Yes, you can change some of the internal components of a laptop if you have the right skills, tools, and parts. The most commonly swapped laptop parts include RAM, hard drives, wireless cards, batteries, keyboards, and CPUs on some models. With the right know-how, you can upgrade or replace these parts to boost performance, storage, battery life, and other aspects of your laptop.
What Laptop Parts Can Be Changed?
Here are some of the main laptop components that users often upgrade or replace:
RAM
One of the easiest upgrades you can do is to add more RAM (random access memory) to your laptop. RAM is responsible for handling running programs and multitasking capabilities. Adding more RAM allows you to run more programs smoothly at once and speeds up general performance. Most laptops have accessible RAM slots that make upgrading as simple as popping out the old RAM and putting new sticks in.
Storage Drives
Laptop hard drives and solid state drives (SSDs) can be replaced to give you more storage capacity or faster performance. Traditional hard disk drives (HDDs) can be swapped for larger HDDs or faster SSDs. SSDs have no moving parts, run silently, and load apps/files much quicker than HDDs. Upgrading to an SSD is one of the best ways to make an older laptop feel faster.
Wireless Cards
The wireless card is responsible for WiFi connectivity. If your WiFi is slow or the card is outdated, installing a newer 802.11ac or 802.11ax card can improve wireless speeds. This involves replacing the existing wireless card in the m.2 or mini-PCIe slot with an upgraded model.
Keyboards
If you spill something on your laptop keyboard or the keys become loose or unresponsive, you can replace the keyboard on most models. Finding a new keyboard with the exact same layout as your model and swapping it out can restore typing functionality.
Batteries
If your battery life declines substantially over time, you can replace the battery with a new one to regain hours of use on a charge. Low battery life is one of the most common reasons people service their older laptops. Swapping in a new genuine battery can extend the usable lifespan.
CPUs
Some advanced users upgrade CPUs in their laptops for more processing power. This is less common because it requires in-depth disassembly and compatible parts. But with the right CPU for your motherboard, this upgrade is possible on models with accessible processors.
Tools Needed for Laptop Upgrades
To open up your laptop and access the internals, you will need:
Screwdrivers
Small Phillips and/or Torx screwdrivers are essential for removing tiny case and component screws. You’ll want a screwdriver with a magnetic tip to avoid losing screws.
Prying tools
Plastic pry tools, guitar picks, or even a credit card can help pop open snap-on case pieces. Avoid using metal tools to prevent damage.
Tweezers
Tweezers help remove and handle small screws or components. The pointed ends allow precision work in tight spaces inside a laptop.
Lint-free cloths
Wiping down components or cleaning thermal paste off CPUs will require lint-free cloths to avoid leaving fibers or residue. Coffee filters or eyeglass cleaning cloths work well.
Thermal paste
When reinstalling a CPU, fresh thermal paste is needed to join the processor chip and heatsink. This paste improves heat transfer.
Compressed air
Blowing compressed air can clear out dust if your laptop is overheating due to restricted airflow. This extends the life of components.
Common Steps for Replacing Laptop Parts
While every laptop model is constructed a bit differently, the general process for replacing internal parts is:
1. Backup data and shut down the laptop.
2. Remove the battery and disconnect AC power.
3. Use screwdrivers to remove bottom case screws and prying tools to separate the case halves.
4. Locate the component to replace and remove any screws, cables, or thermal paste blocking access.
5. Use tweezers to remove the old part and disconnect any cables.
6. Connect cables to the new component and insert it into the slot. Add any needed thermal paste.
7. Reassemble case halves and replace screws.
8. Reconnect battery and AC power.
9. Turn on laptop and verify the OS detects the new part.
10. Reinstall software drivers for new components as needed.
Following manufacturer disassembly instructions makes internal upgrades go smoothly. And taking pictures before removing components helps guide reassembly. Overall as long as you are gentle with delicate laptop parts and use the right tools, changing internals is a doable process for an intermediate DIYer.
Upgrading Laptop RAM
One of the most beneficial and straightforward laptop upgrades is installing more RAM. Here is an overview of the process:
Find Compatible RAM
Consult your laptop manual or specs to find what type of RAM your model supports. Key details are DDR2 vs DDR3 vs DDR4, and whether it uses SODIMM small outline dual in-line memory modules.
Buy New RAM
Purchase RAM of the same type but higher GB capacity. Avoid mixing RAM stick speeds which can cause system instability. Replacing both existing sticks with a new matched pair works best.
Access RAM Slots
Open up the laptop case and locate the RAM slot cover panel on the bottom or under the keyboard. SODIMM slots are typically labeled.
Remove Old RAM
Push the small release clips outward on each slot to eject the RAM sticks. Lift them gently out of the slots.
Insert New RAM
Line up the notches in the SODIMM stick with the slot and insert at a 45 degree angle. Once fully seated, push down until the clips click into place.
Replace Cover
Replace any slot covers or keyboard you removed to access the RAM slots. Reassemble the laptop case.
Boot and Check RAM
Startup your laptop and open system settings to verify the increased RAM capacity. Make sure it is detected properly before regular use.
With the right SODIMM RAM sticks and some easy disassembly, you can upgrade RAM yourself and quickly boost laptop performance. This extends the lifespan of older laptops cost-effectively.
Replacing a Laptop Hard Drive
Another worthwhile upgrade is swapping out an old slow hard disk drive (HDD) for a faster solid state drive (SSD). Here is how to replace a laptop hard drive:
Pick an SSD
Choose an SSD in the 2.5 inch form factor and with a storage capacity needed. Ensure the SSD model works with your laptop’s SATA interface and connector.
Back Up Data
Copy all files and folders you want to keep from the old hard drive to external storage or the cloud. A drive swap will wipe the old drive.
Remove Old Drive
Open the laptop case and locate the drive bay. Remove any retaining screws and pull the drive out carefully without bending connector pins.
Insert SSD Properly
When putting in the new SSD, make sure it is fully seated in the drive bay and the interface connector is properly aligned before connecting.
Secure SSD
Screw the new SSD into place if your drive bay uses retaining screws to hold drives firmly in position.
Reassemble Laptop
With the SSD installed, close up the case and tighten screws. Reconnect battery and power.
Install OS and Apps
You’ll need to install a fresh operating system and restore apps/data onto the blank SSD if keeping the old drive as external storage.
Swapping HDD for SSD improves speed and responsiveness for an older system. Just make sure you get the right physical size drive and interface.
Precautions for Working on Laptops
Protecting delicate internals requires care during disassembly. Follow these guidelines:
– Use an anti-static wrist strap to avoid static discharge damage
– Don’t force components out – release retaining screws or connectors first
– Keep track of all screws and parts for proper reassembly
– Disconnect battery power before touching internals
– Avoid liquid spills or drops which can ruin electronics
– Open the laptop on a clean, spacious surface with good lighting
– Place parts on an anti-static mat when removed from the laptop
– Follow all manufacturer opening instructions carefully
– If you get stuck, stop and re-check official service guides
– Test components before fully reassembling the laptop case
The more care you take, the less chance of breaking small pins, tearing ribbon cables, or losing essential parts by dropping them. Rushing through internal work heightens the risk of damage. Take it slow.
Reasons to Let a Pro Handle Upgrades
While moderate upgrades like RAM and drives are feasible for beginners, more complex component swaps are best left to experienced repair pros. Consider professional help for:
Processor Upgrades
Replacing the CPU or GPU requires reapplying thermal paste, proper mounting pressure, and compatible parts selection – better left to pros.
Extensive Disassembly
Major repairs that need complete teardown like mobo replacements are tricky for novices – many small easy-to-lose parts.
Component-Level Microsoldering
Attempting advanced soldering to replace tiny surface-mount chips without proper microsoldering tools and training risks severe motherboard damage if you make a mistake. Let pros handle this delicate work.
Out-of-Warranty Older Laptops
Vintage models more prone to crackable plastic and flimsy ribbon cables require extra care during lengthy repairs – a challenge for amateurs.
Lack of Official Repair Guides
Manufacturers don’t release in-depth service manuals for newer models. Without detailed instructions, trial-and-error can wreck the laptop.
Certain repairs like hinge refurbishing and port replacements also require parts sourcing experience and lots of patience during reassembly. Weigh the risks before trying advanced component upgrades yourself.
Benefits of Professional Repair
For major laptop repairs, the benefits of computer technician work include:
Quality Parts
Experienced techs source guaranteed-compatible high-quality parts from reliable suppliers. No guesswork trying to find the right replacement components.
Proper Tools
Shops invest in specialized precision tools like heat guns and microsoldering equipment you probably don’t have access to for tough jobs.
Efficiency
Techs regularly service the same models, so can complete repairs faster than amateurs. Their expertise translates to less bench time.
Warranty
Reputable independent shops provide warranties on parts and labor. This gives peace of mind if anything fails down the road. DIY repairs have no such protection.
Data Protection
Technicians have training and commercial data recovery tools to safely remove and transfer your files when performing drive replacement or other invasive repairs.
Cost Savings
Although DIY often seems cheaper, botched amateur repairs can ultimately cost more than just letting an expert handle it the first time.
Diagnostic experience and microsoldering skills also give technicians an edge for dealing with mechanical issues or debugging failed components. Paying more up front for pro repair often saves money and heartache later if your DIY attempt goes sideways.
Questions to Ask Before Upgrading a Laptop Yourself
Deciding between a DIY venture and taking your laptop to a pro? Ask yourself:
– Do I have the recommended tools for this particular repair job? Specialty tools are often required.
– Will I void the warranty if I open this newer model up myself? Some manufacturers warn against this.
– Am I technically proficient enough to reassemble the laptop properly after upgrading or replacing parts? Reassembly can be trickier than taking it apart.
– Can I afford to replace the laptop if I damage components during the repair? There’s always a risk of breaking small connectors and parts.
– Do I have a good place to work where I can keep track of all the tiny screws and components without losing anything? Messy work areas lead to lost parts.
– Do I have time for potential troubleshooting if the laptop ends up not functioning properly after I put it back together? DIY repairs can easily go sideways.
– Can I reliably identify the correct replacement part model for my specific laptop configuration? Getting an incompatible component can prevent booting.
If your answers make DIY sound risky, getting help from a laptop repair pro is wise. And if you DIY, take it slowly, follow tutorials, and stop immediately if anything seems amiss. Careful planning reduces the chances of a repair going wrong.
Conclusion
While changing out some laptop parts like RAM and hard drives is possible for intermediate hobbyists, more involved component swaps are best performed by experienced professionals. Following manufacturer disassembly instructions precisely is mandatory. And allowing plenty of time, working in an organized clean area, and having the right tools are also essential to avoid damaging delicate internals. For anything beyond basic upgrades, take your laptop to a reputable repair shop and have it serviced by a trained tech. This minimizes the risk of permanent damage that can easily occur if attempting DIY repairs beyond your skill level. With careful consideration of the complexity involved before cracking open your laptop, you can make the smartest choice between DIY and pro repair.