Should I Buy A New Computer Or Fix My Old One?

It’s always a tough decision to say whether it’s better to buy a new computer or repair your old one. We’re prone to think whats new is better, faster, or just sexier, but that’s not always the case. With proper maintenance, desktop computers should last a very long time. We see a fair amount of machines that are 10+ years old that are still running strong.
At ITGuys, we’re typically biased toward keeping machines running as long as possible from an environmental and eWaste reducing stand point. But there are a couple of other things to consider:

Price

While big box stores or online deals might advertise computers as low as (insert low price number) for a limited time only, when you look at the specs closely, it may not be that great of a deal. Try to use a custom build calculator on a website (Dell.com is usually the easiest go-to). Then match your specs with the specs of a similar machine to see how what the real cost is.

Operating System

Keep in mind when you buy a new machine, it may come with a very different operating system than what you’re use to. Especially if it’s been a few years since your last computer purchase, it could be a very steep learning curve if your upgrading from say windows XP to Windows 10.

Transferring Data

The other factor to consider is transferring data and programs from an old system to a new one. Depending on what software is being used, it can be quite a process.

That being said, there are certain signs to look for that makes the question of whether or not to upgrade your PC simple to answer. If you’re comfortable opening your computer, you can look for any distended capacitors. Once there are signs of any capacitors that are bulged out or excreting a fluid, its a fatal sign that your motherboard is going bad and it or the system would need to be replaced.

Most computer issues are software based, and are easy to fix. A $49 Diagnostic from the IT Guys will help you make the best decision about what to do with your computer. We strive to give you the most honest information possible so that you can make the best decision about what to do.

We’re happy to take a look at your computer for you no matter what your decision about your computer situation.