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Hardware-Upgrade
In brief
A hardware upgrade is the upgrading of a computer by replacing or adding individual components, such as more memory, a larger or faster SSD or a new battery. The aim is more performance or a longer service life without replacing the whole device. In refurbishment, an upgrade also increases the resale value of used notebooks and PCs.
What can be upgraded
| Component | Effect | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Memory (RAM) | smoother work with many programs | soldered in place on many thin notebooks |
| Storage (HDD to SSD, larger SSD) | significantly faster startup and program launch | the removed data carrier must be erased |
| Battery | longer runtime | use original or tested replacement parts |
| Processor | more processing power | usually not possible on notebooks, partly possible on desktops and servers |
Whether an upgrade is worthwhile depends on age, equipment and requirements. For Windows devices, operating system prerequisites also play a role, such as a TPM. How long notebooks are used for tax and practical purposes is explained by our guide Useful life of laptops and residual value.
Hardware upgrade in refurbishment
Upgrading is often part of refurbishing used devices: a notebook with more memory and an SSD is more attractive to buyers and achieves a higher Residual value. As part of repair and refurbishment, Second IT carries out system upgrades, for example for memory and storage solutions, replaces defective components with tested spare parts and finishes with function tests. Removed data carriers are erased with certification or destroyed. More on Repair and system upgrade.
Frequently asked questions about hardware upgrades
Is a laptop upgrade still worthwhile?
Often yes, if the device is otherwise in good condition. More memory and an SSD make the biggest difference on older notebooks. With soldered memory, the options are limited.
What happens to the old hard drive after the upgrade?
It still contains all the data. Have it erased or destroyed with certification before it is passed on or disposed of.
Does an upgrade extend the service life?
Often yes. This conserves resources and postpones new purchases. The manufacturer's support for firmware and operating system should also be taken into account.
Can I upgrade the processor on a notebook?
Usually not on notebooks. On desktops and servers, a processor swap is partly possible. On notebooks, memory, storage and battery bring more. On many thin notebooks the memory is also soldered in place.
Does a hardware upgrade increase the resale value?
Yes, often. A notebook with more memory and an SSD is more attractive to buyers and achieves a higher residual value. In refurbishment, the upgrade is therefore often part of the process. Removed data carriers must be erased or destroyed beforehand.
More value from used hardware – through testing, repair and upgrade.
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