I purchased my last two computers from Castro Computer and was pleased with Raj and the installation process. Unfortunately, I had a recent power outage that rendered my NUC unable to turn on. I'm challenged with contacting them. Their website has no telephone number. I've been sending requests through the site but have not received a response in days. I found a telephone number on the net which refers you to a different tel number that circles back to the 1st number. Does anyone know anyone I can go to for help? read more

Raj is awesome- my hubby and I share the same Apple ID/iTunes account for our old iPhone 8 and we had some log in security issues since 12/30/23 and Raj was very reassuring and helpful and fixed the issues (he was booked but was able to squeeze me in for today) I will be having him update my old laptop soon read more

Raj is great. I enjoy his presence and his work is stellar. Needed an update on my desktop and my laptop. He also got parts I needed. Works quickly and results are perfect. read more

Raj helped us by transferring data from a dead laptop to its replacement. He also gave helpful advice about features of Windows 11. Friendly, prompt and non-judgemental. Really good experience. read more

Just had an incredible interaction with Raj. I called the number listed here and I described my PC's problem to him on the phone. It seemed to be a small issue, but nonetheless I am unfamiliar with PCs, so I had a hard time figuring out what's wrong. He told me that he normally does house calls, but that it indeed sounded like a very small problem, so he'd help me troubleshoot over the phone at no cost. After a few minutes of talking, he was able to fix my issue, all over the phone!!! I tried to tip him for his time, but he wouldn't accept anything from me. He seemed very knowledgeable and was very easy to talk to. Please do me a favor and take your business here, Raj deserves it! read more

I was referred to Castro Computer Services by another vendor. These guys were able to come out on short notice and fix a laptop for one of our remote employees. They were easy to work with, and we would definitely use them again. Thanks Raj! read more

I used their services several years ago and never got around to doing a review. I liked them and their services so much I need to give them their props. Susan was very helpful on the phone and patient - gave me lots of useful info. Raj fixed my computer and made it run better than the day I bought it. Still going strong after several years now with no problems. Raj was also nice and patient and informative I couldn't ask for better service. Based on my experience I highly recommend this service. Thanks to Susan and Raj. read more

I called Castro Computer Services this morning (Sunday) at 7am. Didn't expect to get anyone on the phone and thought I'd leave a message. To my surprise Raj answered and walked me through fixing a problem resulting from a microsoft update which blew away my display. I am very grateful. Thank you Raj! read more

We needed a complete overhaul of practically all of our electronics. Somehow, in the last 15 years of major technology advancements, we were busy and the time passed us by. We had been able to get by with old laptops, but they started to fail and, in some instances, data on some of our older devices could no longer be accessed. We contacted Raj in emergency mode, but we understood that his task was not going to be easy. During several visits to our home, Raj had to transfer data to a new laptop computer, coordinate devices with the Cloud, coordinate access to our home security system cameras, water detection devices and other home system electronics, install a reliable internet Wi-Fi mesh system, update software, set up a printer and fax, and remove and restore precious photos from old Apple devices (one from 2010 that had actually melted). At the end, all of our goals were met and, most importantly, Raj explained very clearly what he was doing and he provided us with invaluable information for going forward. We can't thank him enough and we feel fortunate to have him as a resource in the future. read more

I am a total technology idiot who mercificully has always had good luck with my laptop. However, last night, I had a weird glitch that never happened before where some things like Google Chrome and the basic "Power" button to shut down were completely unresponsive and frozen while others such as Microsoft Edge and Zoom were running just fine as usual. Simply from a voicemail I left earlier this morning, Rog/Raj of Castro Computer Services immediately pinpointed the problem and provided the easy solution of a full refresh. All I had to do was shut off the computer by pressing down the "On/Off" button for a full ten seconds, pausing, then pressing down the "On/Off" button again. Viola! All the programs were accessible, running smoothly and efficiently like always. (Did I mention I am a total technology idiot?) Considering I had spoken earlier in the day with another customer repair service shop located downtown who said that it sounded as if my laptop had a malware virus and I should bring it to their store for a diagnostic and repairs that would cost over $100.00 and that I also had spoken with an in-home service that could not provide a technician until Monday (four days hence) at a downpayment of $169.00, Castro Computer Services was a heaven-sent guardian angel! Though they did not charge me for their helpful, time-saving, totally stress-relieving piece of trouble-shooting information, I have left another voicemail asking for an address to send them a check for a least a quarter of their hourly rate. Considering what they saved me in overall wasted costs and time if I had followed through with either of the other two businesses I had contacted, the competence, assistance, and friendly neighborliness of Castro Computer Services more than deserves it! read more

Very helpful. Shared information with me over the phone at no cost and helped me to figure out the most appropriate application for what I was trying to accomplish! read more

Castro Computer gets 2 stars for diagnosing my computer over the phone. Vehemently insisting that I had a virus and I was an idiot for not running the virus protection software they endorse. And being *wrong*. The problem, it turns out, was a known software issue between a firewall and the latest Windows update. Repeat: *known* software issue. Things a computer service company is supposed to research and know. Or at least be open to the idea of. Because declaring over the phone that, and I quote, "Oh, it's a virus. It'll cost $250 and take four days to fix" without ever getting a look at the machine is...ballsy. Maybe even irresponsible. Especially since they were wrong. And there was another solution out there. And it was affecting many, many people. 2 stars for not being psychic, but playing one on the telephone. read more

Maybe their work is good, but their customer service is so poor I never got to find out. I brought my crashed laptop in first thing on a Saturday and said I really needed it -- they promised to call back Monday with a diagnosis. No phone call Monday. Called them at the end of the day Tuesday -- "oh, yeah, we're looking at it, still don't know. We'll call you tomorrow." Next day, guess what? No phone call, no clue. I took the poor laptop back and brought it to Cosmic Computer on Taraval. Who diagnosed the issue in 30 minutes, while I waited. Oh yeah, Castro Computer has a parrot. Isn't that groovy. read more

The people who run Castro Computer Services are great; very friendly and the environment is very nice, with a large parrot overseeing the entire operation. However, beyond that, their service and communication orientations leave something to be desired. I took a computer in and requested a specific type of service-- the replacement of a part on a computer. When they returned the computer to me, they were able to make the old part work and "save" me $150. That was sweet, however they did not do the work as requested. In that case, it wasn't a huge problem but it was enough to ward me off taking a serious repair there again. To add insult to injury, the tech. tried to convince me that I got a better deal by fixing the part, 'because I didn't want to spend the money on improving an older laptop'. I had another issue I wanted to speak to them about and sent several emails about light service on a printer and never received an email back. I would give them a shot, just be VERY specific about exactly what you want done. read more

I've been dealing with Raj since he first came to Noe Valley and i have always been very happy with him. The service is good and they know what they are talking about!! Raj is in a similar position to mine. I own an auto body shop and people need there cars right away...just like computers. It's a tough job to jugle but i think they handle it as well as can be! read more

These guys spent 1/2 hour FREE helping me diagnose a bad memory chip that Dell sent me. They even had a perspective on which brands of memory are good v. bad. (Who knew?!) Check 'em out! :-) Scott read more

The answer was, "it's not worth the money to repair your computer". (fried mother board) It was the kick in the pants that I needed to finally say good-bye to my old friend. ( I swear, I really did get attached to that computer) They transferred all of the data from the old computer and re-installed it on my new computer. They put things back in the proper folders too etc. I kept the hard drive and they recycled the rest. Raj was easy to work with and offered advice along the way as to what to look for when buying a new computer. He gave my a list of specs to go by after learning about how we use the computer at home. All in all, it was a good experience. read more

Let me tell you, working with Susan @ castro computer has been great. they took care of the issue i have with my computer and did not charge me an arm and a leg. I aways had mix feelings about computer repair places as I had bad experiences in the past. not anymore. i would highly recommend it. read more

I was having trouble deciding what application software was the best for me to use for a project. Raj and company took the time to figure out which was the best software, helped me install and set it up and expalin the basics. They did it timely, intelligently, efficiently and at a ridiculously low cost. I higher recommend this friendly environment for your IT needs. read more

They have always done great work on our computers, and their staff can actually communicate about computer issues in terms a non-computer person can understand. They're pretty competent at what they do. One of the best things about them: low-key, no b.s., and not pushy in the slightest. I would agree that their responsiveness via email can be spotty, but when I call they will always take the time to listen to the problem and provide a thoughtful diagnosis, and a straight-up estimate. You don't get those things at a lot of places. read more

CCS saved my digital life! When I brought my dying computer into CCS, I expected I'd be in and out of there with a quick fix and a fat invoice. I was wrong on both counts. CCS was every bit as concerned as I was about the fragile and outdated state my digital life was in, and they held my hand every step of the way as I made the painstaking decision to buy a new computer and transfer all my recovered data rather than go with a bunch of Band-Aids that ultimately would have been much less hassle for CCS but a much worse solution for me. While Will was working tirelessly to diagnose and repair a series of complicated hard drive failures, Susan patiently worked with me to purchase a new computer that would better serve my needs. Once my new computer arrived, the entire CCS team jumped into action to make sure that what I ultimately walked away with was an upgrade with room to grow, and that all my data was recovered seamlessly. When it comes to computers, I've never felt so confident that I was in caring and competent hands as I have with CCS. Every step of the way, they demonstrated that their primary concern was getting everything working according to my detailed and specific needs. They were extremely gracious when it came to tallying up the weeks of work and counseling they provided (never complaining once when I got impatient or frustrated - they felt my pain), and in the end I was actually quite surprised at how much attention I got for such a reasonable price. But perhaps the best part about CCS is everything it ISN'T. It's not a Geek Squad that makes you feel stupid for not knowing how to fix your own computer, it's not offshore tech support where you have to explain your life story to 14 people before anyone even tries to help, and it's not some random stranger you're inviting into your home for $165 an hour (though they do have in-home service, too). CCS is a local business that has cornered the market in friendly, personalized, reasonable, and expert computer care. I'm never trusting my computer to anyone else again! read more

I frequently have problems with my notebook, partly due to a terrible internet provider. Recently it froze and I could not get it up and running again. Granted, what I know about computers you could put in a thimble and have lots of room left over. I left a voice mail and a few short hours later Susan called and gave me an easy fix over the phone which I should have known but didn't remember. It was the end of the day and yet she was patient and gracious. I will definitely use her services in the immediate future. I like to support neighborhood businesses and this seems like a good one. read more

These guys are great! Raj and Susan know what they're doing. And their staff is super. Tad (sp?) helped me fix a problem over the phone. They've come out to our family business to help us upgrade our network and tune up our computers. I know that if there's any issue, I can count on them. As far as pricing, I feel they've priced themselves at what they're worth (maybe even under!). I've overpayed at Best Buy personally for service. At least with these guys, I know I'm walking away with great service. +it's a local business! The money actually goes to a neighbor instead of an exec's pockets vacationing somewhere. read more

So, not being charged for services rendered is something that has never, if ever, happened to me. I brought my noisy, annoying loud fan computer into Susan Walia, the owner. Within a few days, she called to tell me to let me know it was fixed and ready. Checkbook and credit card ready to hand over, she informed me that all they had to do was a quick vacuum -- professing that SF is one dusty city, and that there would be no charge. I'll be back. This is an old-school (and smart) way of doing business, and I trust Susan Walia and her staff implicitly. No hype, no bravado, just real-deal folks thinking long term about building impeccible trust and ethical business relationships. They don't make 'em like Susan anymore. Go here and avoid the tech folks on Craigslist with false guarantees -- that is, if they ever show up. Lol. read more

Great people, good service. Would do business again. Resolved issue within 10 min. Loud large parrot was awesome. Owner requested 1 star. read more

Weeeeeelllll,........this could have gone all wrong.... I went in totally confused and convinced my computer had been hacked. I shared my findings along with some.... possibly excessive suspicion...whose to say. I was warmly greeted by Susan the proprietor and my questions and I were treated with respect. She and her team member a great guy ( whose name fails me) shared my conundrum and perplexity at the possibility that ....................... .........somethin ain't right. They nullified my fears and made me feel perfectly OK, they were creative and thoughtful in their problem solving skills. You can tell they love what they do. Do know this is "mom and pop" business actually owned and operated by a sister brother team Wonderful. They used humor and due diligence, I left with renewed confidence and smile. read more

Susan and her team got my data off a dropped, dead laptop after another company said they couldn't, and transferred it to another laptop within a few days. The price was reasonable, the services OutStanding. She gave me advice on what I needed for backups and setting it up for a Mac, it's not the same as Windows. I'm not tech savvy so I bought the recommended hard drive at Best Buy and to be safe had her tech consultant set it up. He came to the house and set it up with my router, and walked me through each step (that I wrote down) to back up weekly (my preference). I can't speak highly enough of the services, and the fair prices when I was desperate- she didn't take advantage. read more

Fast, friendly and competent service. When I was pulling my hair out trying to do a simple installation of a secondary hard drive and the phone staff at D-E-DOUBLE-L where I paid $300 for four years of premium technical support were giving me more grief and frustration than willing assistance, Tap came to the rescue and did the job in a jiffy the same day I called. It wasn't cheap but it was worth every penny getting it done right without breakage, aggravation and complaint. I'll be hiring them back to install the third internal drive next week. read more

Had the best experience with Susan at Castro Computers. Over the phone, after asking specific questions about my laptop and its problems, she gave me several tests to try and waited patiently as I ran through them. We determined it was dead (8 years old; it'd had a good run, and my info was backed up), but she went on to make helpful recommendations for my next laptop, which I'd already been thinking I'd need to buy. She took the time to listen and provide me with solid recommendations based on my needs. All for the pleasure of being helpful. Castro Computers is now my go-to! read more

I've been working with Castro Computer Services both personally and professionally for the last few years and have had nothing but successful experiences with Raj, Susan and the staff. I'm rather puzzled by the two negative reviews. But then again, different people have different expectations--especially when it comes to computer-panic. CCS has saved this Luddite's skin more than once with their quick turnaround and attention to detail. I recommend them highly. read more

I just wanted to share that I had a great experience calling into Castro Computer Services and speaking with Susan Walia. I have been getting really frustrated with my mac slowing down more and more and while I could have started my own research trying to methodically figure out what might be doing wrong with it, I just wanted to cut to the chase and get someone on the phone who might be able to help. In most instances, the voice on the other side would just say, "Gotta look at it- bring it in", but Susan was amazing in taking the time up front to ask me key questions to diagnos the problem and offered a number of trouble shooting suggestions rather than telling me to haul this giant computer into their shop. She was attentive, patient and articulate in being able to explain what all may be happening to my computer which is a rarity in this line of business. I am hopeful her suggestions buy me a bit more time with my computer, but she has already sold me on Castro Computer Services being the place to go if I need a friendly and helpful professional fix my computer. Thanks! read more

I took my computer here and they charged $99 ($100 btw) to diagnose it. They quoted $450 for a new hard drive and 350ish to roll everything into a new computer. Hourly rate is $100. It would take a week unless I wanted to pay extra for a rush job. I decided I was getting ripped off and took it to Bay Computer. $65 to roll info to new computer and $ 230 for new hard drive. And instead of $100/hr they are $65. All prices are posted on the counter. I'd have to be a sf techie to throw my money at them. Castro computer...ripping people off, one person at a time!! Something I like to live by: Just because you can, doesn't mean you should. read more

I love Castro Computer Services. They really came through for me in my time of need. I had some critical data that I had moved from my laptop to a card, the card disappeared. And my entire life passed before my life as all my memories and documents were in that laptop/disc. They thought through creative ways to get data out of an older computer and it worked. While not everything was recovered, much of it was. I am forever thankful for this recovery as it came at an impossibly difficult time. These guys rock. read more

Terrific, beyond my wildest expectations service. When I struggled to find a solution for mounting my Mac to a wall mount, I spoke to Susan about the issue and set up an appointment for a team member to come out. In the short period before the appointment, I researched the solution myself and learned I could resolve the issue on my own. When I called Susan to cancel the appointment, she told me they had done the same research and we had come to the same conclusion on the type of mount and that I could do it myself. Despite going to the trouble, she would not let me pay her for the time they spent. This kind of graciousness is so rare found and even more deeply appreciated. Through her kindness, in me, she has found a future client for certain. read more

Overpriced just b/c they're in Noe Valley. Raj is nice, but the other lady w the bird refused to even touch my laptop when I brought it in - twice. It even powered up, not like it's obviously dead. They also built me a "super" computer 5 years ago - where they neglect to connect one of the two hardrives, physically left a norton cd inside the machines until we discovered it two years later. The remaining hard drive finally died this year and of course it's no longer under waranty. Overally take ur sicky computer to sunset or richmond and avoid paying more because of their high rent and risk shoddy service. read more

Mike is the only nice guy here. But this yelp review isn't about customer service because its a computer place, you want your computer fixed in a timely matter and for a decent price. Unfortunately Castro computer services can offer you neither one of those things. My computer just needed virus removal $150. Fine. Then they call back and leave an ominous message on my machine. I call them back, virus removal did not work, need to completely wipe out computer and reinstall windows. Great. How much will that cost me? $350. Jesus for that I could buy a new computer. I gave them the go ahead on Friday and called Monday to see if it was almost done. It wasn't. I got a terrible vague answer with no specific finishing date "maybe tomorrow...?" Wow that's so convincing. I call Wednesday and they tell me the job is almost done, probably another day or two. Ridiculous! They have had my computer for 6 days! The rude pretentious computer tech then tells me its because of windows updates from over a year ago, insinuating that its taking so long is due to my lack of doing updates. Sorry, I'm not buying it. Lets hope I get my computer back tomorrow but who knows. Overall the customer service, time management, and price was awful. Please do not take your computer here. They don't know what they're talking about and if you need your computer back promptly, well you're shit out of luck. read more

YES YES YES, they delivered big time customer service, high quality computer experts who got the job done super quickly at affordable prices. No BS, just the best I've experienced thus far in this field. LOVED THEM. LOVE LOVE LOVED THEM. Ask for Raj, he rocked my computer repair. Fast, efficient and very affordable. read more

I took my PC in to by pass the password. An hour later, I remembered my stupid password. I went back to get it and I noticed that they had already begun to work on it, but returned it to me at no charge. Great customer service. read more

Susan, Raj, Mike, Eduardo and the rest of the staff her are great...Knowledgeable, honest, thoughtful and very generous with their time. It's a fun place to get our computers fixed, receive invaluable advice or play with the various animals. Highly recommend read more

I needed a DVI D wire, I took pictures of both female ends in the pc tower and the monitor just to make sure I got the right thing. They gave me an unpacked wire and wanted 30 dollars for it. I asked if they had used ones and they said no. I got home and the wire had 4 extra pins and I couldn't connect it to the monitor. it was a DVI - I instead of a DVI - D. Went back to the place and some kid with a cheeky attitude went to the back of the shop, brought to me a used wire (no used wires some hours before) and then said that it was worth the same as a new one because it was also longer... Extremely high prices and bad service when it comes down to doing real work or facing small sales. read more