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    Limitations on Upgrading Mobile GPU?

    Discussion in 'Hardware Components and Aftermarket Upgrades' started by Scionyde, Jun 24, 2014.

  1. Scionyde

    Scionyde Notebook Enthusiast

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    So, I know that you first need a socketed GPU to even consider upgrading a laptop. But other than that, is there anything that limits your ability to upgrade a mobile GPU? I suppose power consumption is one possibility, but is there anything else, like motherboard chipset or anything?
     
    Scionyde, Jun 24, 2014
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  2. saturnotaku

    saturnotaku Notebook Nobel Laureate

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    There are heat and power consumption issues, but also not every MXM GPU will work in every system. Some manufacturers have used proprietary sockets so only cards designed for their systems will work. Others have BIOS limitations, necessitating a flash to improve compatibility. You also need to consider price, as mobile GPUs can be a very pricey proposition.
     
    saturnotaku, Jun 24, 2014
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  3. Tsunade_Hime

    Tsunade_Hime such bacon. wow

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    The biggest issue will be BIOS/vBIOS compatibility. Most uber gaming laptops with like 780M/880M can handle the heat/power consumption of newer GPUs.
     
    Tsunade_Hime, Jun 24, 2014
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