Desktop PCs Reliability
Our annual survey of thousands of computer users reveals which computers are most – and least – reliable. Ratings are based on the results of a survey of 10,600 Which? Connect online panel members in May and June 2011.
The Which? reliability score is based on the proportion of machines that have needed a repair. Scores for each brands are adjusted to account for sample size and product age - so a brand won't be unfairly penalised in a lot of owners have older models.
| Desktop reliability | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Score |
| Apple |  88% |
| Hewlett-Packard | 86% |
| Acer | 85% |
| Compaq | 85% |
| Dell | 85% |
| Medion | 85% |
| Novatech | 85% |
| Packard Bell | 85% |
| Sony | 85% |
| Mesh | 79% |
| Average Reliability | 85% |
Table notes
There must be at least 50 respondents for a brand for it to receive a reliability score.
Sample sizes: Apple (608), Hewlett-Packard (489), Acer (238), Compaq (69), Dell (1,143), Medion (128), Novatech (89), Packard Bell (101), Sony (81), Mesh (112)
Having problems with your new computer?
Where to complain
The retailer’s responsible for fixing or replacing a computer that is not of satisfactory quality. It may say you have to take the problem to the manufacturer. This isn't true. If you prefer, you can ask the manufacturer to deal with the problem under its guarantee.
When to reject
You're within your rights to reject goods that are faulty within a reasonable time period, typically 3 to 4 weeks.
Onus of proof
If your computer goes wrong within the first 6 months, the onus is on the retailer to prove this isn't the result of any misuse on your part. So it’s best to contact the retailer straightaway if you think something’s wrong with your computer.
Even if your computer has a minor fault, this may get worse over time or be an indicator of more serious problems to come.
Get assessed
If you have problems after 6 months, and the seller isn't being cooperative, you may need to prove the computer is faulty. The easiest way to do this is to take it to a reputable local computer shop for a professional assessment – this will cost around £35.
Outside of warranty
The law states goods must last a reasonable amount of time. The warranty for your computer may last only a year or 2, but if you have a problem after 3 or even 4 years, and it’s reasonable not to expect to have that problem, it’s worth pursuing.
Expect to pay for the computer to be repaired and then try to claim this back from the retailer – you may have to take it to the small claims court, however.