If you’re reading this post, then you’re probably seeking some kind of computer repair service, for either your business, home office, or both.

Getting the right assistance can be quite the task, I’m sure. So many options out there to choose from, how would you know where to begin. The easiest thing to do is…well go down the list of a local Google search and start calling the local companies. Right?

But how do you know if you’re picking the right company to fix your computer? You don’t really, it’s more of an educated guess, with some research and a few price comparisons.

I know…not the answer you were looking for. But it is, in fact true.

Here’s the thing, there are a number of companies out there that can provide computer repair service, Advanced-PCs included. Computer repair is a commodity service.

What separates all these companies, is how the service is delivered.

For instance, do you have to drop off your computer at their location, or do they come to you? What’s the turn around time? Are you looking for a Geek based company, that talks over your head, or do you prefer a more consultative and personable approach?

All important things to consider.

Not all customers shop the same.  What works for one party, may not work for another party.  That holds true, regardless of the product or service you’re buying.

But let’s break this topic down and answer some important questions, to help you make an informed decision as it relates to getting your computer repaired.

How Much Does it Cost to Fix a Computer?

This depends on the nature of the problem.  It also depends on the company that you’ve decided to work with.  Some companies charge by the hour (most of us do…).  Others charge by the job.

Let’s take the hourly rate approach since it’s the most common method.  The average technician will charge between $65/hr and $175/hr.  The hours to solve a “slow running computer” (a typical request that we get) problem, for instance, is about 2 1/2 hours.

So on the lower end, expect to pay about $160. On the higher end, expect to pay upwards of $430. Pretty steep on the high end, I know.

The higher end price usually comes with more consultative services (helping you make the best choice for you, your computer and your business, going forward). Hence the higher price.

Some people value that more so than just get their computers fixed. They like knowing that they can have a relationship with their tech company. The higher end companies are investing in just that, relationships.

If you’re the type of customer that likes the consultative, professional approach then maybe the higher end companies will be a better fit for you. On the other end, if you’re a bit more price sensitive, and just want a quick fix, and don’t want to spend an arm and a leg, to get it done, then the lower end companies suit you best.

Figure out what type of customer you are, and budget accordingly.

How Long Does it Take to Repair a Computer?

Typical computer repair can take between 1 hour to 5 business days.

Why such a huge gap?

Well, if it’s something that can be repaired in-house (the tech has everything they need right then and there to do the repair), then it should take them a few hours.

If a third party needs to be involved, then that’ll add more time to the project. So let’s say a new part is required and needs to be ordered and installed.  The tech will need to place an order for that particular part, wait for it to arrive and then continue with the work, once that part has been delivered.

If it’s something simple like a memory upgrade or a computer cleanup. That should take one to two hours tops. If it’s something more complex like a cracked screen on a laptop, then expect a few business days (3 to 5) before getting your computer back.

Is it Better to Repair a PC Or Get a New One?

The average life span of a typical PC based computer is 5 years.

And I’m being generous.

Others in the industry would tell you between 3 to 5 years.  With emphasis leaning more towards 3 years.

But after working with computers for about 20 years, I know you can get a good 5 solid years out of a PC based computer, with basic maintenance and upkeep.

With that said, the closer you are to that 5-year mark, the more I’d recommend start shopping around for a newer PC.

Sure, you can do some repair on that machine to get a little more out of it.  But eventually, those small repairs start to add up over time.  Plus the computer itself will start to lag behind, struggling to keep up with the ever-changing and growing technology it needs to operate.

To Conclude

Finding the right company to provide you with the computer repair services needed can be an ordeal in itself.  You learned the different factors that determine price difference, turn around time, and when its time to upgrade.

See my other article on Common Computer Problems and how to solve them.