Should I fix this computer or just buy a new one?

….Ponders many of my clients when a repair may be costly. Here is what we think at Call That Girl!

If you are a heavy user on your laptop, expect a 3-5 year life on the computer. My system lasted 2.5 years without a serious crash. My system is in the process of getting fixed by another company because I cannot fix what is wrong. If it’s going to be under $150, I will probably fix it. If over, I will opt for a new one. (edited to add: what is wrong with it that I cannot fix it? The motherboard is fried, and no…Call That Girl does not work on laptop motherboard issues).

I always recommend to clients this bit of advice:

New laptops are around $500 (basic laptop)

New desktops are around $400 (Dell has many that are cheaper)

If you have a desktop that is 5-7  years old, I would not put in anymore than $150 – $200 into it.

If you have a laptop that is 3-5 years old, I would not put in anymore than $150-$200  into it.

Many folks think just buying a new one is the best answer for even cheap repairs, but you have to remember that buying a new computer can have some costs or new problems that are unexpected.

• Wireless router may need to be configured
• Printer may not install correctly
• Make sure you have all of your software discs
• Make sure all of your data is backed up 
• Make sure your camera software will work on the new computer 
• You may need to buy a new mouse and keyboard
• That old scanner may not work
• Some old features on the old computer will not be there with the new computer (Briefcase)
• Expect a learning curve if you have never used “Vista”. Windows 7 looks and acts nothing like Windows XP.
• Office 2007 is a learning curve in itself. If you opt to buy it, be prepared to play around for awhile if you want to use the extra features out of “new, save, print”.

As you can see, buying a new computer sometimes isn’t worth it….with the extra costs, it may be costly. If you ever have questions, feel free to contact us and we can try to help.

Tags: Computer Repair St. Paul MN, Computer support St. Paul Minnesota, Saint Paul Computer repair

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