You may have noticed lots of reviews that say "these guys are very friendly and helpful" and a few reviews that say "these guys are really rude and condescending". The explanation for this is simple. There is one guy there who is very rude and condescending, and everybody else is friendly and helpful. They keep the rude guy, who has the social skills of a wounded shark, because he is an excellent tech. It would be better if they kept him in the back room, and let him interact only with machinery and never with people. But they don't have enough extra people to do that, and they pass the savings on to you. This place is highly recommended, and should be. read more

Thea, who also plays the Viola, gave me the greatest customer service yesterday. Straightforward, honest and listening to my not so technical explanations she identified the exact issues with my laptop. This place is top notch, I hope it never closes. read more

This place has almost everything about Apple. The attendants are kind. Worth a trip there to find out and upgrade or fix your Apple device.

Great for minor Mac repairs and accessories! Much more personal and funky then the Apple Store. Support a small business shop here when you can. read more

Wei and Thea were great and I really appreciate the price and the customer service I got here. I will be coming back if getting an appt. at an Apple store stretches beyond a week or more. read more

This store is kind of weird, but really reminds me of the old Mac user base. It's definitely like walking into a computer store from the 90s or 80s, and the computer geeks who run this place are so stereotypical. I love that. Overall, I'd say the customer service was great when I was there. I work with campus IT and needed some cheap bluetooth keyboards for some macs, and they pulled out some used ones for half the price of the new ones, and way cheaper than I could get them online. The only reason this place doesn't get 5 stars is that their new products are grossly overpriced. For example, the same keyboards I bought used cost $20 more than the apple store when they're purchased new from this store. I observed similar markups throughout the store while I wandered around. I would come here again to get used parts for the macs I work on, but very little else. Overall I enjoyed the customer service and joking around with the clerks, and was very happy with my purchases. read more

I have been coming here for years! They are friendly and knowledgable. They have diagnosed and repair several of my Macs over the years. I have purchased a new battery for my MacBook Pro which was much cheaper than thru Apple. I just recently installed more RAM and upgraded my hard drive which had gone bad and again the price was so much cheaper than having to buy a new MacBook Pro. I recommend them highly! read more

I trust this place. Wei Lee went to the Apple website to refresh his memory, then pressed the appropriate three keys on my dead Mac Air and it was back to normal. No charge. I immediately bought an external drive and backed up. Tech appointment at Apple Store in Emeryville could not get it to turn on, had estimated $900. for outside data retrieval and 298. for parts and labor mailed to Apple. Scary that I was so close to driving the computer to Novato and paying this amount. Later, I read this 3-key fix in the basic book that came with the Air!! Yikes! read more

Rating is for computer repairs, not merchandise (which seemed somewhat overpriced): Bottom line: This M.A.C. store saved me over $500 on my macbook pro repair. I'm always going to go to this store before the apple store in the future. Apple wanted to charge me their ~$750 flat rate fee because they saw signs of old water damage in the laptop. Within 10 min (no appointment needed) M.A.C. staff figured out what they needed to do, said it probably had nothing to do with the "water damage" and checked in my computer for repairs. Once everything was done, they charged me for parts (new 500 GB hard drive) and labor, $190 total + tax, fair and square. The staff are courteous and thorough enough for me. PLUS, no appointments needed and not nearly as crowded as the apple store. They do a relatively low-priced diagnostic for water damage, which I'll definitely go for if I ever spill liquid on my computer again. read more

WORST PLACE EVER! Called in to inquire about a $2 screwdriver - quoted me for $8 - - When I asked if they would price match he said yes - so I asked him for the model number and he said if I was going to look it up to price match it he wouldn't give me the information to do so. They don't care about fixing your computer THEY JUST WANT YOUR MONEY!!!!! Awful customer service. read more

M.A.C. is Berkeley's indispensable store for Mac hardware, repair, software, and accessories. I first heard about it years ago from folks in BMUG (Berkeley Macintosh Users Group); the raves were entirely warranted. It's easy to sell a shiny new product, but harder to deal with the messy details afterwards. I've bought 5 Macs here over the years, and brought in two for repairs and upgrades. I've always been impressed with the in-house repair team's thoroughness and quality of service. They're not cheap, but they give good estimates. Very highly recommended. read more

If you have a Mac and need service or parts of any kind, do not hesitate to visit these people. This is the place.

I have been going to this store for help for years and probably received 100s of dollars' worth of free advice, patiently given in a way that I could use and understand. Last week I actually paid money for the first time. My Mac mini had completely crashed with lots of precious stuff on it so I took it in requesting data recovery onto a new mini. They told me they had to order the mini, could not guarantee the data recovery which could cost up to $160.00, and I could expect results in about five days. They would not take any money down, and in less than 48 hours I had my new machine with all my old data on it, and the recovery had cost only $40. How does anything get better than that? As far as I can tell, the only thing these people care about is helping customers accomplish what they need. I can't recommend them highly enough! read more

Whoa! I had a trouble upgrading from the snow leopard to the mountain lion because my hardware somehow became irreparable in the process. I gave my macbook to MAC, put it on rush and they fixed everything in just two days. Although the wait was long, I'm content with what they have done. I highly recommend this place for anyone who needs some help with their Apple gadgets. read more

During the middle of college essay writing my computer crashed. Blue screen and unresponsive. I freaked out and immediately brought it here. I payed extra for it to be put at the top of the list though of course it was not guaranteed that everything could be recovered, yet within a week they had totally restored everything saving me and my college essays. Great place and fast service! read more

I have used MAC since the 1980s, and they are far and away the best Apple repair store ever. Recently I had some minor issues with my iPhone and Macbook Pro. Both were resolved quickly and for free. The staff at MAC are dedicated, smart and efficient. read more

Needed an particular hard drive cable for 2009 MacBook pro. M.A.C. was the only retails store I could find that actually had it in stock. I was able to get my mac up and running the same day. Would have been five days lead time, had I gone the route of the apple store. read more

My mac pro accidentally suffered from a bottle of lemon tea and I took it to the Apple store, which informed me that it would cost 750 dollars. Thanks so much to M.A.C which only charge me 80 dollars and fixed my pro in 4 days ! read more

Since I've moved back home to Detroit, I miss these guys. They were always so helpful, and replacement parts they sold me - like a battery - were really quality off-brands that saved me money without sacrificing functionality. Great alternative to an Apple store if you have an older Mac and don't want a sales pitch. read more

As always incredibly efficient and nice. Quick correct diagnosis Blown power supply on hard drive caused by Pge power failure. Transferred all to new drive. read more

I've been here dozens of times over the years, and have always had a phenomenal experience. The owners are nice, patient, and share knowledge (often for free!) in an accessible and easy-to-understand way. When I have had repair work done, it's always reasonably priced and of a high quality. I highly recommend this shop. read more

Such good fortune to find M.A.C. I highly recommend it. My very old MacBook Pro had a nearly dead battery. At M.A.C. it was replaced and is now running like a new computer. AND! The cost was reasonable and I had my computer back in an hour. Very helpful, honest and knowledgable staff. read more

Wai Lee is a really helpful guy.

Yes! this place is the best! I drive from SF just to have them work on all my MAC related issues. As a professional organizer, I also take all my clients laptops and computers here to get fivin... The staff is kinda funny, your not sure if they want to help you or not sometimes... but if you are patient and kind, they will open up and give you tons of amazing info. Good rates, and they def now what they are doing. Go give them business! Great local resource. read more

M.A.C. stands behind their products and services, completely. I've bought a few devices and accessories, airport devices, and backup hard drives from them. When my desktop MAC crashed, it turned out that the backup drive hadn't functioned properly. Though the backup hard drive was several years old, they successfully extracted my data from the desktop MAC, and waived the usual fee. They also have offered to reconfigure the hard drive for my new computer. I've heard that they were rude, but that hasn't been my experience. They do a great job, and if you're not happy, they will find a way to work it out, if you're reasonable. read more

Super convenient location with pretty good odds of scoring a metered parking spot on Shattuck, repair done within promised three business days, strong sense of integrity to the way they conduct business. Owner is professional and conveys personal warmth. Pleased with the repair and the transaction. read more

The guys here have been unbelievably helpful when i need help with this or that imac snafu.

Yesterday I called the store and received a lot of help over the phone. Good telephone etiquette and knowledgeable person. I asked about parking and the man said not too good on Shattuck due to construction. I drive over and park on University around the corner from the store, no problem. I go inside and another man helps me . What a response . The man was also knowledgeable and did not mind sharing his knowledge. He showed me what I need for my computer and showed me how to work the gizmo. I left very satisfied . Did I mention it was a small sale as well? I'll be back read more

I needed a new hard drive for my computer. I got one (plus new memory) from them. Then the new one crashed. I decided I needed a new computer instead of getting it fixed again and was upset because I just spent a bunch of money on my computer. I knew I would get some money back, but didn't think I'd get it all back. It turns out they sell new Apple computers there. I bought a new one and all the money that I had spent was deducted from the price, so I came out even and didn't lose a cent. I also had another mix-up with a different computer and they bought that one from me, which was thrilling because I didn't think anyone wanted it. They are definitely willing to work with you if you have a problem. read more

So, the people are knowledgeable here, and they know how to fix computers. They have a great warranty policy that allows for bringing back your computer if things are not fixed. However, there is a severe issue with timeliness and connecting with their customer. Both times that I brought in my computer, it took one-and-a-half to two weeks for them to diagnose and fix the computer. Each time I had to call numerous times to check on the status of the repair. Each time I was told that I would receive a call back regarding said status. Unfortunately, the staff at M.A.C. neglected to do that. I have a suspicion that my computer was fixed days before I picked it up on both occasions, however it seemed like my duty to contact them. Maybe I overlooked the sign that said I needed to call/harass the staff on a daily basis to see what was going on with my computer. On one hand, thanks for fixing my computer twice. On the other hand, please refrain from telling your customers that it should take four to five days to handle the issue, then not call after the elapsed time. If you have a lot of time to be without a computer, this is the place for you. They appear competent and thorough, just not concerned with keeping the customer informed. read more

A great locally-owned store to repair your Mac. Personable, reasonably-priced, and knowledgeable. I've gone several times over the years in dire straights and have been happy with their service every time! Thank you! read more

I LOVE THE MAC STORE! The staff is smart, they are quick and kind and reasonable priced. I have been using them for years and they never let me down - whether I bought my devices from them or not. BRAVO/BRAVA to Berkeley's best computer store. Terry read more

There were a couple of keys on my MacBook Pro. It turned out my tech skills weren't up to the task of making them work. And pounding the 'e' key 3 or 4 times to get an 'e' just wasn't a workable solution. I called M.A.C. and the friendly voice on the other end said stop on by. I did and it a matter of minutes an ace tech did his magic and I had two working keys again. Thank goodness! And, there was no charge for the fix; they said they were happy to help out with such a small task. Next time I have a real problem with my Mac, this is the place I'm going to for help. read more

Great store, highly recommend! I made a silly mistake and left behind my Microsoft Office package, and Wai kindly emailed me the code. Hassle free and incredibly helpful! read more

Just want to write a brief review for the excellent service I have received here over the years. A few years ago, my previous laptop was exhibiting problems, and I left it for repairs. Mr. Wai Lee, the owner of the store, told me that the motherboard had failed and it would not pay to have it replaced. Lately I have been having problems with photos disappearing from iPhoto on my newer MacBookPro. First I went to the Apple store (Bay Street) where they did not find them. The next day I went to the M.A.C. store where Wai Lee found them in about 60 seconds. I went back twice for the same problem, and was helped each time in the most pleasant and courteous manner. I think Berkeley is very lucky to have this excellent resource on Shattuck Ave. and I am grateful for the help I received. read more

The M.A.C. Store is very good when it comes to Sales & Support. Sure their parts and service prices will almost always be more expensive than that used Apple/Mac part you found on Craigslist or that one-person Mac technical consultant you also saw advertised on CL (or were otherwise recommended to). Face the facts; Macs and Apple's current iGadgets are ALREADY expensive enough as it is. At the same time, folks, in general you'll get what you pay for. The staff at the M.A.C. Store really know their stuff (surprisingly, even a great deal of PC and Linux stuff!), the team is always ready to help during regular store hours, and a SUPER big plus is that the M.A.C. Store is only two short blocks from the Downtown Berkeley BART and the UC campus. Talk about a viably economic and environmentally-sustainable location! If your Mac or Apple iGadget needs real servicing, then they, of all places, will let you know what's up with this, they'll give you a real estimate of parts & labor, and they'll just HAVE (or be able able to obtain) that one necessary repair part. At the same time, and given the fact that the M.A.C. Store can often get busy with heavy periods of Service&Sales, I find that it's best to give the M.A.C. Store's service staff some sensible leeway timewise, in their diagnosing and repairing a Mac issue. Folks, if any of you are anywhere near Berkeley, whether resident, student, or visitor, know that the M.A.C. Store is MOST DEFINITELY the GO TO place for your Mac needs! read more

Be careful. Try going to the Apple Store first. The repair guy at M.A.C was dismissive and rude. The place is overpriced.. and that's compared to retail AppleCare, which is saying a lot!! I would have spent double for labor and almost triple for the part had I left my laptop with the people at M.A.C. Instead, I went to SF to see what the store would charge. It was worth the Bart ticket. Also, I got my laptop back from the Apple Store in 1 day! Even if you have an older Mac (I don't know about Powerbooks) try the retail store. I'm not one to praise corporations, but Apple knows what they're doing. read more

I love this store! I purchased my first laptop from the Apple store in Emeryville, where they sold me all kinds of extras I was too inexperienced to know I didn't really need. After several frustrating visits to the crowded Genius Bar I decided I needed to find some other way to get help. When I found the M.A.C. store I was home free! They helped me many times, even tho I hadn't bought my computer from them. They've always been friendly, explaining things I didn't know and helping me update my computer. When my hard drive crashed I went to them and they fixed it. Yes, it took a few days, but they explained that up front, and my computer was ready when they said it would be. I just bought my second laptop, from them this time. What an improvement over the Apple store! They transferred all my data from the old computer in less than a day, and when I picked it up we took it out of the box and they spent an hour helping me again! Highly recommended!!! read more

My wife and I have gotten two laptops from M.A.C. and they helped with great courtesy and efficiency in the purchase, transferring files, straightening out glitches, and helpful counsel. We highly recommend their service and this will be the first place we get our next major purchase. read more

One star because this place and their employees really make you feel like an idiot when you ask a question. Customers come to this store to get information when they are having a problem, not to be ridiculed because their lack of computer knowledge. If you want to be berated and ostracized by a haughty staff, this is the place for you. If not, just go to the real apple store, not the impostor one. read more