HP OMEN SSD Upgrade Guide: Everything You Need to Know

If you reckon you need more space for games or believe it’s time to boost system performance, upgrading to an SSD may be the smartest investment you can make. Modern games can require a substantial amount of storage space, and for Kiwi gamers with slower internet connections in some regions, managing that storage efficiently becomes even more critical. For example, the Call of Duty series requires around 120-150 GB of space to install, and with updates this can increase to up to 200 GB.

An SSD upgrade will not only help you increase your storage space, but also noticeably improve your system performance. Moreover, HP OMEN owners can do this themselves: if you are a DIY PC enthusiast, this is an upgrade you can complete without much difficulty. In this guide, you will find the following information:

  • General information about HP OMEN laptop SSD upgrade process
  • How to install SSD in HP OMEN desktop - step by step
  • How to install SSD in HP OMEN laptop - step by step
  • Possible problems and solutions
  • Tips for maximising your upgraded system

Can I Upgrade the SSD on My OMEN? Compatibility Basics

The HP OMEN gaming series was created with the expectations and needs of gamers in mind, and upgradability is a common feature of PCs and laptops in this series. In other words, yes, you can upgrade your SSD on your OMEN. However, the upgrade options will vary depending on the specifications of the model you are using. Therefore, it is best to start by identifying your specific OMEN model.

To do this, you will need the serial number, product number, or product name of your HP OMEN. You can find this information on the product label: the label can be on the bottom, side, top, or back of the product. Once you find the required information, enter it in the “identify your product for manuals” search box on the official HP Support website. This will take you to the official support page for your product. Here you can find out what kind of storage solution the product uses and what its form factor is.

Windows Device Manager displaying storage device informationWindows Device Manager displaying storage device information

Another option is to use the Device Manager feature of Windows. Right-click on the Start button on the Taskbar and click on ‘Device Manager’. Under the ‘Disk Drives’ list, you can see the type and in most cases the capacity of the storage devices on your system.

Windows Device Manager displaying storage device informationWindows Device Manager displaying storage device information

Understanding Your OMEN Model’s Storage Options

Different HP OMEN models support various types of SSDs, and knowing which type your system supports is crucial before making a purchase. Most modern OMEN laptops and desktops support M.2 NVMe SSDs, which offer the fastest performance. Some models also have additional slots for 2.5-inch SATA SSDs, providing flexibility for expanding storage without replacing your primary drive.

When checking your OMEN’s specifications, pay particular attention to:

  • The form factor (M.2 2280, 2.5-inch SATA, etc.)
  • The interface type (NVMe PCIe, SATA III)
  • The number of available slots
  • Maximum supported capacity per slot

Choosing the Right SSD for Your HP OMEN

SSDs have undergone many changes over time in terms of form factor, performance, and capacity. SATA SSDs are the first and oldest: they mostly use the SATA III standard and the same connection as traditional HDDs. M.2 is the modern and fastest form factor used in high-end PCs and laptops.

Generally speaking, if you have multiple SSD upgrade options compatible with your system, we recommend going with the most modern and fastest one. So, if your system supports it, you should consider upgrading to M.2 SSDs. To choose the capacity, think about your needs: for example, how much space do the games you install usually require? A minimum capacity of 1 TB will be enough for most users, but if you want to plan for future needs, feel free to upgrade to 2 TB or even more.

Performance Considerations for New Zealand Gamers

For New Zealand gamers, having ample local storage is particularly important. With higher latency to overseas game servers and the time it takes to download large game files, being able to keep multiple games installed simultaneously becomes invaluable. Consider these factors when selecting your SSD capacity:

  • Large AAA titles now regularly exceed 100 GB
  • Game updates and patches add to storage requirements
  • Recording gameplay or streaming requires additional space
  • Having multiple games installed means less time spent downloading

An SSD upgrade not only provides more space but dramatically reduces load times, getting you into your games faster. This is especially noticeable in open-world games and titles with frequent loading screens.

Essential Tools and Preparation for HP OMEN SSD Upgrade

For HP OMEN laptop SSD upgrade, you need the following tools:

  • New SSD compatible with your system
  • A precision tool kit
  • (Optional) Your laptop’s user guide to refer to when you need it

For HP OMEN desktop SSD upgrade you need the following tools:

  • New SSD compatible with your system
  • Screwdriver
  • A SATA data cable if using a SATA SSD
  • (Optional) Your desktop PC’s user guide for reference when you need it

Before you start, it is always good practice to back up your important files. Clean your workspace and always unplug your device before opening it. Do not plug in your device until you are finished.

Safety Precautions and Best Practices

Working inside your computer requires care and attention to detail. Follow these safety guidelines to ensure a successful upgrade:

  • Work on a clean, flat, non-static surface
  • Discharge any static electricity by touching a grounded metal object
  • Keep track of all screws and components you remove
  • Take photos during disassembly to help with reassembly
  • Handle the SSD by its edges to avoid damaging components
  • Never force components into place

How to Install SSD in HP OMEN Laptop: Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Turn off and unplug your HP OMEN laptop.

  2. Locate the back panel of your HP OMEN laptop, then open the panel by removing the screws.

  3. Unplug the battery cable inside your laptop.

  4. Carefully remove the existing SSD. Pay attention to the location of the cables and/or slots.

  5. Insert the new SSD in the same slot.

  6. Reattach the battery cable, replace and screw in the back laptop panel.

  7. Turn on your laptop and make sure your system detects the new SSD on the BIOS/UEFI screen.

  8. Install your operating system.

HP OMEN desktop M.2 and SATA SSD installation guideHP OMEN desktop M.2 and SATA SSD installation guide

Post-Installation Laptop Checks

After installing your new SSD in your HP OMEN laptop, perform these verification steps:

  • Enter the BIOS/UEFI (usually by pressing F10 during startup) and confirm the new SSD is detected
  • Check that the SSD’s capacity is correctly displayed
  • Ensure the boot order is set correctly if you’re replacing your primary drive
  • Monitor the SSD’s temperature during initial use to ensure proper installation

How to Install SSD in HP OMEN Desktop: Complete Instructions

For desktop installations, the process varies slightly depending on whether you’re installing an M.2 SSD or a 2.5-inch SATA SSD. We’ll cover both methods to ensure you’re prepared regardless of which type you’ve chosen.

Installing an M.2 SSD in HP OMEN Desktop

  1. Turn off and unplug your computer. Remove all cables from the back.

  2. Open the side panel by unscrewing the screws on the back.

  3. Find the M.2 SSD slot on the motherboard. Some models have two M.2 SSD slots, and one of them may be empty. You can insert the new SSD into the empty slot or replace the existing one.

  4. Unscrew the screw that connects the SSD to the slot and allow it to lift up slightly. Carefully pull it out of the slot.

  5. Insert the new SSD into the same slot and screw it in.

  6. Close the side panel and reconnect all the cables you removed.

  7. Turn on the PC and make sure your system detects the new SSD on the BIOS/UEFI screen.

  8. Install your operating system and restore your system using the clone you created.

Installing a 2.5-Inch SATA SSD in HP OMEN Desktop

On HP OMEN desktop models, you can also use 2.5-inch SATA SSDs. You can use the larger capacity (and more affordable) SATA SSDs for data storage and (slightly more expensive) M.2 SSDs for your operating system and games. The SATA SSD can be installed in the existing 2.5-inch disk bay. In this case, you will need to use a SATA data cable: pay attention to cable management and make sure they do not obstruct airflow.

  1. Locate the 2.5-inch drive bay in your OMEN desktop case
  2. Mount the SSD using the provided screws or mounting brackets
  3. Connect the SATA data cable to the SSD and motherboard
  4. Connect the SATA power cable from your power supply
  5. Ensure cables are neatly routed and secured
  6. Close the case and reconnect all external cables

Setting Up Your New SSD: Software and Configuration

To start using your new SSD, you need to format it so that Windows recognises it and reinstall your operating system. To do this, after installing the new SSD:

  1. Turn on your PC or laptop and enter the “Boot Menu” screen by holding down the F9 key

  2. Select Windows media (a USB stick or DVD) to be first in the boot order and reboot the system.

  3. Windows installation will start. Choose ‘Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)’ and set your new SSD as the drive where the operating system will be installed. Windows will automatically format the SSD and complete the OS installation.

  4. When your computer reboots, restore your game library and other files by restoring the clone file you have created previously. You can find more information about cloning and clone restoration in HP’s support documentation.

Optimising Your New SSD for Gaming Performance

Once your new SSD is installed and your operating system is running, take these additional steps to maximise performance:

  • Enable TRIM support to maintain long-term SSD performance
  • Disable disk defragmentation (SSDs don’t require this)
  • Ensure AHCI mode is enabled in BIOS for optimal speed
  • Update your SSD’s firmware if available
  • Install the latest storage drivers from HP’s support site
  • Configure your page file settings appropriately for your RAM capacity

For gamers, consider dedicating your fastest SSD exclusively to your operating system and most-played games, whilst using a secondary drive for less frequently accessed titles and media files.

Troubleshooting Common HP OMEN SSD Upgrade Issues

Q: New SSD is not recognised in BIOS, what can I do?

A: Check that you have installed the SSD in the correct slot and that the cables, if any, are correctly installed. Even a loose or dislodged cable can cause this problem. Ensure the SSD is firmly seated in its slot, and if using M.2, verify that the mounting screw is properly tightened without over-tightening.

Q: My system does not boot after installing a new SSD, what can I do?

A: Check if your SSD is properly set as the primary boot device in BIOS. You may need to install an OS if it is not available on the SSD. Start a new Windows installation and select the ‘Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)’ option. If you cloned your old drive, ensure the clone process completed successfully.

Q: I’m not getting the performance I expected with my new SSD, what could be the reason?

A: There can be many reasons for this. First, try updating your BIOS and check if there is new firmware for the SSD. Also, make sure that AHCI mode is enabled in the BIOS. Verify that your SSD is connected to the fastest available slot (some motherboards have M.2 slots with different speeds). Check that Windows is installed on the new SSD and not running from the old drive.

Q: My newly installed SSD is getting very hot; will it cause a problem?

A: It is normal and within limits for SSDs to heat up to around 70°C - 80°C (158°F - 176°F). If it gets hotter than this, consider using a heatsink or ensuring proper case airflow. Many modern M.2 SSDs come with heatsinks, or you can purchase aftermarket cooling solutions designed specifically for M.2 drives.

Q: Will my warranty expire if I install a new SSD myself?

A: Upgrading the SSD yourself does not void the warranty as long as you do not damage any other internal parts of your device during the upgrade. However, always check HP’s specific warranty terms for your region. Keep all original components in case you need to return the device for warranty service.

Q: Can I keep my old SSD as a secondary drive?

A: Yes, if your system has an additional slot available. This is an excellent way to maximise storage whilst keeping costs down. You can use your original SSD for game storage or as a backup drive for important files.

Maintaining Peak Performance After Your Upgrade

Once you’ve completed your SSD upgrade, maintaining optimal performance requires minimal effort but yields significant benefits. Here are key practices to ensure your new SSD continues delivering peak performance:

Regular Maintenance Tasks

Schedule these maintenance activities to keep your system running smoothly:

  • Check for SSD firmware updates quarterly
  • Monitor drive health using built-in Windows tools or manufacturer software
  • Keep at least 10-15% of your SSD capacity free for optimal performance
  • Run Windows Update regularly to ensure you have the latest storage drivers
  • Clean dust from your system every few months to maintain proper cooling

Storage Management Strategies

Efficient storage management helps you make the most of your upgraded SSD:

  • Uninstall games you’ve completed or no longer play
  • Use game launchers’ built-in tools to verify file integrity periodically
  • Consider cloud storage for save games and important files
  • Archive gameplay recordings to external storage or cloud services
  • Keep your fastest SSD reserved for your operating system and most-played games

Why Choose HP OMEN for Your Gaming Setup

HP OMEN systems are specifically designed with upgradability and performance in mind, making them ideal for gamers who want to customise and enhance their rigs over time. The thoughtful engineering ensures that upgrades like adding or replacing SSDs remain accessible to users of all skill levels.

If you want to explore the complete range of HP gaming desktops, you’ll find systems designed to accommodate your growing storage needs. For portable gaming power, browse our selection of HP gaming laptops that combine performance with upgrade potential.

Beyond storage upgrades, HP OMEN systems offer extensive customisation options. Explore HP gaming accessories to complete your setup with peripherals designed to match your OMEN’s performance capabilities.

Conclusion: Unlock Your OMEN’s Full Potential

Upgrading your HP OMEN with a new SSD represents one of the most impactful improvements you can make to your gaming system. The combination of increased storage capacity and dramatically improved performance means faster load times, quicker game installations, and the ability to maintain a larger library of instantly accessible games. For New Zealand gamers, where download times can be significant, having ample fast storage becomes even more valuable.

Whether you’re upgrading a laptop or desktop, the process is straightforward and well within the capabilities of most users. The investment in a quality SSD pays dividends in daily use, transforming your gaming experience with snappier responsiveness and eliminating frustrating wait times.

Remember to follow proper installation procedures, maintain your new drive with regular updates, and monitor its performance to ensure you’re getting the most from your upgrade. With your expanded storage capacity, you’ll be ready to tackle any game that catches your interest without worrying about storage limitations.

Ready to take your OMEN to the next level? Whether you’re looking to upgrade your existing system or considering a new HP OMEN gaming laptop or desktop, you’re investing in a platform designed to grow with your gaming needs.