Updated September 2026: in 2018 I wrote about trying every repair shop near me after water damaged my MacBook Pro, getting no solution, and weighing a new MacBook Pro against a cheaper Windows laptop. I have rewritten it into a guide to that decision.
After water got into my MacBook Pro's logic board, I wanted it fixed as quickly as possible. Colleagues joked that I was addicted to the laptop, and I did feel something was missing without it. I worried about my data, the repair cost and what to use instead. I liked macOS for its security, comfort and attention to detail, so I tried to get it repaired at any cost. None of the service shops nearby would fix it or suggest a reliable option. Eventually I gave up, and had to choose between a new MacBook Pro and an affordable Windows laptop.
Repair or replace: how do you decide?
- Get a written quote: from an authorised centre and from a board-repair specialist.
- Compare with the laptop's value: if repair costs more than half a replacement, replacing is usually better.
- Consider its age: an older laptop may lose software support soon anyway.
Should you stay with Mac or switch to Windows?
Stay if you rely on Mac-only apps, other Apple devices or macOS habits. Switch if price matters most and your work runs well on Windows. Apple's current MacBook Air models with Apple silicon offer long battery life and support, which makes them better value than the Intel models of 2018.
How do you move your data to a new laptop?
If you have a Time Machine or cloud backup, restore from it with Migration Assistant. If not, a data-recovery specialist may be able to retrieve the drive's contents, at a cost.
What should you buy to protect the next one?
An automatic backup, and extended cover such as AppleCare+ if you are prone to accidents. Check what the plan covers for liquid damage and what the service fee is before buying.
Was switching worth considering?
Yes. Pausing to compare options made the final choice a decision, not a reflex.
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