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Model A1311 / Mid 2011 / 2.5 & 2.7 GHz Core i5 or 2.8 GHz Core i7 Processor

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Can I upgrade the CPU?

Hi. I have a 21 inch iMac (mid 2011) i5 core and I need to upgrade to at least i7 core.

Is that possible?

How do I know what are the parts that I should order and where?

Thanks

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Most Helpful Answer

You are limited to what Apple used in this series:

  • 2.5 GHz Core i5 (I5-2400S)
  • 2.7 GHz Core i5 (I5-2500S)
  • 2.8 GHz Core i7 (I7-2600S)

Here is the IFIXIT guide you'll need to follow to gain access to the CPU: iMac Intel 21.5" EMC 2428 Logic Board Replacement. Once you get the logic board out you'll need to take the heatsink assembly off. While not a true guide it can give you a view of the last steps: iMac Intel 21.5" EMC 2428 Teardown. Pick it up at Step11 and then jump to Step13. Don't forget to fully clean the heatsink and apply a fresh coat of thermal paste: Arctic Silver Thermal Paste. You may want to review how to apply it here: How to Apply Thermal Paste

Electronics Skills Image

Guide

How to Apply Thermal Paste

Difficulty:

Moderate

5 - 20 minutes

iMac Intel 21.5" EMC 2428 Image

Guide

iMac Intel 21.5" EMC 2428 Teardown

Difficulty:

Moderate

iMac Intel 21.5" EMC 2428 Logic Board Image

Guide

iMac Intel 21.5" EMC 2428 Logic Board Replacement

Difficulty:

Difficult

1 - 4 hours

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