Complaint Review: Toshiba

I recently purchased my first laptop, a Toshiba Satellite L55W-C5320. Nice computer but screen went blank during initial set-up. Returned it for another one, exact same model, and the screen went blank at the exact same place during set-up. I called the "Plus Care Support" number which I found on an enclosed card with the computer for direction. She guided me through some steps and eventually told me that it was not a hardware issue, it was "a problem with your Microsoft account". She proceeded to tell me that I could continue to use my computer but without being able to use my Microsoft account to purchase or install any apps.  She also said that my computer would be "less secure" without the Microsoft account. She also made it clear to me that if I purchased any other brand of computer, I would continue to have the same problem:  inability to use my Microsoft account. 

Then she tells me quite firmly, "it's not under warranty because it's not a hardware issue, it's a software issue having to do with your email address and Microsoft account". She told me I could purchase the "extra warranty support" for $200.00 for one year coverage in order to have it looked into remotely by a technician. After many questions, and her contuing to try and sell me the $200.00 service package, I asked if that was my only option of service. She then told me there was another package for $150.00 which covers "three main issues only". She proceeded to tell me about what the plan would include and trying to sell me the package.

At this point I say "So basically, you're telling me that in order to use my brand new laptop, I will have to pay an extra $200.00 to use it  So my computer costs me $999.00 instead of the $799.00 I just paid for it at the store; because if I can't use the Microsoft account to install apps etc, then it's useless to me'". She said, "yes". So after a few more questions, I say to her: "So why can't I just create a new Microsoft account with a different email?"  She balked, and her tone of voice changed saying "well I guess you could try it but I can't guarantee that will work". 

By this time, actually way before this time, I'm recognizing that all she wants to do is sell me something. I get that. That's her job. But she completely misled me, actually lied to me about my Microsoft account being the problem for my screen going blank. 

I bypassed the PIN number section of the start-up process which was causing my problem, went to Microsoft website, found my account, logged in with the exact same email address and password as before, and viola'. Everything was just fine. I purchased a game to make sure it would accept my account information including credit card info I gave to Microsoft on a previous computer and no problems whatsoever. 

The computer works beautifully. I love it. I'm not saying "Don't buy a Toshiba Laptop" per say, but please beware of the "plus care support" offer card that is included in the packaging. They will mislead, lie, and coerce the consumer into buying something they do not need. Many people, such as elderly, or with very little computer knowledge such as myself will fall for this. After they get your $200.00 no telling what will happen. You're better off asking a trusted relative, friend, or possibly calling the store where you got it. Anything other than paying for something that you are confused about. If it doesn't sound right, trust your instinct and don't give your credit card information to anyone. Just stop and think about it. Ask someone else, or do a little research, but don't use this so called "plus care support". It's a total rip-off.