost and benefit decision. If you like the design/layout of your computer and it’s set up just how you want it, getting it fixed could be a good idea! When a computer you love can be fixed, it makes no sense to throw it away. On the other hand, if you’ve always loved your computer and have your eye on a newer one, go ahead and upgrade. Also, if you’re the kind that constantly wants the most up-to-date gadget, you might get a new computer, but if you believe in reducing technological waste, you may buy a repair.
Finally, a number of factors may affect your decision on whether to get your computer fixed or buy a new one. Request a free repair quotation, assess your equipment’s age and condition, weigh the cost savings of a repair, and then do what you prefer.
Conclusion
Let’s say you’ve concluded that repairing your computer is worthwhile. Fine, but ask a lot of questions before handing it over to a shop.
What is their repair warranty? The shop should offer at least a 90-day warranty on their repairs, meaning they’ll fix it again if necessary for free during that period. You might be able to get extra time if you negotiate.
Pronto Arigato Computer Repair Services
You can find out more about our services here:
Other Services may include: Data Recovery, iPad, Tablet and iPhone Repairs
