What can be replaced in a laptop: a complete guide to upgrade and repair

Over time, the laptop begins to work slower, the battery runs out in half an hour, and the keyboard squeaks every time you press it. Instead of buying a new device, many components can be replaced yourself - this will save your budget and extend the life of the device. However, not all parts in laptops are upgradeable: manufacturers often solder key components to the motherboard, leaving users with minimal options for upgrading.

In this article we will look at what components can be replaced in 90% of modern laptops - from RAM and storage to screens and cooling systems. You'll learn what tools you'll need for the job, how to choose compatible parts, and what to pay attention to to avoid damaging your device. And if you have never disassembled equipment, don’t worry: we will give step-by-step instructions, taking into account typical mistakes of beginners.

1. Random access memory (RAM): how to increase performance

Replacement or addition RAM - the simplest and most effective way to speed up a laptop if it slows down when working with several programs at the same time. Most models (except ultrabooks and Apple MacBook recent years) allow you to update RAM, but there are some nuances:

• 🔧 Slots: check how many RAM slots your model has (often there are two, but one may be occupied by a soldered module).
• 📏 Memory type: modern laptops use DDR4 or DDR5 (less often LPDDR4/5, which are usually soldered).
• ⚡ Frequency: The new stick must support the same or higher frequency as the old one (for example, 3200 MHz).
• 🔄 Dual channel mode: For maximum performance, install two identical strips.

To find out your current RAM specifications, use utilities like CPU-Z or HWiNFO. For example, in CPU-Z go to the tab SPD — the type, volume and manufacturer of installed modules will be displayed there. If the slots are free, you can purchase additional memory; if they are busy, replace them with more capacious strips (for example, with 8 GB on 16 GB).

⚠️ Attention: In laptops Apple (starting from MacBook Pro 2016 And MacBook Air 2018) and many ultrabooks (for example, Dell XPS 13, HP Spectre) the memory is soldered into the motherboard. Attempting to replace it will result in damage.

Installation process:

1. Turn off the laptop, disconnect the charger and remove the back cover (usually it is secured with screws for a Phillips screwdriver).
2. Carefully remove the old modules by bending the tabs on the sides.
3. Insert the new strips at an angle of ~45° and press until they click.
4. Close the lid and turn on the device - in BIOS or Windows check that the memory is detected.

2. Storage: SSD instead of HDD or upgrading an existing drive

Replacing the hard drive (HDD) to a solid state drive (SSD) is the second most popular upgrade, which radically speeds up system loading and program operation. Even budget SATA SSD (For example, Crucial MX500 or Samsung 870 EVO) 3–5 times faster HDD. More advanced models support the interface NVMe (via connector M.2), which is even faster.

Before purchasing a new drive, check:

• 🔌 Interface: SATA III (up to 550 MB/s), M.2 SATA or M.2 NVMe (up to 3500–7000 MB/s).
• 📏 Form factor: 2.5" (for SATA) or M.2 2280 (most common size).
• 🔧 Slots: some laptops have a separate slot for M.2 besides SATA, which allows you to install both disks.

Drive type	Read/write speed	Compatibility	Example models
SATA SSD (2.5")	~500–550 MB/s	All laptops with SATA- connector	Kingston A400, WD Blue SA510
M.2 SATA	~500–550 MB/s	Laptops with M.2-slot (less often)	Crucial BX500, Transcend 220S
M.2 NVMe (PCIe 3.0)	~1500–3500 MB/s	Laptops from 2015 and newer	Samsung 980, WD Black SN770
M.2 NVMe (PCIe 4.0)	~5000–7000 MB/s	Top models from 2020 (Ryzen 5000, Intel 11/12-gen)	Samsung 990 Pro, Seagate FireCuda 530

To transfer data from an old disk to a new one, use cloning programs, for example Macrium Reflect or Clonezilla. If you install a clean one SSD, do not forget to create a bootable USB flash drive with Windows or another OS.

Disconnect the laptop from the network and remove the battery (if removable)

Back up important data

Prepare a screwdriver and an antistatic wrist strap (optional)

Download a disk cloning program (if you need to transfer data) -->

3. Battery: when and how to replace the battery

Average laptop battery life - 2–4 years (or ~500–1000 charge cycles). After this, the capacity drops by 30–50%, and battery life is reduced to 1–2 hours. If the laptop only works on mains power or suddenly turns off when the charger is disconnected, it's time to change the battery.

You can select a new battery by:

• 🆔 Laptop models: look for a battery with exactly the same part number (for example, for Lenovo ThinkPad T480 will do 01AV419).
• ⚡ Capacities: use a battery with the same or greater capacity (measured in Wh or mAh).
• 🔌 Connection type: some batteries are soldered to the motherboard (for example, in MacBook), others are removable.

Removable battery replacement process:

1. Turn off your laptop and turn it over.
2. Slide the latches (or remove the screws) and remove the old battery.
3. Insert the new one, securing it with the latches.
4. Connect the charger and wait until it is fully charged (the first cycle can take up to 12 hours).

⚠️ Attention: In laptops Apple (except older models with removable batteries) and some ultrabooks (for example, Dell XPS 13) the battery is soldered into the case. To replace, you will need a soldering iron and experience working with electronics - it is better to contact a service center.

After replacing the battery calibrate it: Discharge your laptop completely, then charge it to 100% without interruption. Repeat the procedure 2-3 times to accurately display the charge level.

4. Keyboard: repair or complete replacement

The keyboard is one of the most vulnerable parts of a laptop: keys wear out, stick or fall off, and spilled coffee may require a complete replacement. In most cases, you can change it yourself, but there are exceptions:

• 🔠 Detachable keyboard: fastened with latches or screws (for example, in Lenovo ThinkPad, HP EliteBook).
• 🔧 Soldered: in ultrabooks (for example, MacBook Air, Asus ZenBook) the keyboard is often glued to the case.
• ⌨️ Backlight: if it stops working, the problem may be in the cable or controller.

To replace the keyboard:

1. Turn off the laptop and remove the back cover (sometimes you need to remove the battery first).
2. Disconnect the keyboard cable from the motherboard (carefully pry the fastener with a plastic spatula).
3. Remove the screws (if any) and remove the old keyboard.
4. Install a new one, connect the cable and assemble the laptop.

If the problem is in individual keys, you can replace only those keys. For example, for Lenovo ThinkPad Separate keys with mechanisms are sold ("scissor switches"). To do this:

1. Carefully pry the key open with a flathead screwdriver (starting from the top edge).
2. Remove the mechanism and install a new one.
3. Press the key until you hear a characteristic click.

5. Screen: replacing the matrix or the entire display

A cracked screen, dead pixels or non-working backlight is a reason to replace the matrix. In most laptops, the display consists of three parts:

• 🖥️ Matrix: the panel itself (for example, IPS, OLED or TN).
• 💡 Backlight: LED strip along the edges of the screen.
• 🔧 Frame and hinges: plastic or metal case.

Before purchasing a new matrix, check:

• 📏 Size: measured diagonally (for example, 15.6" or 13.3").
• 🔍 Resolution: should match the old screen (eg 1920×1080 or 3840×2160).
• 🔌 Connection type: eDP (most common) or LVDS (in older models).
• 🎨 Matrix type: IPS (good viewing angles), TN (cheap, but with bad colors), OLED (deep black color).

Replacement process:

1. Remove the screen frame (it is held in place by latches or double-sided tape). Use a plastic spatula to avoid scratching the casing.
2. Unscrew the screws holding the matrix and disconnect the cables (usually there are two of them: for the image and the backlight).
3. Install the new matrix, connect the cables and reassemble everything in reverse order.

⚠️ Attention: In laptops Apple (starting from MacBook Pro 2016) the screen is glued to the body, and the cables are very fragile. Without experience, it’s better not to take risks - contact the service.

If the problem is only the backlight (the screen is dim or flickering), it may be faulty LED strip or inverter. In this case, it is easier to replace the entire display module.

How to check the matrix for dead pixels?

Run a test on the site monitor-test.ru or use the program Dead Pixel Buddy. Dead pixels look like black, red or green dots that do not change color when the picture changes.

6. Cooling system: cleaning and replacing the cooler or thermal paste

Overheating is a common cause of laptop slowdowns and sudden shutdowns. This is due to dust in the radiator, dried thermal paste or a faulty fan. If the laptop gets hot 90–100°C under load, it's time to clean the cooling system or change its components.

What you can do:

• 🧹 Cleaning: Remove dust from the radiator and fan using compressed air or a brush.
• 🧴 Replacing thermal paste: old paste dries out and loses thermal conductivity.
• 🌀 Cooler replacement: if the fan is noisy or does not spin.
• 🔥 Radiator replacement: rarely, but it happens that it becomes deformed from overheating.

Instructions for replacing thermal paste:

1. Remove the back cover and unscrew the cooling system (usually 3-6 screws).
2. Carefully remove the heatsink from the processor and video card (it may get stuck - do not pull sharply!).
3. Remove old paste with a cloth soaked in isopropyl alcohol.
4. Apply new thermal paste (eg Arctic MX-6 or Noctua NT-H2) in a thin layer (the size of a grain of rice).
5. Reinstall the radiator and tighten the screws crosswise (do not overtighten!).

If the fan does not work, check:

• Connecting the cable to the motherboard.
• Integrity of the blades (sometimes they break due to dust).
• Work in BIOS: if the cooler does not spin even there, it is broken.

7. Other replaceable components: speakers, webcam, Wi-Fi module

In addition to the main components, less critical parts can also be replaced in a laptop. Here's what else can be upgraded:

• 🔊 Speakers: if the sound wheezes or disappears, they can be replaced (usually they are glued or screwed).
• 📷 Webcam: in most laptops it is built into the screen frame and connected via a cable.
• 📶 Wi-Fi module: if the laptop has poor network reception, you can install a more modern module (for example, with support Wi-Fi 6).
• 🖱️ Touchpad: if the click or sensor does not work, it can be replaced (usually it is glued).
• 🔌 Charging port: often fails due to mechanical damage (for example, in Lenovo or Asus).

For example, replacement Wi-Fi module relevant for older laptops that do not support modern standards (802.11ac or 802.11ax). To do this:

1. Locate the module under the back cover (it usually looks like a small board with antennas).
2. Disconnect the antennas and remove the old module.
3. Install a new one (for example, Intel AX200 for Wi-Fi 6) and connect the antennas.

When replacing charging port Be careful: it is often soldered to the motherboard. If you do not have soldering experience, it is better to take the laptop to a service center.

8. When is it better to contact the service: complex cases

Not all breakdowns can be fixed on your own. Here are the cases when it is better to trust the professionals:

• 🔧 Soldering components: replacing chips on the motherboard (for example, south bridge or video card).
• 💻 CPU replacement: In 90% of laptops the CPU is soldered in and cannot be upgraded.
• 🔌 Nutrition problems: If the laptop does not turn on even from the network, the motherboard may be to blame.
• 🖥️ Damage to cables: Thin screen or keyboard cables can easily break if not handled carefully.

You should also contact the service if:

• You have never disassembled the equipment and are afraid of damaging the parts.
• The laptop is under warranty (self-repair will void it).
• A fault diagnosis is needed (for example, the laptop turns off spontaneously).

The cost of repairs in the service depends on the complexity:

Type of repair	Cost (RUB)	Deadlines
Screen replacement	3 000–10 000	1–3 days
Replacing the keyboard	1 500–5 000	1 day
Cleaning dust + replacing thermal paste	1 000–3 000	1–2 hours
Replacing the battery (soldered in)	2 500–8 000	2–5 days

Before taking your laptop to a service center, check:

• Do they use original spare parts or analogues?
• Do they provide a guarantee on the work (usually 1–6 months).
• How long will the repair take (sometimes parts have to be ordered).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about replacing components in a laptop

Is it possible to replace the processor in a laptop?

In 90% of cases - no. Most modern laptops have a soldered processor (especially models with Intel 10th generation and newer, as well as all Apple MacBook with M1/M2). The exception is some gaming or workstations (for example, Dell Precision or MSI GT76), where the CPU is installed in the socket. Before purchasing a new processor, check the compatibility with the motherboard (socket, TDP, chipset).

How do I know which SSD is suitable for my laptop?

Use utilities CrystalDiskInfo or HWiNFO - they will show the model of the current drive and its interface (SATA or NVMe). You can also:

1. View the laptop's specifications on the manufacturer's website.
2. Disassemble the laptop and visually inspect the slot (for example, M.2 2280 - the most common size).
3. Use selection services, for example Crucial Advisor.

What to do if after replacing the RAM the laptop does not turn on?

Possible causes and solutions:

• 🔌 Bad contact: remove and reinsert the bar, making sure that the latches click into place.
• 🔧 Incompatibility: check if the motherboard supports the new type of memory (for example, DDR4-3200 may not work on a laptop designed for DDR4-2666).
• ⚡ Nutrition problems: try turning on the laptop without a battery (only from the mains).
• 💻 Reset BIOS: remove the battery and disconnect the charger, then press the power button for 30 seconds - this will reset the settings.

If all else fails, try returning the old memory - the new memory may be defective.

How much does it cost to replace a laptop screen?

The cost depends on the model and type of matrix:

• Budget laptops (HP 250 G8, Acer Aspire 3): 3,000–6,000 rub.
• Middle segment (Lenovo IdeaPad, Asus Vivobook): 6,000–12,000 rub.
• Gaming laptops (MSI GF63, Asus TUF): 10,000–20,000 rub. (due to high screen refresh rate).
• Premium segment (MacBook Pro, Dell XPS): 15,000–30,000 rub. (often the entire display module needs to be replaced).

The price includes the cost of the matrix and labor. You shouldn’t skimp on quality - cheap Chinese screens may have poor viewing angles or dead pixels.

Can I replace the battery in a MacBook myself?

In models MacBook Pro And MacBook Air Until 2015, the battery is removable, and you can replace it yourself (you need to unscrew 6–8 screws). In newer models (MacBook Pro 2016+, MacBook Air 2018+) the battery is glued to the case, and the cables are very fragile. To replace you will need:

1. Special iFixit kit with plastic spatulas.
2. Isopropyl alcohol to remove adhesive.
3. New battery (original or high-quality analogue, for example, from iFixit).

Without experience, it is better not to take risks - there is a high chance of damaging the screen cable or touchpad. In services Apple replacement costs 10,000–25,000 rubles. (depending on model).