Is your Dell XPS 8930 feeling a bit sluggish, or are you constantly running out of storage space? It’s a common dilemma, but there’s a fantastic solution: upgrading to a high-capacity, lightning-fast internal Solid State Drive (SSD). A 1TB internal SSD can dramatically boost your system’s responsiveness, shorten loading times, and give you plenty of room for games, applications, and all your important files.
When you’re looking for the Lexar best 1t internal ssd for Dell XPS 8930, or any other top-tier brand, you’ll find a range of options, from ultra-fast NVMe drives to reliable SATA SSDs. The Dell XPS 8930 is a versatile machine, supporting both M.2 NVMe drives (perfect for the primary boot drive) and 2.5-inch SATA drives (great for secondary storage or replacing a traditional hard drive). We’ve picked out five excellent 1TB internal SSD options to help you make the right choice, including a solid contender from Lexar. Let’s dive in!
Why Upgrade Your Dell XPS 8930’s Storage?
Upgrading your Dell XPS 8930 with a new SSD isn’t just about more space; it’s about transforming your computing experience. Here’s what you stand to gain:
- Blazing-Fast Boot Times: Say goodbye to long waits; your PC will start up in mere seconds.
- Rapid Application Loading: Software, games, and large files will open almost instantly.
- Improved System Responsiveness: Multitasking becomes smoother, and your system feels snappier overall.
- Enhanced Durability: SSDs have no moving parts, making them more resistant to drops and bumps than traditional hard drives.
- Energy Efficiency: They consume less power, potentially contributing to a slightly cooler and quieter system.
Let’s check out our top picks!
1. Dell SSD 1TB Class 35 M.2 2230 NVMe PCIe 4.0
This Dell-branded SSD brings the speed of PCIe 4.0 to your Dell XPS 8930, offering a significant performance leap for those looking to maximize their system’s potential. While the XPS 8930’s M.2 slot typically operates at PCIe 3.0 speeds, this drive is still backward compatible and will deliver excellent performance, running at the maximum speed your system can handle. Its smaller 2230 form factor is a unique characteristic, making it suitable for specific slots or requiring an adapter for standard 2280 M.2 slots.
Key Features:
– Genuine Dell 1TB Class 35 (Gen 4×4) Solid State Drive
– NVMe PCIe 4.0 interface for cutting-edge speeds
– 1TB digital storage capacity
– M.2 2230 form factor
Pros:
– Delivers exceptional speed, even when running at PCIe 3.0 in the XPS 8930
– Genuine Dell component ensures compatibility (with proper form factor considerations)
– Ideal for performance-hungry users
– Future-proof with PCIe 4.0 technology
Cons:
– 2230 form factor might require an adapter or be specific to certain secondary M.2 slots in the XPS 8930, so check your system’s physical compatibility
– PCIe 4.0 speeds won’t be fully utilized in the XPS 8930’s native M.2 slot
– Potentially pricier than a PCIe 3.0 equivalent
User Impressions:
Users appreciate the “genuine Dell” aspect for peace of mind regarding compatibility. The drive is lauded for its speed, though some note the 2230 form factor might necessitate specific installation considerations or a bracket, and are aware that PCIe 4.0 speeds aren’t fully leveraged in older systems like the 8930.
2. Lexar 960GB NQ100 SSD 2.5 Inch SATA III Internal Solid
When you’re searching for a reliable, value-packed upgrade, this Lexar NQ100 is an excellent contender for the Lexar best 1t internal ssd for Dell XPS 8930 if you’re looking for a 2.5-inch SATA drive. While technically 960GB, it’s essentially a 1TB class drive and a fantastic option for replacing an older HDD or adding secondary storage. It offers a noticeable performance boost over traditional hard drives, making your system feel much faster without breaking the bank.
Key Features:
– Upgrade your laptop or desktop computer for faster startups, data transfers, and application loads
– Sequential read speeds of up to 550MB/s
– Experience better performance and reliability than with a traditional hard drive
– Shock and vibration resistant with no moving parts
– [960GB] 336TBW endurance rating
– Three-year limited warranty
Pros:
– Significant speed increase over traditional hard drives
– Excellent value for money for a near 1TB capacity
– Highly durable and reliable due to no moving parts
– Easy installation into any 2.5-inch drive bay in the XPS 8930
– Good endurance rating (TBW) for long-term use
Cons:
– Slower than NVMe PCIe SSDs
– Not a true 1TB, but 960GB is still very generous
– Limited to SATA III interface speeds
User Impressions:
Customers frequently praise the Lexar NQ100 for its straightforward installation and immediate performance improvements. It’s often recommended as a cost-effective way to revitalize an older system or add fast secondary storage, with many highlighting its reliability and solid read/write speeds for everyday tasks.
3. Dell SSD 1TB Class 40 M.2 2280 NVMe PCIe 3.0
This Dell Class 40 SSD is arguably the perfect fit for the primary M.2 slot in your Dell XPS 8930. Featuring the standard 2280 form factor and PCIe 3.0 NVMe interface, it aligns perfectly with the system’s capabilities, ensuring optimal performance without any compatibility headaches. It’s designed to deliver high-speed data transfers and responsive computing, making it an ideal upgrade for your main operating system and frequently used applications.
Key Features:
– Dell Class 40 SSD: High-Performance Solid State Drive
– 1TB Digital Storage Capacity: Store Large Amounts of Data
– M.2 2280 NVMe PCIe 3.0: Fast Data Transfer Speeds
– Gen 3×4: Next-Generation NAND Flash Memory
– Compatible with Laptops and Desktops: Works with Dell and Non-Dell Systems
Pros:
– Perfect native compatibility with Dell XPS 8930’s M.2 slot (2280 form factor, PCIe 3.0)
– Delivers excellent NVMe speeds for boot-up and application loading
– Genuine Dell part, ensuring reliability and system synergy
– Ample 1TB storage for most users
– Standard M.2 2280 size makes installation simple
Cons:
– PCIe 3.0 is not as fast as the latest PCIe 4.0/5.0 drives (though irrelevant for XPS 8930’s native slot)
– Might be slightly more expensive than some third-party PCIe 3.0 alternatives
User Impressions:
Users who’ve installed this drive in compatible Dell systems, including the XPS 8930, report seamless integration and a dramatic increase in speed. The “plug-and-play” aspect for Dell owners is a huge plus, and its reliable performance makes it a favorite for primary system drives.
4. INLAND Professional 1TB SSD 3D NAND SATA III 6Gb/s 2.5″
If you’re looking for a robust and budget-friendly 2.5-inch SATA solution, the INLAND Professional 1TB SSD is a fantastic choice. This drive is designed for mainstream PCs, laptops, and ultrabooks, offering a substantial speed upgrade over traditional hard drives. Its 3D TLC NAND flash technology ensures good endurance and reliability, making it an excellent option for expanding your storage or as a speedy secondary drive in your Dell XPS 8930.
Key Features:
– SSD Capacity 1TB. Internal Solid State Drive performance may vary based on system hardware and configuration
– Sequential Read/Write Speed up to 500/470 MB/s; Random Read/Write 4K: up to 70,000 IOPS
– SATA III 6Gb/s, faster boot-up, shutdown, application loading and file transfer
– 3D TLC NAND flash, resistant to shock, vibration, and movement. No overheat, No noise
– Endurance up to 660TBW
– 3 Year Limited Parts and Labor Warranty. Ideal for mainstream PCs, laptops and ultrabooks for multiple use
Pros:
– Full 1TB capacity at a competitive price point
– Excellent endurance rating (660 TBW) for its class
– Reliable 3D TLC NAND flash for consistent performance
– Faster than traditional HDDs, great for secondary storage or general upgrades
– Silent operation and durable build
Cons:
– Limited by SATA III speeds, which are slower than NVMe drives
– Not a Dell OEM part, though universally compatible
– Read/write speeds are typical for SATA SSDs, not groundbreaking
User Impressions:
Many users commend the INLAND Professional for its impressive price-to-performance ratio. It’s often cited as a reliable “workhorse” SSD, perfect for everyday computing tasks, gaming libraries, or storing large media files. The high TBW rating gives users confidence in its longevity.
5. Dell SSD 1TB Class 35 M.2 2230 NVMe PCIe 3.0
This is another Dell-branded M.2 NVMe SSD, perfect for those who prioritize genuine Dell components and specific compatibility. Unlike its PCIe 4.0 sibling reviewed earlier, this Class 35 drive is a PCIe 3.0 model, matching the native M.2 slot speed of the Dell XPS 8930. However, it shares the 2230 form factor, meaning you’ll need to confirm if your XPS 8930 can accommodate this smaller size directly or if an adapter is necessary for its primary M.2 slot (which typically accepts 2280 drives).
Key Features:
– Genuine Dell 1TB Class 35 Solid State Drive
– NVMe PCIe 3.0 interface for fast data transfer
– 1TB digital storage capacity
– M.2 2230 form factor
Pros:
– Genuine Dell component, ideal for full system compatibility
– PCIe 3.0 speed perfectly matches the XPS 8930’s M.2 slot capabilities
– Ample 1TB storage for a primary drive
– NVMe technology offers significantly faster performance than SATA SSDs
Cons:
– 2230 form factor is not standard for the primary M.2 slot in most XPS 8930s; check physical compatibility or plan for an adapter
– Not as readily available as 2280 drives for the 8930’s main slot
– Might be an overkill for specific secondary 2230 slots that aren’t full NVMe speed
User Impressions:
Customers value the OEM aspect for these drives, ensuring perfect system integration if the form factor matches. Performance is generally praised, with the PCIe 3.0 speeds being more than adequate for most users. The key takeaway is always to double-check the physical dimensions required for your specific M.2 slot.
Conclusion
Upgrading your Dell XPS 8930 with a 1TB internal SSD is one of the best ways to inject new life into your desktop. Whether you opt for the raw speed of an NVMe drive like the Dell Class 40 (perfectly sized for your XPS 8930’s M.2 slot!) or the reliable, cost-effective performance of a 2.5-inch SATA option like the Lexar NQ100 or INLAND Professional, you’re in for a treat.
Before making your final choice, always verify the specific slots available in your Dell XPS 8930 and their supported form factors (M.2 2280, 2.5-inch SATA) and PCIe generations. This small bit of research ensures a smooth installation and optimal performance. Happy upgrading!
FAQ Section
Q1: What type of SSDs are compatible with the Dell XPS 8930?
A1: The Dell XPS 8930 typically supports two main types of internal SSDs: M.2 NVMe PCIe SSDs (usually 2280 form factor for the primary slot) and 2.5-inch SATA III SSDs. You can often have one of each, using the M.2 as your primary boot drive and the 2.5-inch for mass storage.
Q2: Can I use a PCIe 4.0 SSD in my Dell XPS 8930?
A2: Yes, you can. However, the Dell XPS 8930’s M.2 slot is generally a PCIe 3.0 interface. This means a PCIe 4.0 SSD will work, but it will operate at PCIe 3.0 speeds, not utilizing its full potential. It’s backward compatible, so it won’t cause issues, just don’t expect PCIe 4.0 performance.
Q3: Is a 1TB internal SSD enough storage for the Dell XPS 8930?
A3: For many users, a 1TB internal SSD provides a great balance of storage capacity and speed. It’s usually plenty for the operating system, several large games, creative software, and personal documents. If you deal with huge media libraries or many large files, you might consider pairing it with a larger traditional hard drive or another SATA SSD for secondary storage.
Q4: What’s the difference between NVMe and SATA SSDs for my XPS 8930?
A4: NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs connect via the PCIe interface and are significantly faster (up to 5-7 times) than SATA (Serial ATA) SSDs, which connect via the SATA III interface. NVMe drives are ideal for your primary boot drive where speed is critical, while SATA SSDs are excellent for secondary storage or budget-friendly primary drives.
Q5: How do I install an SSD in my Dell XPS 8930?
A5: For a 2.5-inch SATA SSD, you’ll need to mount it into an available 2.5-inch drive bay (often requiring a bracket) and connect it with a SATA data cable and a SATA power cable from your power supply. For an M.2 NVMe SSD, you’ll locate the M.2 slot on your motherboard, insert the drive at an angle, and secure it with a small screw. Always power off and unplug your PC before opening the case, and consult your XPS 8930’s manual for precise instructions.
Q6: What is TBW (Terabytes Written) and why is it important for SSDs?
A6: TBW stands for Terabytes Written and is a measure of an SSD’s endurance, indicating how much data can be written to the drive over its lifetime before its reliability might start to degrade. A higher TBW rating means the SSD is designed to last longer under heavy write workloads. For a typical user, even a moderate TBW rating (e.g., 300 TBW for a 1TB drive) is usually sufficient for many years of use.
Q7: Do I need any special tools to install an SSD in my Dell XPS 8930?
A7: For most installations, a Phillips head screwdriver is all you’ll need. Some M.2 slots might require a tiny M.2 screw (which often comes with the motherboard or the SSD itself). For 2.5-inch drives, you might need a mounting bracket if your case doesn’t have native 2.5-inch bays.