Upgrade from i5 to i7 CPU

Unfortunately, Apple solders the CPU to the logic board, not allowing you to upgrade the processor. If you're still looking for a performance boost, though, you may want to consider adding in more RAM, perhaps up to 16 GB (it's a SODIMM DDR3 module, but some memory will not work; you may want to try Corsair Mac Memory), and installing an SSD.