The 50% rule
The most practical starting point: if the repair cost is less than 50% of what a comparable replacement computer would cost, repair is usually the better financial decision. This isn't a hard rule, but it's a useful filter.
A $300 repair on a machine that would cost $1,500 to replace is obviously worth doing. A $600 repair on a machine that could be replaced for $700 probably isn't — especially if the machine is old and something else is likely to fail soon after.
Repairs that are almost always worth doing
These are the faults we see regularly that are cost-effective to fix in almost every case:
- Failed hard drive — replacing with an SSD is $149–$279 and transforms the machine's speed at the same time
- Dead RAM stick — usually $79–$179, machine works perfectly after
- Failed power supply — $89–$149 and the machine is back completely
- Virus / malware — $89–$149 for full removal and clean-up
- OS reinstall — $99–$129, resolves most software-related slowdowns
- Laptop screen replacement — $149–$299 depending on the model
- Overheating / fan replacement — $69–$149, prevents further damage
When to seriously consider replacing
Not every repair makes financial sense. Consider replacing when:
- The motherboard or CPU has failed on a machine more than 6–7 years old — these parts are expensive and the machine was already nearing end of life
- The repair cost exceeds 60–70% of a replacement's value — you're spending nearly as much to fix it as to buy something better
- The machine can't run current software acceptably even after repair — some hardware is simply too old to handle modern Windows, browsers, or applications
- This is the second major fault in 12 months — multiple failures in a short period often signal general component degradation
Age isn't everything
A well-maintained 8-year-old desktop with a quality CPU and a new SSD can outperform a cheap new laptop. Age matters less than what the machine actually is and what's wrong with it. We've repaired 10-year-old towers that went on to run flawlessly for another 3–4 years. We've also had 3-year-old laptops where the motherboard failure made replacement the obvious call.
Comparison table
| Situation | Repair | Replace |
|---|---|---|
| Repair cost < 50% of replacement | ✓ Repair | |
| Machine under 5 years old | ✓ Repair (usually) | |
| Failed HDD / RAM / PSU | ✓ Repair | |
| Motherboard/CPU failed, 7+ years old | ✓ Replace | |
| Repair cost > 60% of replacement | ✓ Replace | |
| Second major failure in 12 months | ✓ Consider replacing |
What about data?
Whether you repair or replace, protecting your data should come first. If the hard drive has failed, we often recover data before doing anything else. If you're replacing the machine, we can migrate your files, programs, and settings across to the new one.
Not sure if it's worth repairing? Ask us.
Bring it in to our Midland WA workshop — diagnosis is always free. We'll tell you honestly what's wrong, what it'll cost to fix, and whether it's worth it. No obligation.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my computer is worth repairing?
The general rule of thumb: if the repair cost is less than 50% of what a comparable replacement would cost, repair is usually worth it. We always give you a free diagnosis and upfront quote — you decide whether to proceed.
What computer repairs are usually worth the cost?
SSD upgrades, RAM replacements, power supply swaps, screen replacements, and virus removal are almost always cost-effective. These repairs typically cost $79–$299 and can extend a computer's life by several years.
When is it better to replace a computer than repair it?
Replace when: the motherboard or CPU has failed on a machine over 7 years old, the repair cost exceeds 60–70% of a replacement's value, or the machine is too old to run current software acceptably even after repair.
How much does computer repair cost at PC Madness Midland?
Diagnosis is always free. Most common repairs range from $89 to $349 including parts. We quote upfront and you decide — no surprise bills.