I take care of an Elderly woman who is 80. She isn't able to walk very much and uses her computer for everything. I took her apple laptop to this shop because I go there for everything and love to support the little guy. Well they thought they fixed her computer, but then it stopped working in a week. I had to take it back. They where suppose to call in a few days to let me know what was up and never did. I called them 4 times and then finally after no return calls on the 3rd week I went to go see what happened. They didn't even work on it yet! I was upset because the poor lady I work for had nothing and no one would call us back and then I found out it was the owner who was suppose to fix it and did not fix it correctly the first time. Also, they have horrible customer service skills. I was willing to over look it because they did the job, but now I can't! read more

I really wanted to give this place a good rating....They built a machine for me and in general it worked pretty well. My issue with the place was simple. On subsequent interactions, communication sucked. You can email till your blue in the face...no response. Im busy and like to do business as much as possible this way, and I figured it would be easy with a computer store, especially a mom and pop shop. Even if youre on a first name basis....the one time I did get a return email...it was 3 months after, and way too late. I had a couple other complaints about the place, but I want to keep this short, because I hate writing bad reviews. If you must go here...talk to Jessie, but Id go to Central computer instead. read more

My baby got sick. Very very sick. Something far worse than an everyday virus. He couldn't even scroll or play DVDs, and then eventually couldn't even start. Evil hackers had attacked my laptop through facebook. Just because I wanted to watch a, "video clip" sent by my, "cousin" and requiring me to download, "flash"...yeah I'm naive. So I took my computer to Alameda Business Machines. I had it back within 4 days, along with new anti-virus and anti-malware software. Minus $175 = All better! read more

I had a 7 year old laptop that Alameda Business Machines over a year ago had fixed to give it that extra year of life. In December both the mother board and the hard drive were failing and it was time to buy another one. As a business person, I am very dependent on my computer so the prospect of having to move to a new laptop quickly was daunting. ABM had a refurbished laptop for sale, an Acer, and by that afternoon I walked out with what I consider a new laptop, certainly compared to my old one, and all my files and information successfully transferred to my new machine. Mike did the work and he was great to work with. Today I took my laptop in because I had a blinking icon that had mysteriously appeared and was concerned with what it was--Julie opened up my laptop and within minutes was able to assess that it was Java trying to get me to update and she took care of it. Now I have gotten pop ups for Java updates before but this one gave an exe address and did not say Java so I decided to be safe rather than sorry, After that she cleaned up a few other things she saw needed attention and downloaded a new, free program called Cleanup that would delete my temporary Internet files She advised me on several weekly maintenance items and gave me a handout to use as a reminder of what I should do to keep my computer healthy. Because I had bought my computer from them she did not charge me for her time or advice. It was so great to walk in with my laptop to this conveniently located business with a potential problem and walkout feeling well taken care of with my machine in even better shape than when I walked in. i highly recommend this business. read more

Walked in a month ago to ask a question about how to open a laptop to clean the dust out of it (the fan is failing and I couldn't get to the fan without ripping my entire laptop apart and I'd rather not do it myself). The guy, who is this tall old white dude, had such a condescending tone with me and asked me how I knew my fan was dusty. Like, what? Why would you ask that? I told him "well there's a ton of dust inside the computer??". His tone made me feel belittled, as if to him I didn't know anything about computers (I definitely know about computers) He just wasn't friendly at all, and even my friends who were with me at the time thought he was kind of a jerk. He didn't help me. Instead he told me to go to the store and buy those dumb aerosol cans. I told him that didn't remove all the dust that was in there (the dust accumulated and was clogging the fan enough to keep it from moving) but at that point I was tired by his shit attitude and left. I just wouldn't come here. I came in with a very optimistic attitude after having breakfast with friends and he killed my mood with his arrogance. read more

In September 2014, I asked Alameda Business Machines to build a custom desktop system. 38 months later, I'm still delighted with the design choices they made on my behalf. read more

I purchased a new motherboard and processor. Thought I could just replace the existing hardware and turn it back on, presto!! ....ermm..nothing happened. Time for some professional help (no, not that kind). I decided to bring it in to ABM. A very reasonable $50 to diagnose the problem. My motherboard and processor were DOA. Recommended replacement. $190 for labor plus parts. I am a satisfied customer. read more

Thank You Alameda Business Machines! My PC suddenly stopped working one night, and with a big deadline just a few days out, I needed it fixed fast. Fortunately it turned out to be a basic problem, and they fixed it quickly and cleanly while keeping me informed throughout the process. I brought it in on a Wednesday afternoon, and had it back by Thursday afternoon. As mentioned in other reviews, Mr. Mister did seem a bit surely, but I didn't take it as personal. Especially considering I probably would be too if I had to deal with everyone elses problems all day long. Regardless, that's not enough to keep me from going back if I have more pc trouble. In fact, when Im ready for a new pc, Im going there first. They had some great looking machines in the window. Thanks! read more

A really honest trustworthy service . I'll be back here for any of my computer problems . A+ service

These folks diagnosed my computer problem within one day. Unfortunately it wasn't worth repairing. But they advised me knowledgeably and professionally and sold me a great replacement machine. They transferred my data and showed me how to use my old hard drive as an external drive. Great location, prompt, informed, polite and professional service. And you get to support a fine local business. What more could you want? I will continue to give these folks my business. read more

I had a PC die on me in middle of preparing my taxes and some financial reports. In a bit of a panic I called ABM and dropped the computer off late in the afternoon. The next morning they called me to let me know the RAM had died but the computer was otherwise OK. I thought the turn around was great, this was a great resource for me. I could have spent a day trying to fix it myself but they got the job done for about $200 out the door. read more

I would give ABM 10 stars if I could. I bought a VAIO SONY laptop back in 2014 from Best Buy. Last year the computer started doing this weird diagnostic loop that took me no where. Didn't pay much attention since I wasn't in need of the laptop. Well finally I took it in to Best Buy to see if Geek Squad could figure this out, according to the tech I needed to come out of pocket any where from $500-$700 because apperantly the hard drive was broken. ABM was highly recommended by a good friend and gave them a shot. I sent an email got a response first thing in the morning, I later called spoke to a gentleman who told me more than likely it was the Windows system. I dropped the laptop off in the morning and that same afternoon I got a call the laptop was FIXED!!!! YES, FIXED. They saved me a good chunk of money better yet they save me the hassle of having to buy a new laptop. I will definitely be back and highly recommend them, besides I actually thought I was going to walk into this old computer store and by all means the complete opposite the store is super cute!!!!! Young professionals Love it!! GREAT JOB read more

3 Years later, the PC I bought at ABM is still running w/ no problems.

My old external hard drive failed and was spinning up the click of death so I brought it into ABM to see if my data could be rescued. They were able to boot it up and transfer it over to my new hard drive in a few days. The staff was friendly and communicative throughout the process and the price was reasonable read more

Okay, I've really had nothing but good experiences with this place. Yes, a little pricey, but you get what you pay for. You could have a hack fix your computer on the cheap only to have it blow up in your face, or you can take it to someone who knows what they're doing. These guys know what they're doing. By the way, to those upset that ABM told them it's best just to buy a new machine... they're not saying that to try and sell you something, they're saying that to help you out. They could fix your item for more money than a new item costs, but instead they're being honest with you... and for that you down rate them. *sigh* Anyway, last time I was in there, I was picking up an AC Adapter for my lappy. There were 2 kinds and they could have sold me the more expensive easily, instead they told me the cheaper one was better and that they were going to discontinue the expensive one. What? They could have made a higher sale and gotten rid of their old stock in one fell swoop... instead they were honest. This is the kind of integrity that American business was founded on and it should be supported. You may pay a small bit more, but you are supporting your community and honest business. read more

I came into ABM looking for a solid gaming laptop. Right off of the get-go, Angel helped me out showing me what different specs I could choose. She was honest about pricing, which is certainly something I can appreciate. And they even went so far as to ask what games I play, then made sure that those games would run well on the setup! This is an excellent place to buy a computer. read more

Let me start the review by saying up front that Alameda Business Machines has reasonable, if not good rates and costs, and staff are courteous. However, if you are concerned with speed and timeliness, you might want to look elsewhere. ABM provides two primary services: computer repairs and computer sales. A friend purchased a computer from them some time ago at reasonable cost, but not a spectacular value. In that respect, ABM gets three stars. However, servicing and repairs falls short. I had a cracked laptop screen that I brought in for repairs. The cost was reasonable-- $250 or so for parts and labor on a 17 inch laptop screen (720p, not IPS). Labor accounted for $95. The timing was an issue. I was told that the repair would take a day, and with a few days left to submit a project paper, I thought that would be fine. When I brought it in, the estimate became for no apparent reason (not even 'a sudden rush of customers' excuse) 3-4 days. I had to delay dropping off the laptop for that. When I came back to pick it up, I was informed that the frame was accidentally damaged-- no problem, accidents happen-- and the part would be replaced free of charge. The part had to be ordered and would take a couple of weeks to arrive. No problem, it was only a cosmetic issue. I was told that it would only take 5 minutes to apply. When I brought in my laptop for the repair, I was told that I would need to leave my laptop overnight. For was I was told was a 5 minute replacement. I told them I would come back, but after about an hour, I decided to ask if it could be done since it was just a 5 minute replacement. I came in, asked Mike, that since it was just 5 minutes, could he squeeze it in today? The saleswoman told me that Mike had to go to a service call. I was a little irritated that she jumped in when I was addressing Mike, but maybe she was trying to be helpful, I won't hold that against her. Mike turned and asked me if I could give him half an hour, instead of 5 minutes. I told him I would be in the area for some time, so that was fine. I dropped off the laptop and the salesgirl told me they would give me a call when it was ready. The call never came. I came back about an hour and a half later and found, thankfully, the assembly was done. No problems with it since then. I can't complain bout the courtesy or cost of services here, but I also can't ignore the delays, lag, and vastly varying time frames given for repairs. I need times to be reliable and constant, and based on my experiences here I cannot rightfully give Alameda Business Machines an unconditional recommendation. If you have the time and patience, then by all means, use ABM, but otherwise, you might want to find a place that can offer a more consistent time frame if you are time sensitive. read more

I hate to give a bad rating to a place with such great front line people. The young woman who helped check me in was incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. The tech who worked on my machine, though obviously technically proficient, was impatient, a bit insulting, and consequently ended up doing a few things to my machine that he was specifically asked not to do. It was clearly a case of a misunderstanding, but as it turned out the misunderstanding was caused by this impatience and attitude of superiority. My livelihood depends on having my machine set up a particular way and I expect my computer tech to help me do that correctly. Since this guy is paid by the hour, I don't understand why he wouldn't want to do whatever I need him to do. Perhaps their other techs are more patient and respectful, but the long-haired guy should lay off the coffee and take a yoga class or something. read more

I've built / assembled a few PCs over the years, so generally thought I knew what I was doing, but my latest effort was a big FAIL. I brought it in to ABM yesterday expecting a big $$$ repair bill - but was very pleasantly surprised - the work was done quickly, the cost reasonable, and looking at the quality of the work - much better than I could have done myself! These guys are awesome! read more

I've worked with ABM, specifically Michael the owner and his right hand man Jesse, for years and I couldn't be more impressed. Their responses to my questions and disasters are immediate and they have bailed me out of more issues than I care to admit. I was even in Venezuela once giving a lecture and wasn't able to get my lecture opened. They saved me and sent me a copy and I was able to give the lecture as scheduled. Their service is beyond excellent! Please ignore the bad review as I think that had to have been an aberration. I wouldn't think of going anywhere else for any computer needs. They also totally set up my new phone. Additionally, Michael donated a computer to a kid who is the first in his family to go to college. As you can see, I'm a loyal fan of ABM for many reasons. read more

Every time one of our computers at work decides to take an unexpected vacation and stop working Alameda Business Machines are on the case right away. After calling them I know I won't have to worry. I've yet to see a problem they can't fix, and I've seen some strange computer problems. Jesse in particular has been a consistent godsend. Highly recommended! read more

I've used their services a number of times and every time they were prompt and responsive. They even called me to tell me I'd forgotten to take my external drive when I picked up my computer. They've never tried to sell me anything. The first time I went there I watched Julie sell my techno-phobic girlfriend a computer. She asked a lot of questions, avoided the geek talk,and explained everything in plain English(including why she should get the AMD cpu vs. Intel and the GF understood it). The staff is knowledgeable and treats customers with the kind of respect you don't get at places like Best Buy. I wonder if the people who dissed them were all that pleasant to deal with.You give respect you get respect. Bottom line is I'll continue to patronize them. read more

My hard drive crashed and so, took it into them to take a look. They put in a new hard drive. I came back to pick it up and I was handed a memory chip and asked if I wanted them to order another if the computer isn't working right...HUH? Got it home and it made all kinds of noises. Then the blue screens started. I really couldn't use it. Took it to Computer Ward and Jimmi did a diagnosis on it. He told me they put in a used drive dated 2006. It was defective and messed up my computer even more. This verges on fraud. I went back and even though the owner seemed like he didn't give a shit I did get a refund. Do I recommend these people? What do you think! The gal that works there is maybe the best looking babe in Alameda. Also, Jimmi rebuilt my computer and it works like it's a racehorse. read more

***UPDATE*** well..my computer had slowly been deteriorating. About a month ago, the USB's stopped being recognized. Ok, I figured out a workaround and kept going. Yesterday, the machine would not shut down on an update and now it has crashed. Do I dare go back??? I have to see whats gonna happen. Fingers crossed. Ok, went there this morning and dropped it off. Didn't have to tell them what was wrong as they are avid yelp readers apparently...They looked at it ASAP and got it back to me telling me its up and running! Great! I hope it does...so far so good. read more

Well my hard drive crashed. The folks tried their best to help me out as cheaply as possible. But in the end I had to get a new computer. Mine was 5 years.. They kept in contact and came to my place. Good folks. read more

I went in looking for a cable, but they didn't carry it in stock. Julie was very helpful and looked on the Internet to see where I could find the cable I was looking to buy. This was my first visit and Julie was very friendly. Looked like they do a lot of computer repairs and I'm sure they do a good job. It's rare to find find folks that actually want to help you find something if they don't carry it in stock themselves. I can tell these folks actually care about their customers even if they're not purchasing something. read more

Run, don't WALK to Alameda Business Machines....especially this weekend for their Park St. Spring Festival discounts!!!! I just bought a new laptop from Mike Woods and with Julie's help I was able to get a "preview" discount!!! Love their service( my husband Dave at Alameda Wheel and Brake Service uses them too!!), love Jessie, Julie and Kim! read more

A BIG thank you to Julie and company at ABM! I am a teacher and had a horrible issue today with getting my brand new LCD projector to work properly w/my document camera and PC. I had been working on solving the problem for 6 entire hours. I called the LCD company and had adults and kids try to fix the problem to no avail. Finally, today (a Friday no less), at 4:15 I called ABM. Even know I was a bit frenzied, Julie remained calm and walked me through troubleshooting and isolating the problem step by step. When we (she), found the problem, she stayed on the phone w/me until we confirmed that everything was working perfectly. Julie was professional, kind and an absolute expert! I appreciate all of her help and expertise. This company went way overboard to help me when they could have easily brushed me off. Thank you all VERY much! read more

I am very happy with Alameda Business Machines. They are an outstanding company. They help you with computer support at their office or they will come to your home to assist you with wiring/wireless/networking/programming/backup--you name it, they do it! Very qualified staff with excellent customer support. Thank you! read more

I had a MAC I was selling and I needed to have the hard drive initialized. I was unable to do it on my own for some reason and I had no idea that ABM worked on MAC's. My husband suggested that I call them. Well, they DO work on MAC's and they did a great job at a fair price. I was able to sell my computer at the price I was hoping for. Thank you ABM! Good to know you are so close by and do awesome work. Super friendly staff as well and they follow up. I appreciated that! read more

I found some very old external drives in my attic and didn't know what information was on them. The connectors were too old to plug into my computer and find out. ABM Computers was recommended to me by a friend who said they would know how to wipe the information off them and dispose of them. Jesse Nelson took care of them for me. He disabled one hard drive and wiped the others, and waved off payment when I offered. What a relief to have disposal taken care of so easily. He was clearly competent and knowledgeable, and I highly recommend him. read more

I would give ABM Computers 10 stars (1000, but I would risk being viewed as hyperbolic) if I could. I cannot lavish enough praise on them. Michael, the owner, has literally saved me and my business and personal data from catastrophe after a hard drive failure on an older Mac. He also has performed miracles with my PC's over the years (perhaps 20?) that I've entrusted my computers to him (and Jesse). I find the prices charged extremely reasonable; in fact, shockingly so. Angel, the office manager and intake person has the best, most reassuring bedside manner to calm the most frantic, panicked, desperate client. read more

I had a great experience. I had a cracked laptop screen and couldn't see anything on a monitor I connected, so I figured the machine was doomed if not even the graphics chip worked. Not only did ABM successfully replace the screen, they were nice enough to clean the keyboard and tidy up config.sys to make Windows start faster. All of that for about $150, a huge bargain in my book. I'll definitely go back for help with computer problems I can't handle on my own. 5 stars! read more

I had a GREAT experience buying RAM here. They helped me figure out what I needed, tried to find it used/cheaper first, showed me how to put it in myself and guaranteed it. read more

I have used these guys many times and they are always helpful, patient and quick to follow up. I especially recommend Jesse - thanks for the great work! read more

Alameda Business Machines is my go to for computer help. They are always on point when we need help at work with our ancient server. Jesse is the lifeline I call wayyyyyy too often but he's the best problem solver I know. Awesome folks! read more

I gave Alameda Business Machines a call on Monday AM they, Jesse, came right out that afternoon saw that I needed a new monitor for my desk top, He gave me the price that I thought was very fair, and within and hour was back to my house and installed the new monitor, took the old one away and I was back in business. I give this company my highest praise for excellent service. I will always use them for any of my computer needs. read more

Helpful, friendly staff resurrected all the data on my laptop after it died a sudden death. Very fair prices and fast turn-around! They also gave us some valuable assistance in getting a free fix from HP even though our PC is out of warranty: turns out HP had lots of similar problems. read more

Good service, good communication. Repairs to 2 units, price up front on virus removal and competetive price on repair of other. Nice folks. read more

When you walk in you notice immediately that it smells like perm Solution. That's only because there's a salon next door. The employees here are super helpful and I always get a one service read more