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I just purchased a Omen 016 slim and wanted to add a 2nd SSD but it appears the the place this second SSD should go is occupied by a CRF.  Are my only options, to replace my primary SSD with a larger one?

I didn't realize this laptop was not expandable with a 2nd SSD as traditional laptops are. Any input options would be welcom. TY

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Hi @Garrett_my_Garr,

 

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

 

Thanks for reaching out!

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

 

I understand you’ve purchased an OMEN 16 Slim and found that the second SSD slot area is occupied by a CRF module, leaving no obvious space for a second SSD. Let’s go through a few points to clarify the design and your available options.

Understand the internal layout of the OMEN 16 Slim
The OMEN 16 Slim is designed with a single M.2 NVMe SSD slot.
The component you’re seeing in the secondary area is a CRF (Companion RF) module used for Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, not an SSD placeholder.

Confirm there is no second M.2 slot
Unlike thicker OMEN or Pavilion models, the Slim chassis does not include a second M.2 connector on the motherboard.
This is a space and thermal design limitation, not a removable configuration choice.

Clarify expandability expectations
Traditional laptops often support two SSDs, but thin-and-light gaming models frequently do not.
In this model, HP prioritized reduced thickness and cooling layout over internal storage expansion.

Primary SSD replacement (internal option)
Yes, replacing the existing SSD with a larger-capacity M.2 NVMe SSD is the only internal storage upgrade path.
The system supports standard 2280 NVMe PCIe SSDs.

Data migration consideration
Before replacing the SSD, clone the original drive or perform a clean OS installation.
Ensure BitLocker (if enabled) is suspended before hardware changes.

External storage alternatives
You can use a USB-C or Thunderbolt NVMe enclosure for high-speed external storage.
This is the most practical way to add large storage without opening the system again.

Cloud and hybrid storage use
Some users combine a larger internal SSD with cloud storage or external SSDs for games or media libraries.
This avoids thermal and space limitations inside the chassis.

Final confirmation
There is no supported way to add a second internal SSD to the OMEN 16 Slim.
Your options are limited to upgrading the primary SSD or using external storage solutions.

I hope this helps.

 

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Best regards,

I'm an HP Employee.


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