Is your Dell XPS 15 feeling a bit sluggish, or are you constantly battling the “Storage Full” notification? It’s a common dilemma for even the most premium laptops. Upgrading your internal storage is one of the most impactful ways to breathe new life into your machine, boosting its speed, capacity, and overall responsiveness. And when it comes to high-performance SSDs, Sabrent is a name that consistently stands out.
If you’re on the hunt for the Sabrent best 1 tb ssd for xps 15, you’ve come to the right place. While the XPS 15 is a fantastic laptop, a storage upgrade can transform it into an even more formidable beast, whether you’re gaming, editing videos, or just multitasking like a pro. In this article, we’re diving deep into Sabrent’s 1TB offerings, along with a couple of other relevant storage solutions, to help you find the perfect fit for your Dell powerhouse.
We’ll explore a range of 1TB Sabrent storage solutions, from lightning-fast internal NVMe drives designed to slot right into your XPS 15’s M.2 bay, to external options for ultimate portability. We’ll also touch on some highly relevant alternatives and accessories to ensure you make an informed decision. Let’s find that ideal Sabrent best 1 tb ssd for xps 15 that’s just right for you!
Why Upgrade Your XPS 15 with a 1TB SSD?
Even if your XPS 15 came with an SSD, a 1TB upgrade can offer significant benefits:
- Blazing-Fast Performance: Modern NVMe SSDs leverage PCIe lanes for incredible read/write speeds, drastically reducing boot times, application loading, and file transfer speeds.
- Ample Storage for Everything: 1TB gives you plenty of room for your operating system, a massive game library, large design files, 4K videos, and all your essential applications without breaking a sweat.
- Enhanced Multitasking: With faster data access, your system can handle multiple demanding tasks more smoothly, making your workflow incredibly efficient.
- Future-Proofing: As software and games become more demanding, a high-capacity, high-speed SSD ensures your XPS 15 remains relevant and responsive for years to come.
Our Top 7 Sabrent 1TB Storage Solutions for XPS 15 (and More!)
Here’s our detailed look at some of the best 1TB storage options from Sabrent that could be a game-changer for your XPS 15, along with a few other useful Sabrent products.
1. SABRENT Rocket 4 1TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 M.2 2280
If you’re serious about upgrading your XPS 15’s internal storage, the Sabrent Rocket 4 1TB is a fantastic starting point. This drive offers excellent PCIe Gen4 performance, striking a superb balance between speed and value. It’s perfectly suited for the M.2 2280 slot found in most modern XPS 15 models, delivering significant improvements for everyday use, demanding applications, and even intense gaming sessions. It’s truly a contender for the Sabrent best 1 tb ssd for xps 15 in terms of balanced performance.
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Key Features:
- Blazing Gen4 Speed: Experience PCIe 4.0 NVMe performance with up to 7450MB/s read and 6100MB/s write speeds — optimized for fast boots, smooth gaming, and demanding workloads.
- High IOPS, Efficient Design: Delivers up to 850K/800K random IOPS while maintaining low heat and power draw — built for stable, long-term performance without throttling.
- Broad System Compatibility: Single-sided M.2 2280 form factor ensures wide compatibility across desktops, laptops, and PS5 systems with tight thermal or space constraints.
- Made for Pros and Gamers: Whether you’re creating, streaming, or gaming, the Rocket 4 provides fast, responsive storage ideal for high-performance systems.
- Trusted Sabrent Support: Engineered with premium hardware and supports Windows, macOS, and Linux. Register your drive online for firmware updates and expert technical help.
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Pros:
- Excellent Gen4 speeds for the price.
- M.2 2280 form factor is ideal for XPS 15.
- Efficient design helps with thermal management in laptops.
- Solid performance for both professionals and gamers.
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Cons:
- Not the absolute fastest Gen4 drive available (but very close).
- May require a separate heatsink for sustained heavy loads (though less critical in laptops).
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise its reliable performance and straightforward installation. Many note a dramatic improvement in system responsiveness and load times compared to their previous drives, making it a popular choice for laptop upgrades.
See it on Amazon here
2. SABRENT Rocket 2230 1TB NVMe SSD – PCIe Gen4 M.2
While the Sabrent Rocket 2230 is a phenomenal little drive, it’s important to note its unique form factor. This isn’t your typical M.2 2280 SSD for the XPS 15. The “2230” refers to its tiny 22mm x 30mm size, making it perfect for highly compact devices like the Steam Deck, Surface Pro, or certain ultrabooks where space is extremely limited. If your specific XPS 15 model has an M.2 2230 slot, this is a powerhouse. Otherwise, it would require an adapter, which isn’t ideal for internal upgrades.
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Key Features:
- Compact Compatibility: Designed for Steam Deck, Surface Pro, ultrabooks, and other small devices that require M.2 2230 – the perfect upgrade where space is limited.
- High-Speed Gen4 Performance: Achieve speeds up to 5GB/s and 800K IOPS for faster game loading, seamless multitasking, and better overall responsiveness.
- 1TB Capacity: Store more games, apps, and files without relying on slow microSD cards. Perfect for expanding internal storage on handhelds and laptops.
- Reliable and Efficient: Built with a new Gen4 NVMe controller and premium 3D TLC NAND. DRAM-less with HMB support for low power usage and cool operation.
- Retail-Grade Quality: Avoid second-hand OEM drives. Includes full warranty, Sabrent Acronis True Image cloning software, and firmware update support.
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Pros:
- Incredibly compact for small devices.
- Excellent Gen4 performance for its size.
- Low power usage for battery-conscious devices.
- Includes useful cloning software.
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Cons:
- Not the standard M.2 2280 form factor for most XPS 15 models, limiting direct internal compatibility.
- May be overkill or incompatible for users whose devices don’t specifically require 2230.
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User Impressions: Users with compatible devices like the Steam Deck absolutely love its performance and compact size, making it a top choice for niche upgrades. For XPS 15 owners, confirm your M.2 slot size before considering this option.
See it on Amazon here
3. SABRENT 1TB Rocket 4 Plus NVMe 4.0 Gen4 PCIe M.2
The Sabrent Rocket 4 Plus takes the already impressive Rocket 4 and kicks it up a notch. If you’re looking for the absolute peak of PCIe Gen4 performance for your XPS 15, this is definitely a top contender. It boasts even higher sequential speeds, making it ideal for content creators, power users, and competitive gamers who demand the fastest possible data transfer rates. This really aims to be the Sabrent best 1 tb ssd for xps 15 in the Gen4 category.
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Key Features:
- NVMe M.2 PCIe Gen4 x4 Interface. PCIe 4.0 Compliant / NVMe 1.3 Compliant.
- Power Management Support for APST / ASPM / L1.2.
- Supports SMART and TRIM commands. Supports ONFi 2.3, ONFi 3.0, ONFi 3.2 and ONFi 4.0 interface.
- Advanced Wear Leveling, Bad Block Management, Error Correction Code, and Over-Provision.
- All Sabrent SSDs come with FREE Sabrent Acronis True Image for Sabrent Software for easy Cloning. For those who require a specific sector size to clone their existing SSDs: A newly released Sabrent utility enables users to re-format the Rocket drive and choose the sector size of their liking, either 512-bytes or 4K bytes.
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Pros:
- Among the fastest Gen4 NVMe SSDs available.
- Robust features for data integrity and longevity.
- Includes valuable cloning software.
- Standard M.2 2280 form factor fits XPS 15.
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Cons:
- Premium performance often comes with a higher price tag.
- May generate more heat under intense loads, potentially requiring good laptop cooling.
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User Impressions: Reviewers consistently highlight its incredible speed and reliability, stating that it transforms their system’s performance. It’s often recommended for professional workflows where every millisecond counts.
See it on Amazon here
4. Crucial P310 1TB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280
While our main focus is on Sabrent, the Crucial P310 offers a compelling alternative for XPS 15 users seeking a reliable 1TB Gen4 NVMe SSD. Crucial (a brand of Micron) is a well-respected name in memory and storage, known for quality and compatibility. The P310 provides solid Gen4 performance that’s a significant step up from Gen3 drives, making it a great option for everyday users and casual gamers who want speed without breaking the bank.
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Key Features:
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Delivers up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds for quicker game load times, bootups, and smooth multitasking.
- Spacious 1TB SSD: Provides space for AAA games, apps, and media with standard Gen4 NVMe performance for casual gamers and home users.
- Broad Compatibility: Works seamlessly with laptops, desktops, and select gaming consoles including ROG Ally X, Lenovo Legion Go, and AYANEO Kun. Also backward compatible with PCIe Gen3 systems for flexible upgrades.
- Better Productivity: Up to 2x faster than previous Gen3 generation. Improve performance for real-world tasks like booting Windows, starting applications like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, and working in applications like Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
- Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control for reliable Gen4 performance trusted by gamers and home users.
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Pros:
- Reputable brand with trusted quality.
- Strong Gen4 performance for its price point.
- Excellent compatibility, including backward compatibility with Gen3.
- Good balance of speed and affordability.
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Cons:
- Not a Sabrent drive (if brand loyalty is a factor).
- Performance might not match the absolute highest-tier Gen4 drives.
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User Impressions: Customers often praise Crucial drives for their ease of installation and consistent performance. The P310 is frequently cited as a great value proposition for those looking to upgrade to Gen4 without spending top dollar.
See it on Amazon here
5. SABRENT Rocket 5 1TB Gen5 NVMe SSD – PCIe 5.0
Prepare for the future! The Sabrent Rocket 5 is a true next-generation SSD, pushing the boundaries of speed with PCIe 5.0. While incredible, it’s crucial to understand that most current Dell XPS 15 models (even the latest ones like the 9530) typically support up to PCIe Gen4. This means while the Rocket 5 will work in your XPS 15, it will operate at Gen4 speeds. If you’re building a cutting-edge desktop or plan to upgrade to a laptop that fully supports Gen5 soon, this is an amazing future-proof option. For now, it’s Gen4 speeds in your XPS 15, but with massive potential.
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Key Features:
- Blazing Gen5 Speed: Up to 14GB/s: Crush load times with up to 14,000 MB/s sequential read speeds and up to 2.3M IOPS. Engineered for PCIe 5.0 systems and power users who demand the best.
- DirectStorage & Gaming Optimized: Maximize performance in next-gen games and heavy 4K+ workflows. DirectStorage support ensures ultra-fast asset streaming with no stutter.
- Cool Under Pressure: Heatsink Ready: Use your motherboard’s heatsink or pair with Sabrent’s dual heatpipe solution (sold separately) for high thermal headroom and stable performance.
- Power Efficient at Only 7W: Push performance without spiking power. Rocket 5 consumes ~7W under load, delivering over 100% efficiency gains vs typical Gen4 SSDs.
- Built for Builders: Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux. Fits PCIe 5.0, 4.0, and 3.0 slots. Backed by Sabrent support and includes Acronis True Image for easy migration.
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Pros:
- Future-proof with top-tier PCIe Gen5 speeds.
- Incredible sequential read/write speeds for extreme workloads.
- DirectStorage optimization for next-gen gaming.
- Backward compatible with Gen4 slots.
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Cons:
- Most XPS 15 models won’t fully utilize Gen5 speeds (will operate at Gen4).
- Can be more expensive than dedicated Gen4 drives.
- Requires a robust cooling solution for sustained Gen5 performance (though less critical running at Gen4).
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User Impressions: Early adopters are blown away by its unparalleled speed in Gen5 compatible systems, noting its responsiveness. For XPS 15 users, it’s appreciated for its backward compatibility and the peace of mind of having a top-tier drive.
See it on Amazon here
6. SABRENT 3.5 Inch to x2 SSD / 2.5 Inch Internal Drive Bay Mounting Bracket Kit
It’s important to clarify that this Sabrent product isn’t an SSD itself, nor is it typically used for upgrading the internal storage of modern Dell XPS 15 laptops. Most recent XPS 15 models rely exclusively on M.2 NVMe SSDs and do not have traditional 2.5-inch drive bays. This mounting bracket is designed for desktop PCs or older laptops that have a 3.5-inch hard drive bay but you want to install two 2.5-inch SSDs (like SATA SSDs) into it. It’s a handy accessory for PC builders, but not directly relevant for an internal XPS 15 NVMe upgrade.
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Key Features:
- Molex 4 Pin to x2 15 Pin SATA Power Splitter Cable and x2 SATA Cables (Data) included.
- Screw pack included to mount the drives.
- Quick and easy installation.
- Compatible with all types of 2.5″ hard drive. Including SSD DRIVES!!!
- For use in 3.5″ internal drive bay.
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Pros:
- Excellent solution for installing 2.5″ SSDs into a 3.5″ bay.
- Includes all necessary cables and screws.
- Solid construction.
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Cons:
- Not an SSD; it’s an accessory.
- Not suitable for internal storage upgrades in modern Dell XPS 15 laptops due to lack of 3.5″ or 2.5″ bays.
- Doesn’t relate to NVMe M.2 SSDs.
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User Impressions: Desktop PC users find this bracket to be a perfect, complete solution for mounting 2.5″ drives, appreciating the included cables. For laptop users, it’s generally not applicable.
See it on Amazon here
7. SABRENT 1TB Rocket Nano XTRM External SSD, USB 3.2 / Thunderbolt 3
While this isn’t an internal upgrade for your XPS 15, the Sabrent Rocket Nano XTRM is an incredible external storage solution that perfectly complements your laptop. If you need blazing-fast, portable storage for large files, video editing on the go, or expanding your Steam library without taking up internal space, this external SSD is a game-changer. Its Thunderbolt 3 compatibility means your XPS 15 can leverage incredibly fast speeds, making it a powerful companion.
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Key Features:
- Always Works: The Rocket nano XTRM (SB-XTMN) is designed with maximum performance in mind with its Thunderbolt 3 transfer mode, but it’s also compatible with older USB systems. You can plug it into just about anything and get reliable results. Share away.
- Speed To Keep Up: Don’t settle for low compatibility and slow connections: the Rocket nano XTRM’s Thunderbolt 3 mode connects at 40Gbps for transfer speeds of up to 2700MBps. This is blazing fast, but the USB mode also transfers at up to 900MBps (USB 3.2 Gen 2×1) and has backward compatibility.
- Rugged Portability: The SB-XTMN is meant to be taken on the go, designed to be small and able to handle the hazards of travel. The solid aluminum body helps with heat dissipation and improves durability. An optional, included silicon sleeve can further protect from drops and harsh environments.
- Convenience At Your Fingertips: This portable SSD is designed to never get in your way. It’s plug and play with no drivers required, and is bus-powered. There’s no need to buy extra cables as it comes with both Thunderbolt and USB-C to USB-A cables to fit all of your devices.
- It’s Sabrent: The Rocket nano XTRM is designed to work with Windows and macOS systems. It will also operate with other compatible Thunderbolt and USB devices.
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Pros:
- Extremely fast external storage, especially with Thunderbolt 3.
- Rugged, portable design for on-the-go use.
- Wide compatibility with USB and Thunderbolt devices.
- Includes all necessary cables.
- Excellent for expanding storage without opening your laptop.
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Cons:
- Not an internal SSD upgrade for the XPS 15.
- Higher cost than some internal SSDs for the same capacity.
- Requires an available USB-C/Thunderbolt port.
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User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the speed and compact nature of the Rocket Nano XTRM. It’s a favorite among photographers, videographers, and anyone who needs reliable, fast external storage for large files.
See it on Amazon here
Buying Guide: What to Look for in an XPS 15 SSD
When picking the Sabrent best 1 tb ssd for xps 15, here’s what you should keep in mind:
- Form Factor: M.2 2280 is Key!
- Your XPS 15 almost certainly uses an M.2 2280 NVMe SSD. The “2280” refers to its 22mm width and 80mm length. Make sure the SSD you choose matches this for internal upgrades.
- Interface: NVMe PCIe Gen3 or Gen4?
- NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) is crucial for speed. Don’t settle for SATA M.2 drives if you’re upgrading.
- PCIe Generation: Most newer XPS 15 models (from 2020 onwards) support PCIe Gen4. Gen4 drives offer significantly faster speeds than Gen3. While Gen5 drives are available (like the Rocket 5), your XPS 15 will likely only run them at Gen4 speeds. Gen4 offers a fantastic performance boost and is generally recommended.
- Capacity: 1TB is a Sweet Spot
- For most users, 1TB provides an excellent balance of space for your OS, applications, games, and files without being excessively expensive.
- Reliability and Endurance (TBW)
- Look for SSDs with good TBW (Total Bytes Written) ratings, which indicate how much data can be written to the drive over its lifespan. Sabrent drives generally offer excellent endurance.
- Thermal Management
- High-performance NVMe SSDs can generate heat. While some come with heatsinks, these are usually for desktops. For laptops like the XPS 15, ensure the drive is efficient, and your laptop’s cooling system is up to snuff. Many Sabrent drives are designed with efficiency in mind.
- Included Software
- Sabrent often includes Acronis True Image for Sabrent, which is incredibly useful for cloning your old drive to your new one. This can save you a lot of hassle during the upgrade process.
FAQ Section
Q1: What is an NVMe SSD and why is it important for my XPS 15?
A1: NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) is a communication protocol specifically designed for SSDs to communicate directly with your computer’s CPU via PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) lanes. This direct connection dramatically reduces latency and increases data transfer speeds compared to older SATA SSDs, making your XPS 15 feel much faster for booting, loading apps, and transferring files.
Q2: Will a PCIe Gen4 SSD work in my XPS 15 if it only supports Gen3?
A2: Yes, a PCIe Gen4 SSD is generally backward compatible with PCIe Gen3 slots. However, it will only operate at Gen3 speeds, meaning you won’t get the full performance benefits of the Gen4 drive. Always check your specific XPS 15 model’s specifications to confirm its PCIe generation support.
Q3: How do I know which M.2 form factor my XPS 15 uses?
A3: Most modern Dell XPS 15 models use the M.2 2280 form factor (22mm wide, 80mm long). You can usually confirm this by checking your laptop’s official specifications on Dell’s website, consulting your user manual, or opening your laptop to visually inspect the SSD slot.
Q4: Do I need a heatsink for my new Sabrent 1TB SSD in my XPS 15?
A4: For most casual to moderate usage in an XPS 15, a heatsink isn’t strictly necessary for many Sabrent NVMe drives, as their efficiency often manages heat well. However, if you’re performing very sustained, heavy workloads (like continuous 4K video editing or intense gaming sessions for hours), a heatsink can help prevent thermal throttling. Laptop cooling is inherently limited, so some users opt for thin aftermarket heatsinks if space allows, but often the built-in laptop cooling is sufficient.
Q5: Is it difficult to install a new SSD in an XPS 15?
A5: Installing an M.2 SSD in an XPS 15 is generally considered a straightforward upgrade for anyone comfortable with basic computer hardware. It usually involves unscrewing the bottom panel, locating the M.2 slot, inserting the new SSD, and securing it with a small screw. Many online guides and videos can walk you through the process step-by-step. Cloning your old drive to the new one can be done with software like Sabrent Acronis True Image.
Q6: What does 1TB mean in terms of actual usable storage?
A6: While a drive is advertised as 1TB (Terabyte), the actual usable storage will be slightly less, typically around 931 GB. This discrepancy is due to the difference in how manufacturers calculate storage (decimal: 1TB = 1,000,000,000,000 bytes) versus how operating systems calculate it (binary: 1TiB = 1,099,511,627,776 bytes, often displayed as TB). Also, a small portion of the drive is reserved for firmware and over-provisioning for drive longevity.
Q7: Can I use an external Sabrent SSD (like the Rocket Nano XTRM) for gaming on my XPS 15?
A7: Absolutely! High-speed external SSDs like the Sabrent Rocket Nano XTRM, especially with Thunderbolt 3 connectivity, can deliver excellent performance for gaming. You can install games directly onto the external drive and launch them, experiencing near-internal drive load times. This is a great way to expand your game library without using up precious internal space.
Conclusion
Upgrading your Dell XPS 15 with a 1TB SSD, especially from a reputable brand like Sabrent, is one of the smartest moves you can make to enhance its performance and longevity. Whether you’re a content creator needing blistering speeds for large files, a gamer looking for quicker load times, or just someone who wants a snappier, more responsive laptop, a quality NVMe SSD will deliver.
We’ve explored several contenders for the Sabrent best 1 tb ssd for xps 15, ranging from the balanced performance of the Rocket 4 to the cutting-edge (and future-proof) Rocket 5, and even a powerful external option. Remember to prioritize the M.2 2280 form factor and PCIe Gen4 compatibility for internal upgrades.
No matter which Sabrent 1TB storage solution you choose, you’ll be investing in a significant performance boost that will keep your XPS 15 running at its peak for years to come. Happy upgrading!