Computer Renaissance

in early 2000 this location belonged to Growbiz Inc here in Minnesota and was a very well run corporate store. Managers: Like Tom Johnson, and Anthony Controneo Technicians like Barry Bernu, and Ralph Gubbrud. That was a wonderful time to be a customer of CR. After Growbiz sold the entire trademark to some Florida Corporation in 2003? I think it is run by a fella who used to own a dry cleaning business... Miss the old days.. Beware of this place now Laura! more

First off, I will start by saying I totally love Computer Renaissance. The very first time I went there, I was kind of clueless as to what I wanted / needed. I had a Gateway computer that I was trading in. The salesman was beyond helpful, he didn't try to 'oversell' me. As a matter of fact, he asked what I was working with, meaning a price. I told him (I had $500. + the trade in value) $400. and when I left there, I had my $100. that I didn't tell him I had, I got a great computer, monitor, keyboard... I completely enjoyed my time there. And just to add to their decent reputation, that trade-in was back in 2001, I still have that same computer, I'm using it to write this. I've never had problems with it, as a matter of fact, I'll be going back there in the near future to trade this one in for a newer computer. Once again, my experience was awesome and if you're looking to get a deal for not much money, GO THERE. Seriously, give them a try. I am so glad I did. NO BIG BOX STORE FOR ME!!!! more

I used to like Computer Renaissance. Really, I did. When they were a small company they had a HUGE selection of inventory and salespeople that took the time to explain things to the customer. They didn't try to oversell you. Sadly, that appears to have changed. I purchased a rebuilt computer from them a few months ago. It wasn't the one the salesperson thought I needed (he thought I needed to spend $200 more), but it was what I needed. Or so I thought. The modem was not decent and when problems cropped up with it they would only look at it if I paid their $85/hour fee. Uh, No. The store itself is not impressive. Maybe a dozen CPU's in various assembled states lie on counters. You are either pounced on by a salesperson or completely ignored. If you know exactly what you need, it is a decent place. If not (and I shudder to say this), a big box store may be your best bet. more