Humble Beginnings...

As a "Geek" working in the industry for over 10 years, I've seen how people from all walks of life rely on us; I've also seen these same people being over charged for services and sold things they neither wanted nor needed. It happened to all of us, and these the the things Cheap Geek is here to address. Here at cheap-geek.org my philosophy is simple; I think people should get more for their money. Since I am not trying to support a brick and mortar office, ad space, or costumes, I can charge what I feel is a fair price for my services.

Less is More, more or less....

I do not believe computers have to be expensive. Unfortunately the average computer shopper (you) doesn't always have the information they need to decide whether they need a $500 or $3000 computer. Years ago it was simple-the bigger the number on the processor, the faster the computer. The computer chip makers and builders caught on, and began sticking the "biggest numbered" processor into the cheapest computer available. Since this single statistic (processor speed) and price are what most consumers used for guidance, an awful lot of computers were sold and made "computer people" a lot of money; it also means a lot of people now have computers that don't do what their owners expected.

To put it simply, a computer is made up of several systems-each of which affects your computers performance, and has to "play nice" with the other parts. All of this has to balance together to help you do what you expect a computer to do. Cheap geek is here to help you navigate these overly complex combinations and help you find the most cost effective answer to your computer wants/needs!

I love helping people buy and work their computers and gadgets. I have been the go to person for my family and friends for years. And recently have started coaching individuals, teaching them how to actually use their computers for profit and entertainment. More than anything, I like to teach and I like to fix. But some days I just want to have an old fashion hard-drive-defragging spyware-ass-kicking adware-killing virus-destroying good time.

So what is it I do?

I fix, upgrade, update, and setup computers and other personal electronics (PDA's, iPods, etc). I install, configure, and teach people to use most of the popular software packages (Microsoft Windows, Office, Antivirus Software, Image editing/scanning software, video editing packages, etc..). I also do web design, 2D graphic design, and custom programming (I am a Systems Analyst/Computer Programmer by day).

How much do I charge?

$60.00/hour.

Hmm, is that a lot?

Please, consider your alternatives:

Geek Squad:
Onsite Diagnostics (not repair, only to figure out what is wrong with your computer): $159
Advanced Diagnostics (fix and update Windows, apply windows patches, remove viruses, and recommend other services) $249
http://www.geeksquad.com/services/category.aspx?id=231

Firedog:
Computer checkup (not repair, only figure out what is wrong $159.99
Spyware/Virus removal: $179.99
And it only gets worse, data transfer from one computer to another for $199.99?!?
http://www.firedog.com/pcservices/pcs_repair.html?cm_re=firedog-_-content-_-Repair

I learned about these prices from their web site, I encourage you to take a look your self, and then ask why is these are so expensive.

What does a typical service look like?

I can come to your house and remove virus and spyware from two computers, transfer data between the two, set up a new wireless network, install applications on a new computer, upgrade an old computer with RAM and a hard drive, and give you a pretty desktop image (if you like). This is about 3 hours of work ($180.00).

How does Geek Squad hold up?

The same service according to (http://www.geeksquad.com/services/category.aspx?id=231) would cost:

$249 x 2 for virus and spyware removal on two computers= $498
$159 x 2 for two hardware upgrades (RAM and Hard Drive) = $318
$129 per application for software install = $129 at least
$80 x 1 hourly rate for data transfer (I called my local office today and this was my quote) = $80
all this for a whopping $1025.00 plus tax. This doesn't even include the cabling, UVAS, and other hardware they will try to sell you.

I will let you decide who you would rather call.

What else can I do?

I build custom computers, and help people get the most for the money. I have accounts with resellers and can get competitive machines much cheaper than the average person. I can build a completely tricked out machine that will out clock an Alienware computer that costs $500.00 more. Since all my services are pretty flexible and vary greatly, the cost will be negotiated with you-but this is fun for me so don't expect to pay much.

I coach. I love to teach people how to get the most from their computer. Want to make a web site, scan a picture, edit a home movie, setup you new MP3 player/iPod?

This service carries the same hourly rates, but you will quickly find that a little knowledge will help you make more informed decisions, saving your money in the long run.

What areas do I service?

I work in the southwest suburbs of Chicago. I am based out of Minooka, IL, 60447. I do not charge mileage for any location up to 45 minutes away. If you live beyond 45 minutes from Minooka IL (check maps.google.com to find out), my hourly rate begins in transit.

Anything else?

Yes, I am very excited about a few future projects. Custom computer cases, multilevel liquid cooling, off site encrypted backup, just to name a few...

Why is this web site so small?

I guess I am cheap...and I would rather just talk to you in person. Give me a call at 630-209-8853, or email me at Matt@Cheap-Geek.org. Start getting more for your money today.