How much does it cost to fix a computer?

The actual cost of your repairs will depend on several things, but you can get an accurate estimate by contacting several computer repair professionals near you. 

The type of repair your computer needs is one of the most important factors in determining its cost. For example, the cost to fix a computer screen is about $320, but fixing a virus or malware issue is about $100.

Sometimes, the solution is solved purely by working with software, while other fixes may require the computer technician to replace expensive hardware or fix physical damage. The following table gives a rough idea of what a technician may charge for certain problems:

In general, it’s more expensive to fix a Mac than it is to fix a PC. Your computer technician can assess what the actual problem is, but the following are average prices for each type of operating system:

The average cost to fix a laptop is approximately $250. Common laptop repairs and problems include: 

• Broken screens
• Dead battery
• Laptop running slowly
• Viruses and malware
• Overheating or malfunctioning fan
• Inoperable keyboard
• Water damage

Expensive parts, technicians with high skill levels, and constantly updating technology thrown into the same equation, it’s no wonder that computer repairs can get expensive quickly. However, the fee to fix the issue depends on several factors:

• Complexity and severity. If the damage to your computer is severe and the repair will be complex, expect to pay more. For example, if your computer needs a hard drive replacement or to fix an expensive broken laptop screen, the price will go up. In some cases, it might be cheaper to buy a new computer rather than repair one.
• Flat rate vs. hourly fees. Some computer repair shops charge a flat rate, while others have an hourly fee. A flat rate may seem unreasonably high, but it can actually serve you well if the repair is more extensive than normal. 
• Travel fees. If the computer technician comes to you, this will generally cost more than bringing your computer to the shop. This is because the tech has to cover their fuel and travel time. 
• Technician’s skills. The pro’s experience and skills also count. Hiring advanced technicians can be more expensive than hiring beginners.
• Your location. The rate for workers with the necessary skills to fix your laptop or desktop may be higher in large cities where the cost of living is higher. It also may be more expensive to buy replacement parts.

Sometimes, a quick DIY fix (like freeing up storage, buying a new power cable, updating your software, etc.) will solve your computer problems. Other times, you need to hire a professional computer technician. The following are problems you should let a professional handle: 

• Your system is suddenly and inexplicably slow. If you’ve got plenty of hard drive space, loads of RAM and your software is up to date, it’s time to bring your computer to a professional.
• Your hard drive has crashed and you’re worried you’ve lost everything on it. Data recovery can be an intense operation. If there’s damage to your hard drive, a computer technician may be able to salvage what’s stored on it and replace it with a new one. 
• Your screen, graphics card or other internal device needs replacement. Certain computers are much more amenable to user fixes than others. If you don’t know your way around the inside of a computer, bring it to a professional.

There are several ways to save money when fixing your computer. Try the following:

• Take your computer for an in-shop repair instead of having them come to you. A technician’s time isn’t free, and they will likely need to include fuel and travel expenses in their pricing if they come to you. 
• Always get a free estimate. The best way to avoid being shocked by the final price when the computer technician is done is to get a free estimate. Ask them to call you if the final price will exceed the estimate. Some will require a diagnostic fee regardless. 
• Look for hardware online if you live in an expensive area. If (and that’s an extremely important “if”) you know what you’re doing with computers and know what type of hardware needs to be replaced, you may be able to order them online for a lower price and bring them to the tech for replacement. Check with the tech before doing this, though.
• Install updates and clean up your computer before bringing it in. The time that your computer is in the shop costs money, so make sure to install the latest updates to your operating system before taking your computer in.

You can find a reputable computer repair service in your area by searching for local pros on Thumbtack. Whether you need data recovery, a PC technician for a tune-up, hard drive replacement, malware removal or to fix a broken laptop screen, Thumbtack puts pros in front of you to choose from.

Start by looking at ratings and customer reviews. Some reviews will include photos of work done by the computer repair technician, which are especially valuable in assessing the quality of their work. 

Also, find out if the professionals you’re thinking about hiring have enough experience, skills or certification (e.g., CompTIA A+ certification).

Reach out to three to five different companies or technicians to get a feel for who would be the best fit. Be sure to ask the right questions about their rates and services, such as:

• How much does it cost to repair a laptop screen?
• Do you charge a diagnostic fee? 
• What are your hourly computer repair rates?
• How many business days is your turnaround?

>>See local pros. Here are the best computer and laptop repair services near you.

Whether you have a MacBook Air, a PC a different type of laptop or a desktop, find a computer specialist by searching on Thumbtack.