Laptops have long ceased to be “disposable” devices, but their repairability greatly depends on the model, year of manufacture and even manufacturer. If in the 2010s most laptops allowed you to replace almost everything - from RAM to a video card, then today many ultrabooks And MacBook solder components directly to the motherboard. So where is the line between possible and impossible? Is it possible to upgrade ASUS ROG Strix or Lenovo ThinkPad without loss of warranty, and what will happen if you try to change the processor in MacBook Pro M1?

In this article we will look at:

  • 🔧 What components can be replaced by yourself (even for a beginner)
  • ⚠️ Which is absolutely can't touch without the risk of killing your laptop
  • 📝 How not to lose the warranty when upgrading
  • 💰 Is it worth upgrading an old laptop or is it better to buy a new one?

Spoiler: the answer to the question “is it possible” often depends not on technical capabilities, but on design features your model. For example, in Dell XPS 13 2023, even the battery cannot be replaced without special equipment, and in Acer Nitro 5 2019 - almost everything can be updated.

1. Which components in a laptop can you replace yourself (list 2026)

Let's start with the good news: most laptops (except Apple Silicon and some ultrabooks) can be changed at least RAM And storage device. Here is a complete list of “safe” components to replace:

  • 🖥️ Random access memory (RAM) — in 80% of models (except soldered ones, see table below)
  • 💾 SSD/HDD - almost always, if it's not MacBook Air or Surface Laptop
  • 🔋 Battery - in most cases, but sometimes requires re-soldering
  • 🖱️ Keyboard and touchpad - if not integrated into the body (as in MacBook 12")
  • 🔊 Speakers and microphone - usually standard connectors
  • 🌡️ Cooling system (fans, radiators) - but with reservations

The most easy to replace — RAM And SSD. For example, in Lenovo Legion 5 or HP Omen 15 To do this, simply unscrew the bottom cover and insert new modules. But with battery or keyboard Difficulties may arise: some manufacturers (for example, Apple or Microsoft) use proprietary connectors or glue.

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Before purchasing RAM, check the maximum supported capacity on the manufacturer's website. For example, Intel Core i5-12450H officially works with 64GB DDR4, but some motherboards limit this to 32GB.

C cooling system the situation is ambiguous. In theory it can be replaced, but in practice it is often required repacking thermal paste and precise fit. For example, in MSI GF63 Thin The radiator is attached to the motherboard via 4 screws, and Razer Blade 15 - through a complex system of latches that are easy to break.

2. What cannot be changed in 99% of laptops (and why)

Now about the sad part: some components physically impossible to replace without specialized hardware or they are soldered to the motherboard. Here is a list of “untouchable” details:

  • 🖥️ Processor (CPU) - soldered in 95% of modern laptops (with the exception of some gaming models)
  • 🎮 Video card (GPU) - even in gaming laptops it is often integrated into the motherboard
  • 📡 Wi-Fi/Bluetooth module - sometimes you can replace it, but only with a similar one (for example, Intel AX200 on AX210)
  • 🔌 Ports (USB, HDMI, Thunderbolt) - soldered to the board, replacement requires micro-soldering
  • 🔄 BIOS/UEFI chip - flashing is possible, but physical replacement is fraught with “bricking”

The most common mistake newbies make is trying to replace processor in the laptop. For example, in MacBook Pro with chips M1/M2 The CPU is not removable at all, but ASUS TUF Gaming with Intel Core i7-12700H it can be taken out, but can't update — compatible processors for laptops are simply not sold at retail. Same with video cards: even if it is not soldered (as in some Clevo or MSI), finding a replacement is extremely difficult.

⚠️ Attention: If you see the inscription BGA (Ball Grid Array) next to the name of the processor or video card - this means that the chip is soldered. Any manipulations with it without professional equipment will lead to irreversible damage.

Another pitfall - Wi-Fi modules. For example, in Lenovo Yoga can be physically replaced Intel AX201 on Killer AX1650, but without the correct drivers, the laptop will either not see the new card or will constantly lose connection. And in MacBook any replacement of the Wi-Fi module will lead to an error "Wi-Fi: No Hardware Installed" — Apple blocks non-original parts at the firmware level.

3. How to understand which components are removable in your laptop

Before you buy new parts, you need to make sure that they can be replaced at all. Here are 3 reliable ways to check:

  1. Official documentation — go to the manufacturer’s website (for example, support.lenovo.com) and search Hardware Maintenance Manual for your model. There are disassembly diagrams and a list of removable components.
  2. Services like NotebookCheck or UserBenchmark — they often indicate whether the RAM or SSD is soldered.
  3. Showdown on YouTube - search for videos on request "[your model] disassembly". For example, for HP Pavilion 15 there are dozens of videos showing what can be changed.

If there is no documentation, please note marking:

  • 🔹 SO-DIMM next to RAM means the memory is removable.
  • 🔹 M.2 2280 or SATA next to the drive - the SSD can be replaced.
  • 🔹 Inscription "Soldered" or "Onboard" - the component is soldered.

Example: in Acer Predator Helios 300 (2021) The official website states:

“Two DDR4 SO-DIMM slots, support up to 32GB” means the RAM is removable.

"One M.2 2280 slot (PCIe Gen4)" - SSD can be upgraded.

And in MacBook Air M1 written: "8GB unified memory (configurable to 16GB)" - this means that the memory is integrated into the chip and cannot be replaced.

📊 Which component do you want to replace in your laptop?
  • Random access memory (RAM)
  • SSD/HDD
  • Battery
  • Keyboard
  • Cooling system
  • Other

4. Step-by-step instructions: how to replace RAM or SSD without errors

If you are sure that the component is removable, it’s time to start replacing. Let's look at the two most popular scenarios: update RAM And drive.

🔹Replacement of random access memory (RAM)

What you will need:

  • ✅ New RAM modules (check compatibility by DDR4/DDR5 and frequency)
  • ✅ Screwdriver Phillips #0 or Torx T5 (depending on model)
  • ✅ Plastic spatula (for carefully opening latches)
  • ✅ Antistatic wrist strap (optional, but recommended)

Step by step process:

☑️ Replacing RAM in a laptop

Done: 0 / 7

⚠️ Critical points:

  • Do not touch the RAM contacts with bare hands - use gloves or grasp the modules by the edges.
  • If there is only one slot, and you want to add memory, you will have to remove the old module and insert a new one (dual mode will not work).
  • After replacement, check the RAM in BIOS (click F2/Del when loading) or via Task Manager → Performance.

💾 Replacing SSD/HDD

The process is similar to replacing RAM, but there are some nuances:

  1. If on a laptop M.2 SSD, it is secured with one screw. Unscrew it, pull the drive at an angle of 30° and pull it out.
  2. For SATA SSD/HDD may be needed sled (adapter) if the new drive is thinner than the old one.
  3. After installing a new SSD be sure to clone the system (for example, via Macrium Reflect or Clonezilla) or install Windows again.
⚠️ Attention: Some laptops (eg. Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5) The SSD is glued to the heatsink with a thermal pad. If it is damaged, the laptop will overheat. In such cases, it is better to contact the service.

5. Warranty and upgrade: what you can do and what you can’t do

One of the most frequently asked questions: "Will the warranty be void if I change the RAM or SSD myself?". The answer depends on three factors:

  1. Manufacturer - y Apple And Microsoft any opening of the case will void the warranty, and Dell or HP They often turn a blind eye to this.
  2. Type of intervention — replacing RAM/SSD is usually not considered a violation, but replacing a keyboard or battery may be.
  3. Country of purchase — there is a directive in the EU EU 1999/44/EC, which prohibits removing the warranty for self-repair, and in Russia and the USA everything depends on the store’s policy.

Here is a table with the rules of the main brands (for 2026):

Brand Replacing RAM/SSD Battery replacement Replacing the keyboard/screen Notes
Apple ❌ Void the warranty ❌ Void the warranty ❌ Void the warranty Exception: official service centers
Dell (ruler XPS) ✅ Does not cancel ⚠️ May cancel ❌ Void the warranty For Latitude And Precision the rules are more relaxed
Lenovo (ThinkPad) ✅ Does not cancel ✅ Does not cancel ⚠️ Only through the service center For IdeaPad And Legion - individually
HP (Omen, Pavilion) ✅ Does not cancel ⚠️ Only original spare parts ❌ Void the warranty For EliteBook - you can change everything
ASUS (ROG, TUF) ✅ Does not cancel ✅ Does not cancel ⚠️ Only in authorized centers For ZenBook - any opening = loss of warranty

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If you bought a laptop on credit or through a trade-in program, repairing it yourself may void not only the warranty, but also the insurance. Check the contract before opening the case!

What to do if the warranty is important, but an upgrade is needed?

  • 🔹 Contact authorized service center — they make some replacements (for example, SSD) without voiding the warranty.
  • 🔹 Buy spare parts at an official dealer - for example, Lenovo sells original batteries for ThinkPad.
  • 🔹 Use external devices — instead of replacing the SSD, you can connect an external one NVMe through Thunderbolt.

6. Is it worth upgrading an old laptop or is it better to buy a new one?

Replacing components is cheaper than buying a new laptop, but is not always justified. Here's when an upgrade makes sense:

  • ✅ Laptop under 3-4 years old and it has removable RAM/SSD.
  • ✅ You use it for office work, study or light games (For example, CS:GO, Dota 2).
  • ✅ The problem is precisely slow drive (HDD → SSD) or low memory (8 GB → 16 GB).
  • ✅ Case and screen are in good condition.

When is it better? don't spend money on an upgrade:

  • ❌ Laptop more than 5 years - even with a new SSD, it will lose performance to modern models.
  • ❌ The processor or video card is soldered and do not cope with modern tasks (for example, Photoshop or Cyberpunk 2077).
  • ❌ Problems with the motherboard (artifacts on the screen, spontaneous shutdowns).
  • ❌ Battery life <1 hour and replacing it costs half the price of a new laptop.

Real life example: if you have Lenovo IdeaPad 330 2018 from Intel Core i3-8130U, 4 GB RAM and HDD, then replacing with an SSD and 16 GB RAM will give a performance increase of 3-4 times. But if this MacBook Pro 2015 with Core i7 and a discrete video card, then even with a new SSD it will lose MacBook Air M1 in speed and autonomy.

How much does an upgrade cost vs a new laptop (example 2026)

Replacing HDD with SSD (500 GB) - ~3,000 RUR.

Replacement RAM (8→16 GB) - ~4,000 RUR.

Battery replacement - from 5,000 to 15,000 ₽ (depending on the model).

New budget laptop (eg. Honor MagicBook X14) — ~40 000 ₽.

Conclusion: if the upgrade costs less than 20% of the price of a new laptop, it is justified.

7. Common mistakes when replacing components (and how to avoid them)

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes that lead to laptop failure. Here are the top 5 most common:

  1. Incompatible parts - for example, purchase DDR5 for a laptop that only supports DDR4, or PCIe 4.0 SSD for slot PCIe 3.0 (will work, but not at full speed).
  2. Static electricity - If you do not use an antistatic wrist strap, the discharge may damage the motherboard.
  3. Screws are over-tightened - especially dangerous for M.2 SSDwhere the screw can penetrate the board.
  4. Incorrect installation of thermal pads - if after replacing the SSD or RAM the laptop begins to overheat, most likely you have damaged the heat sink.
  5. Ignoring BIOS - some laptops (for example, HP) require a firmware update after replacing RAM.

How to avoid problems:

  • 🔹 Always check compatibility via Crucial System Scanner or Kingston Memory Configurator.
  • 🔹 Use plastic tools for disassembly (for example, iFixit Pro Tech Toolkit).
  • 🔹 If after the upgrade the laptop does not turn on, check whether the modules are inserted correctly (RAM should click, SSD should fit tightly into the slot).
⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the SSD the laptop writes "No bootable device", don't panic - this means there is no system on the new drive. You need to either clone the old drive or install Windows again.

8. Alternatives to upgrade: what to do if nothing can be changed

If your laptop is completely soldered (like MacBook Air M1 or Dell XPS 13 9310), but it began to work slowly, there are several ways out:

  • 🔹 External SSD - connect NVMe through USB-C/Thunderbolt (For example, Samsung T7 Shield). The speed will be lower than that of the internal one, but without disassembly.
  • 🔹 Cloud power — for heavy tasks (rendering, games) use GeForce NOW, Shadow PC or Google Colab.
  • 🔹 Software optimization - disable autoloading, use Linux instead of Windows (For example, Xubuntu for weak PCs).
  • 🔹 Docking station - connect an external video card (eGPU) through Thunderbolt (For example, Razer Core X).

Example: if you have MacBook Pro 13" 2020 with 8 GB of memory and it slows down Final Cut Pro, an external SSD won't help, but a docking station with RTX 3060 will speed up rendering by 2-3 times. And for office tasks, just go from macOS on Windows 11 LTSC - this will reduce the load on the system.

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Before purchasing an external GPU, check if your laptop supports Thunderbolt 3/4 with bandwidth 40 Gbps. Otherwise, the performance gain will be minimal.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions

❓ Is it possible to replace the processor in a gaming laptop?

In 90% of cases - no. Even if the processor is not soldered (as in some Clevo or MSI), finding a compatible replacement is extremely difficult. Manufacturers do not sell CPUs for laptops at retail, and even if you find them on AliExpress, there is no guarantee that it will work (support at the BIOS level is needed). The exception is older models with a socket PGA (For example, Intel Core 2 Duo in laptops 2008-2012).

❓ What happens if you put RAM in a laptop with a higher frequency than the motherboard supports?

Laptop will start, but the memory will operate at the maximum supported frequency. For example, if you insert DDR4-3200 into a laptop that only supports DDR4-2666,RAM will automatically reduce the frequency. However, if you exceed voltage (for example, put 1.35V instead of 1.2V), this can lead to overheating or failure of the memory controller.

❓ How to check if the RAM in my laptop is soldered?

Verification methods:

  1. Run CPU-Z → tab SPD. If there are no slots or it says "Channel # Unknown" - memory is soldered.
  2. Look in Device Manager (Win + X → Device Manager → System Devices). If there is a line "SO-DIMM" - removable memory.
  3. Disassemble your laptop (or watch a disassembly on YouTube). If you can see memory chips on the motherboard without connectors, it is soldered.

Example: in MacBook Pro 16" 2019 RAM is soldered, and in Lenovo ThinkPad T14 - removable.

❓ Is it possible to put a larger SSD into a laptop than it was originally?

Yes, you can, if the slot supports such a volume. For example, if the laptop had SATA SSD 256 GB, you can put 1 TB or even 2 TB (if BIOS supports). There are only restrictions on drive type:

  • If slot M.2 SATA, maximum speed is ~550 MB/s (it doesn’t matter which SSD you install).
  • If slot M.2 NVMe PCIe 3.0, maximum speed - ~3500 MB/s.
  • If slot PCIe 4.0, but the laptop does not support it, the SSD will work at speed PCIe 3.0.

Before purchasing, please check supported formats via Crucial Advisor or Kingston Memory Search.

❓ Why did the laptop start to get hotter after replacing the SSD?

It's ok if:

  • You put NVMe instead of SATA — it is faster and heats up more.
  • New SSD without radiator, and the old one had a heat sink.
  • you damaged thermal pad between the SSD and the case.

Solutions:

  • Buy SSD with heatsink (For example, Samsung 980 Pro with heat spreader).
  • Use thermal pad 0.5-1 mm thick between the SSD and the bottom cover.
  • Disable Turbo Boost in the BIOS if overheating is critical.