Skip to main content

MacBook Pro models with a 15" display

8245 Questions View all

Replace motherboard with new?

I have a Macbook Pro Late 2011 2.40 intel core i7 with Amd Radeon HD 6770M 1 Gb can I upgrade the motherboard to the new mid 2012 non retina macbook pro. I know that both are externally identically in every way. But will the insides fit? Thank you.

Answer this question I have this problem too

Is this a good question?

Score 1
2 Comments

I think you would be happier with a new system than taking the risk of things not fitting here. It would be cheaper getting a reconditioned unit from Apple.

by

it's not a good idea too upgrade a 2011 MacBook Pro Motherboard with a 2012

that might cause battery issues since the 2012 ver take in more power than 2011 but it is a cool idea

Make sure to backup your data first

by

Add a comment

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Nothing is impossible, however the benefit of taking on a project like this would be nowhere near the amount of work to do so.

The MacBook Pro Retina has multiple ports (MagSafe, Thunderbolt, USB, SD) on each side, whereas the MacBook Pro only has ports on it's left hand side. The battery connectors are quite different and a battery transplant would be VERY difficult thanks to the highly proprietary design of the MBPR's battery. The majority of screw locations are different. The list goes on. For comparison purposes:

MacBook Pro Retina internal view

MacBook Pro internal view

It would be kind of a cool transplant but in reality it just isn't feasible.

Hope that helps!

Was this answer helpful?

Score 1

1 Comment:

I don't think he was planning on converting to a Retina MBP system. So the port issue between the Non-Retina Vs Retina is a non issue. With that said, Apple has been known to shift things a bit so the placement of the ports and mounting studs could be off between the different logic boards here.

by

Add a comment

There is standing NON RETINA...so my answer is this:

If you will update your LogicBoard I think you must also update the Display because the change from 2011 to 2012 brings a new Displayconnector inside. (i read this in forums so no warranty)

So i think a new MBP will be cheaper.

Was this answer helpful?

Score 1

1 Comment:

Oddly the iFixit repair guides for removal of the display for both the late-2011 and mid-2012 MBPs show the exact same display data cable and connector. Are the guides wrong? Anyone know of any other possible differences?

by

Add a comment

Just had an idea. If the problem in replacing the motherboard with a mid-2012 model is the display connector cable, why not replace both the motherboard and the display (assuming, of course, the displays of the late-2011 and the mid-2012 15" MBP interchangeable)?

Was this answer helpful?

Score 0
Add a comment

That will work.  The board will fit, but you would have to change the LVDS (video) cable inside the display as the connector on the motherboard is different, and you have to make sure you have 12800 RAM, as the 2011s mostly came with 10600.

Was this answer helpful?

Score 0
Add a comment

Add your answer

ericksol96 will be eternally grateful.
View Statistics:

Past 24 Hours: 0

Past 7 Days: 0

Past 30 Days: 4

All Time: 2,645