new CPU / motherboard for Envy 750-424

[stamargo]

Over the years, I've upgraded / replaced every major component of my old Envy 750-424 except for the CPU. It's still my main machine with two huge hard drives and everything set up like I like it, but the original processor (w/ integrated graphics) is beginning to get frustrating between lagging games and apps, lack of Win 11 support. etc.

How difficult would it be to upgrade the CPU? Would it be better to change out the entire motherboard? And which CPUs / motherboards are compatible? Yes, I could buy a new PC and pop my current hard drive into the new machine, but as a techie on a teacher's salary, cost is always a concern, and I assume that another component upgrade would give me a powerful PC for less money. (Right?) Thanks!

[Paul_Tikkanen · Accepted solution]

Hi:

According to the specs for your PC, you are pretty much at the top of the mark as far as processor upgrades are concerned.

There is only one better, and I doubt that would provide a significant performance boost.

HP ENVY Desktop - 750-424 PC Product Specifications | HP® Customer Support

I don't know what other motherboards would fit in your PC, but none of them would provide support for Windows 11.

Then you also run into having to pay for a new W10 license, because as far as Microsoft is concerned, a new motherboard = a new PC.

So when all is said and done, you are well on your way toward the cost of a new PC.

If you want to upgrade, perhaps install a Nvidia GT1030 graphics card to boost the graphics performance a bit.

When you go beyond that, you are talking quite a bit of money.  A GT1030 alone is around $150 in today's market.

Otherwise, a GTX1050ti would be a more powerful card.

If you want to upgrade to W11, I can give you 2 easy ways to bypass the hardware checks, and a way to easily go back to W10, once the built in 'go back to W10' period expires.

[stamargo]

That's sort of what I figured. Thanks for the insight!

[Paul_Tikkanen]

You're very welcome.