Steps for Our Business!

Who We Are

"Yes we can! (fix your computer)"

We realize that good tech help is hard to find. Millions of people have had to throw away or recycle their computers because they were told their machine couldn't be fixed or wasn't worth fixing. Broken laptop screens, bad motherboards, broken DC power jacks, nasty viruses, and structural damage have often been perceived as the nail in the coffin. Large retail stores and smaller computer outlets will often quote more for repairs than the computer is worth or simply turn down the job and say it can't be fixed.

If this sounds at all familiar to you, then it's time to Mail Your PC! The good news is that your computer can ALWAYS be fixed. And believe it or not, it's usually for much less than the cost of replacing it! Here's where we come in. We specialize in servicing laptop and desktop computers of all makes, models, and ages. Difficult repairs and niche jobs are no problem, although we are happy to help with any issues you may have. This is what we do. We know computers inside and out. We know which parts to stock and where to stock them from. And most importantly of all, we know how to treat our customers. Therefore, you don't have to worry about problems being incorrectly diagnosed or repairs taking too long. Feel free to browse our site or contact us. Thank you for visiting America's #1 site for mail-in laptop repair!

Services We Offer

"Made in China - Fixed in America"

  • Specialty Laptop Repairs (power jacks, motherboards, LCD screens, etc.)
  • Hardware and Software Diagnostics/Troubleshooting
  • Data Recovery
  • Virus/Spyware Removal & Prevention
  • Liquid Spill Assessment and Recovery
  • Desktop Rebuilds
  • Routine Maintenance
  • Upgrades (Software and hardware)

Don't see what you need? Shoot us an e-mail.

What We Charge

"Guaranteed Most Professional - Guaranteed Best Prices!"

Hourly Labor Rate: $55.00
Diagnostic Fee: $55.00

  • Your diagnostic fee includes the first hour's labor if you choose to proceed with the repair. If you choose not to go forward with the repair, the fee covers return shipping.

After our diagnosis, you will be contacted with a complete repair estimate before we begin.

Methods of Payment Accepted:
  • Visa/Mastercard/Discover/American Express
  • Personal and Company Checks (Once Cleared)
  • Money Orders/Cashier's Checks
  • Cash (Not Recommended Unless Insured)
  • Paypal (5% Service Charge Applies)

FAQ's

"...and other valuable info"

If I have to pay all that money to ship my computer, is it really worth fixing?

Yes. We can almost always save you enough money for it to be worth your while. Shipping costs a lot less than you probably think, even for desktops. All you need to send is the tower itself, no accessories, cords, or screens. For notebooks, please send the computer and the AC adapter.

What is the turnaround time for repairs?

3-10 business days for most orders. 2-4 weeks may be necessary for some high end notebooks and component level repairs. Whatever the turnaround time may be, we will keep you posted and answer all of your questions during the process.

Do you work on Macs?

Yes!

Can you repair laptop motherboards at the component level, or do you just replace them if faulty?

Sometimes. We assess each case individually. If a motherboard has more than two faulty components, our policy is to automatically replace it rather than repair. Many people are very confident that a certain chip on the motherboard is bad and just want that replaced. All cases are treated the same: you send us your complete system, we diagnose it, then contact you. We do not accept incomplete systems or individual system boards.

Why should I pay to fix my computer when I can go to Wal-Mart and buy a new one for $500?

There are quite a few reasons. One is that we can probably repair your computer for a lot less than a comparable one costs new. Also, isn't it always a pain to switch computers? You have all your stuff on your old one, much of which is expensive software that you lost the CD's for a long time ago. Here's another reason: What kind of computer do you get for $500? Think back to when you bought this computer - was it $500? Probably not, because you didn't want to buy bottom-of-the-barrel obsolete technology. Lastly, you are doing your part for society and the environment: one less computer system in a landfill.

Who will be working on my computer?

Our small, dedicated team of specialists has the knowledge and experience to cover all the bases. We are college-educated with up-to-date training and product knowledge. Together, we have decades of experience in hardware, software, networking, and all major operating systems. All orders will be stress-tested and checked by the owner before they leave.

Do you work on iPods, cell phones, game consoles, etc?

No. However, we are able to perform data recoveries from some game consoles and DVR devices.

Do you work on netbooks? How about tablet PC's?

Yes!

Shipping my computer away makes me uncomfortable. Can I trust my system and data with you?

Yes. We have no use for any of your personal infomation. All of our procedures (even data recovery!) are able to be conducted in a non-intrusive manner. Hundreds of references are available upon request to help verify this fact. As far as shipping goes, just make sure to use a carrier you trust. A tracking number and package insurance are recommended.

Can you give me a quote over the phone?

Sometimes. If your issue is obvious and we have all of the model information we need, we'll happily give you an accurate quote (it won't always be exact.) On many occasions, we won't know the cause of your issue until we diagnose the problem here. We have found that very often, the customer is told one thing by a big box store or shop. After we have a chance to check it out, we find the problem is entirely different.

What is a "desktop rebuild?"

Computers become "obsolete" by most standards within five years from their purchase date. What's nice about most desktops is that they have a very generic design that is easy to work with and upgrade. A "rebuild," or "remanufacture," is where we overhaul your entire computer and replace ONLY THE OBSOLETE EQUIPMENT. This give you the performance of a new PC for a much lower cost, plus retains your existing data, settings, and programs. The procedure usually costs a good deal less than a new PC and is a good option for retail and office machines. More information on this service can be sent to you upon request.

When I call, nobody seems to pick up the phone. What's going on?

We believe running an online business without providing a public phone number is unethical and unprofessional. However, due to the large call volumes we receive and limited staff at hand, e-mail is often a much quicker and reliable way to communicate. Still, we realize that many customers will not have access to their e-mail if their computer is down. So if no one picks up when you call, leave a message and your call will be returned promptly.

How are you able to charge so little compared to the big stores and local shops? What's the catch?

We are efficient, fair, and great at what we do. No catch. When you do leave your machine in their hands, they ususally tell you to allow several weeks for the repair. That's because they're outsourcing the job to us or somebody like us. Then they still have to get their cut.

I enjoy doing business with your company. Is this all you guys do?

Our small, Virginia company has four facets: 1)Nationwide mail-in services, 2)Nationwide sales of new and used systems, 3)Local computer services in our area (on-site and drop-off), 4)Professional IT contracting services for larger corporations and government. If you are interested in these services, please contact us.

Testimonials

"An alternative approach to computer repair"

"I am a tech dummy. What a breath of fresh air this was. One you get through the initial pain of shipping, you quickly realize your computer is in good hands. I'll be back!"

-Kay, Akron OH

"My wife and I have a Dell Inspiron 1000 laptop that kept shutting off when moved. Everyone here told us that it was the motherboard. We decided to give Top Notch a try, and it turned out to be something much cheaper and easier to fix. We paid $149.50 out the door and it took less than a week."

-Justin, Cleveland TN

"I live in Chicago and still couldn't find anyone local to fix my laptop for a reasonable price. Everybody wanted to reformat my hard drive, which was not an option I was willing to accept. I was very happy with the service I received and quick turnaround time. Thank you and look for some more business coming from my way!"

-Peter, Skokie IL

"I was very pleased to find someone who worked on Apples other than retail stores in malls. As a fellow small business owner, I wanted to leave a tip for other customers: If you use UPS store to ship your computer, buy the box and peanuts there but pack it yourself. Having them pack it for you can sometimes cost over $100".

-Jane, Van Nuys CA

"I think people have had so many bad experiences with larger stores that they forget solutions like this exist. When I tell others about my great experience here, they are very surprised. I wish more people knew!"

-Elizabeth, Denmark ME

"I live and work in Queens, where we have several big stores and small repair shops. I set out on a "computer repair crusade" about a year ago, to hopefully find help for my sick laptop. It would start and run for about ten minutes, then shut off. The large stores quoted high prices and unacceptable turnaround times. The smaller shops seemed fly-by-night and often dirty with rude employees. Luckily a friend recommended I try shipping it here. I'm so glad I did - the computer was fixed promptly and the service was world-class. What a great idea!"

-Wendy, Queens NY

"We have our own IT staff which monitors and supports our software and network issues. Our people don't have the time, resources, or expertise to deal with difficult laptop repairs. When we accumulate 5 or so broken out-of-warranty laptops, we send them into Top Notch to be refurbished. This has proven to be a great value".

-Allen, Royal Oak MI

Instructions for Repair

"Let's get the ball rolling!"

Receipt of your computer by Top Notch indicates your agreement with our Terms and Conditions.

Instructions for Repair
  1. Package your computer well using a shipping box or carton. Prepaid postage boxes are available, but will slow down the turnaround process. If shipping a laptop PC, please include the battery and AC adapter. For desktops, all you need to send is the tower unit itself.
  2. Make sure to include a note in the package containing your address, phone number, and any other contact information you wish for us to have. Also include a description of the problem(s) you are experiencing, if it's not evident.
  3. Ship the computer to the following address:

    Top Notch Computer Systems
    300 Preston Ave, Suite #304
    Charlottesville, VA 22902

In most cases, we will contact you within 24 hours with an order number and detailed estimate, if necessary. The minimum diagnostic fee is $55.00 (includes return shipping), which is fully refunded if we perform any repair service.

That's it!

Money Saving Tips for Shipping:

If you don’t have your original computer box anymore, don’t panic. Using a plain cardboard box with bubble wrap or peanuts is the way to go. The box should be big enough to comfortably fit the computer and padding. If you need to obtain said supplies, a UPS Store or similar establishment is an efficient place to do so. They will also be more than happy to pack and ship your item, although you will save lots by packing it yourself.

Most economical shipping services to Virginia by U.S. location:

Eastern Seaboard (ME-FL, and most of the Southern States): UPS Ground

Midwestern States: UPS Ground

Texas, Plains States and Mountain States: USPS Priority Mail

West Coast: USPS Priority or FedEx Express Saver

Alaska & Hawaii: USPS Priority