CPU upgrade questions and answers

Below is a listing of CPU questions and answers to those questions. These questions have been sorted by the number of times they have been asked or searched on our site.

Note: This page is for desktop computers. See our upgrading laptop computers page for information about upgrading laptops.

Should I upgrade my computer processor?

Today, the processor is one of the last things we'd recommend upgrading in the computer since most motherboards only support so many processors. If you're wanting to upgrade because your computer seems slow we'd recommend upgrading the RAM and replacing the hard drive with an SSD hard drive before upgrading the CPU.

Can I upgrade my computer processor?

Because of the variety of computer motherboards specifications and OEM modifications, we do not specify to users if they are capable of upgrading to a higher processor. To obtain this information contact the computer or motherboard manufacturer or refer to the computer documentation.

When contacting your computer manufacturer concerning a CPU upgrade, ask for the questions below.

1. What is the maximum speed I can put into my computer?
2. Do I need to switch any jumpers or dip switches when adding the new CPU, if so, which ones?
3. Do I need any additional hardware when upgrading the CPU such as a new heat sink or Interposer?

Can I use an AMD or Cyrix in an Intel board or Intel processor with AMD board?

Can an AMD and Intel processor work together.

Can I upgrade to a processor utilizing MMX?

If the computer supports or has the capability of modifying the voltage, a computer with Non-MMX can be upgraded to a processor with MMX. However, because of the variety of possibilities, it is recommended that you contact the computer or motherboard manufacturer to determine if this is possible or not.

Note: Unless your computer is more than ten years old the processor is probably already using MMX.

Why do I not notice a difference in speed when upgrading my CPU?

Depending upon what CPU chip you have installed in the computer determines how much speed the computer will increase. For example, if you just upgrade a 486DX to a 486DX2 you will not notice much speed increase. Even in a 486DX4 you will really not notice much more of a change in speed.

When upgrading the CPU, there will not be a dramatic speed increase in all programs. However, you should notice a small increase in program load time and performance of a program.

Can I use a Slot A in a Slot 1 or a Slot 1 in a Slot A?

The Slot 1 processors and specification is a registered trademark of Intel, and because of this, AMD could not design a compatible slot. Therefore, AMD created the Slot A that looks similar to Intel's Slot 1 but are not compatible. Therefore, a Slot 1 processor will not work in a Slot A motherboard and a Slot A will not work in a Slot 1.