Brandon W.

My less-than-year-old MSI GS65 Stealth Thin starting making a horrific grinding noise while playing a game. Apparently, this is a common issue. I got this fan and the GPU version from the same brand in two days. Taking apart MSI laptops can be an intimidating process, but it's not that big of a deal. I did it within about 40 minutes with the help of some excellent YouTube videos.

While I did order thermal paste, I was able to replace both this CPU and the GPU fan without removing the cooling tubes and all that. The "factory seal" is really the hardest part because it feels like the very thin rear cover is going to bend. Just go slow and easy... it's all pretty simple. I also took photos of each screw's location on the motherboard, since there are so many unused holes. I never referred back to them though.

Even with its upside-down motherboard, replacing these fans is totally doable by almost anyone with the right tools and video guidance. You can find computer repair tool kits all over for maybe $20. Get one with a plastic flathead/pick so you don't mar the WiFi connections and other various clips that hold wires in.

For me, this was a much better option than sending it off for three weeks, even if it was covered by warranty. So far, the fans are holding up perfectly.