LAPTOP REPAIR GLOSSARY / MACBOOK
Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3)
Apple’s own ARM-based chip family that integrates CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage controller into a single package. The spec you buy is the spec you keep — nothing is upgradeable after purchase.
Introduced in November 2020 with the M1, Apple Silicon replaced Intel processors in all MacBook models. Each generation brings significant performance and efficiency gains, but also changes what repairs are possible.
What Apple Silicon Means for Repair
❌ RAM cannot be upgradedRAM is part of the SoC (System on Chip) and soldered directly. 8GB vs 16GB vs 24GB — decide at purchase.
❌ Storage cannot be upgradedSSD storage is also soldered to the logic board. Unlike older Intel MacBooks, it cannot be swapped out.
✅ Battery, screen, keyboard still replaceablePhysical components like the battery, display, top case, and trackpad can still be replaced by experienced technicians.
⚠️ Logic board repair is more complexComponent-level repair on Apple Silicon boards is more complex than Intel, but still feasible for many faults.
M1 vs M2 vs M3 — What’s the Difference?
| Chip | Launched | Max RAM | Process Node |
|---|---|---|---|
| M1 | 2020 | 16GB | 5nm |
| M2 | 2022 | 24GB | 5nm (2nd gen) |
| M3 | 2023 | 24GB | 3nm |
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