Can I upgrade the CPU to an i9 on this MacBook?

So I can only use the i7 3520M then is what you're saying, which is the other chip offered on this model. Or can I use a newer i7 in here because they're the same line? I feel like my question wasn't even fully read.

There are no chip options at all!

Your only option is to replace your logic board with a 2.9 GHz i7 (3520M) based board.

The laptop chips were only sold to the laptop makers in a special holder for a chip insertion machine to the logic board. You would need to find a damaged logic board which still has a good CPU to then transplant it. This is not a trivial task!

As for your base question there is no i9 which would fit and work on this this series logic board.

#1 - Yes you can only use a 2.9 GHz i7 (3520M) as that's the most powerful CPU this series offered

#2 - You need special tools to properly lift the chip so you don't damage the solder pads and solder it back down. This is just not possible without the proper tools $$$

#3 - 2.9 GHz i7 (3520M) is the best CPU this series offered. There is no i9 option!

@danj Thank you for answering the question.

Remember next time that your opinion on how bad an idea is isnt needed unless its explicitly asked for.

I have a board heating station, a hot air gun, and soldering irons because my Grandpa has been soldering boards together since he was in high school in the 60s.

I dont think thats info you needed to know to tell me the only chip i can try this with is a 3520M. You could've just said the 3520M is the only one possible to use, nothing newer.

I'd like to play around without asking him for help at every step but apparently it was like pulling teeth and you feel the need to tell me things I already know, like its not the best idea, even though I already said I'm doing it either way.

Thanks for the eventual answer I guess. I learned my lesson about this forum, that's for sure.

"There are no chip options at all, except the one you asked about by part name."

@J Momm4 - I did answer the question in my answer originally I just rewrote with a longer answer which I get you still didn't like. I didn't express an opinion until you directed me for one. As my original answer was too confusing to you.

As you didn't express you even had the correct gear in your question. I of course wouldn't know that! I've been working on repairing systems quite a few years even I don't attempt replacing such a large chips.

Because you don't need to know what kind of equipment I have in order to answer a direct question. Can an i9 go in here, and if not can the 3520M go in here? No i9, yes 3520M. No need to bring in 15" or new logic boards or its not recommended. Its fine. I already requested account deletion, I got my answer and for the next question I have, I'll just ask elsewhere.