Should You Repair Your Computer or Buy a New One?

When Repairing Makes Sense

• The computer is relatively new (3 years or less). Modern computers should last 5-7 years with proper care. If yours is still young, a repair usually makes financial sense.
• The fix is simple and cheap. Replacing a hard drive, adding more memory, or fixing a broken screen? These repairs are straightforward and cost a fraction of a new computer.
• You like what you have. If your computer works well aside from one issue, and you're comfortable with how it runs, fixing it keeps you in familiar territory.
• Your software and files are already set up. Starting fresh on a new computer means reinstalling everything and transferring files. Sometimes avoiding that hassle is worth the repair cost.
• Cost comparison: A typical repair runs $150-$400 depending on the issue.

When Repairing Doesn't Make Sense

• The computer is old (5+ years). At this age, multiple things start failing. You fix one problem, another pops up next month. You're throwing good money after bad.
• The repair costs more than half the computer's value. If the repair is $500 but the computer is only worth $600, you're better off putting that money toward a replacement.
• It's running slow even when "working." This usually means the processor, hard drive, or overall specs can't keep up with modern software. No repair fixes outdated technology.
• You're constantly frustrated with it. If it's been annoying you for months, a repair won't change that. You'll still have an outdated, frustrating computer—it'll just boot up.

The New Computer Option

Pros:

• Latest technology and speed
• Full warranty (usually 1 year)
• Better security features
• Lasts longer before needing replacement
• Runs current software without issues

Cons:

• Most expensive option ($500-$1,500+ depending on specs)
• Takes time to set up and transfer everything
• Might have more features than you actually need
• Depreciates quickly once you buy it

Best for: People who need the latest technology, use demanding software, or plan to keep the computer for 5+ years.

The Refurbished Computer Option

Pros:

• Significantly cheaper than new ($250-$600 for quality refurbs)
• Professionally cleaned and tested
• Usually includes a warranty (90 days to 1 year)
• Good performance for everyday tasks
• Better for the environment

Cons:

• Not the absolute latest technology
• May have minor cosmetic wear
• Shorter expected lifespan than brand new (3-5 years vs 5-7 years)
• Limited availability for specific models

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who need reliable performance for everyday tasks like email, web browsing, documents, and video calls.

The Real Decision Framework

Ask yourself these questions:

How old is your computer?

• Under 3 years? Lean toward repair.
• 3-5 years? Depends on the issue and cost.
• Over 5 years? Lean toward replacement.

What's the repair cost vs replacement cost?

• Repair under $200? Usually worth it.
• Repair $200-$400? Compare to refurb prices.
• Repair over $400? Start shopping for replacements.

What do you actually need?

• Basic tasks (email, web, documents)? Refurb works great.
• Photo/video editing or gaming? You might need new.
• Just browsing and email? Even a repair might be overkill.



What's your budget?

• Tight budget? Repair if possible, refurb if not.
• Moderate budget? Refurb gives best value.
• Flexible budget? New gives longest lifespan.

Our Honest Recommendation

Most people doing everyday tasks—email, web browsing, documents, video calls—don't need the latest technology. A quality refurbished computer gives you 80% of the performance at 40% of the cost. If your current computer is under 3 years old and the repair is reasonable, fix it. If it's older or the repair is expensive, a refurbished computer is usually your best value. Save "new" for when you actually need cutting-edge performance or plan to keep it for many years.

Still Not Sure?

Bring it in. We'll diagnose the problem, tell you the repair cost, and give you honest advice about whether fixing it makes sense. We sell both new and refurbished computers, so we have no incentive to push you one way or another. We just want you to make the right choice for your situation and budget. Sometimes that's a $150 repair. Sometimes it's a $400 refurb. Sometimes it's a new machine. Let's figure out which one makes sense for you.