Editor's Note: In light of Intel's recent, Dell has delayed shipments of this particular model, and removed listings from their website. We've been assured that Dell will continue to offer the XPS 8300 once Intel's fix is in place - stay tuned for updates!That audible sigh you just heard marked the final death throes of a significant chunk of the systems that have been on our. And you can thank Intel's for that.

• How To Remove Hard Drive From Dell Xps Desktop

The Dell XPS 8300 is priced at an eye-poppingly low $1399 (as of 2/2/2011). No pre-Sandy Bridge system can top the price-to-performance ratio of this inexpensive little powerhouse.

But that's hardly where the story ends. Just how much more can Dell fit into this PC to truly earn the 'Performance' title? Spoiler: Lots.The XPS 8300 packs a brand-new 3.4GHz Intel Core i7-2600 CPU within its all-white casing. The chip is but a stone's throw away from being Intel's top-of-the-line part, as its bigger brother - the i7-2600K - adds an unlocked CPU multiplier to the equation (overclockers, rejoice). For all intents and purposes, the XPS 8300's processor shares the crown of best on the market right now.Accompanied by eight gigabytes of DDR3-1333 memory, the Sandy Bridge (second-generation Core) CPU helps the XPS 8300 make short work of our WorldBench 6 tests.

It earned a score of 162 - you'd be hard pressed to find any rival in the XPS 8300's price range coming close, though systems based on overclocked Sandy Bridge processors do post higher scores (with higher prices to match). One contender: The $1700 earned a 202 on our WorldBench suite, though it's not as feature-filled.The only real scuff mark on the XPS's benchmarks comes from our graphics tests. The system's aging AMD Radeon HD 5870 GPU is a very good one, but its average recorded frame rate of 120.7 on Unreal Tournament 3 (at 2560 by 2100 resolution, high quality) is hardly a category-leading mark. You'll still be able to crank the next-generation titles you throw at the XPS 8300, but its benchmarking results are among the lower scores of all the performance PCs we've tested over the past year.A two-terabyte hard drive is an excellent addition for such an inexpensively priced desktop, as is Dell's inclusion of a Blu-ray combo drive. While these are generally standard add-ons in the performance PC category, we nevertheless appreciate that Dell didn't try to cannibalize features in order to keep its costs down. One feature that really stands out as something unique in this category is Dell's choice of wireless-N networking as a supplement to its existing wired gigabit setup.

That's not a make-or-break element that will suddenly inspire millions to rush out and pick up an XPS 8300, but it does give the system just that much more versatility in one's home. Take that, wires.And while we're on the subject of versatility, the XPS 8300 is stuffed to the brink with connection options for just about anything you throw at it, though the front of the case could stand a few more connections: It has two USB ports and a multiformat card reader.Turn the system around, though, and you find four USB ports, one USB 3.0 port, one eSATA port, one SPDIF optical connection, one gigabit ethernet connection, and integrated connections for 7.1 surround sound, all making for a truly diverse PC. As for video, the system's graphics card supports two DVI connections, an HDMI connection, and a DisplayPort connection - the holy trinity of video options.

We couldn't ask for much more.The system's all-white chassis is a bit of an Apple-esqe departure from the designs we're used to seeing in the performance category. Nevertheless, we like it overall. The practicalities of working inside the XPS 8300 are a little less pleasing. Not only is the system full of screws, instead of tool-free accessories, but you don't actually get all that much to work with compared with competing performance desktops. Only one of two 5.25-inch bays are free for new devices, and only two of three hard drive bays could benefit from extra storage. A single, lonely PCI Express x1 slot represents all the add-ons you'll be able to stick on the motherboard in addition to the existing AMD GPU.Dell continues its all-white motif with a glossy, bleached mouse that accompanies the system.

It's generic in functionality, but we do like its look - just different enough from the old bargain-bin black that we're so used to seeing on competing systems. The XPS 8300's keyboard is black with a white trim, but, more important, it packs a few additional function buttons for launching applications and controlling media and volume. We dig.It was surprising enough to see Dell's XPS 8300 just come out of nowhere and slap around competing desktop PCs with its killer mix of price and performance. But as we dug deeper into the system, Dell's system just refused to disappoint. To call this a 'cheap' PC would do it a disservice. From its ample storage, to its ample connectivity (networking or otherwise), to its ample speed, the XPS is easily one of the newest white knights on our performance PC charts.

There are multiple ways to identify the model of your Dell laptop/desktop:1. Physically look on the computer for the model name and number:NotebookThe model number is located on the bottom of the notebook on a label above the serial number:DesktopThe model number is located on a white label on the back of the desktop, while a second label can normally been found on the top or side of the desktop:Servers and Storage systemsServer and storage systems include the models; PowerEdge Server, PowerVault and DellEMC Storage. The model number can be found on the back of the server:2. Upgradeable has a that identifies the model, tells you what ram is installed and you can then search our website for available RAM and SSD upgrades.3. Go to the control panel in windows and click on 'System' which brings up some information on your computer which can include the model among other useful information.4. Search for 'msinfo32' and run it.

This will give you information about your computer (Similar to System in control panel).5. Look in the BIOS.

The model number will be located in the BIOS setup pages, which can be accessed by pressing the F2 key when powering on the system. In the BIOS, it will be under the Information tab as Product Name, or use the arrow keys to navigate to Product Information, and press Enter.

With all Dell memory we ship, we include an instructions which outlines how the memory is installed.If it is a desktop you have to open up the case and look for the memory slots, once you have found them gently push the locks open on either side so you can insert the new memory in (This is also how you get old memory out). When installing the memory make sure you push the memory in firmly until the locks close on the module locking it in place.If it is a laptop look on the bottom of the laptop for any a door that is fixed in place with screws. Unscrew the screws and lift the door up. This should reveal the memory that is currently installed in the computer.

Pull the metal bars either side of the module back a bit and pop the old modules out. Once the old module is out you can slot the new module in and push it down so it locks in place (should look exactly the same as the old one did).If you can not find a door on the bottom of the laptop you can have a look at the manual that came with the laptop which often tells you where the memory slots are. Welcome to the Upgradeable Dell model page. You can quickly search our database and find your model and what upgrades you can buy to improve its performance.Start by clicking on the 'find your model series' box. A drop down list of models should appear.Choose what series your computer belongs to, such as Inspiron (Notebook). Step 2 is clicking in the next box 'Select a Model' and all the models in that series will appear.

Scroll to choose your model.When you find your model, selecting it will make all the upgrade options appear.If you have any problems, please contact us via our online contact form or call our office. We appreciate all feedback, it helps improve our service. Then you should consider replacing your existing HDD with an SSD(solid state drive)Upgrading the memory in your computer is usually the first step to increasing it's performance. Additional memory allows you to run more applications simultaneously without the computer slowing down. It also allows you to multi-task to a much greater degree as your applications, email, web browsing, etc.

All have more RAM to use to run efficiently.However additional RAM does not solve all the issues of a 'slow' computer. If you find that it takes Windows a long time to load or your spreadsheets are taking minutes before they are ready to use, then you should consider swapping out your old spinning HDD for an SSD.SSDs will run up to 12 times faster then a HDD and will have Windows loading and ready to use within seconds instead of minutes. All complex programs, high res video, complex audio and other large applications will load, ready to use, within seconds instead of taking several minutes before being ready to utilise.In a working environment, waiting minutes each time a new program loads or for your computer to be ready to use is a time consuming and costly exercise. Added up, wait times increase to hours lost when totaled over the course of just a week. All Upgradeable memory that is advertised for Dell is model specific. The reason we sell the Micron/Crucial and Samsung memory is that we know it is not only compatible with the device you specified, but also that we know it will work with your existing memory.Many suppliers will suggest that a type of no-name, generic brand RAM will be compatible with your device, however we have discovered with nearly 20 years of experience that it is best to purchase a brand that the manufacturer themselves will utilise.Most manufacturers like Dell will only use 3 brands of memory, Samung, Micron/Crucial and Hynix. Those three suppliers manufacture over 90% of the world's RAM and the memory supplied is the most reliable available, hence the reason why we supply it.If your Dell laptop came with a Samsung module, then installing a Micron/Crucial module alongside will never experience any compatible issues as the 3 main manufacturers all adhere to the same strict guidelines to produce excellent quality RAM that can be utilised together.

Computer Model: OptiPlex GX520 (SFF, Desktop, Mini-Tower)Name: DylanCurrent hard drive size: 1TBPreferred new SSD size: 128GBType of installation: Fresh InstallationAnswer: Dylan,Your Optiplex has a SATA connector so you can plug an SSD straight in. Your existing HDD is 3.5' and the SSD is 2.5' so you'll require a bracket to fit it. You can buy them separately or with a cloning kit. Here is a link to our SSD page which lists all the compatible sizes and accessories.

I would recommend the value MX100 range for your Dell.Thanks for your inquiryKeith. Hi, I just wish to enquire about upgrades for my Dell Inspiron 3646 desktop running windows 8.1.

I purchased a game to play on my comp. However this has proven fruitless due to slow jutted graphics and fractured movement of the controller.

I have been assured that my game and comp. Are compatible. I wish to purchase upgrades to both graphics and RAM upto 8gb. I would like to know an overall pricing for an upgrade bundle and what you could recommend I do to ensure smooth gameplay and overall better processing on a budget and without having to purchase a new CPU. Thanks GavinAnswer: Ps. Sorry I also need to know if my power supply will compatible with my upgrades. Change inspiron 17R 5737 HD to 500GB SSD and add 8 GB of memory.

Use 1TB fro laptop in a caddy in optical drive and clone programs and data from desktop to new inspiron laptop. Would also like to get selective programs from my previous laptop if possible.Answer: Martin,No worries. Here is the link for the additional 8gb module.Here is the link for the best 500gb SSD suitable for your Inspirion(includes the cloning kit)Here is the link for the optical bay caddy.The cloning process proceeds as a total clone of all the existing on your HDD, you are not able to partition things during the cloning process.If you would like to bring it in to us for my tech guys to do the ram and SSD clone and install, the cost of labour is $150. However the SSD is $20 cheaper then the one in the link as you won't need to purchase the cloning kit.If you have any further queries don't hesitate to ask.Maybe give me a ring on Monday as it looks like you want data from a desktop and laptop to put onto this one?Thanks for your inquiry.Keith. Computer Model: PowerEdge T310 (RDIMM)Name: BILL VOGELCurrent hard drive size: 256GBPreferred new SSD size: 256GBType of installation: Clone current driveAnswer: Bill,Your T310 is more then capable of taking advantage that an SSD will bring.

Here is a link to our entire range of SSDs. We supply the Crucial brand, a division of Micron, as they are a supplier of Dell themselves. You will also find the accessories further down the page, as you are cloning your existing data, you'll require a cloning kit(which comes with the bracket needed to fit the SSD into the T310)Thanks for your inquiryRegardsKeith. I have a Dell Inspiron 11 convertible thingie, running Windows 10 home, with all updates to today.

4 GB meg ram. Can I update to a SSD (500gb)? Has this been done without drama to your knowledge? Thanks for the help, look forward to your reply.

How To Remove Hard Drive From Dell Xps Desktop

Glen FisherAnswer: Glen,You can definitely put an SSD into this. Here is the link to our SSD upgrade page. All the 2.5' SSDs listed here will suit your Dell. The best value is to bundle it with the cloning kit as that's only $15 additional.Thanks for your inquiry.Keith. Computer Model: XPS 8300 desktopName: DavidCurrent hard drive size: 1TBPreferred new SSD size: 1TBType of installation: Fresh InstallationAnswer: David,Here is a link for the best SSD for your XPS. The Crucial SSD built with high density chips and the rated speeds are achieved solely by the hardware itself, not a software tweak that other manufacturers use. The Crucial SSD also run cooler and thus last longer because of they way they are constructed.

You'll also require a 3.5' to 2.5' bracket to fit it, there is a link for that also. The brackets we supply is a fully enclosed unit with all the proper screw holes to fit the SSD into any chassis properly.All in stock. Thanks for your inquiry.RegardsKeith.