Any parts at all, be it the HDD, RAM, GPU or the CPU. Or would it be better to just get a newer laptop?
Is it worth upgrading a laptop?
Ventak on 29/01/2013 - 14:39
Comments
IMHO, HDD -> change to SSD, boost performance significantly (ssd 120gb about $100).
if RAM < 4GB, worth upgrade to at least 4GB.GPU is not needed unless for gaming/graphics editing.
CPU mostly useful for multi tasking, if the CPU already use core i or core 2 duo, I think it should be enough. I'm still using my 2009's core 2 duo machine, upgraded the hdd to ssd and load applications faster than my working machine in office (i5 2nd gen but using hdd).Otherwise, performer laptop nowadays only costs about $400-600.
Apart from SSD/RAM, buy new
Most consumer laptops cannot have it's CPU and GPU upgraded. Only high-end specialist (e.g Clevo) or gaming laptops (e.g Dell XPS Alienware) have that degree of customisability.
it would help if you tell us what your current config is
My laptop specs are:
Operating System: Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit (6.1, Build 7601) Service Pack 1
Language: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
System Model: RF511/RF411/RF711
BIOS: AMIBIOS Version 10HX.M034.20110426.SSH
Processor: Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-2630QM CPU @ 2.00GHz (8 CPUs), ~2.0GHz
Memory: 6144MB RAM
Available OS Memory: 6056MB RAM
DirectX Version: DirectX 11
HDD Space: 750GB
Graphics Card: Integrated Intel HD 3000/Nvidia GT 540MYou still have a very capable laptop. The CPU is still modern, the GPU is still considered mid-class. It doesn't need replacing as of yet.
Just throw in a 256GB Samsung 830 SSD and it'll fly.
+1 to Scrimshaw, but I'd go with the OCZ Vertex 4 myself.
I personally wouldn't be too comfortable buying with OCZ when they're on the brink of bankruptcy.
hi scrimshaw - I've seen lots of recent SSD deals but kind of unsure which one is a better pick at this moment?
Any suggestion? My budget is ~$100 for 128GB SSD
Thanks
I second ProspectiveDarkness' recomendations. I would happily buy the Sandisk.
Nice catch scrimshaw. Although layoffs and low share prices don't always lead to bankruptcy (the bankruptcy index for OCZ is only at 13%, which is very low if you look at more prominent companies), I wasn't aware of the issue at all. That is bad on my part.
I was going by bang for buck and outright speed, which I can not only personally attest to, but has been reviewed in many a magazine I read as one of the best if not the best. I can also proudly say that NONE of the vertex 3 and 4 units which is the only models we've put in PCs have ever failed. I have seen 2 Agility drives fail which another customer did not purchase from me.
BUT based on the info - I would agree that even though I personally do still like them very much, perhaps another manufacturer would be a better choice.
I might make a suggestion on the Intel 5 series also if I may. They've been completely revamped last year and are pulling in some major benchmark scores. Great bang for buck and I doubt there's too much issue with warranty from Intel. I've only EVER had one mainboard fail 2 months within it's 3 year warranty and it was replaced. I have had some DOA 3 series chipset boards though - that was not a good batch. Even so, the end user would probably never see that as I just grabbed another new board off the shelf in the build and got the others replaced.
I might make a suggestion on the Intel 5 series also if I may.
Perfectly good, but tend to be a little pricier than Samsung/Sandisk.
Unless you are specifically looking at benchmark numbers I don't think you'll notice the difference between a top end Intel 5xx and a Sandisk Extreme / Sammy 830
Just had my OCZ Vertex 2 replaced under warranty, I wish I had done a bit more research before purchasing.
Anyway I offloaded the replacement OCZ to someone else quick smart.I'd recommend the intel 330, 520 or Samsung 830's or 840 Pro
The question is very general, so no answer will be absolute. Typically, only HD->SSD is worth upgrading. Possibly also adding RAM, but most come with enough for their purpose.