If you believe you require more space for games or think it’s time to enhance system performance, upgrading to an SSD may be the most intelligent investment you can make. Modern games can demand a substantial amount of storage space. For instance, the Call of Duty series requires approximately 120-150 GB of space to install, and with updates this can increase to as much as 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 accomplish 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
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 accomplish 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 discover what kind of storage solution the product uses and what its form factor is.
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.
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 1TB will be sufficient for most users, but if you want to plan for future needs, feel free to upgrade to 2TB or even more.
Understanding the different types of SSDs available is crucial for making an informed decision. SATA SSDs typically offer read speeds of up to 550 MB/s, which is substantially faster than traditional hard drives. However, M.2 NVMe SSDs can achieve read speeds exceeding 3,500 MB/s, providing a dramatic improvement in loading times and overall system responsiveness. This performance difference is particularly noticeable when loading large game files or launching applications.
When selecting an SSD, also consider the endurance rating, measured in TBW (Terabytes Written). This indicates how much data can be written to the drive over its lifetime. For gaming purposes, an SSD with a higher TBW rating will provide better longevity, especially if you regularly install and uninstall large games.
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. Creating a complete system backup is essential - you can use Windows’ built-in backup tools or third-party software to create a system image. This ensures that if anything goes wrong during the upgrade process, you can restore your system to its previous state.
Additionally, it’s wise to have an anti-static wrist strap available, although it’s not strictly necessary. Static electricity can damage sensitive electronic components, and whilst the risk is relatively low, taking precautions is always sensible. If you don’t have an anti-static wrist strap, you can ground yourself by touching a metal surface before handling internal components.
Ensure you have adequate lighting in your workspace and consider using a magnetic tray to keep track of small screws during disassembly. This simple step can save considerable time and frustration when reassembling your system.
How to Install SSD in HP OMEN Laptop: Step-by-Step Guide
- Turn off and unplug your HP OMEN laptop.
- Locate the back panel of your HP OMEN laptop, then open the panel by removing the screws.
- Unplug the battery cable inside your laptop.
- Carefully remove the existing SSD. Pay attention to the location of the cables and/or slots.
- Insert the new SSD in the same slot.
- Reattach the battery cable, replace and screw in the back laptop panel.
- Turn on your laptop and make sure your system detects the new SSD on the BIOS/UEFI screen.
- Install your operating system.
When removing the back panel, take note of any clips or latches that may be holding it in place in addition to screws. Some HP OMEN laptop models use a combination of screws and clips, and attempting to force the panel off without releasing all fasteners can result in damage.
Once inside, you’ll notice that the SSD is typically held in place by a single screw at the end opposite the connector. This screw keeps the SSD flat against the motherboard. When removing the existing SSD, gently push it away from the connector at a slight angle - it should slide out smoothly. When inserting the new SSD, align it with the slot at approximately a 30-degree angle, then press it into the connector firmly but gently. The SSD will naturally want to spring up slightly; press it down flat and secure it with the screw.
How to Install SSD in HP OMEN Desktop: Complete Instructions
In this example, we will use the HP OMEN 40L and 25L models. The HP OMEN 40L SSD upgrade is identical to the 25L and you can use the same steps.
- Turn off and unplug your computer. Remove all cables from the back.
- Open the side panel by unscrewing the screws on the back.
- 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.
- Unscrew the screw that connects the SSD to the slot and allow it to lift up slightly. Carefully pull it out of the slot.
- Insert the new SSD into the same slot and screw it in.
- Close the side panel and reconnect all the cables you removed.
- Turn on the PC and make sure your system detects the new SSD on the BIOS/UEFI screen.
- Install your operating system and restore your system using the clone you created.
On the HP OMEN 40L and 25L models, you can also use 2.5-inch SATA SSDs. You can use the larger capacity (and cheaper) SATA SSDs for data storage and (slightly more expensive) M.2 SSDs for your operating system and games. In both models, 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.
When working with desktop systems, cable management becomes particularly important. Poor cable routing can restrict airflow, leading to higher temperatures and potentially reduced performance. After installing your new SSD, take a moment to organise cables using cable ties or Velcro straps. Route cables along the designated cable management channels in your case, keeping them away from fans and ensuring they don’t obstruct air intake or exhaust areas.
If you’re installing a SATA SSD in addition to an M.2 drive, you’ll need to connect both the SATA data cable to the motherboard and the SATA power cable from your power supply. These connections are typically straightforward, but ensure they’re firmly seated to avoid connection issues.
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 accomplish this, after installing the new SSD:
- Turn on your PC or laptop and enter the “Boot Menu” screen by holding down the F9 key
- Select Windows media (a USB stick or DVD) to be first in the boot order and reboot the system.
- 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.
- 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 this article.
After installation, it’s advisable to check that your SSD is running at optimal performance. You can use the Windows built-in TRIM command to maintain SSD health. Open Command Prompt as administrator and type “fsutil behavior query DisableDeleteNotify” - if the result is 0, TRIM is enabled. If it returns 1, TRIM is disabled and should be enabled for optimal SSD performance.
Additionally, ensure that your SSD firmware is up to date. Most SSD manufacturers provide firmware update utilities that can be downloaded from their websites. These updates often include performance improvements and bug fixes that can enhance your SSD’s reliability and speed.
Windows 10 and 11 are generally well-optimised for SSDs out of the box, but you may want to verify that certain settings are configured correctly. For instance, ensure that your power plan is set to “High Performance” or “Balanced” rather than “Power Saver”, as this can impact SSD performance.
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. If the SSD still isn’t recognised, try testing it in a different slot if available, or temporarily connect it to another system to verify that the drive itself is functioning properly.
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. Ensure that your boot mode (UEFI or Legacy) is correctly configured for your installation media.
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 port on your motherboard - some systems have both PCIe Gen 3 and Gen 4 slots, and using the wrong slot can limit performance.
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 cooling pad or installing a heatsink specifically designed for M.2 SSDs. Many modern motherboards include M.2 heatsinks, so check if your system has one available.
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, it’s always wise to check your specific warranty terms before proceeding with any hardware modifications.
Q: Can I use my old SSD as additional storage after upgrading?
A: Absolutely. If you’ve replaced your primary SSD, you can use the old one as secondary storage. For laptops with only one M.2 slot, you can purchase an external USB enclosure for the old SSD. For desktops with multiple slots or drive bays, you can install it as additional internal storage.
Maximising Your HP OMEN Experience
Upgrading to a new SSD has advantages in terms of both storage space and system performance, you can store and access more games or files faster. Moreover, this upgrade is straightforward, so it can be accomplished by almost anyone. To maintain the performance boost you gain, check regularly for new firmware releases for your new SSD. Also, consider using a cooling pad if its temperature during operation exceeds 70°C - 80°C (158°F - 176°F).
Beyond the immediate benefits of increased storage and faster load times, an SSD upgrade can significantly impact your overall gaming experience. Games with large open worlds will load faster, reducing wait times between gameplay sessions. Texture streaming becomes smoother, potentially reducing stuttering and improving visual quality in demanding titles. System boot times will decrease dramatically, allowing you to start gaming sessions more quickly.
For those who regularly work with large files, such as video editing or 3D rendering, an SSD upgrade can drastically reduce project load times and improve scrubbing performance in editing software. The enhanced random read/write speeds of SSDs make them particularly well-suited for professional workstation applications.
Consider implementing a tiered storage strategy: use a fast M.2 NVMe SSD for your operating system and most frequently played games, whilst utilising a larger SATA SSD or traditional hard drive for less frequently accessed files and older games. This approach maximises both performance and storage capacity whilst managing costs effectively.
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your SSD performing at its best. Schedule periodic checks for firmware updates, monitor your drive’s health using the manufacturer’s diagnostic tools, and ensure that TRIM is functioning correctly. These simple steps can help extend the life of your SSD and maintain optimal performance.
If you’re looking to build or upgrade to a complete high-performance gaming system, exploring HP’s range of gaming PCs and gaming desktops can provide you with systems specifically designed for upgradability and performance. These systems often feature the latest connectivity standards and ample room for expansion, making future upgrades even more straightforward.
Whether you’re upgrading an existing OMEN system or considering a new gaming setup, the investment in SSD technology represents one of the most cost-effective ways to enhance your computing experience. The combination of faster load times, improved system responsiveness, and increased reliability makes SSD upgrades essential for modern gaming and productivity tasks.
