Can a CPU be replaced?

Is it possible to change your CPU for a better one? or a replacement if it breaks?

Jack Howarth

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It’s possible that you built a PC or bought a pre-built one a while back and the performance is starting to degrade. This is completely normal, as graphical fidelity in games is increasing all the time. As such, there comes a time when you’ll eventually need to upgrade/replace your CPU altogether. So, can a CPU be replaced?

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There’s also the possibility that your processor is damaged or not working properly. In that case, if you think replacing the CPU will fix your PC, then it’s a good idea to do so. Just make sure that you have tested every other component before you do, or take it to a repair shop.

However, if you want to do it yourself, then yes, a CPU can easily be replaced. Here are some things to look out for.

Replacing A CPU – Look Out For Motherboard Specs

If you want to replace your processor, you’ll want to make sure that it is compatible with your motherboard. You can check this by finding out the chipset of your motherboard. For example, if you have an i5 10th generation processor, then your motherboard likely uses a B460, H610, H640, or Z490 chipset. 

So, when replacing your processor, you’ll want to buy one that works with your motherboard. Chipsets change with each generation, so you’ll want to check what type of motherboard you currently have installed. Check out our guide on checking which motherboard you have.

To be on the safer side, you’ll want to buy the same generation processor if you are planning to use the same motherboard. For example, if you have a 10th generation i5 processor, and want to replace it, you can buy any 10th gen processor and it will work fine. Some features such as overclocking may or may not be supported, but generally, you’ll be able to use the processor just fine.

Easily Upgrade or Replace Your CPU

So, once you have checked the compatibility between your motherboard and processor, you can easily upgrade to a faster processor or replace it with the same one in case your old one got damaged or stopped working. 

If you want to go with a newer generation, then you’ll need to replace both the motherboard and CPU. This is because when you buy a newer generation processor, you’ll need the same generation motherboard to support that CPU.

Once you have decided to buy a new CPU and replace your old one, check our guide on how to install a CPU.