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GPU Upgrades in OMEN Desktops: Compatibility, Power, and Cooling Considerations
November 4, 2025
⚠️ IMPORTANT NOTICE & DISCLAIMER:
Warranty Considerations:
Whilst OMEN desktops are designed for upgradability, improper installation may affect your warranty coverage. Damage caused during installation is not covered under warranty. Review your specific warranty terms before proceeding.
Risk of Damage:
Incorrect GPU installation can permanently damage your desktop, graphics card, or other components. Users assume all risks associated with hardware modifications. HP is not responsible for damage resulting from user upgrades.
Electrical Safety:
Working inside a desktop PC poses risks including electric shock. Always power down completely, unplug from electrical outlets, and use proper grounding techniques before handling components.
Compatibility Warning:
Not all GPUs are compatible with all OMEN desktop models. Verify compatibility, power requirements, and physical clearance before purchasing. Using incompatible hardware may result in system failure or instability.
Technical Expertise:
This guide assumes technical knowledge of PC hardware. If uncertain about any step, consult with a qualified technician or HP authorised service provider.
Data Protection:
Always back up important data before making hardware changes. HP is not responsible for data loss during upgrades.
For UK gamers seeking to maximise their gaming experience, keeping pace with rapidly evolving technology is essential. Whether you’re tackling the latest triple-A titles or handling intensive creative workloads, your desktop’s graphics capabilities are paramount. HP OMEN desktops are engineered with upgradability at their core, allowing gamers to enhance graphics performance without the expense of replacing the entire system.
The world of technology continues to advance at an extraordinary pace; to keep up with these developments, you need to ensure your desktop can handle the latest AAA titles and creative workloads. HP OMEN desktops are designed with upgradeability in mind, allowing gamers to enhance graphics performance without replacing the entire system.
For longevity, take proper care of your system, especially during installation. Remember to be gentle, as accidental damage or rough treatment may affect your warranty. Before upgrading, confirm there’s enough space in your case for the GPU and that it doesn’t block airflow.
This graphics card upgrade guide will show you how to upgrade your graphics card, including compatibility checks, power requirements, and optimal cooling tips.
Are HP OMEN Desktops Upgradeable?
HP designed OMEN desktops with upgradeability in mind to break from the tradition of non-upgradeable pre-built PCs. OMEN models feature accessible interiors and standardised components, making GPU replacements straightforward. However, upgrade paths differ between models.
The OMEN 25L offers a balanced design suitable for mid-range to high-performance GPUs, featuring tool-less access to internals and easy upgradability. With its modern design and controllable RGB lighting, it accommodates cards ranging from the NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 3060 to the RTX™ 4070 SUPER, providing excellent thermal management for demanding workloads.
The OMEN 45L stands as the ultimate upgrade-friendly powerhouse flagship. Built for extreme performance, this model is designed for gaming from the ground up. Powered by advanced processors, the OMEN 45L takes cooling to incredible heights with a unique cooling chamber, perfect for high-end and next-generation GPUs optimised for 4K and intensive ray tracing.
HP OMEN desktops offer upgradeability because they use standardised components. These desktops give you complete freedom with graphics, choosing from the latest NVIDIA or AMD GPUs without restrictions. This flexibility exists because they use standard PCIe x16 slots, ATX-compliant power supplies, and industry-standard mounting systems.
Keep in mind that damage caused during installation is not covered. Always ground yourself before touching internal parts, avoid overtightening the PCIe retention screw, and manage cables properly to prevent fan blockage.
Pre-Upgrade Compatibility Assessment
Checking Current System Specifications
If you are looking to upgrade GPU components in your OMEN desktop, the first step is to check your current setup using the OMEN Gaming Hub’s System Vitals. Launch the Gaming Hub and navigate to System Vitals, where you’ll find detailed information about your current GPU, available PCIe slots, and system specifications.
Physical Space Requirements
Before purchasing a new GPU, measure the available space inside your chassis:
- Measure GPU clearance: Verify clearance inside your case. High-end GPUs like the NVIDIA RTX 4090 can reach 320 mm in length, which may be too large for a smaller chassis
- Check cooling clearance: If your GPU uses a triple-fan setup, verify it won’t block case fans or airflow
- Cable management: Keep cables organised and neat to avoid obstructions when installing the new component
Power Supply Considerations
Understanding Power Requirements
OMEN desktops come with different PSU options, ranging from 500W to 1200W. First, identify your PSU wattage.
TDP stands for Thermal Design Power, the maximum amount of heat a computer component generates under full load. Check your GPU’s TDP. For example, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 requires approximately 320W, whilst the AMD Radeon RX 7900 XTX consumes approximately 355W.
Leave approximately 20–30% headroom for the CPU, RAM, storage, and peripherals to ensure stable operation under peak loads.
Power Connector Compatibility
Modern GPUs require 8-pin PCIe connectors, whilst high-end models like the RTX 4090 use a 16-pin 12VHPWR connector.
Adapter cable solutions are available if needed; however, OMEN systems typically provide the correct connectors. Remember, you may need a PSU upgrade if it doesn’t meet the required wattage or connector specifications.
OMEN Model-Specific Upgrade Guidelines
Each OMEN desktop model has different upgrade capabilities tailored to specific performance tiers.
OMEN 25L Series Upgrades
The OMEN 25L offers excellent upgradeability with support for high-performance graphics cards. With tool-less access to internals and easy upgradability, this model accommodates GPUs ranging from mid-range to flagship cards. The cutting-edge modern design includes full controllable RGB lighting, whilst maintaining proper airflow through well-organised cable management.
OMEN 45L Series Upgrades
The OMEN 45L is the ultimate model, supporting flagship GPUs including the NVIDIA RTX 4090 or AMD Radeon RX 7900 XTX. Built for extreme performance, this gaming desktop is designed for gaming from the ground up. The standout feature is the unique cooling chamber, a separate cooling zone engineered specifically to provide extra cooling during heavy workloads. Created for easy tool-less upgradeability with industry standard components, it provides maximum headroom for enthusiasts, VR users, and creators working with 4K or 8K content.
Graphics Card Selection Guide
With numerous GPU options available, choosing the right one depends on your specific needs and gaming requirements.
Performance Tier Recommendations
For high-frame-rate 1080p gaming: Consider a card like the NVIDIA RTX 4060 or AMD RX 7600. These GPUs deliver excellent performance at Full HD resolutions, maintaining high frame rates in modern titles whilst offering good value.
For smooth 1440p gameplay at high settings: Choose cards like the NVIDIA RTX 4070 or AMD RX 7800 XT. These mid-to-high-range GPUs provide the perfect balance between performance and price for QHD gaming.
For ultra settings, 4K resolution, and advanced ray tracing: You’ll need a flagship-grade GPU like the NVIDIA RTX 4080/4090 or the AMD RX 7900 XT/XTX. These powerful cards handle 4K gaming with ray tracing enabled, delivering stunning visuals for the most demanding titles.
NVIDIA vs AMD Considerations
Both manufacturers provide significant performance boosts. NVIDIA offers DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling), whilst AMD provides FSR (FidelityFX Super Resolution) for AI upscaling. Consider power efficiency and thermal output as well, as these factors directly impact your PSU and cooling requirements.
NVIDIA’s RTX series cards excel in ray tracing performance and benefit from mature DLSS technology, which can significantly boost frame rates. AMD’s Radeon cards often offer competitive rasterisation performance and generally come with larger amounts of VRAM, which can benefit high-resolution gaming and content creation workloads.
Cooling and Thermal Management
A GPU upgrade isn’t just about fitting it inside the case; keeping it cool is equally important for maintaining performance and longevity.
Stock Cooling Assessment
OMEN desktops feature advanced cooling solutions, including front-to-back airflow design and liquid cooling options for the CPU. Use OMEN Gaming Hub to monitor GPU and CPU temperatures during intensive gaming sessions or benchmarking runs.
Optimal GPU temperatures during gaming should remain below 80°C for sustained performance. If your temperatures consistently exceed this threshold, additional cooling measures may be necessary.
Upgrading Cooling Solutions
Consider these cooling enhancements to maintain optimal temperatures:
- Adding extra fans: Consider additional exhaust fans if temperatures exceed 80°C during heavy workloads
- Liquid cooling options: Models like the OMEN 45L support liquid cooling for power-hungry GPUs
- Dust filters: Help maintain a clean interior in your PC, reducing thermal buildup and improving component longevity
For UK users, ambient room temperatures can vary significantly throughout the year. During warmer months, ensure adequate ventilation in your gaming space to help your system maintain optimal temperatures.
Installation Process and Best Practices
Verifying your OMEN desktop GPU compatibility is crucial to confirm the new card will physically fit and connect without issues.
Pre-Installation Preparation
Before beginning the installation process:
- Uninstall existing GPU drivers using Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) in Safe Mode
- Back up important data before hardware changes
- Ground yourself for safety by touching a metal surface or using an anti-static wrist strap
- Gather necessary tools: Phillips screwdriver, cable ties for management
- Ensure adequate workspace with proper lighting
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
- Shut down and unplug the desktop: Ensure the power supply switch is in the off position
- Remove the side panel carefully: Most OMEN models feature tool-less side panels
- Unlock the PCIe slot latch: Gently press the retention clip, then disconnect power cables and remove your old GPU
- Insert the new GPU into the PCIe slot: Align carefully and apply even pressure until you hear a click
- Secure with mounting screws: Tighten screws to the rear bracket, but avoid overtightening
- Reconnect all power cables: Ensure all PCIe power connectors are firmly seated
- Close the case: Reattach the side panel, reconnect external connections, and boot the system
Post-Installation Optimisation
After successfully installing your new GPU:
- Install latest GPU drivers from NVIDIA or AMD’s official websites
- Run benchmark tools such as 3DMark or Unigine Heaven to verify performance
- Use OMEN Gaming Hub to monitor thermals and system stability during extended gaming sessions
- Adjust fan curves if necessary to balance noise levels with cooling performance
Common Questions About OMEN GPU Upgrades
Which Graphics Cards Are Compatible With My OMEN Desktop?
OMEN desktops support most modern GPUs; however, check PSU wattage, connector availability, and physical clearance first. The OMEN 25L models accommodate cards up to approximately 320 mm in length, whilst the OMEN 45L offers even more clearance for the largest flagship GPUs.
Do I Need to Upgrade My Power Supply When Upgrading My GPU?
Not always. Check your PSU wattage first. If your PSU has sufficient wattage and the correct connectors, an upgrade isn’t necessary. For reference, an RTX 4070 SUPER typically requires a 650W PSU, whilst an RTX 4090 needs 850W or higher. Otherwise, a PSU upgrade is required for stability and to prevent system shutdowns under load.
Will Upgrading My GPU Void My OMEN Warranty?
OMEN desktops are designed for upgrades. As long as you follow HP’s guidelines and don’t cause damage during installation, your warranty remains valid. However, damage resulting from improper installation or modifications is not covered. If unsure, consult HP support or an authorised service provider.
How Do I Monitor Temperatures After Upgrading?
Use OMEN Gaming Hub for real-time monitoring of GPU and CPU temperatures, fan speeds, and system load. This software provides comprehensive system monitoring and allows you to adjust performance profiles and RGB lighting. Third-party applications such as MSI Afterburner or HWiNFO64 also offer detailed monitoring capabilities.
Can I Install Multiple GPUs in My OMEN Desktop?
Whilst OMEN desktops feature PCIe slots, multi-GPU configurations (SLI or CrossFire) are largely obsolete for gaming, as modern game engines don’t support them effectively. However, you can install a secondary GPU for specific workstation tasks such as video rendering or machine learning applications, provided your PSU has sufficient capacity.
Optimising Your Upgraded System
Driver Updates and Software Configuration
After installing your new GPU, keeping drivers updated is essential for optimal performance:
- Enable automatic driver updates through NVIDIA GeForce Experience or AMD Adrenalin software
- Configure game-specific graphics settings profiles for optimal performance
- Enable features such as NVIDIA Reflex for reduced latency in competitive gaming
- Utilise AMD FreeSync or NVIDIA G-SYNC if your monitor supports these technologies
Performance Monitoring and Benchmarking
Regular monitoring helps ensure your upgraded GPU is performing as expected:
- Run initial benchmarks to establish baseline performance metrics
- Monitor frame rates, temperatures, and power consumption during gaming sessions
- Use the OMEN Gaming Hub to create custom performance profiles for different games
- Check for thermal throttling if performance seems lower than expected
Conclusion and Performance Optimisation
A GPU upgrade can transform your OMEN desktop’s performance, breathing new life into your gaming experience. For successful upgrading, always verify compatibility: confirm physical dimensions, ensure sufficient power, and maintain adequate cooling.
Whether you want to game at 1080p, push 4K with ray tracing, or create content in Adobe® and Autodesk® workflows, OMEN desktops provide the flexibility to grow with your needs. The combination of tool-less access, industry-standard components, and advanced cooling solutions makes OMEN desktops an excellent choice for UK gamers who value upgradability.
Remember that a successful GPU upgrade extends beyond simply installing new hardware. Proper preparation, careful installation, and ongoing monitoring ensure you get the most from your investment. By following these gaming PC upgrade tips, you’ll extend the life of your OMEN desktop whilst maintaining peak performance for years to come.
Explore the latest OMEN gaming PCs and upgrade options to elevate your desktop experience. With the right GPU upgrade, your OMEN desktop will be ready to tackle the most demanding games and applications for years to come.
