want to begin by stating plainly that my experience with this computer repair shop was unequivocally negative. Although many reviewers on Yelp appear to have had satisfactory or even excellent experiences, my own interaction with this business was a complete failure from start to finish. I brought in my computer--a high‑quality system only one year and three months old--because the screen had gone dark. The potential causes were straightforward: a motherboard issue, a processor failure, a video card malfunction, a memory problem, or a software error. These are finite, testable components. Any competent technician should be able to isolate the problem systematically. Instead, the shop kept my computer for approximately five days without providing meaningful updates. Each time I called, I was told only that they would contact me when their "evaluation" was complete. After four days of silence, I went to the shop in person. The technician then delivered a long, meandering explanation describing how he had run test after test without being able to determine the cause of the failure. His explanation was not overtly patronizing, but it came close--and it certainly did not inspire confidence. Computers are not mysterious or infinitely complex machines. They consist of a small number of critical components, each of which can be tested individually. It should not take four days to determine whether a part is functioning or not. The inability to diagnose the problem after such an extended period suggests either a lack of expertise or a lack of diligence. During this conversation, the technician began hinting--astonishingly--that my "best option" might be to purchase an entirely new computer. This suggestion was absurd. The system I own is powerful, expensive, and designed for demanding tasks such as writing and flight simulation. Replacing it today would cost approximately $6,000. Recommending a full replacement rather than identifying a faulty component is not only irresponsible but irrational. Even more troubling was the technician's additional suggestion: that I should purchase a computer from a big‑box store, use it temporarily, and then return it once my own system was repaired. In other words, he advised me to commit return fraud. That a professional technician would propose such an unethical course of action is astonishing and deeply concerning. To be clear, no one at the shop was overtly rude to me. However, the dismissiveness, the lack of communication, and the passive‑aggressive "we'll call you when we decide something" attitude created an experience that was frustrating and unprofessional. Other reviewers have described the owner as rude; I did not encounter rudeness, but I did encounter a business that seems strangely out of touch with the expectations of modern customer service. It felt as though they operated in a bubble where time, communication, and accountability were optional. For these reasons, I give this shop zero stars. I will not return, and I strongly advise others to seek computer repair services elsewhere in Kona. There are many reputable businesses in the area, and choosing one of them will likely save you considerable time, frustration, and unnecessary expense. I will close by noting that I took my computer to a different repair shop immediately afterward. The technician there listened carefully, understood the issue, and told me he would determine the cause and call me either later that afternoon or the next day. Computers are not that complicated--and competent professionals do not treat them as if they are. PS The new repair shop fixed my computer in 1 and 1/2 days---it now runs perfectly. Additionally , 808 Computers did not charge me for their failure to diagnose my issue---the repair cost at the second shop was $130.00 read more

AMAZING, PROFESSIONAL.... Robert and his staff of trained I.T. Pros WILL go outta there way, and will Prioritize you When your office internet or network is down. Here is my Testimony regarding a business in Kona that still has rare "unheard of these days" qualities. That's 808 Computers. I was not yet a customer when this happened about three weeks ago. I called 808 computers ( A long over due call ) . It was a Monday Evening, end of the business day, My office went into "down mode" no internet, no network, and I was in between IT companys at the time. Telcom just left my shop from installing new internet service of high speeds, everything was good, but when they left? ......U know the story. this was at 2:30 pm in a rant of fustration .. I started switching out cords, unplugging modems an what not....i basically made a mess of it and had finally given up on FSU. In a depressed frantic state I called 808 computers hoping for a gift of rescue by getting me in the next day. So i called 808, the Owner Robert answers phone hears my rant , suggest to come look at the problem on his way out today..... I was in shock like i won a small lottery or unexpected gift, but was still praying to jesus that he would find the problem so we can make a plan to fix it. It was 3:30 pm. At 4:30 Robert and 2 of his staff members worked from 4-9:30 to find and fix my office network on the spot that evening on a Monday. When they left that evening...all was good again, They did it!!!. My operation's resumed back to normal the next day. Creating a CFL outta Xpress Repro (Customer for Life) 5 starts to Robert and his band of Professionally trained technicians. I Nominate them for Best of Hawaii, I recommend them to anyone asking ...but I say "808 is not taking new clients"... so the rescue line is not tied up when I need them again......( Just kidding robert ) I love 808 Computers for going above and beyond their standard call of duty. What a wonderful way to keep a CFL. something i shoot for everyday at my busness. Malia Broome Xpress Reprographics & Printing Hilo and Kona Locations read more

I started working with Robert, owner of 808 Computers, in January 2021 as part of my planning to visit the Big Island for three weeks in March 2021. I was searching around for a computer store or service who would be willing or offered to rent computer monitors as I would be working remote during my time on the Island. Robert kindly offered up two monitors without any need for payment, credit card guarantee towards returning the equipment, nothing other than offering his trust in me to be honest and honorable to my commitment. Upon arrival on March 11, his team handed over two brand new 27" Dell monitors in the original boxes and packaging, only taking my name and phone number, then saying goodbye, see you in a few weeks, all as offered by Robert prior to showing up. We returned the monitors on March 31 in the exact shape and packing we were originally provided, handed over a nice bottle of Hawaiian made rum as a very small token of our appreciation. His store associates were very friendly, kind and helpful with smiles (from what I could see under the mask lol). This to me demonstrates his company's desire to go over and above for servicing their customers in a way which no others in that area were willing to do. I commend and with absolute appreciation Robert and team's explicit trust in handing over $400 work of equipment to a stranger with no guarantee I would return. I did my best to reciprocate, but in my mind still wasn't enough for this generous gesture. If you are considering 808 Computers for your service or other computer / networking needs, I would highly recommend them. They demonstrate true professionalism, but also the Aloha that comes with being part of the Hawaiian islands, community and culture. Thank your Robert and team for making our time on the Island that much better. We will certainly be returning in part thanks to you. Mike D., Houston Texas USA read more

1- After buying a new high end desktop replacement for my 7 year old Dell desktop I needed assistance in the transfer both of programs and files onto the new computer. My goal was a faster and more reliable machine without losing the programs and personalized program and screen configurations of the original computer - in other words a transparent transfer. 2- Programs are designed not to be transferred, and original configuration settings for various program settings for the overall operation of the computer - optimized to my needs - unlike transferring files -- can be difficult to impossible when moving from one computer to another. 3- After explaining my requirements to the 808 folks they understood exactly what I needed and the way I wanted to be done. They also advised that I add an external mirror backup drive to avoid future problems - good advice. Manually backing up data proved to be unreliable. 4- Three days after delivering both computers to 808 I picked them up. Back at the office I plugged the new computer into the monitors and it work perfectly, programs and configurations, and networking exactly as I specified. It doesn't get any better. These guys know their stuff. I highly recommend them to anyone in need of computer support. We're lucky to have 808 on our island. -- read more

I feel very fortunate to be able to get my computer problems resolved at 808 Computers. The most recent happened when my key external disc with most of my years of photos (over 20,000) had some strange thing happen and my Mac could not longer write to it. I was trying to completely back it up onto another disc (this is a Western Digital 5 TB and I was going to make a backup onto another WD 5TB). I took both discs to 808 Computer on a holiday and they were open. They took both discs and told me they would call me the next day. True to their word, they did and all was fine. When I picked up my discs this morning, they told me that there was no charge since it was a simple fix and that I had worked with them previously. Such a nice surprise. They were wonderful. And, my photos are all back and running and now I just need to back them all up--thanks to the great work at 808 Computers. I strongly recommend them. By the way, I a running a Mac and that was not an issue for them. They handle Macs just as well as they handle PC's. Thanks for the great work and the great support. read more

Fantastic is the first word that comes to mind, followed by several other superlatives! I was having problems with my iMac. Since it is still under Applecare, I took it to Mac Made Easy. I was assured the computer would be returned within 48 hours. I emphasized that I use it for my online job, and that I needed it evaluated ASAP. The response was for an additional $90 they'd have it back within 24 hours. Since I already purchased Applecare, I declined. To make a long story somewhat short, after 8 days I still had a computer not working well. Out of frustration, I took it to 808 Computers, knowing it would involve out-of-pocket cost. I was willing to do this since I had NO confidence in Mac Made Easy. A few days later, and at a very moderate cost, the computer was returned to me in perfect working order. The problem was mostly corrupt software issues, as I originally expected. I couldn't be happier with the experience, and Applecare or not, I will certainly use 808 Computers for future needs. I will also avoid Mac Made Easy like the plague!! read more

I'm a professional photographer and had an external hard drive that crashed. This hard drive had a family member's wedding along with an entire vacation to multiple state parks throughout California. Needless to say priceless like most people's information stored on hard drives. After attempting to retrieve the data myself and then taking it to multiple other Computer stores throughout Kona and having them attempting to retrieve the data no one could help. When taking it to 808 computers they gave me a flat rate of $150 upfront and if no data was recovered the no fee was required. That's more than most places can say there's usually just a fee to look at a hard drive and some of them can be upwards of $2500 for Data recovery. I feel that 808 was professional and realistic about the recovery of my data. When they ran into challenges they went the extra mile to find a software that would read my hard drive. Despite the fact the software was an extra $60. Having my ALL data recovered was priceless. Mahalo 808 computers read more

I was in a panic when my MacBook Air crashed, losing all of my saved files, and eventually had to have the SSD card replaced and restore most of my lost files. Since then, I have been happily going about with my 12-year laptop. I returned again to see if I could purchase a charger cord for this laptop. They had a couple of used ones and wanted to sell one of them to me for $45. I really didn't want to pay that much for a used cord. So, the technician spoke with the owner and decided to just give me one in light of the repair work a few months before. It is always amazing when someone gives you something for free. But, in this case, I felt that the owner put himself in a customer's shoes and decided to be generous. I feel they care about their customers. I had read great reviews about this business before I decided to bring my laptop to them. The staff seems honest, conscientious, and good at what they do. I highly recommend 808 Computers. J. Leigh read more

808 Computers is my hero! They truly deliver award winning service! I came to the Big Island for a "working" 3 week visit and unpacked my computer bag to discover my power cord missing. When I searched the web looking for somewhere to purchase a power cord, 808 Computers popped up first and I was familiar with their convenient location. I called to confirm they had a power cord for my PC and learned they are not a retail store, but they proceeded to ask exactly what I needed. When I explained I needed to work for 3 weeks they invited me to come in and assured me they could help. I was given a power cord to use and when I asked if they wanted my credit card, or some cash, they stated that wasn't necessary. The 3 weeks flew by and I was able to successfully complete my work thanks to the help of 808 Computers. They will go the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction! I'm grateful to have found them and highly recommend them. read more

We started using 808 for our small business because our old IT guys just weren't reliable, flexible, friendly, available, or accommodating. 808 Computers is all of those things and more. If you can used to the owner's unusual sense of humor, you can have excellent, quick service without much hassle. I feel like our company has been given the five-star treatment from them and I am rating it as such. When I call or email--no matter the hour--I get a rapid response with an easy-to-understand answer with clear indication of how much it is going to cost me to do the work (if there is a charge). The thing I love most about this company, is that (like my mechanics), 808 has guys that specialize in certain areas. So if you need work on your email server, you're probably going to work with Mike. If you need help wiring, Randy's your guy. Etc. Overall, 808 Computers has exceeded my expectations of what an IT company should be. read more

I would definitely recommend 808 to anyone. I was in Hawaii visiting family in Hilo and we went to waikoloa for 3 days when I discovered a problem with my power cord with my surface Pro laptop. I desperately needed immediate help as I had some remote work to do from that laptop. I called 808 to see if they could help me and explained my situation. Robert told me to go in to his shop and he would see if he could find a solution. As soon as we arrived at 808, Robert spent about 10 minutes or less and helped me find an unexpected solution that saved me and allowed me to do the work that I needed to. I can't thank Robert enough. I also want to say that Robert had a nice young man working on a computer in the front of the store and he was also very kind and chatted with us while we waited. Overall an absolutely awesome experience- amazing service with a creative solution and wonderful people!! Thank you to Robert and his staff!!! read more

I am so grateful for all the times Robert at 808 Computers has taken the time to help me with my computer needs. I like that he takes the time to teach me sometime new each time about how to take better care of my computer, back up more efficiently and more than a handful of other very helpful tech tips. I recently stopped by to get some advice. I had a feeling it was time to get his advice on a new computer to replace one he suggested 5 years ago that I have loved and it has held up. Robert stopped what he was doing and pulled up on his computer what he thought I should get for replacement computer and where to go get the computer that he also knew was on sale. Everything I needed ... simply shared and I was on my way and now have my new computer just in time as my old one was limping through things over the last few weeks. I highly recommend 808 computers. Comforting to know they are there for us. read more

I can highly recommend 808 Computers and have on a number of occasions to friends in need. For some years now I've brought my computer troubles to them, always with good results. Sometimes I've been in a frightening situation of nearly losing years of data--their competence and care has given me great relief. They also always to the right thing as a business. Last time I went in I wanted a checkup to be sure all was well and to renew my anti-virus. My computer problems were more significant that we originally thought but they still just charged me for a checkup--though I know that they worked many hours to get things right. My computer is working much better than when I took it in and I have a great anti-virus program. Anyway--I'm sure glad this business is there--it gives me a sense of comfort as I know I will inevitably need them again. Many thanks to Robert and his helpful, bright staff. read more

808 Computers is, hands down, the best computer repair company I've EVER worked with. They've done company-wide installs on several businesses I've worked for and repaired countless computers and computer systems for employers, colleagues and for myself in the past ten years that I've used their services. The owner, Robert, can be brusk and impatient at times, but that's because he doesn't suffer fools gladly. When you know what you're doing and what the solution to a problem is, it's hard to listen to someone tell you why they want to do it a different way. If you pay a computer guy for their expert advice, it's a good idea to take that advice instead of persisting in doing the things that caused you to have problems in the first place. Their fees are reasonable and they guarantee their work. I wouldn't let anyone else touch my computers. 808 ROCKS! read more

Usually I am posting on social media some pics and long winded explanation of how helpful Robert and his team at 808 Computers have been on my most recent visit. It has taken me too long to finally put a review on Yelp about 808 Computers. From data recovery, to teaching me to back up better, to guiding me through purchase of laptops over many years that have served me well to setting up my network, my security. So many things that might be minor but not minor to me they will help me out and no charge. Yesterday was one of those days. They had salvaged intact a mini DV of great sentimental value to me that was in a old video camera and I could not remove it. I am very grateful for how they are very kind and patient with me. I ask a lot of questions .... learn a lot from them. They are also good sports about my taking pics. read more

My iPad gradually became totally dysfunctional after my server required that my email be moved to google. I couldn't even open Safari or get my email. The server (Telus) spent three hours on the phone problem-solving with me and concluded that the still unfixed problem was in my iPad. I went to 808 in Kona (great store hours by the way) and Chandler diagnosed and fixed the problem in less than five minutes with a smile and no fee! A few days later another problem emerged. This time, Antonio was the fix-it angel, and within perhaps ten minutes, he was able to solve the new problem cheerfully and again with no fee. The knowledgeable and friendly people at this business have my appreciation and loyalty, and I will turn to them for any future digital needs. read more