Can You Upgrade a Prebuilt PC: Yes, but with care

 In today’s fast-paced world of computing, every leap in processing power renders older components less capable of keeping up with demanding workloads and modern games. While custom-built PCs can be easily adapted to these shifts, many wonder: can you upgrade a prebuilt PC to match the same pace? The good news—yes, you can. But it requires thoughtful planning and an understanding of your system’s limitations.

Upgrading a prebuilt system means incrementally improving key components like RAM, GPU, CPU, or storage, without rebuilding the entire machine. Whether you're a homeowner looking to speed up your personal desktop or a contractor needing a more powerful workstation, knowing what to expect from prebuilt upgrades can help you make smarter decisions.

Just be aware: upgrading a prebuilt gaming PC may void your warranty, especially if the system is still under coverage by the integrator or retailer.

This guide covers what to consider when upgrading prebuilt computers and how to do so without unnecessary complications.

Can You Upgrade Prebuilt Computers?

Absolutely—you can upgrade prebuilt gaming PCs just like you would a custom system. Many popular prebuilt models use standard components, allowing for upgrades to the graphics card, SSD, RAM, CPU cooler, or even power supply. The ease of upgrading, however, depends on your system’s compatibility and form factor.

Before you start swapping out parts, assess why you're upgrading and how often you might need to in the future. If you're dealing with long load times, stuttering in games, or lag during multitasking, your hardware may be due for an update.

The Benefit of Prebuilt Desktop Support

Most prebuilt systems come with a limited-time manufacturer or system integrator warranty. During that warranty window, making internal hardware changes—even simple ones—can void your coverage. This is especially important for users who aren’t confident with hardware installation.

That’s where RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) departments come in. They help troubleshoot and replace failing components during the warranty period. If you're considering upgrades, weigh the benefits of keeping your warranty intact versus the performance improvements you'll gain. Once you open the case and install new hardware, most warranties will no longer apply.

Why You’d Want to Upgrade Your Prebuilt Computer

Stock configurations often meet only baseline performance requirements. However, even a modest upgrade—such as doubling your RAM or upgrading to a dedicated GPU—can dramatically improve your gaming experience, multitasking, and overall system speed.

Spending a few hundred dollars on targeted upgrades can extend the life of your system by years. While upgrading a prebuilt PC is slightly different from working on a custom-built desktop, the process and components are largely the same—just start from where your system is.

What You Can Upgrade in a Prebuilt Gaming Desktop

CPU (Central Processing Unit)

Your CPU upgrade options depend on the motherboard and chipset. AMD users often have more flexibility—sockets like AM4 supported multiple CPU generations with just a BIOS update. Intel, on the other hand, typically releases new sockets with each generation, limiting your ability to upgrade without also replacing the motherboard.

Always check your motherboard's compatibility list before buying a new processor.

GPU (Graphics Card)

The graphics card is often the most sought-after upgrade for gaming PCs. Most prebuilts come with at least one PCIe x16 slot for GPU installation, but watch out for two key limitations:

1. Case size – Larger GPUs might not physically fit in compact prebuilt cases.

2. Airflow and cooling – Ensure your new GPU has enough clearance and cooling to perform efficiently.

Also, verify that your power supply can handle the wattage demands of a modern graphics card.

RAM (Memory)

Upgrading RAM is among the easiest ways to improve your prebuilt system. Whether you're running DDR4 or upgrading to DDR5 (now common in post-2022 CPUs), check your motherboard’s supported memory type and maximum capacity.

If you're a contractor or power user running multiple applications, increasing RAM can greatly reduce lag and improve responsiveness.

Storage

Today’s systems rely heavily on SSDs for fast performance. While older HDDs still work fine for mass storage, SSDs—especially NVMe—offer massive speed boosts for boot times and file access.

Ensure your system has the correct slot:

• SATA SSDs for older builds

• NVMe drives for modern systems with M.2 or PCIe slots

Even if you’re limited by case space, SSDs can be mounted creatively with adapters or external enclosures.

PSU (Power Supply Unit)

Your PSU determines the stability and capacity of your build. If you're upgrading to a high-performance GPU or CPU, you’ll need to ensure your PSU provides sufficient wattage and has the right connectors.

A good rule of thumb: aim for a PSU that offers 100W more than your estimated system load. This gives you overhead for future upgrades without straining your system.

Importance of OEM Parts

Some large prebuilt manufacturers use proprietary OEM components—parts that aren’t available at retail and may not be compatible with standard upgrades. This can include motherboards, power supplies, or connectors with non-standard layouts or mounting points.

Example: OEM vs Retail Motherboards

OEM (e.g., Dell Alienware R11)
Pros:

• Uses Micro-ATX form factor

• Has multiple PCIe and RAM slots

• Standard 24-pin and 4-pin power connectors

Cons:

• Often lacks M.2 slots for NVMe

• Uses proprietary front panel connectors

• Lacks thermal features like VRM heatsinks

Retail Equivalent (e.g., MSI Z490-A Pro)
Pros:

• Dual M.2 NVMe slots

• Dedicated VRM cooling

• RGB and USB Type-C headers

• Overclocking support

Cons:

• Larger ATX size may not fit all prebuilt cases

• M.2 use may disable some SATA ports

Retail motherboards typically offer more future-proofing, which is ideal if you're planning multiple upgrades or building a custom rig over time.

When You Can’t Upgrade a Prebuilt PC

Not all systems are upgrade-friendly. Some system integrators design their prebuilts with proprietary parts that don’t support aftermarket upgrades. This is frustrating for tech-savvy users or those with long-term needs.

If you’re limited by proprietary hardware or restricted airflow, upgrades may not be feasible without replacing multiple core components—at which point, it’s more economical to build or buy a new system.

Apex’s Promise for System Integrity

At Apex Gaming PCs, we know that yesterday’s hardware doesn’t always meet today’s demands. That’s why our systems are built with fully upgradable, non-proprietary components from top-tier manufacturers—ensuring wide compatibility and long-term flexibility.

Whether you plan to upgrade a prebuilt gaming PC yourself or want help from our team, we make it easy to extend your system’s performance without hitting roadblocks from OEM limitations.

Written by Will Wilson

Updates: 4/16/2025