What are the Best Options for iMac Repairs?

[RCPhotos]

First off this is a pre-purchase question on the new 27" iMac but its less the model, than the repair experience.

As far as I know, we have only a couple of options.

Send or walk-in to Apple
Walk into authorized dealer

I'm hoping for responses that come from those who have had direct experience with one or both of these options, and your opinion on which is best or how well your repair went in terms of turn-around time and job-well-done, cost, support communication, etc

For me an Apple store is a fair drive, and since I will be buying my first iMac this coming Spring 2022, I just want a feel for how your experience has worked

Again this is only for iMac repairs, thanks

 

[0128672]

I'm assuming you're asking about an Apple Authorized Service Provider (AASP), and not an authorized reseller, which may or may not also be an AASP. Then there's non-authorized/non-Apple-certified tech repair shops too. Having shipped an iMac for repairs (when living remotely) a couple of times over the years, it's not fun packing it up securely, anxiously waiting for it to arrive (and hopefully safely), and the same on its return trip.

 

[KaliYoni]

Before Apple Stores existed, I used local AASPs for upgrades and repairs. Currently, since I live in an area with nearby Apple Stores, I bring anything needing service that is still under warranty or covered by AppleCare to an Apple Store. If I want work done on older hardware, I'll try to start at an independent repair shop (don't forget, Apple's repair techs won't even look at devices it has deemed "obsolete").

I would say that the major difference between AASPs and Apple Stores, in my experience, is similar to the difference between shopping at a department store and a locally owned small business. If you enjoy a more personal experience or want to establish a track record that goes beyond entries into a database, you should favor AASPs in most cases. As well, indie shops might be more willing to think outside the box on hardware that is old or heavily customized.

On the other hand, Apple Store people are heavily scripted and often more focused on customer throughput than customer service. But Apple Stores have an advantage in that they can immediately offer up new or refurbished machines to replace something that has major problems. Communication once a repair is in progress is fine, if you are comfortable with texts, emails, and app notifications as the primary contact modes. Those who prefer telephone calls, however, probably will not enjoy working with Apple Stores.

Bottom line: both AASPs and Apple Store carry-ins are fine in my experience. Which is the better choice depends on the age of the hardware, the severity of a problem, and how much time, effort, and expense you are willing to incur to have Apple itself assess a specific problem.

 

[RCPhotos]

Thanks guys, I have picked an AASP that's not as far from me as I thought. I'll drop by just to see how they operate. My purchase won't happen until Spring 22.