can i upgrade i3 380m to Intel Core i7 640M ?

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Barty1884
While they use the same socket, mobile GPU's can rarely be replaced. The i7-640M may well 'fit' in place of the i3-380M, but getting it to work is another issue alltogether.

The socket is only one aspect - of great importance is whether the BIOS can support the chip, and whether the cooling solution is sufficent. Mobile CPUs can also be soldered to the board, making any CPU upgrade (that may work theoretically) not financially viable.

Take a look - did you laptop come with many different CPU options? Ie was there an i3, i5 & i7 option? Or did it only come with an i3?

If there were many different options, that may indicate BIOS support (but not guarantee). The cooling solution may also be adequate, but again, that may have...
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Barty1884

Barty1884

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Apr 16, 2015
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While they use the same socket, mobile GPU's can rarely be replaced. The i7-640M may well 'fit' in place of the i3-380M, but getting it to work is another issue alltogether.

The socket is only one aspect - of great importance is whether the BIOS can support the chip, and whether the cooling solution is sufficent. Mobile CPUs can also be soldered to the board, making any CPU upgrade (that may work theoretically) not financially viable.

Take a look - did you laptop come with many different CPU options? Ie was there an i3, i5 & i7 option? Or did it only come with an i3?

If there were many different options, that may indicate BIOS support (but not guarantee). The cooling solution may also be adequate, but again, that may have varied between each model.

In short, it's too difficult to say for sure - and even if it could work, it's likely more hassle than it's worth.
 
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Solution
Ecky

Ecky

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Feb 3, 2013
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Not all laptop CPUs are soldered. Both i3 and i7 listed above were available in both BGA1288 and PGA988, and the PGA988 CPUs would be replaceable - BGA is a soldered package. Also, both CPUs have the same TDP, and so should be safe under the same cooling system.

OP would probably have to open up their laptop and physically inspect the CPU to know whether it's PGA or BGA.

EDIT: Barty1884 is certainly correct that the BIOS could be an issue, but chances are pretty good that it will work. I'd give it a shot if it turns out to be socketed.
 
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grmnlxndr

grmnlxndr

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May 17, 2012
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It all depends on the laptop model. For example, a Dell Studio 1558 have the first gen of core i processors, and they are socketed.
You should look if your model is socketed and also if there is a version of your laptop that use that specific processor. Also before upgrading, update to the latest Bios.
 
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