One of the most common questions I get from Anaheim and Orange County residents is: 'How much should computer repair cost?' It's a fair question — pricing in this industry can seem opaque, and nobody wants to overpay for a simple fix.
In this guide, I'll break down typical computer repair costs so you know exactly what to expect before you call for help.
Diagnostic Fees
Most reputable repair services charge a diagnostic fee — typically $50-$100. This covers the time spent identifying what's actually wrong with your computer. At LB Computer Help, my diagnostic fee is $99, and it's waived if you proceed with the repair.
Be wary of services offering 'free diagnostics' — that cost is usually built into inflated repair prices. Transparent diagnostic fees are actually a good sign of honest pricing.
Common Software Repairs
Virus and malware removal: $79-$149. The price depends on infection severity. A simple adware cleanup is on the lower end; a complex ransomware situation costs more.
Operating system reinstall: $99-$149. This includes backing up your data, reinstalling Windows or macOS, and restoring your files.
System tune-up and optimization: $79-$99. Cleaning up startup programs, removing bloatware, and optimizing settings for better performance.
Hardware Repair Costs
Laptop screen replacement: $150-$350 total (labor + parts). Screen cost varies significantly by laptop model — a basic 15-inch screen might be $80, while a MacBook Retina display could be $250+.
Hard drive or SSD replacement: $100-$200 total. This includes data migration from your old drive if it's still accessible.
RAM upgrade: $75-$150 total. Often the most cost-effective upgrade for an aging computer.
Power supply replacement (desktop): $100-$175 total. A common fix for computers that won't turn on.
Business IT Support Pricing
On-demand business support: $100-$150/hour. This is the typical rate for break-fix support when you call with a problem.
Managed IT services: $25-$100 per device/month or $299-$999/month flat rate for small teams. This proactive approach usually saves money compared to reactive support.
Network setup and configuration: $200-$500 depending on complexity.
Red Flags to Watch For
Be cautious of extremely low prices — they often indicate inexperience or hidden fees. Also watch out for pressure tactics, unclear pricing, or refusal to provide written estimates.
A reputable repair service will give you a clear quote before starting work and won't proceed without your approval. That's exactly how I operate — no surprises.
Getting an Accurate Quote
The best way to know what your specific repair will cost is to describe your issue and get a personalized estimate. I offer free estimates via phone, or you can use my AI pricing tool on the website for an instant ballpark figure.
Remember: the cheapest repair isn't always the best value. Consider warranty coverage, response time, and reputation when choosing a repair service.