Don't Replace It Yet — Upgrade It
That sluggish computer sitting on your desk might not need replacing. Some of the most dramatic performance improvements come from affordable upgrades that breathe new life into aging hardware.
As a repair shop in Topeka that works on computers of all ages, we help customers make this decision every day at Computer Store KS. Here's our honest breakdown of which upgrades are worth your money.
The #1 Upgrade: Add an SSD
If your computer still has a traditional hard drive (HDD), upgrading to a solid-state drive (SSD) is the single best upgrade you can make. Period.
What you'll notice:
- Boot time drops from 2-3 minutes to 15-30 seconds
- Programs open almost instantly
- File transfers are dramatically faster
- The whole system feels like a new computer
Cost: $40-80 for a 500GB SSD, $60-120 for 1TB
Is it worth it? Absolutely, for almost any computer less than 10 years old. This is the upgrade we recommend most often because the improvement is so dramatic and the cost is so low.
The #2 Upgrade: More RAM
RAM (memory) determines how many things your computer can do at once. If you're running low, everything slows to a crawl.
Signs you need more RAM:
- Computer freezes when multiple programs are open
- Browser tabs cause slowdowns
- You see "low memory" warnings
- Task Manager shows 90%+ memory usage
How much do you need?
| Usage | Minimum | Recommended |
|-------|---------|-------------|
| Basic (web, email, documents) | 8GB | 8GB |
| Moderate (many tabs, light editing) | 8GB | 16GB |
| Heavy (gaming, video editing) | 16GB | 32GB |
Cost: $25-50 for 8GB DDR4, $40-80 for 16GB DDR4
Is it worth it? Yes, if you're currently at 4GB or 8GB and your computer supports more. Check Task Manager to see your current usage. If you're regularly above 80%, more RAM will help.
Battery Replacement (Laptops)
A laptop with a dead battery is basically a desktop. If yours only lasts 30 minutes unplugged, a new battery can restore hours of portable use.
Cost: $40-100 depending on the laptop
Is it worth it? Yes, if the laptop otherwise works well and the battery is replaceable. Some newer laptops make this harder, but we can handle most models.
When Upgrades Aren't Worth It
Not every computer should be upgraded. Here's when you're better off replacing:
Don't upgrade if:
- The computer is 8+ years old (the CPU becomes the bottleneck)
- The motherboard is failing (investing in a dying platform)
- Multiple components need replacing (costs add up fast)
- You need capabilities the hardware can't support (like modern gaming on integrated graphics)
- The laptop has a non-replaceable soldered SSD or RAM
The math: If upgrades would cost more than 50% of a replacement, buy new.
The Best Upgrade Combos
#### Budget Refresh ($60-100)
- SSD upgrade (clone existing drive)
- Fresh Windows install
- Result: Computer feels 3-5 years newer
#### Performance Boost ($100-180)
- SSD upgrade
- RAM upgrade to 16GB
- Result: Handles modern workloads comfortably
#### Full Refresh ($150-250)
- SSD upgrade
- RAM upgrade
- Fresh OS install
- New thermal paste (if overheating)
- Result: Maximum performance from existing hardware
What About CPU and GPU Upgrades?
CPU upgrades are rarely worth it on older systems. You'd typically need a new motherboard too, which means new RAM, and at that point you're building a new computer.
GPU upgrades can make sense for desktops if:
- The power supply can handle a new card
- The CPU won't bottleneck the new GPU
- You're adding gaming capability to a capable system
We can assess whether a GPU upgrade makes sense for your specific setup.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
Do it yourself if:
- You're comfortable opening your computer
- It's a desktop with easy access
- You've watched a tutorial and feel confident
Have us do it if:
- It's a laptop (trickier to open)
- You want the old drive cloned to the new SSD
- You're not sure what's compatible
- You'd rather not risk breaking something
Our Upgrade Services
At Computer Store KS, we offer:
- Free assessment — We'll tell you honestly if upgrading makes sense
- SSD installation with cloning — Keep all your files and programs
- RAM upgrades — We'll check compatibility and install
- Combo packages — Bundle upgrades for the best value
- Used parts — Quality tested components at lower prices
The Bottom Line
An SSD upgrade is almost always worth it. RAM is worth it if you're running low. Everything else depends on your specific situation.
Before you spend $500+ on a new computer, spend 10 minutes talking to us. We'll give you an honest answer about whether a $100 upgrade can get you another 3-5 years of solid performance.
Wondering if your computer is worth upgrading? Bring it to Computer Store KS for a free assessment.