So apparently I can upgrade the CPU to 4.0GHz quad-core Intel Core i7 but I am new to all of this and have no idea where to buy it. Which one is compatible with my computer and from which reputable, trusted store?
iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Late 2015)
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Take a serious look at the guides before you even try. This isn’t like a PC where it doesn’t involve major surgery and you can revert back without a major disassembly plus information is easier to come by - even if it’s official validation data provided by support in a forum. The job is a total PITA on the iMac and Apple isn’t open about it and actively goes out of their way to hide it. This guide should give you a good idea of what you’re about to attempt - make your judgements carefully since any system damage will be $$$ expensive to correct. It’s doable, but can only be pushed up to a 6700K, which may not be enough of an improvement to justify the significantly more difficult install. Compare it to your *current* CPU before buying anything.
Your money will be better spent on RAM and an SSD. Most people get a system with a CPU that performs so closely to the original it's not worth risking needing an expensive motherboard to gain a marginal speed bump. It only ever makes sense if you got a i3 one and are willing to go all in and max the CPU out.
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@empire233 the processor to use is a 4.0 GHz Core i7 (I7-6700K) . check the answer by @mayer on here Upgrading Processor on Late 2015 iMac 27 and read through all the comments. As for where to buy; the choice is yours.
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Yeah but any good places you’d recommend?
I'd stick with places like Newegg.com or Compsource.com but that is just me
It's still a expensive CPU even used if you get the 6700K. I wouldn't go less then the max (6700K) due to the work required to change it out here.
I don't know if you can buy them new anymore - production ended in 2017. It may be an eBay thing now. They moved when they were set to cease production due to the artificial W7/8.X update lockout since there wasn't much to gain by going to 7/8th gen at the time other then artificial OS lockout.
Now that we're up to 10th gen, they're 5 generations old and all likely used. Used isn't necessarily a bad thing - it's still a good option.
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3 Comments
Which store? Which country are living in?
by mike
Any store lol that’s the point. You tell me. I’m in USA @aactech
by Blaine
@empire233
Hi Blaine,
In USA Amazon or Newegg should be fine for online. I have ordered from both of them. No problems. I don't know your computer "brick & mortar" stores so comment. But did shop in Tigerdirect in Toronto but no good for technical help in store. Anyone?
For other people:
In Canada, Canada Computers - good technical help in store
In New Zealand, PBTech - good technical help in store
are good brick& mortar and online stores, in my experience.
The computer "brick & mortar" stores are good because of technical support and ease of returns.
by mike