sw: 08_2012 zippy-laptops.com Oceanside folks experiencing demons within their precious laptops, or shopping for a new machine, please make the 'big-boxers' a second stop on your list, and visit Zippy-Laptops. They have a new location (just a block or so from previous digs), smack-dab in the heart of Oceanside at 204 N Coast Highway, corner Mission and Coast Highway, NE toward the Library, close to the intersection at Mission. Have not bought a machine from them (used, refurbs, good prices), but my Toshiba Satellite refused to boot. Had a flicker on the HDD indicator light on power-up, so had some hope my data could be recovered, and the HDD not totally zorched. Well, Steve Lewis, Manager and Head-Tech, talked with me over the phone before bringing it in. I was very impressed with his clarity and honesty. He listened to my description, and, though it was understood no really accurate diagnosis could be made sight-unseen, he said, given my description, that the situation was hopeful. Turns out my machine had been infected by malware; their $99 restore service solved my problems; he could have easily said I needed a new HDD, but instead informed me their QA check on the dirve showed it did not need to be replaced; he gave my machine a full malware/virus check, and cleared out any offenders. In my case, all user data was restored (yes, now I SHOULD use CARBONITE or similar in the future to avoid this heartache). But, Zippy's service was a lifesaver for me. The $99 service is very reasonably priced, and I felt in very good hands through the whole process. You should be aware that with this service WILL NOT restore your programs -- but, if you do not have original disks or download certification, then, where did you get those programs from anyway? The $99 service did, however, include a full, fresh install of my Windows version (perfectly legit). Steve also offered some 'better ideas' as to my directory structure habits (for this old DOS user). Turn-around back to me was less than 48 hours. Good people; Good service; Great results! Steve Willard, Escondido, CA read more

Can't speak for the negative review I just read about these guys here but I can say my transaction went just as I was hoping. Bid it up on ebay and made the final price negotiations on the phone two days ago (Sunday 12-9-12). Courteous and professional folks. The shop is not the premium clean mall like store but then you don't pay the extremely clean mall prices either. Besides, I was looking for a used laptop not a new one. It's a small shop trying to make a business out of it. Most of us would fail at the retail business if we really knew what it takes to support one. Drove from Del Mar to their shop in Oceanside. I also saw negative feedback on ebay because the buyer did not read the auction. It clearly states the product could be sold from their store and still be up on ebay for someone to bid on it before they got the chance to remove the ebay auction. Pretty clear to me. But then, I 'spose you need to be a rocket scientist to be able to read the terms of the auction before you bid on it but then you also have to be interested in reading the terms of the auction. Sales associate was friendly and explained clearly the return policy. Straight forward. Happy with the deal. I never heard of Zippy Laptops before I saw them on ebay and I'm only spending my time to tell you this story because I hate seeing folks like this get a raw deal on feedback when, to me, it seems unfounded. read more

I cannot put it into words how strongly I advise you avoid this shop. They are essentially a computer pawn shop that sells "refurbished" (by which I mean most likely stolen) merchandise. While I was in there waiting on a computer repair I watched a homeless man push a shoping cart in, pull a desktop computer out of his cart and sell it to the owner for 10$. Yeah, that seems like a legitimate transaction, and definitely speaks highly of the quality of the merchandise available for purchase. Zippy laptops has a horrible warranty policy, which is apparently only based on whether or not the owner would like to take care of you. I watched him tell a customer that he didn't want his business, and that he would have to leave, after the customer came in and quite politely complained that his recently purchased laptop wouldn't start-up. I stood there watching, expecting there to be a punch-line to the joke, but the guy was dead serious. You're not happy? Get the hell out. When I pitched in saying that it doesnt seem right to treat a customer like that, I was told "we can deny service to anyone we like" With customer service like that, my only question is how are they still in business? AVOID AT ALL COSTS. This scam artist doesn't deserve the time of day, let alone your patronage. read more

I recently bought a Toshiba laptop from Zippy Laptops and I was very pleased with the service I received. The entire staff -- from Mr. Zippy himself to all the savvy computer techs -- was very helpful, completely knowledgeable and directed me to exactly the computer I needed. What I didn't expect was to call Zippy Laptops within weeks when I updated to Windows 10 (turned out to be a complete disaster) and then again when some criminal literally hijacked my computer and tried to extort $499 out of me to get use of it back. Zippy Laptops 'nuked' (they guaranteed there would be no nuclear fire [they delivered on that promise, too!]) my computer, went back and reloaded dependable old Windows 7.0, and I am back up and running. Yay!! In a world of 'up selling' and high-pressure sales techniques, Zippy Laptops offers customer-first, service-oriented help in a world where top shelf, first class professionalism is sadly lacking. In addition to their across-the-board computer knowledge, Zippy Laptops offers a wide variety of computers, big and small, from prices on the low end up to models with all the bells & whistles. I could not be happier with the products and services I received from Zippy Laptops. Mark P. read more

After purchasing what I thought would be valuable asset as for having a great apple product for my work in the music industry, I have found myself having to return to zippy laptops more than four times to have my macbook serviced. Not only has the owner of this store been rude to me on several occasions mentioning that my warranty has expired, but on the last visit I had taken my laptop in to simply have a diagnostic run to reach a verdict as to why it would not even turn on to operate anymore, the owner (Steve), said to me, and i quote, "No offense, but I don't think I want your business". This lead me to believe that there was something very wrong with my computer, so I followed up by taking the macbook to visit my local Apple Genius location and come to find out the computer had three non apple compatible components installed into it, the logic board was shot and the adapter given to me to charge the unit wasn't even apple certified. Now what does that tell you about this mans business. He is committing fraudulent and criminal acts. I have already filed with the Vista Superior Court and been in contact with local PD for investigation. Way to go Zippy. read more

I bought a laptop from here (Asus U56F) and I got such a great deal, I recommended it to everyone I know. I had a minor problem in the beginning but I took it back and the staff was so friendly, they helped me fix it without a problem. The owner likes to say, "We like to make friends." I think they treat others based on how they're being treated. Which sounds fair to anyone who's ever worked in retail. If you're being an ass, prepare to be treated like an ass. Only problem was there was this one guy working there who had no clue what he was doing. Couldn't tell the difference between an Acer and an Asus (two completely different manufacturers). But that problem seems to be fixed now. The prices are lower than any other repair shop/retail computer store I know, friendly staff, and they get the job done (and if they can't, there is no charge). What more could someone want? :) read more

We are so happy we went to Zippy's & I'm sure we'll be loyal customers from here on! The staff & manager are truly wonderful people, so courteous, helpful, & knowledgeable & they saved us from a huge repair bill if we had instead gone to a big chain store (right at Christmas time when we were already struggling to buy our two young children presents so my husband & I will always be grateful!). Our computer needed a very specific screen which they were able to find & replace ASAP & now everything works great. Next time I plan to purchase a new Zippy laptop ~ very impressive selection & prices that even beats Craig's List. I also love their location, so easy to find & park, & I suggest turning this errand into a pleasant afternoon of visiting the beautiful nearby museum, pier, + oceanside cafes. Many thanks to Zippy's ~ you're awesome!! read more

I work for a local hotel & these guys have been great. They have saved my laptop more than two times. Once was an easy fix when my CPU one out. The next time, they saved my laptop from a spilled Coke in the keyboard. Thought it was a lost cause, but ran great for two more years. I've also purchased a flat screen monitor that looked like new, I didn't plan on buying, but the deal was too good to pass on. The other larger tech places required at least a couple weeks to fix the last malfunction and a lot more money. I finally decided to upgrade to the Mac, and they have given me a swinging deal! Caught one of their staff working to give a young Marine a break on trade-in. This is why I try to go local whenever I can, love the "Mom & Pop" places! read more

What a pleasant experience after a real brain fart. I spilled 32oz of water on my mac book and thought well its all over now. Did the power down turn upside down and pray drill and it did boot up but no monitor. I took it in and was given the rate for repair which seemed reasonable. He quoted 2 week lead time which was fair so when I got the call that it was ready after 1 week obviously it was a nice surprise. I am now typing this review on my healed machine. These guys went above and beyond and repaired my cracked track pad and a few missing screws and bits on the bottom case. What a nice surprise that was. I am very happy with the work and service and will use them for everything in the future as a local in Oceanside. Cheers! read more

I Went to Best-buy first, paid for a diagnostic fee, I was told that my motherboard need to be replaced, and that I should just buy a new computer, I wasn't in the market to spend that much money, so I decided to sell it to zippy laptops since I believed it wasn't worth repairing, but Zippy Laptops informed me that it only needed a $125 for a dc-jack repair. It was repaired in 2-days, and saved me hundreds. I believe Best Buy just wanted to sell me a new computer, I will highly recommend this place Zippy Laptops to anyone wanting to save money, and have great service, this place was packed full of customers, and i spoke to a few of them that are actually return customers or have been referred by friends or family. read more

This place is awesome! Whoever wrote the bad review must be on crack! So I have been going to Zippys for 4 years now, Was in the military and steve game me a military discount and now in college and he gave me a college discount. He has great laptops and a Crew that in knows what they are talking about. I just bought a perfect macbook air 2012 for an amazing price! Honestly I was thinking about Craigslist but he can often be cheeper and you know that if it breaks the person is not long gone with your money. Before you spend double your money at best buy or the mac store stop here! 5 Stars for Steve and his crew. Will be returning here for all of my computer needs. Jesse K From Oceanside read more

long over due. I was in here when they were still located of mission and the 101. I had cracked my screen on laptop and came to have it replaced. When fixed I took laptop back home and turned on. everything worked good until I unplugged from wall. For some reason my brand new battery was bunk! I went back in and while going to the counter I see a guy installing software on the same exact laptop. Turns out he stole my battery to use in a laptop he was trying to sell. Luckily I got my stuff back but wow talk about lack of integrity! its kinda sad considering how many marines im sure fall for this guys tricks. DONT GO HERE. BETTER OF FIXING YOURSELF! read more

I bought a laptop from zippy 4 years ago and I was happy with how was shown 5 computers that matched my criteria. I was especially happy that there was no "selling" going on. I got what I wanted, no pressure, and I have been happy ever since. I was especially please when I found I was given a charger that was to low for my computer. I got the right one with no problems even though I didn't notice it for a year. I am looking forward to buying another one when I get down to Oceanside. Another friend of mine bought 4 laptops from Zippy and was happy with the value he got. read more

My experience at Zippy's has been really great. I just purchased a used laptop in January and love it. I had taken my old laptop in for repair, but it had multiple problems that it was not cost-effective. Steve configured a laptop to my specs and recovered my data from my crashed hard drive; I consider it a bargain. I referred a friend for a laptop repair and it was fixed for less than half of the estimate. Additionally, I have referred two of my customers for desktop repairs, both were pleased. So don't let the name fool you - Steve and crew fix them all. read more

Excellent! Im on my 3rd computer from Zippy-Laptops. My wife bought a computer that she uses for her business, both my young girls have laptops for school and I'm thankful I'm no longer the "IT Guy" of the family. The prices are great, the service is personable and I've felt that they really want to help me get what I need and am satisfied. And, I don't mind at all paying a few extra bucks for accessories because I'm so happy with the service. read more

Great selection of pre-owned laptops, fairly priced and in great condition. Both my husband and I bought laptops here with no regrets. If you are looking for another laptop or if a new laptop is just not in the budget, it's worth it to see what they have. Inventory changes constantly and with the number of people in this small store when we were there, it helps to sort of know what you're looking for so you can grab it if you see it. read more

Worst laptop/computer place in San Diego, they looked through all my private information. I later found out they stole private pictures of me. This has become the worst experience experience, my privacy was violated. I would not put it past them to steal financial information as well. Seriously the owner is a pervert, I am informing all people do not go here!!! You will regret it. Besides, the laptop i bought from them was horrible!!! read more

This is by far the best computer store I've ever been too. One day service to remove a virus nobody could fix. The total charge $50. Plus they offered me coffèe! I bought another small laptop for travel and the price was half of what I expected to pay. I paid for everything and paid less than half of what I expected. Plus a warranty on the new computer and virus repair. Staff couldn't have been nicer. read more

I went into get the screen replaced on my Dell N7110 and received great service at a good price. Steve was professional and got right to work. Being a business owner myself, I understood his pricing and haven been into computer most of my life, I clearly understood the tech talk and product. I have been back several time for other items and will go whenever I need service to a laptop. read more