Gateway Parts

is it possible to upgrade notebook parts just like a desktop?

i bought an MSI A5000 which comes with 3Gb or DDR2 nividia 8200m G and an Intel Celeron processor i was wondering if i can upgrade these as if it were a desktop computer or would it be cheaper to buy one already with the stuff i want???

Public Comments

1. 1. Yes, you can upgrade. 2. Not sure if it would be cheaper (maybe) but it would certainly be a hell of a lot easier. 3. If you aren't very comfortable with taking small complicated things apart, then please don't ruin a perfectly good laptop, buy a new one and donate the one you have (tax deduction!)
2. You can upgrade the RAM and the Hard Drive, but it is not possible to upgrade the graphics card and the processor. (You CAN unsolder the processor from the board, but there's hundreds of pins and you risk breaking the laptop completely)
3. The short answer is 'No'. Although many parts in laptops can be upgraded or replaced (usually the memory, often the harddrive, sometimes the graphics adapter, and sometimes some other parts) they are not usually as easy, and they are rarely as cost effective, as upgrading the parts of a desktop. Laptops parts are usually quite expensive compared to the same desktop parts. That makes any upgrade relatively expensive. Particularly with your model of laptop which is a lower specc'd model, there seems to be little point in upgrading any of the parts - particularly as you don't have any specific reason for doing so. I suggest completely replacing the laptop when you are ready to do so. Upgrading would not be cost effective for you.
4. it is really easy to upgrade the ram just plug it in the right spot. However, a little bit of system configuration is needed for installing new hdd. for laptop graphic card? hell no; even you buy a $2000 laptop, you still cant upgrade video card later . The problem is, make sure you read the manual. make sure it support the new memory and cpu. I would recommend buying a new one cos replacing laptop parts costs a lot. I said a lot. Not to mention you need to research and make sure it fits your laptop. Intel celeron is a way to old processor now. I would STRONGLY go buy a laptop with INTEL CORE2 at least; try and experience the difference; yes it is more expensive than celeron but it is totally worth it in a long time run. do not go with celeron again.