Frustrated with your Dell Inspiron 3590’s sluggish performance? Many users find themselves wishing for a speed boost, especially when dealing with large files or demanding applications. This post will guide you through the process of adding an SSD to your Dell Inspiron 3590. You’ll learn everything from identifying compatible drives to performing the installation, significantly improving your laptop’s speed and responsiveness. By the end, you’ll be able to confidently upgrade your Dell Inspiron 3590 and experience the benefits of a faster SSD.
Adding an SSD to Your Dell Inspiron 3590
This section details the steps involved in adding an SSD to your Dell Inspiron 3590. We’ll cover choosing the right drive, preparing your system, and the physical installation process. Proper preparation is key to a successful and hassle-free upgrade.
Choosing the Right SSD
- Drive Size: Consider your storage needs. A 256GB SSD is a good starting point, but larger capacities (512GB, 1TB, or more) offer more space. Prices vary depending on capacity.
- Drive Interface: The Dell Inspiron 3590 supports SATA SSDs. Make sure the SSD you purchase is SATA compatible, not NVMe (M.2 PCIe). SATA drives are generally more affordable and widely available.
- Drive Form Factor: Ensure the drive is a 2.5-inch form factor. This is the standard size for laptops. Double-check the specifications to avoid compatibility issues.
Example: A user upgraded from a 1TB HDD to a 512GB SSD and reported a significant improvement in boot times and application loading speeds, despite a slight reduction in total storage.
Preparing Your System
- Back up all your important data. This is crucial in case something goes wrong during the installation process.
- Download and install the necessary cloning software (optional, but recommended) if you want to transfer your existing operating system and data to the new SSD. Many free options are available.
- Purchase a screwdriver with the correct size for opening the laptop.
Installing the SSD
This process requires opening the laptop. Consult online guides and videos specific to the Dell Inspiron 3590 for detailed visuals. Incorrect disassembly can void warranties.
- Locate the Hard Drive Bay: Consult your Dell Inspiron 3590 service manual to find the location of the hard drive bay. Generally, it’s accessible through a panel on the bottom of the laptop.
- Disconnect the Old Hard Drive (if applicable): Carefully disconnect the existing hard drive’s data and power cables. Take photos before disconnecting to ensure you reconnect everything correctly.
- Install the New SSD: Gently slide the new SSD into the hard drive bay and secure it.
Cloning Your Hard Drive (Optional)
Cloning your existing hard drive allows you to seamlessly transfer your operating system, applications, and files to the new SSD. This saves time and effort compared to a clean install. This step is optional, but highly recommended.
Using Cloning Software
- Macrium Reflect Free: This is a powerful and free cloning tool with a user-friendly interface.
- EaseUS Todo Backup Free: Another popular choice, it provides both cloning and backup functionality.
- AOMEI Backupper Standard: A reliable option known for its simplicity and efficiency.
Cloning Process
- Connect both the old HDD and the new SSD to your system (either internally or externally using a SATA-to-USB adapter).
- Launch your chosen cloning software and follow its instructions. Typically, this involves selecting the source (HDD) and destination (SSD) drives.
- The software will copy the contents of the HDD to the SSD. This might take some time, depending on the size of the drive.
Booting from the New SSD
After installing the SSD and cloning (or performing a fresh OS installation), you need to configure your system to boot from the new SSD. This is crucial for utilizing the improved performance offered by the SSD.
BIOS Settings
- Access BIOS: Restart your laptop and repeatedly press the designated key (usually F2, F12, or Del) to enter the BIOS setup.
- Boot Order: Navigate to the Boot Order settings and change the boot priority to the new SSD. The exact terminology may vary depending on the BIOS version.
- Save Changes: Save the changes and exit the BIOS. Your laptop should now boot from the new SSD.
Troubleshooting Boot Issues
If your system doesn’t boot from the new SSD, double-check that the SSD is correctly connected and that the boot order is properly configured in the BIOS. Consider consulting your laptop’s user manual or searching online for troubleshooting guides specific to the Dell Inspiron 3590.
Common Myths About SSD Upgrades
Several misconceptions surround upgrading to an SSD. Let’s address some of the most common ones.
Myth 1: Data Loss is Inevitable
While data loss is a risk with any hardware upgrade, taking proper precautions—such as backing up your data before starting the process—greatly minimizes this risk. Using cloning software also helps prevent data loss.
Myth 2: SSD Upgrades are Too Complicated
While it involves some technical steps, upgrading to an SSD is relatively straightforward, especially with the numerous online guides and videos available. With patience and careful attention to detail, most users can successfully complete the upgrade.
FAQ
What type of SSD is compatible with my Dell Inspiron 3590?
The Dell Inspiron 3590 generally supports standard 2.5-inch SATA SSDs. Avoid NVMe M.2 drives, as they are not compatible with this model. Always double-check your laptop’s specifications before purchasing an SSD.
Do I need to reinstall Windows after installing a new SSD?
No, if you clone your existing hard drive to the SSD, you can avoid reinstalling Windows. However, a fresh installation may be beneficial in some cases, such as dealing with performance issues or cleaning up old files.
What are the benefits of upgrading to an SSD?
An SSD significantly improves boot times, application loading speeds, and overall system responsiveness. It offers faster file access, resulting in a smoother computing experience. Furthermore, SSDs are more durable and energy-efficient compared to traditional hard drives.
How much does it cost to upgrade to an SSD?
The cost depends on the size and brand of the SSD. Generally, prices range from $30 to $150 or more, depending on capacity. However, the performance boost is typically worth the investment.
Can I add an SSD and keep my existing hard drive?
Yes, some models of the Dell Inspiron 3590 have a second bay for an additional drive. Check your laptop’s specifications or service manual to determine if it supports two drives. If only one bay is present, you may need to replace the existing drive with the SSD.
Final Thoughts
Adding an SSD to your Dell Inspiron 3590 is a relatively simple yet highly effective upgrade that can dramatically improve your laptop’s performance. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can significantly enhance your computing experience. Don’t hesitate to explore further online resources and videos specific to your laptop model if you require additional assistance. Remember to back up your data before starting the upgrade! Take the plunge and experience the transformative speed of an SSD.