Micro Center / Micro Electronics
Reviews and Complaints

ur just an idiot for buying a powerspec( which they cost from $200-around $600 at most) for 1, 800$. power specs are by far worst computers. not microcenters fault.

Argh! Bought 2 hard drives. Opened at home. One hard drive okay; another showed signs of being used before (opened pack with bolts), and lo and behold -- it turned out to be bad. It must have been returned before and then pushed back to the next unsuspecting customer. Wasted an hour, gonna waste more going to the store and exchanging it. I am very disappointed...

No, it wasn't even a "refurbished" deal or something; a usual sale.

Suggested motto for the Microcenter electronics chain: We not only meet your electronics needs, we test your ability to remain sane.

I purchased a 'house brand' desktop computer from MicroCenter. When I brought it home, I found that the D drive (DVD/CD) was not recognized by the computer. I initiated an online 'chat' with a tech representative. However, I should say it was with the ONLY representative available at the time I called, since there were long pauses between our messages, and he told me that was because he was trying to work with a number of customers simultaneously--i.e., they did not have enough tech people to hold a one-to-one tech diagnosis with their customers. The conclusion we both reached after trying to re-install the disc drivers was that the computer was broken. He suggested I return it, which I did the next day. That is when the incompetency REALLY began! I returned it, and inquired where I should remedy the situation. After a consultation with their customer service rep, I was directed to the 'pick up' area. However, the clerk at the pick up area directed me to a store manager. I showed my receipt to a manager (the only difference between this 'manager' and the lesser employees seemed to be that he wore a suit. The manager studied the receipt meticulously and scratched his head. He then conferred with three other employees -- forming a group that resembled a football team huddle (I'm not kidding!). I waited and waited, and finally it was resolved that one of them would go look for the same computer model in their storage area. As I waited for the replacement for 15 minutes, the 'head manager' came over to me, and asked me why I was waiting. I explained the situation, and she instructed a customer service person to 'locate' the 'step and fetch it guy' that was supposed to be retrieving my replacement. The customer service person put out a APB, but couldn't locate the clerk. At this point the 'head manager' put her head in her hands as though she was getting a massive headache. (I still haven't gotten to the 'good' part!) Well, I FINALLY got the replacement computer, but decided to have their in-store tech person check it out since I didn't want to drive home only to discover I had another broken computer. So, I waited for 35 minutes until a technician was available. This well-run tech department was so smooth in its efficiency that no one had either a screwdriver or a box cutter. The tech person proceeded to open the sealed box with his key (it wasn't a pretty picture). Well, computer #2 was hooked up to a monitor and keyboard, and guess what? Yup, the second computer didn't work either, and it had the same problem: it didn't recognize the CD-ROM drive. After 'conferring' with another clueless tech person, it was determined that something was wrong with this purportedly replacement computer. So, I told them to just give me a refund. Of course, that meant going to the sales counter so that they could credit my credit card for the purchase. No one said 'sorry' or apologized in any way. The only comment I heard from the 'tech experts' was "hmmm...that's odd." Well, that was just ONE ODDITY at this large electronics chain. I recommended that they check their purchase records for the previous four days, and see if anyone else had purchased the same model computer since perhaps they had an entire shipment of defective ones. The chief technician thought that was an EXCELLENT idea. Should I send them a consultant fee for helping them? Or should I just have NOTHING to do with Microcenter EVER! I think I'll choose the latter.

Computers are not that tough to diagnose and fix if you know what you are doing. Taking your PC to a place that has seasoned, experienced employees. Yes, you will have to ask questions but it's worth it. A good small shop will care about he work they do and want you to come back to them again. The shop I worked in had a 48 hour policy. You drop it off and in 48 hours, it's ready to pick up... and it actually works. Quality may be a memory in a lot of places, but some of us old timers insist on it. I will not allow a machine to go out the door unless I feel it is done right. The only reason I want you to have... to come back is that you got me a cup of coffee and want to hang out for a few minutes and talk. Good customer service is not dead. You just have to look to find it.

I was told to come to this page to tell bout my experience with micro center. Me and my husband went in looking for a lap top for my daughter . My husband had a question . And he waited till a salesman passed by and he asked, "excuse me can you tell me if this computer will play the sims games" without even slowing down he said "yeah is should" and ran off . I found that very rude . Me and my husband ended up going to best buy where they took the time to help us pick out a great lap top for my daughter. Thank you best buy

It can't be called a lemon unless you've had it in repair at their store several times. No store, or repair shop is going to take your word for it. Why? Because people are stupid when it comes to computers, and 9 times out of 10 they think a software problem is a hardware issue. Your first mistake was not taking it back to the store immediately when you had a problem. Your second mistake was taking it to another repair shop. No repair shop I know of is going to go on the word of someone they don't know and have no idea how well trained that person is. Too bad, so sad for you.

Micro-center needs to go out of business. I bought two items on their web-site, both video cards for my computers - one day apart. It took two chat sessions, one phone call, and three e-mails to get my first order 10 days later. The item I got was NOT new. The box had been opened and parts were missing. I still, after 12 days, have NOT received my second order. I emailed their customer service and made sure they knew this would be my last purchase with them - not that they cared - never got a response to my emails. ANYONE WHO SHOPS AT MICRO-CENTER IS MAKING A BIG MISTAKE.

The first mistake you made was by taking it to a third-party for repairs. Additionally, the issue you speak about could be software related, ie; viruses and running too many (cpu) operations in the background. The CPU in that computer is low-entry level; you will experience some delays depending on what you're trying to do with the computer. Furthermore, If it were your hardware; for example your hard drive, which does all of the reading and writing, it would have failed already. Regardless of what the third-party tech told you, and based on your overview, I'm confident it's not hardware related.

The best thing you could have done was kept taking the computer back to Microcenter. My family and I have bought many electronics form them in Chicago and in my personal experience, they stand behind their products as well as any leading electronic reseller. Keep in mind, like any company, they have guidelines and policy that must be met before refunding you for the item with the "no-lemon" policy.

I've purchased CPU's from them which CLEARLY state that if the CPU is opened, you can only exchange for the SAME CPU. They have allowed me to return and swap CPU's a few times; they have proven to flexible with their policy. However, I think they know when people are trying to take them for a ride; if you know what I mean? I hope you got you issue resolved some how, some way.

Don't buy stuff from Microcenter, to to mwave.com or newegg.com much better service and product quality. Microcenter should be out of business, they are expensive, no stock of any product on sale, people are clueless of the product they sell. Stay away from Microcenter.

Microcenter here in southern California in Tustin is the worst Computer store around here, always have false advertisement, no stock on any deals, always lie to customer, support stinks, people at the store has no clues of the product thery sell.

well i got my check today, 5+ months since i sent it in and after many many calls and emails to sceptre and microcenter. a note attached said to send back the first check they sent if it ever arrives (unlikely to happen) and if i try to cash the check it will bounce (likely to happen). it was painful, a waste of time for $60...but its over (unless this check bounces...doh! i'll be back if that happens)

here is what i got from microcenter that did the trick, go give sceptre hell! "Thank you for writing to us. I have looked up your submission and I am also able to see that it is approved. Please contact Gloria @ [protected] x1301. She has been referred to our customers as the people that can address rebate concerns. She works directly for Sceptre."

Bought a Sceptre monitor in December, still no check.

They told me (by email) that they already sent the check. I told them I did not receive it, and they said they would send a second one, and that I should return the first one if I receive.

Now there are no checks, no answers. Will never buy another Sceptre product. Ever.

add me to the list of waiters...every couple of week they say it will be in the mail, more than 5 months now since i sent it in. they have me in the database and promise to send the check, but nada again and again. i am hoping microcenter will be helpful, if not i wont buy sceptre or microcenter ever again.

I purchased a 24" monitor in late November 2008 and after repeated contacts the company that is processing the rebate I still have not recieved it. They always promise it is comining in 2 to 3 weeks. The purchase was made at Micro Center. I have never had a problem with a rebate from Best Buy.

I bought a 23" sceptre LCD in Dec 2008. I am still waiting for my $60 rebate as of April 10th, 2009.

I also bought a 22" Sceptre LCD in December 2008. I have not received a rebate check yet. Additionally, Sceptre has not responded to my requests for an update on the rebate status. I will not buy another Sceptre product after this even though I do like the monitor.

It took about 3 months from the time I mailed in my rebate for a Sceptre computer monitor, but I just got the rebate in the mail today. I bought my monitor about mid-December, 2008 and sent in the rebate around the first of the year. Seems like these guys are real slow in processing and sending out a rebate. My wife bought a new Verizon cell phone recently and they mailed the rebate within 2 weeks of my submission.

I'll remember Sceptre is very slow on rebates the next time I consider buying one of their products.

But, they did finally deliver.

Same story. 22" Sceptre monitor from Micro Center in Philly November 2008. Still no rebate and not replies to my emails. THEY SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF THEIR CUSTOMER SERVICE!

I am also awaiting Sceptre rebate for monitor purchased in December, 2008. Initially, they emailed on Feb 10 that rebate would be mailed in 2-3 weeks. In mid March, 2009, they are now saying rebates will be mailed by end of March and should be received by first or second week of April. We shall see--but they are responding positively to emails.

I bought product at MicroCenter in Atlanta. At the time of purchase, MicroCenter told me that if Sceptre did not honor the rebate that MicroCenter would.

I am requesting that you not withdraw any money from my account [protected]. because i did not request any services from your company and also did not give you permission to withdraw any monies from my account. thank you Charlotte Nelson

bought a seagate 320g Hard drive from them, along with a laptop lock. This is in addition to buying a $850 laptop. The laptop had internet connectivity problems, but i dont associate that with micro center, however the lock that the salesperson gave me was for a notebook and was too small for my laptop, and the harddrive which he sold me was not compatible with my vista 64 bit computer. I dread going back there because they seem to know what they are talking about, but they are actually only giving us the run around.

Total purchased: 1200
Total Returned" $135

Very bad service, would only recommend to people that need a quick computer or appliance. I would also stay away from the online store as that just seems to be a arguous scam. Imagine that a store who is borderline scamming people.

-Unsatisfied and Microcenter lost a customer

I brought a ACER laptop that was on 3 year service contract GOLD, for repair. The screen was cracked, and one of the keys on the key board worked intermittingly.
The laptop was held at the service center because the service center didn’t have the proper information to work on it. Consequently, instead of the repairs to have taken 7 to 10 business days as promised, it took over a month. When I received the laptop, several things happened. The antivirus protection software was removed entirely. The batter, which had 80% life to it, was reduced to 20% or less. IN other words they were running the battery down, by not plugging it in. Third, the internal wireless card cease to work.

I brought it back, and was told that I needed to resubmit the pc for diagnostics again. Since I had lost the laptop for over a month, and needed to work with it, I waited until I could off load the files and software to another machine. 8 months later, I decided to risk submitting my laptop for repair the 2nd time. That is to repair the wireless card ceased working when it was in their care. I was told that a diagnostic would be done to determine if the store support center would send it to a support center (contracted). Needless to say, they neither email me, nor call me to tell me the status of the diagnostic. When I called to find out, they told me that they were having problems with the laptop. The laptop was freezing every time they ran a diagnostics. Now, in both cases (for the exception of the wireless card – which ceased working in their care), the laptop functioned beautifully with all my programs and files. This is what I paid 3-year Gold Service contract. My concerns now is will I ever receive this same machine in the original functioning order before submitting it to Microcenter?

I have placed two orders with two separate Microcenter locations online over the pass two days and have had both cancelled with 10 minutes after getting a confirmation email. I was told in both instances that the online deals really did not exist. I asked how could I know what was really avalilable and was told by Kim at the Marietta, GA location that "if it seems to good to be true then it probably is". Umm, shouldn't any good deal at a discount electronics store "seem to good to be true"?

What a screwed up company! They didn't even offer to make up for it help me find what I was looking for or anything. Here was an opportunity right in front of them to try to correct a mistake and keep a customer for life, and they passed it up without even noticing it.

I ordered a xbox 360 refurbished online from microcenter on 9/11/08 the order was cancelled because they didnt have it in stock on 9/12/08, but my credit card company still has not received notice that it was cancelled and today is 9/15/08, thus there is a hold on my card for over $200. Futhermore, I have been trying to call microcenters 1800 customer service # all day today and keep getting a busy signal. This company may be okay when it comes to brick & mortar but there online service is almost a scam, its just that bad.

your momma microcenter

this does not sound like the Micro Center I have dealt with in the past. They have always bent over backwards to help me and have honored such things in the pass. It an item is obviously a misprint, these things happen. While the customer should always be addressed nicely, and never told 'do what you have to do", as a retailer, theres always another side to the story.

I am now very disappointed with Microcenter. I attempted to make a purchase in the amount of $478.87 yesterday and was told my check is declined. I had more than sufficient funds in my account. This was after the cashier read personal info out loud into the phone (my name, driver's license number, checking account number and routing number). I was handed a card with Certegy's number on it and told to call. I did just that and had to deal with a voice recognition system that kept asking for personal info and saying, "I don't understand...I don't understand...I don't understand, " until being put on hold for over 20 minutes. I hung up. I did some research on Certegy and discovered they decline checks from people with million-dollar companies and $100, 000+ checking accounts. I called Microcenter today and told them this. They told me there is no way they can bypass this system. I told them this is lousy customer service and that I would be complaining. I was told, "Do what you need to do. If you want to talk to our legal department, that's fine." There was no apology, no attempt to resolve this matter, no customer service -- just, "There is nothing we can do." This is crap. Microcenter is going to lose business.

I AGREE! DO NOT BUY ANYTHING FROM MICRO CENTER AGAIN. ALSO THEIR CUSTOMER SERVICES ARE TERRIBLE RUDE. ESPECIALLY A LADY AT CUSTOMER SERVICE NAME HOPE. L. SHE SHOULDN'T BE AT THE CUSTOMER SERVICE.

Not only do they not diagnose correctly but in Santa Clara it also takes them weeks and weeks to do so. You better reserve lots of time out of your schedule to follow up with them. Each call takes you anywhere from 30' to an hour before you have a live person on the phone. Then they will tell you that they have not completed your diagnostics or any other bs to get you off the phone. If you keep calling, they will finally tell you something but to get it fixed will take for EVER!
Avoid this store if you actually want to have your broken hardware repaired. Mine is an Acer that just stopped working 32 days after purchase. Of course Fry's didn't wanted to do anything (past 30 days) and did not help with anything.
Go to BestBuy. Do not waste your time! I'm still waiting for my broken Acer machine to be repaired after six weeks without an end in-sight.