Porthmadog Computers

Having never visited Porthmadog Computers before, I was most impressed by their service. Very professional and helpful. I have no hesitation in recommending Gareth and team.

I needed to replace my very old laptop with a modern second hand one. I chose to to this at Porthmadog Computers because I have used their services many times over the passed 7 or 8 years, and have always received good, helpful and honest advise. For this purchase I was asked to provide a list of my needs and wishes for the new laptop so that they could find the best match to my list. This happened within a week and then having agreed a price for the machine, the staff spent 2 days setting it up with all my data and "stuff" on the old one. I was very impressed with the result, everything looks familiar, and nothing has been lost in the changes. The good value of this purchase includes the excellent customer service, which is personal and with unlimited time, included in the price. I won't need to go anywhere else when I need help with anything electronic. Thank you to all the staff, I will recommend you to anyone who asks!

My desk top computer approx 8/9 years old needed replacing as it was using windows 10 and getting slower and slower to use. Porthmadog computers replaced with a model using windows 11 and transferred all the data across from the old system. This was completed in a quick friendly informative and efficient fashion

Great service from Porthmadog Computers…! They quickly identified the problem: the PSU had stopped working. Being a fairly old machine, a replacement was difficult to find, but I managed to find a 2nd hand unit on eBay, which Gareth checked and tested, before installing back into my computer. All in all an excellent job - well recommended, and thanks.

Took laptop in for check-up, quick efficient service, friendly knowledgable staff, good value for money.

This is the third time my PC has been into Porthmadog Computers to be fixed & the third time the very knowledgeable staff have fixed it in next to no time. The staff are very helpful & friendly & the work doesn't cost a fortune. I thoroughly recommend Porthmadog Computers, I wouldn't take my tech anywhere else.

Thank you for the prompt service we received regarding our Mac computer. Exceptionally knowledgeable and helpful staff. All work carried out quickly and we would highly recommended this family computer business for your computer needs, repairs etc. thank you again

We have used Porthmadog Computers for over a decade and have always found the service to be friendly, accurate and value for money. The family owned business understands our needs and responds with a speedy personal service. Well worth trying you will not be disappointed. Alan M. Edwards........HARLECH Gwynedd.

Decided to replace my aged desktop PC as it had got very slow and was not upgradeable to Windows 11. Was unhappy with the service received from the Bangor branch of a nationwide store. Having moved back to Porthmadog area I decided to try a longstanding local business with a good reputation. They discussed the options with me, and made a recommendation; didn't try to sell me an expensive PC with specification above my needs. Decided on a refurbished model. Price, which included transferring documents/programs etc, very reasonable. I was pleased by the friendly service and price and convenience of them being only about 3 miles away. Went back about a week later and bought a replacement for my laptop. I'm very pleased by the performance of both machines.

When my aged Windows machine refused to start recently I contemplated getting rid of it as it must be at least 15 years old now, but as it holds quite a lot of photographs of the local area going back many years I decided to contact Porthmadog Computers via email. The response was to take the machine into the shop, which I did, explained the problem and about photographs, no problem, leave it with us. Received a call the same day advising of the nature of the fault, and the cost of repair, agreed, and collected my now working PC the next day. Excellent service, highly recommended local business!

Very good and quick phone repair for my bent iPhone 13. Was very easy and reasonable prices The screen ended up being dodgy down the line few days from their supplier however they had this rectified at no cost very quickly. The best phone repairs in the area if you ask me. I haven’t found any better!

Laptop freezing. They diagnosed failed HDD, replaced with NVMe and copied all files. Now working very well. Helpful and thorough and explained everything.

Friendly and efficient service from a knowledgable and courteous team They always take great care to ensure the computer leaves the shop in the best condition possible Would recommend them every tome

Have used this business several times previously. This time we bought a refurbished laptop for our domestic use. We noticed a small crack in the casing so returned it and were immediately supplied with another unit which was actually a better model for the same price. We are techno dinosaurs so have found their help and advice invaluable and wouldn't hesitate to use them again and will recommend them to others.

A reasonable annual fee (frozen if maintained) seems to cover all queries and answer all problems. Wish they did gardening and decorating...

Can't fault the service. Has always been right for me, Have used them for many years, so it must be okay or I would have moved on. Been a member of their package for years, good investment.

My Windows programme had got scrambled and Porthmadog fixed it quickly and completely. Work was done within 24 hours.

Laptop was barely functioning. Despite explaining to me how I could save everything on the device and put it back to factory condition, I opted to have Gareth do the work for me. He is very knowledgable, helpful and charges a very fair price. The computer now works fine. This is the second time I have had a laptop repaired and on both occasions I have been very pleased. Highly recommended.

Knowing that I needed a new laptop, I was given excellent advice having explained what I was looking for. Having then chosen an Asus laptop, all my documents and programmes were transferred from my old laptop to the new one, as agreed. The aftercare is also to be commended, with online and in store assistance available if and when required. Very friendly and knowledgeable staff.

A friendly, helpful service. Quick, efficient and reasonably priced. Explains in plain terms to the computer illiterates! Have used this company twice now, once for a kindle fire and then for our PC Can't recommend enough!

My husband and I both wanted new desktop computers as ours were old and slow. We asked Gareth if he could supply ones which were not filled with programmes we didn't want. He assured us he could supply and customise them to our requirements, and he did! Gareth completed the work fast and efficiently. He gave us good advice and was always open to answering our questions. He also volunteered valuable information. We felt he really listened to us and wanted to give us a good deal. We left the choice of desktop to him. He is very knowledgeable, with decades of experience, values his customers and isn't prepared just to sell high cost items when they are not necessary. He is very principled and wants to do the right thing. Aftercare is very important to us and we have been able to phone to talk through some of the new features, all of which has been very helpful. Nothing has gone wrong and we are absolutely delighted with our new, fast and versatile machines. We highly recommend Gareth and wish we had known about him before we bought our last machines!

Ensured my laptop was repaired under warrenty- handled everything from protecting my data to liaising with manufacturer and to ensure repair beig carried out. They kept me informed at all times and chased the repair being done by the manufacturer. They were very efficient and demonstrated excellent customer care...and all with a sense of caring. Simply put they were excellent.

The shop obtained the required battery very quickly, removed the old one and inserted the new one whilst I did a little shopping.

Took much time to discuss my options to migrate from old PC running Windows 7 to new PC running Windows 10/11. Matched my new PC to my needs and pocket. Imported all my data and replicated the Desktop I was familiar with. Thoroughly explained operation of Windows 11 before handing over my new PC. Subsequently dealt with teething problems over the phone and gave me confidence that ongoing support was there. A positive experience during what could have been a stressful time.

Gareth, looked over my old Lenova, gave me an honest review on wether to spend money on upgrade or put towards new one, having decided to get new one and deciding what my budget was, he then offered me a laptop after gauging what my usage was, I accepted, he then transferred all my needed data from old to new, wiped the old one clean so that my 11 year old granddaughter could use it, would gladly recommend this computer shop to anyone.

This trader was recommend by a neighbour. If you are not knowledgeable about computers and want good honest advice and follow up support, look no further.

The Surface Pro which I had owned for five years crashed and was beyond economical repair, according to the supplier that it was purchased from [not Porthmadog Computers]. Having received great service and advice from Gareth and the team at Porthmadog Computers in the past, including the purchase of a new desktop computer from them in 2020, I had no hesitation in returning there for advice. As usual, Gareth asked a series of questions regarding my requirements and budget and showed me a laptop which I really liked and a deal was made. In an effort to alleviate the 50 mile return journey to Porthmadog, I asked whether the laptop could be set up that day, to which Gareth immediately agreed and I spent a few enjoyable hours in Porthmadog until they rang my mobile to say the set up was complete. I, therefore, have no hesitation in recommending Porthmadog Computers as the courteous and friendly service and advice from Gareth, Tracey and Dave is excellent. Thank you.

Gareth asked me what I needed doing. He then explained the pros and cons of any variation to whatever I needed. He explained clearly his costing and I was happy to proceed. He explained his anticipated schedule and because he is very knowledgeable at what he died my computer was given back to me well within the time quoted and within budget. Upon completion he explained all that he had done and said any further work or purchases I might require he was always willing to help. I would have no hesitation in using this company again and would recommend Porthmadog Computers to anyone. Knows what they are doing and very good customer service.

The team at Porthmadog computers looked at two of my PCs. They quickly identified the issue with my Windows laptop (broken top board fixings) and gave excellent free advice on my options. They subsequently repaired another laptop - Mac book Pro. They identified the issue immediately (failed hard drive) and it was replaced very quickly. The communication on repair progress was great and the repair was cost-effective and good value. I would thoroughly recommend their services.

I have a new laptop. My old printer was great but is not compatible with Windows 10 so there was no way to use that printer with my old laptop. Instead of just selling me the most expensive printer they had, the owner interviewed me to find out what my real printer needs were. He suggested and very simple one which could be had at a VERY reasonable price. Furthermore, they agreed to a modest fee to come to the house and make sure the installation went well. He arrived at exactly the time he promised, installed the new printer, and supplied a new ink cartridge which it needs, at a competitive price- and what a treat to work with! Very knowledgeable and able to listen to the customer to find out what my real needs are. It's rare to find someone like this. Large stores have salespeople but they only know what they are trained for. I highly recommend this business.

Fantastic service and support from the team at Porthmadog Computers. The gave excellent advice and kept me informed throughout my repair. Would highly recommend.

While on holiday my elderly laptop 'broke down' and Portmadog Computers did a very good job of getting it working again. I felt that the service was excellent: the owner explained the diagnosis well, treating me as if I was an intelligent human being (as a woman I have had the opposite experience in other computer repair shops). The charges were transparent and the computer was ready on time. Everyone in the shop was friendly and we all felt welcomed as customers. Thank you very much indeed!

Excellent rapport; Excellent Communication; Resolved Problem Quickly; Extremely knowledgeable and helpful. All problems explained simply. All options explained clearly. Timeline and costs adhered to. Clear documentation making you feel safe and secure. Very happy outcome!

Porthmadog Computers have assisted me this week, helping to revive my ageing PC. They are very friendly, professional and sorted out my problem extremely quickly and for a superb price. I would highly recommend them to anyone needing advice, problem solving or to purchase tech gear.

The team at Porthmadog Computers did excellent work at the agreed price I would highly recommend them.

I took my Macbook in to be repaired and received it back in working order the next day - The team gave excellent service and communication throughout. I would highly recommend Porthmadog Computers! Thank you very much

Porthmadog Computers built me a new computer to replace my laptop which was broken beyond sensible repair. Recovering a very large number of old files and installing well chosen, new software, I am now enjoying using my quick machine. I think the cost was very fair, and I thoroughly recommend their services.

Excellent service at a very reasonable price. Quick and efficient. Proposals for carrying out work were fully explained in 'easy to understand' terms. Maximum price quoted before commencing work. Work successfully completed within a couple of days. Final price came in below the quoted price. Well done Porthmadog Computers.

The staff at Porthmadog Computers sourced my new Apple Mac when many others couldn't. They collected my old machine, transferred all my data and settings then promptly came and installed my new iMac Very very satisfied Many thanks

Absolutely fabulous! Helpful, quick and efficient. Explained everything and was a very reasonable price.

I have had a service contract with this trader for at least the last 10 years and in all that time the owner of the business has provided me with a faultless first class service. His advice has been especially important to me because I didn't have the previous training necessary to equip me with the essential knowledge to use my digital devices successfully, and I have therefore relied on him very heavily. The owner of this business clearly has a tremendous wealth of experience and knowledge which has throughout been of a very practical benefit to me; especially so on one occasion when he very urgently and successfully rescued me from an attempted fraudulent take-over of my computer. Very recently he has also advised extensively and in detail, giving full reasons for his suggestions on my very expensive purchase, so as to avoid my incurring unnecessary future expense. I trust this trader implicitly and cannot recommend him highly enough. He meets all the requirements made in Which? Trusted Traders Code of Conduct in full, to a very high degree.

I took my 10 year old Toshiba Windows 7 laptop into Porthmadog Computers to have Chrome installed as it could no longer download websites with IE. The boss did the job himself while I waited and provided good advice. He also checked it connected to my iPhone to use the Personal Hotspot. Despite me not being a local customer (I’m on holiday in the area), he made no charge even though it took half an hour of his time. He even provided a seat while I waited. However I noticed he had a 1T Intenso 2.5” Memory Play portable hard drive at a good price which I needed for back up so I made that purchase.

I finally understood what I needed following a very helpful discussion about my requirements with Garreth at Porthmadog Computers and I ordered a new desktop PC. Their customer service really is first class with telephone updates on progress and to discuss alternative components that would provide a worthy step up in performance with little added cost. When I collected my new machine I was very pleased to see that the invoice was still £50 below my maximum budget. Result! Compatibility problems with my old outdated monitor not communicating with my new PC caused a bit of head-scratching but a quick call to Garreth had the problem solved quickly. Porthmadog Computers have a well-deserved reputation and provide great customer support. Many thanks.

I am a returning customer to this trader because they do such great work at reasonable prices. My latest needs were unorthodox but that did not worry Gareth and his team, in fact, they relish in it. The job was done on time, on budget, and with excellent results. I would not go anywhere else.

The task was to revive an aged iMac so that it speeded up. It involved removing the hard disk, installing SSD and laboriously rebuilding the OS level by level. They immediately diagnosed the problems and discussed the pros and cons of various solutions with me. Once we had selected an option they gave me a price quote and timeline. The work was done on time, on budget, and with great results. This is not another 'we'll sell you something' computer shop'.They have great expertise, care about their work, and want to ensure customer satisfaction. It is the ' must go to' computer shop in this area.

We were on holiday and my son was working on his final year degree dissertation when his laptop died. We contacted Porthmadog Computers & Gareth immediately looked at it suspecting a connection fault. He set out the different options, costs and estimated time to complete. We settled on purchasing a refurbished Laptop from him and him transferring the hard disc over and to make contact for collection the following day. The problem turned out to be more serious as the hard disc was corrupted. Gareth stayed late that evening to run a recovery programme & Tracey rang us to update on progress. Next day all data had been recovered and transferred to the new laptop, which worked perfectly. Despite all the extra effort and fast turn around Gareth stuck to his original quote. Gareth and Tracey were excellent throughout and took great pride in their service. This is my best customer experience ever in a PC shop and I can't recommend enough. Thankyou.

Part of charger cable detached and stuck in laptop. Offending item removed and laptop collected within the suggested time scale. Very helpful and informative service.

I have been associated with computers since 1970 and this is superb. I just wish that they were into sales of new equipment, they would soon put PC World etc. out of business!!

Tracy and Gareth were very polite, reliable and business like. Because I have quite a journey to Porthmadog they kindly saw to my problem on a "while you wait" basis. They spent half an hour diagnosing and solving the problem (poor WiFi performance) and provided me with the answer - a very reasonably priced aerial. No labour charge. at the same time they were very helpful in answering my computer related questions. Excellent service.

I have used this service on many occasions and always found the team to be very professional and competent; always going above and beyond what I expect. I usually leave with some additional knowledge and advice that will hold me in good stead for a happy computer going forward. I also think their fees are extremely reasonable and I recommend this company to other people without reservation.

I trust Porthmadog Computers with all my IT support needs - they are completely trustworthy, always welcoming and happy to help. Their expertise is astounding! I've not yet come across a problem they can't solve, or a glitch they're unfamiliar with. In fact, such is my praise of them, that my elderly father (finally!) allowed me to take his very out-of-date laptop in for a service at Porthmadog Computers, despite not letting anyone else look at it for years due to fears around IT security and worries about safety. Hey presto, the old laptop is running smoothly again, with no loss of files or apps, but fully updated and all set to use! I'd be lost without the lovely team at Porthmadog Computers.

I recently bought a new desktop from Porthmadog Computers and I am very satisfied with the results. I was struck by how friendly and helpful they were, and feel I have been given great advice and service. I would definitely recommend them.

I cannot fault the service, friendliness of staff and most importantly I had confidence in their technical ability. They diagnosed the problem with my laptop immediately, gave me a minimum and maximum quote, (depending on part required) for work needed. The job came in at the minimum quote, and within the time scale advised for the repair.

I was given comprehensive advice by Gareth. He did not try to sell me any computer until he knew exactly what I needed. He transferred everything he could from my old computer and everything was ready in 4 days which was a very good service. I will be able to contact him whenever I need advice. Everything was very professional and I would recommend this company to anyone.

My emails would not download at all. Gareth was unable to sort out the problem as my speed was not fast enough for remote access so we went to Porthmadog to see him and the team to have the issue remedied. Gareth identified the problem and solved why the emails would not download. This was crucial to me as I'm starting an OU course next week and it's all on-line. Thank you Gareth. Brilliant as usual.

My daughter had illness all her life. She recorded a message for me on a bear before she died. After 14 years the batteries wore out and I couldn't listen to the message. I got in touch with customer service at Build-a-Bear, the company which took over the Bear Factory. They never replied to my enquiry. We took the recorded unit into Porthmadog Computers and they ordered the batteries required and replaced them We paid for the batteries, but they refused to charge me for the work. They were so happy to help!

When my old PC conked out the fab people at Porthmadog Computers came to the rescue. They couldn't have been more obliging and helpful - indeed their advice saved me money - and my new computer is fast and does everything required (and more). They also retrieved important data from my old hard drive when all seemed lost. I would highly recommend you use this firm, especially if, like me, you're something of a technophobe. They are honest, approachable and happy to spend time talking things through. A top quality outfit!

I am a very happy customer. I have used Porthmadog Computers since I moved to Wales 3 years back. The few times I have needed to have my computer repaired they have given me fantastic support and excellent value. They are friendly, professional and will do everything they can to fix the problem rather than you needing to buy new. Highly recommended.

I have had dealings with Porthmadog Computers over several years. Recently I needed to purchase a new lap-top and, as always, found Gareth and Tracey helpful and able to explain in layman's terms a computer that best suited both my requirements and pocket! Past computer problems have been sorted out with their usual competence plus cheerfulness and any promise of repair dates have always been met at a cost already agreed. I would therefore have no hesitation in recommending anybody who wants advice, information regarding repairing or purchasing a computer to contact Porthmadog Computers.

These guys really know their stuff and were able to help me out with my computer worries on more than one occasion, also assisting with advice for my PC rebuild. Very reasonably priced and quick to diagnose problems and get your machine back up and running quicker than most Windows systems can boot!

As usual the owners and staff of this amazing shop have given me first class service. They are all so knowledgeable and kind, and explain everything to you in easy to understand terms. I trust their advice implicitly and they have NEVER been wrong. Their charges are very reasonable and they're not in it to make a fast buck out of you. They have their reputation at stake, and in this area they are known for being the best people to go to if you want quick and professional knowledge. Computers, GPS, gadgets and much more are available in their shop. Face to face or over the 'phone they are always polite and caring, and very helpful. May they prosper in these difficult times, and I thank them for all their wonderful help and advice in the past.

After Gareth and his team spending two whole days testing and attempting to repair my PC, Tracey telephoned to advise me that despite their efforts, they had not found the cause of the problem and invited me back to discuss the situation. It was therefore clearly evident that they concentrate on customer service rather than just selling new products as it was only at this stage we started talking about a replacement. Throughout the entire process I was kept updated and never felt uneasy about making contact with them, in fact they encouraged it and were always polite and helpful. I therefore have no hesitation in recommending Porthmadog Computers as they are very competent, professional and have the customer’s interest in mind above profit.

I was charged £19.99 to be told my hard drive was shot and needed replacing. I took the PC home and fixed it myself for free with no computer experience. Hard drive is working just fine.

We were barred form our online bank account and warned there was malware detected. Our provider said we might have been hacked. Porthmadog Computers checked and cleaned all our equipment (5 computers) at short notice despite the covid-19 lockdown. They updated the ones capable of updating, kept us informed by phone of what they were doing and why. They explained what the probable cause was (dynamic allocation of a suspect external line by EE) and what to do if it happened again line. Today by phone they have talked me through sorting out a glitch with my search engine. Always friendly, and very reasonable charges. I recommend them highly.

I was given very helpful and reassuring advice after my laptop had been hacked. My laptop was cleared of any and all viruses very quickly, and later on, they thoroughly cleaned my device under their support package scheme at no extra charge. I was assured that I could telephone the shop or call in with any queries or problems, and they would do their best to give support. Very friendly and informative staff. I would 100% recommend Porthmadog Computers to anyone.

I used this shop initially to chat about issues with my existing laptop. They gave me various options and I decided to purchase a new laptop. Fantastic support on choosing a laptop and unexpected service in creating the laptop I needed. They transferred data and reinstalled my windows purchase from back in 2013 to my new laptop. Truly delighted they could do this and all without charge. Furthermore they wiped my old laptop free of charge so I could gift this item. Highly recommend this store for personal customer service, speed and efficiently. Thank you - will always use this shop :)

I have used Porthmadog Computers since I moved home to North Wales and have been very pleased that the recommendation I sought locally has worked out so well. Originally I used them on an ad-hoc basis when I experienced problems but have since joined their Contract service so that I receive priority treatment if required. My laptop is updated, cleaned of viruses and serviced at least 4 times annually. If particular issues arise then an extra visit to them is always greeted with a friendly face. The staff and owners are considerate and helpful to a 70+ semi literate operator and that is very welcome. The cost has always been sensible and fair. I have renewed the Annual Contract several times as this is a flat fee which covers most things. I have not paid extra at any time. Use them - you won't regret doing so!

I've been buying computers, parts and using this service for at least 20 years. Gareth's vast knowledge has always been a great help.

I experienced an issue with my PC and called Porthmadog Computers based on a personal recommendation from someone who had used them before. They were exceptionally helpful and solved my problem without fuss. They gave me and my PC their personal & immediate attention and did not leave me until I was entirely happy that the matter had been resolved. That is what I call service. No wonder they have so many other rave reviews. I highly recommend them

I thought I needed a new laptop, as my 7 year old HP was running slowly and needed Windows 10. This business was recommended to me by friends, and I really couldn't be happier with their friendliness, service and professionalism. Having upgraded my drive and installed Windows 10, they said my existing laptop was perfectly ok to carry on using - when they could quite easily have convinced me to buy a new one - I'm very very impressed and will definitely use again.

Samsung A3 phone vs computer problem. The guys spent over an hour trying a million and one ways around the problem. Powered by a drive to fix the problems rather than just sell you new gear. Highly recommended

Gareth and team built a pc for music production for me at a very fair price and v quickly which is now installed and working perfectly. They also helped me to set the program up in the pc and made sure everything worked fine which of course they didn’t have to . So glad I bought from them as the after sales is second to none and the advice of an experienced person is invaluable.

I have had a service contract with the shop for a number of years now, and I continue to do so even though I have moved away from the area. As at the date of this review I have just renewed the contract for 2019. It has been of great value to me not only in terms of the money paid and quality of service provided, but also in terms that if I need assistance I can either phone them for a direct answer or use the occasion to visit my friends in the area and take my computer up for a service, the computer being promptly ready for collection, usually within 24 hours. Under the terms of the contract and in practice I always receive immediate attention. Should an answer to the problem be available but occasionally require some research, this usually becomes available within a few days. I have also been successfully rescued in immediate action from an attempted scam. Gareth, the owner of the shop is highly skilled in his work on computers and I trust him implicitly. His advice has proved itself over and over again and I cannot recommend him highly enough.

We purchased our Samsung laptop from Porthmadog Computers many years ago, and have been very happy with it. When we have problems (few and far between) they have sorted them out quickly. We have taken out a Service Contract with them, and if we have any problems then we can drop the laptop off and they sort it. For someone like me, who knows nothing about the workings of a computer, this is invaluable. They are always friendly, and they never make me feel like a "dumbo" when I ask silly questions or give silly answers! Their pricing is very reasonable, and they have never tried to sell me something I don't need. Fantastic service