Can I replace a laptop's screen with a higher res one?

[jay_curtis36]

If I had a 15.6" laptop, could I replace the screen with a higher res one? In this case, the GTX 660m would be outputting 1366x768, and I know that it could output higher. So if I replaced:

15.6-inch WideScreen (13.6"x7.6")
Resolution: WXGA (1366x768) HD
Type: Glossy
Backlight type: LED
Video signal connector: 40 pin LED socket

With

Size: 15.6-inch WideScreen (13.6"x7.6")
Resolution: WXGA++ (1600x900) HD+
Type: Matte
Backlight type: LED
Video signal connector: 40 pin LED socket???

Both are for same laptop, but different res and style.

 

[zdbc13]

Lots of trouble for little gain. If you're gaming why not an external monitor?

 

[maestro0428]

I agree. That's a tough job and in the end, it may not be compatible. I don't recommend it. You may be better off selling your laptop and getting a replacement with a higher res.

 

[jay_curtis36]

I have replaced laptop screens before, and it wasn't too much trouble. The GTX 660m can definitely handle 900p, so it should work right? Anyways, thank you for answering!

 

[MC_K7]

Yes it "should" work, but there's no way to be sure, I wouldn't take the risk. I replaced LCDs on laptops before and of course it depends on the model some are harder to replace than others, but in general it's a pain in the ass. I wouldn't recommend doing it just for fun, replace it only if it's defective. I agree with previous comments, lots of trouble for little gain. And don't forget that a higher resolution means more pixels to handle for your video card so some games might not run as smoothly as before or you might have to lower some settings.

 

[getochkn]

I have replaced laptop screens before, and it wasn't too much trouble. The GTX 660m can definitely handle 900p, so it should work right? Anyways, thank you for answering!

You may have replaced the same laptop screen before, but not a different one. Every laptop screen is different, has different connectors, different power requirements, etc.

Best solution is to invent a time machine, go back when you bought that laptop and buy one with a better screen. You have a better chance of this working.

If you want to spend $100-$200 on the new screen and see if it works, go ahead. You might get lucky that it works but the same connector doesn't mean they work on the same pins, etc.

 

[cklaubur]

I'd suggest research. If your laptop had a selection of LCD panels available, you should be able to easily (depending on the directions for disassembly and reassembly) swap in a higher resolution panel.

Casey

 

[A Bad Day]

I would not recommend it unless if you're willing to spend hours trying to replace the monitor and risk having to backtrack.

Does your laptop have a HDMI, DVI or DisplayPort?

 

[jay_curtis36]

I would not recommend it unless if you're willing to spend hours trying to replace the monitor and risk having to backtrack.

Does your laptop have a HDMI, DVI or DisplayPort?

It does, I guess I'll be using an external monitor.

 

[jay_curtis36]

I'd suggest research. If your laptop had a selection of LCD panels available, you should be able to easily (depending on the directions for disassembly and reassembly) swap in a higher resolution panel.

Casey

Thanks, but I guess buying a new panel is not worth the risk... maybe when I have enough $$$