Should You Repair Your Computer or Buy a New One?

November 11, 2025

aYour computer is acting up. It's slow, something's broken, or it just doesn't work like it used to. Now you're stuck with the question: fix it or replace it? Here's how to decide.

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 No repair fixes outdated technology.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 You'll still have an outdated, frustrating computer—it'll just boot up.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.

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If you've ever had your screen hijacked by a scary pop-up claiming your computer is infected and demanding you call "Microsoft Support" immediately - you're not alone. These scareware attacks are one of the most common issues we see at Top City Tech, and they're getting more sophisticated every day.  The good news? There's a simple fix that takes just a few minutes.

Important Service Update: We're Coming to You

December 1, 2025
We've made an exciting change to how we serve our customers at Top City Tech. We are moving away from walk-in or drop-offs at our shop. Instead, we're bringing our expertise directly to you. We are now picking up devices from you, working on them, and returning them to you! Why This Change Benefits You Your time is valuable. We realized that requiring you to pack up your computer, drive to our shop, wait for service, and make another trip to pick it up was costing you hours of productivity. By coming to you, we're eliminating that hassle entirely. Faster turnaround. Without the overhead of managing a retail storefront, we can focus entirely on solving your technical problems quickly and efficiently. Many issues can be resolved on-site during our first visit, getting you back to work the same day. More personalized service. Seeing your technology in its actual working environment helps us provide better solutions. We can address network issues, printer connectivity, and other problems that only show up in your specific setup. How Our New Process Works 1. We Pick Up . Schedule a convenient time, and we'll come to your location to collect your equipment. No packing, no driving, no waiting in line. 2. We Do the Work . Your device gets our full attention in our workshop. We'll keep you updated on progress and any findings along the way. 3. We Return Everything . Once the work is complete, we deliver your equipment back to you, set it up if needed, and make sure everything is working perfectly before we leave. The Bottom Line This transition allows us to provide you with white-glove service that respects your time and delivers better results. You stay productive while we handle the technical heavy lifting. Ready to schedule a pickup? Send us an email, call, or text to get this started. Note : We no longer offer electronics recycling services. For recycling, please contact Mobile Wave Repair or Shawnee County Hazardous Waste to check on availability and capacity.

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