Business Details
16 Years
experience
Expert Computer Repair Services in Durham
Since 2010, The Computer Cellar has been Durham's premier destination for computer repair and technology solutions. Our team of seasoned technicians combines decades of collective experience with a commitment to transparent, customer-focused service. Specializing in hardware and software repairs for PCs and Macs, we prioritize rapid diagnostics and turnaround times, completing most simple repairs within 24 hours. Our expertise extends to data recovery, custom-built desktops, and refurbished computer sales, all backed by a rigorous quality assurance process.As a locally-owned business, we emphasize clear communication, avoiding technical jargon to ensure clients understand every step of the repair process. Our partnership with Triangle Board Repair enhances our capability to address complex motherboard issues while maintaining competitive pricing. With a physical location in Durham's historic 9th Street district, we serve both individual consumers and businesses seeking reliable IT solutions.
Services
Computer Repair
Data Recovery
Custom PCs
Mac Repair
Refurbished Sales
Hardware Upgrades
Software Diagnostics
Liquid Damage Repair
Screen Replacement
Electronics Recycling
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- 15+ years of combined experience in computer repair and IT services
- Locally-owned with deep roots in the Durham community
- Most simple repairs completed within 24 hours
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Rigorous quality control for all refurbished computer sales
What people say
Fast repairs
Skilled technicians
Honest service
Knowledgeable staff
Quick turnaround
Services
Computer Repair
We specialize in comprehensive hardware and software diagnostics for PCs and Macs, addressing issues from liquid damage to component failures. Our technicians perform DC jack replacements, keyboard repairs, and system optimizations. With partnerships for advanced motherboard repairs, we offer solutions for both common and complex technical problems while maintaining competitive pricing.
Data Recovery
Our experts recover data from failing drives, corrupted systems, and deleted files using specialized equipment. We handle mechanical hard drives, SSDs, and legacy media like floppy disks. For non-repairable cases, we coordinate with forensic recovery specialists. We also assist with data migration between devices, ensuring seamless transitions to new computers while preserving critical information.
Custom PCs
We build custom desktop PCs tailored to specific performance needs, whether for gaming, content creation, or business use. Our process includes component selection, assembly, and testing with client collaboration throughout. We support air and closed-loop liquid cooling systems but do not install open-loop configurations. Bring-your-own-parts builds are also available with professional assembly services.
Refurbished Sales
We offer professionally refurbished laptops and desktops sourced from verified business channels. Each unit undergoes thorough cleaning, component testing, and OS installation with genuine licenses. While current inventory shows limited availability, we can source specific configurations upon request. All sales include a 30-day warranty covering defects and failures under normal use conditions.
Mac Repair
Specialized Mac services include display replacements, logic board repairs, and OS reinstalls. We handle 2016-2021 MacBook Pro models and 2019-2020 MacBook Air units, with partnerships for complex repairs requiring specialized calibration. Our technicians address liquid damage, battery issues, and software malfunctions while advising when Apple Store visits might be more cost-effective for certain repairs.
People
Daryn O'Shea
Owner
Navy veteran with over 12 years in IT, Daryn founded The Computer Cellar in 2010 after establishing Triangle Laptops in Charlotte. He now co-owns I.T. Guys, a managed services provider, while maintaining strategic oversight of The Computer Cellar operations.
Gabriel
Operations Manager
Lead technician with over 10 years of experience managing daily operations, technical repairs, and facility maintenance. Gabriel oversees workflow efficiency and technical quality control while handling complex repair cases requiring advanced diagnostic skills.
Chloe
Junior Technician
Newly joined technician receiving hands-on training in computer repair fundamentals. Chloe assists with basic diagnostics and component replacements under supervision while developing expertise in customer service and technical documentation.
Questions
How long do typical repairs take?
Most simple diagnostics and repairs complete within 24 hours. Complex cases requiring special parts typically take 1-3 days once ordered.
Do you repair gaming laptops?
Yes, we handle most gaming laptops including Alienware, ASUS, and MSI models, though some complex repairs may require specialized partner assistance.
Can you transfer data from old computers?
We offer data migration services between devices, including transfers from non-booting systems using specialized recovery tools and equipment.
What warranty applies to refurbished computers?
All refurbished units include a 30-day warranty covering defects. Accidental damage isn't covered, and labor discounts apply for post-warranty repairs.
Do you service Apple products?
We repair 2016-2021 MacBook Pro and 2019-2020 MacBook Air models. Complex Apple repairs often require Apple Store referrals due to specialized calibration needs.
Can you build custom gaming PCs?
Yes, we build custom gaming and workstation PCs with client-selected components. We support air and closed-loop cooling systems but not open-loop liquid cooling installations.
Reviews (4)
Rendon Foy Rendon
Jan 26, 2022
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness,Value
While I'm no computer expert, I really appreciate how attentive the staff here is, how they don't talk down to customers, and how responsive they are to needs and questions. Texting with someone about my computer's status and figuring out the best next steps together, as I run other errands while in town? Amazing!
While I'm no computer expert, I really appreciate how attentive the staff here is, how they don't talk down to customers, and how responsive they are to needs and questions. Texting with someone about my computer's status and figuring out the best next steps together, as I run other errands while in town? Amazing!
Andrew Eicher
Jan 04, 2022
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I conversed with staff via email/phone about my GPUs thermal issues, and brought it in for a re-paste. Not only did they complete the repair in a matter of hours, but they additionally took the time to put the card on a test bench and benchmark and test everything to make sure it was good to go before I picked it up! Excellent service and an overall very positive experience I would recommend to anyone in need of help with computer repairs.
Carol Abken
Dec 16, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness,Value
The employees at The Computer Cellar were able to recover files I needed that Microsoft technicians had told me were unrecoverable - Im beyond happy with this shop!!
The employees at The Computer Cellar were able to recover files I needed that Microsoft technicians had told me were unrecoverable - Im beyond happy with this shop!!
Glenn Yank
Nov 13, 2021
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Extremely competent and friendly staff who kept me informed during repair process. Very reasonable rates. Highly recommended.
