Envy 15-k167cl upgrade drive & memory

[WMDwebs]

my original HDD has failed: Boot Device Not Found (3F0) and I have been unable to recover using utils. So replace/upgrade is required. Since this model does not have an easy access to the components (requiring complete disasembly of case and removal of keypad), I am trying to get everything right before opening the case.
1. I have been told that this model has slots for and will support both HDD/SSD and M.2 SSD -- so I can either replace the drive with SSD or replace with an M2 (or both);
I am considering the Samsung 860 EVO 500GB M.2 SATA and the Samsung 860 QVO 1TB 2.5 inch SATA III Internal SSD

Will these both in fact work with this laptop, and will the improvement be worth the cost for either or both?

2. Currently, the memory is an 8 GB memory module (the service docs indicate PC3L, 12800, 1600-MHz), but does not indicate if there is an available slot for expansion. Can I upgrade the memory on this to 16-GB, and would it be worth it?

3. Final question, will the bios supply the credentials to download the windows 8.1 initially installed, and the subsequent free upgrade to win10?

Thanks in advance!

[Huffer · Accepted solution]

Yes your model has a 2.5 inch bay which would hold a 2.5 inch SATA SSD or HDD. And then there is an M.2 slot on the back of the motherboard. This model is one of the more challenging to upgrade. 

Manual

This is an image of the backside of the motherboard:

Red arrows show M.2 slot and mounting screw

You can also see the memory slots there and yes there are 2 and you can install up to 2 x 8 gig DDR3L-1600 SO-DIMM for 16 gigs in total. 

So the major upgrades on this model require motherboard removal which can of course be done but takes a bit of skill patience and caution above all. 

If the laptop ever had Windows 10 installed and activated you can jump straight to Windows 10. Do not pass go, do not collect $200 do not install Windows 8.1 first. Microsoft activation servers will just "know" the computer even with a different hard drive in it.  Just google Microsoft Media Creation Tool and you will find the site where you can download a free usb installation stick image and make an installer which will "just work". Drivers and HP utility apps can be downloaded at this site. 

Post back with any more questions and please accept as solution if this is the info you needed. 

[WMDwebs]

2 additional questions regarding the M.2 Data Storage option -
Since this model is probably one of the most "challenging"  upgrade designs, I wanted to be sure I had everything before disassembly.
1) which M.2 form factor does the 15-K167cl support, the single notch or dual notch?
2) is the required securing screw included in the motherboard?

[Huffer]

M.2 SATA support only which will be the B + M key three notch kind. Don't worry the slot has only two chambers; the SSD will fit. 

All M.2 slots are physically the same but their capabilities vary. 

The mounting screw likely is not present but no way to know until you open it. To be safe have one on hand.