Hi,
I've read that it's possible to replace the video card in a late 2009 27-inch iMac with a video card from a 2011 model. Specifically, I'd like to swap out my ATI RADEON HD 4850 512MB with an AMD Radeon HD 6970M 2GB.
Disregarding the whys and warranty questions, is it possible to do so?
Thanks a lot for your time!
iMac, OS X El Capitan (10.11.2)
No, that is not possible, the internals are completely different. In addition you will not likely find a Radeon 6970M and are you familiar with iMac (27-inch): AMD Radeon 6970M Video Card Replacement Program - Apple Support
I'll definitely reach out to a service provider (thanks for that suggestion, by the way), but I've definitely heard of people doing this successfully. Here's a link to the thread that gave me this idea Upgrade iMac 27" late 2009 video card?
Below the "solved" reply are a few responses from people who upgraded their GPU with the 6970M 2GB without issue. Specifically there are replies from users: "Youpala" and "Braccobaldo" who reported as much.
Actually I found one on ebay. I assume such a highly rated seller wouldn't try to sell people faulty video cards. Also not sure what you mean about the internals. Both use PCI express cards. They're actually quite similar. I was told that a GPU from a 2011 iMac would work in my 2009.
It's your computer, your money and your time, if you decide to go ahead and try it first ensure the seller of the card will accept returns. As said, the computers use different internals, the main logic board on a late 2009 was never intended to have a 2011 iMac GPU installed.
If I were in your shoes I would speak to an Apple Authorized Service Provider to get their insight, I suspect they will agree with me. You can also contact OWC (www.macsales.com) directly and ask, they have extremely broad knowledge of iMacs.
You can also check ifixit.com; they're a great resource. I was going to check it for you, but I got the "we're doing scheduled maintenance" thing so the site isn't accessible right now.
As for ebay, I wouldn't trust anything sold there unless it comes in an unopened factory sealed box. I was sold a "new" Mac Mini by a highly rated seller - it was filthy and used; the power supply was not even usable. I had to fight to get my money back - took 3 months and it finally only worked because I involved my credit card company who did a chargeback (took the money back from ebay).
Thanks for the suggestion to check ifixit! I was able to find this guide for doing exactly what I'd like to do: https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/iMac+Intel+27-Inch+EMC+2309+or+2374+Graphics+Card+R eplacement/9553
It certainly sounds like I can do this!
So, DID you replace your 4850 with an 6970?
Does it work under GPU load?
Replace Video Card in Late 2009 iMac
