The Computer Cellar

The Computer Cellar is a computer repair shop in Durham, NC. Since 2010, they have repaired desktop and laptop PCs, Macs, and Chromebooks, handling everything from water spills and broken screens to malware infestations. They offer virus removal, screen fixes, data transfer, and logical data recovery, and they can also refer customers to forensic-class data recovery labs for severely damaged disks. Their services include replacing failing hard drives, cleaning up software, installing additional storage, replacing batteries and speakers, and repairing broken displays, snapped hinges, laptop body damage, and broken DC jacks. They also build custom gaming and workstation desktop PCs in close collaboration with customers, and they sell affordable, reliable refurbished laptops and desktops that are thoroughly cleaned, tested, and repaired. Walk-ins are welcome Monday through Friday from 10AM to 6PM, with most diagnoses and common repairs completed within 24 hours of check-in. The shop does not offer paid prioritization of services, and they do not perform in-home services, phone or tablet repair, or TV and monitor repair.

The Computer Cellar was founded by Daryn O'Shea, who originally started Triangle Laptops in Charlotte, NC, before relocating to Durham in 2003. The business initially focused on internet sales of laptop repair parts before opening The Computer Cellar in 2010 in the basement of the Couch Building on 9th Street. In 2016, the shop moved to the basement of the historic Regulator Bookshop at 720 9th Street, where the space was renovated into a comfortable work environment designed to streamline workflow and securely store devices. The shop won Indy Week's best-of awards year after year and climbed to the top of online review rankings for local computer repairs. In 2026, ownership changed hands, and the business became affiliated with Bull City Mobile Repair, which allows them to take on more challenging types of repairs and offer repairs of more types of devices over time. The team takes pride in combining personal, friendly service with technical skills and respect for customers, their computers, and their privacy, taking the time to explain what is broken in terms customers can understand.

The Computer Cellar holds a rating of 4.90 based on 720 reviews, reflecting a strong local reputation and an established track record built on a large base of customer reviews. The shop is known for honest service, fast turnaround, and clear communication, without the long waits, suspicious diagnoses, and high prices of corporate competition.

Services:

• Custom-Built Desktop PCs
• Hardware Problems
• Mac Repair
• Refurbished Computer Sales
• Software Problems