In some cases, you will be able to change and upgrade the processor (CPU) in your laptop. However, this is relatively uncommon as many laptop CPUs are permanently attached to the motherboard.
The processor in your laptop is important for how fast things get done and can be a major contributing factor to the experience you have on the computer. While many laptops have suitable processors, there may be some people who want even more processing power.
With that in mind, read on to learn more about how to change processors in a laptop, and whether or not it can even be done in yours.
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Key Takeaways
- It is possible to change the processor, as long as it isn’t soldered to the motherboard.
- Changing the processor can be a complex process at times, so having a guide or hiring a professional is a good idea.
- Make sure the CPU you get for the swap will work with your laptop.
Changing the Processor is Often Not Possible
First and foremost, it is important to know that many laptops simply don’t allow for processors to be changed. The processor that is in your laptop is generally the one that you need to stick with until you get a new computer.
This is because many laptops have things like the processor and the graphics card permanently adhered to the motherboard of the laptop. One of the main reasons for this permanent connection is for durability.
Because laptops generally get moved around a lot and take more damage than desktops, they need to be designed in a way that makes durability a priority. Also, this helps to keep laptops sleek and portable.
Be Careful if You do Change the Processor
However, there do exist a few kinds of laptops where you can indeed change out the processor. Search online to make sure your laptop is capable of making this change. In some cases, this process is as simple as removing the CPU, and adding a new one that fits the socket.
In other cases, you may need to also replace the motherboard, which can certainly be more complex. For best results, make sure to use a guide, or hire someone with experience to make the swap to ensure all goes well.
But it is important to keep in mind that if you do want to make a change, you need to be careful. You need to make sure that the CPU you want to add to your laptop will actually work. For example, if you have an older laptop, it may not have the hardware to handle a new CPU.
There will also be the cost of the new processor. In many cases, the cost of a new processor may be almost as much as buying a whole new laptop, so don’t spend a fortune on upgrading your laptop when you could simply buy a new one and save yourself the work.
Also, keep in mind that making changes like this to your laptop will often void the warranty, as well. So if your laptop does support the changing of your processor, make sure to do your homework and ensure it makes sense before you do it.
FAQs
Here are a few common questions about laptop processors, along with their answers.
What will it cost to buy a new processor for my laptop?
Like with desktop processors and other computer parts, the costs can vary. You may be able to find some used options at under $100, whereas many high-end new processors can run you thousands of dollars.
What does a processor in a laptop do?
A processor is what provides your computer with the processing power to complete the work you ask it to do. The better your processor, the quicker and better your laptop will be able to complete tasks and deliver information effectively.
Final Thoughts
If you are unhappy with the processor in your laptop, there is a chance you can change it out, but it will depend on the laptop you have. Unfortunately, in most cases, this change will not be able to be made as the processor is often permanently attached to the motherboard.
Have you ever changed or thought about changing the processor in your laptop? If so, we’d love to hear about your experience in a comment below.
