Laptop and OEM motherboards

This category contains laptop and OEM motherboards for repairing a specific device rather than building a new computer. Most of our range is Lenovo, with HP, ASUS, Dell and IBM boards also available. There are over 6,000 items in total.

These boards are designed for one model or a family of models, so they cannot be swapped in the way a standard desktop board can.

How to choose a laptop or OEM motherboard

Exact model and part number. The device name alone is not enough, because one model can come with several board variants. Compare the part number (P/N or FRU) with the marking on your old board. In our range most boards are listed as compatible with Lenovo, with some for HP and ASUS.

Processor and graphics. In most laptops the processor is soldered to the board, so it cannot be upgraded later. Some models have a separate (discrete) graphics chip, while others rely on the processor's integrated graphics. Check that the new board matches the configuration of your device.

Memory. Many laptops have part of their memory soldered on and the rest in a slot. Before buying, find out whether your model has memory slots and which type of memory it uses.

Operating system. Many boards in our range list Windows support, and some mention Windows 8 and Windows 8 Pro. After a board swap, Windows sometimes has to be reactivated, so keep your licence key to hand.

Intended use. The category is mixed: some items may be meant for other manufacturer equipment rather than laptops. Read the compatibility details and make sure the board is made for your type of device.

Brands we carry

• Lenovo: known for its ThinkPad business laptops, and its boards make up most of this category.
• HP and HP Enterprise: HP is widely used in business laptops and desktops, while HP Enterprise focuses on servers and data centre equipment.
• Dell and IBM: Dell is known for business laptops and servers, and IBM created the ThinkPad line before Lenovo took it over.
• ASUS: makes both motherboards and laptops.
• Kyocera and Delock: Kyocera is best known for printers and multifunction devices, while Delock offers adapters, expansion cards and cables.
• Intel: designs the processors and chipsets on which many computer boards are based.

Also in our range: COREPARTS and other manufacturers.

Frequently asked questions

How does a laptop motherboard differ from a desktop one?

A laptop motherboard is made to fit one chassis and model, so its layout, connectors and mounting points do not follow standard ATX or mATX sizes. The processor and graphics chip are often soldered on, whereas on a desktop board the processor can usually be replaced. This is why a laptop board has to be chosen by exact model.

How do I know if a board will fit my laptop?

Compare the part number with the marking on your old board and check the full model name of the device. The marking is normally printed on the board itself, so you will need to open part of the case. If the numbers differ by even one letter, the board may have a different processor or graphics chip.

Will I need to reinstall Windows after replacing the board?

Not always, but sometimes. If the new board has the same configuration, the system often starts without trouble, though Windows may need to be reactivated. Back up important files before replacing the board.

What is an OEM motherboard?

An OEM motherboard is one that a manufacturer made for its own pre-built computers rather than for sale to home builders. It often has a customised BIOS and a non-standard form factor. These boards are mostly bought by repair shops and by people fixing a specific manufacturer's computer.