How Much Does Laptop and PC Repair Cost?
Computer Repair Pricing in Burlington, VT
Most laptop and PC repairs start at $99 plus parts. The final price depends on the type of repair, the parts needed, and how involved the job is.
At Computers for Change, we’ll explain the problem and provide a repair quote before any repair work begins.
How Repair Pricing Works
Most repairs start at $99 plus parts. If we can identify the problem while you’re at the counter, such as a cracked screen, worn battery, or obvious hardware issue, we’ll provide a quote on the spot at no charge.
If we need to keep the computer for a more involved diagnosis, we’ll explain what needs to be done. If you move forward with the repair, standard repair pricing starts at $99 plus parts. If you decide not to proceed, a $50 bench fee applies for the diagnostic work.
You’ll always know the recommended repair and expected cost before repair work begins.
What Affects the Cost?
Several factors determine the final price.
The Repair
Some jobs are straightforward, like replacing a storage drive or battery. Others involve delicate disassembly, board-level troubleshooting, or extensive testing, which requires more labor.
Replacement Parts
Screens, batteries, SSDs, RAM, fans, keyboards, and charging components vary widely between models. We source quality replacement parts and include those costs in your repair quote before the repair begins.
The device
Business laptops, gaming systems, ultrabooks, and desktops are all built differently. Slim laptops and gaming models typically require more labor than standard desktop computers.
Parts Availability
Many replacement parts are already in stock or arrive within a day or two. Older or uncommon models sometimes require special orders, which can extend turnaround time.
Laptop vs. Desktop Repairs
Both laptops and desktops generally start at the same price of $99 plus parts.
Laptop repairs often require more disassembly because components are tightly packed together. Desktop computers are typically easier to access, making some repairs quicker.
Regardless of the device, we’ll inspect it first and recommend the most practical solution.
Typical Repair Costs
SSD Upgrade
Desktop computers and many older laptops can be upgraded with a solid-state drive for a significant performance boost.
Typical Cost: Starts at $99 labor.
Battery Replacement
Battery pricing depends entirely on the laptop model and how difficult the battery is to access. Some batteries are simple replacements, while others require much more disassembly.
If your battery no longer holds a charge or drains unusually quickly, we’ll let you know whether replacement makes sense.
Screen Replacement
Screen costs vary by size, resolution, touch capability, and laptop model. Standard laptop displays are generally less expensive than gaming, high-refresh-rate, or touch screens.
We’ll identify the correct part and provide an exact quote before ordering anything.
Virus & Malware Cleanup
Most malware removals, browser cleanups, and Windows troubleshooting fall under our standard repair pricing. If Windows needs to be reinstalled, we’ll discuss that option before proceeding.
Backing up your files is available as a separate service if needed.
Diagnosis
If we can determine the repair while you’re at the counter, there’s no charge for that evaluation.
If the problem requires us to keep the computer for testing or disassembly, standard repair pricing starts at $99 plus parts if you move forward with the repair. If you choose not to proceed, a $50 bench fee applies for the diagnostic work.
Charging Problems
Charging issues aren’t always caused by the battery. The charger, charging port, DC jack, or motherboard can all produce similar symptoms.
We’ll diagnose the actual cause before recommending any repair.
RAM Upgrades
Many business laptops and desktop PCs still support memory upgrades. Some newer ultrabooks and compact systems have soldered memory that cannot be upgraded.
We’ll verify what your specific model supports before recommending an upgrade.
Cooling Service
Dust buildup, clogged cooling systems, and dried thermal paste can cause overheating and poor performance.
Cleaning the cooling system and replacing thermal paste is one of the most common services we perform on gaming laptops and desktop PCs.
Operating System Installation
A clean Windows or macOS installation is $120. We’ll reinstall the operating system and complete the standard setup needed to get the computer ready for use.
Because reinstalling the operating system erases the drive, backing up your files beforehand—or having us perform a data backup as an additional service—is strongly recommended.
Data Transfer
Data transfers are $120 per computer or drive.
If you’re purchasing a refurbished computer from Computers for Change, data transfer is $60 with your purchase, half the standard price. Additional discounts are available when transferring data from multiple drives.
When Repair Isn’t the Best Option
Sometimes replacing a computer makes better financial sense than repairing it. If that’s the case, we’ll tell you honestly.
Many customers choose one of our refurbished laptops or desktops instead. If you purchase one from us, we’ll transfer your data for $60, half the regular price, making the transition as simple as possible.
Our goal is to recommend the option that gives you the best value—not simply the biggest repair bill.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does the $99 Starting Price Include?
Most standard repairs begin at $99 plus parts. The $99 starting price covers labor for many common repairs, including software troubleshooting, SSD upgrades, battery replacements, and other hardware repairs. Replacement parts are quoted separately.
What is the $50 bench fee?
If we need to keep your computer for diagnosis and you decide not to proceed with the repair—or the machine isn’t repairable—a $50 bench fee covers the diagnostic work. If you move forward with the repair, the standard repair pricing applies.
Do You Charge for a Quote?
Counter quotes are free when we can identify the issue during your visit. If the computer needs to stay for testing or disassembly, standard repair pricing applies if you proceed with the repair. If you decide not to proceed, a $50 bench fee applies for the diagnostic work.
Can You Give Me a Price Over the Phone?
We can usually provide a rough estimate based on the symptoms you describe. A firm quote requires seeing the computer because similar symptoms can have very different underlying causes.
What If the Repair Costs More Than Expected?
We’ll contact you before doing any additional repair work that changes the quoted price. We won’t proceed with those changes without your approval.
Is Data Transfer Included With a Repair?
No. Data transfer is a separate service priced at $120. If you’re buying a refurbished computer from us, the price is reduced to $60 with your purchase.
Related Services and Guides
Want Us to Take a Look?
Bring your computer to 196 College Street in Burlington, or contact us to discuss the problem and get an initial estimate.