Dell Dell XPS 17 9700 (2020) Specifications
The Dell Dell XPS 17 9700 (2020) is an ultraportable laptop designed for productivity and portability. This guide covers RAM, SSD, charger compatibility, and upgrade paths for this model. For a comprehensive overview of all Dell upgradeable models, visit the Dell Laptop Upgrades hub.
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | i5-10300H / i7-10875H |
| RAM | DDR4, 2 slots (upgradeable) |
| Max RAM | 64GB |
| Storage | M.2 2280 NVMe PCIe Gen4, 2 slots |
| Charger | 130W USB-C |
| Ports | 2x USB-C, 1x USB 3.0, 1x SD |
| Display | 17.0″ FHD+ IPS |
| Weight | 2.11 kg (4.65 lbs) |
Memory Upgrade Path
The Dell XPS 17 9700 features 2 SO-DIMM slots for DDR4 RAM, allowing upgrades up to 64GB. Both slots are user-accessible, and the upgrade process is straightforward.
Recommended DDR4 RAM Upgrades:
- Corsair Vengeance DDR4 SO-DIMM — Reliable DDR4 laptop memory with wide compatibility.
- Kingston Fury Impact DDR4 SO-DIMM — Compact high-performance DDR4 for laptops.
- Crucial DDR4 SO-DIMM — Affordable DDR4 with solid performance.
Storage Expansion
The Dell XPS 17 9700 uses a standard M.2 2280 NVMe SSD with a NVMe PCIe Gen4 interface. With 2 M.2 slots, you can run dual NVMe drives for expanded storage.
Recommended M.2 2280 SSDs:
- Samsung 990 Pro NVMe 2280 — Flagship NVMe SSD with exceptional speeds.
- WD Black SN850X 2280 — High-performance NVMe with excellent sustained writes.
- Crucial P5 Plus NVMe 2280 — Excellent value NVMe with strong real-world performance.
Power Delivery & Charging
The Dell XPS 17 9700 uses a 130W USB-C charger. This is compatible with any USB-C PD charger of equal or higher wattage from brands like Anker, Ugreen, or the original Dell charger.
Compatible USB-C PD Chargers:
- Anker 130W USB-C PD Charger — Compact GaN charger with multiple ports.
- Ugreen USB-C PD Charger (130W+) — Affordable universal charger with fast charging.
- INIU USB-C PD Fast Charger — Budget option with reliable performance.
Port & Docking Capabilities
Connectivity: 2x USB-C, 1x USB 3.0, 1x SD
A USB-C docking station like the Anker 577 USB-C Hub provides additional ports including HDMI, Ethernet, and USB-A.
Upgrade Difficulty & Tools Required
The Dell XPS 17 9700 has a difficulty rating of 3/5 for upgrades (5 = easiest). The upgrade process is moderate — requires careful handling of bottom panel clips.
Tools needed:
- Phillips screwdriver (M2.5 or similar)
- Plastic spudger or pry tool (for bottom panel clips)
- ESD wrist strap (optional but recommended)
We recommend backing up your data and consulting the official service manual before opening the chassis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade the RAM in the Dell Dell XPS 17 9700?
Yes, the Dell XPS 17 9700 has 2 SO-DIMM slots for user-upgradeable DDR4 memory, supporting up to 64GB.
What is the maximum RAM for the Dell XPS 17 9700?
The Dell XPS 17 9700 supports up to 64GB of DDR4 memory.
Can I add a second SSD to the Dell XPS 17 9700?
The Dell XPS 17 9700 has 2 M.2 slots. You can add a second NVMe SSD.
Can I use any USB-C charger with the Dell XPS 17 9700?
Yes, any USB-C Power Delivery charger rated for 130W or higher will work with the Dell XPS 17 9700.
Is the Dell XPS 17 9700 easy to upgrade?
The Dell XPS 17 9700 has a difficulty rating of 3/5. Some care needed with bottom panel clips.
Recommended Products
These are the products we recommend based on this guide. All links go to Amazon UK where you can check current prices and availability.
| Product | Why We Recommend It | Amazon UK |
|---|---|---|
| Corsair Vengeance DDR4 SO-DIMM | Reliable DDR4 laptop memory with wide compatibility. | View on Amazon UK |
| Kingston Fury Impact DDR4 SO-DIMM | Compact high-performance DDR4 for laptops. | View on Amazon UK |
| Crucial DDR4 SO-DIMM | Affordable DDR4 with solid performance. | View on Amazon UK |
| Samsung 990 Pro NVMe 2280 | Flagship NVMe SSD with exceptional speeds. | View on Amazon UK |
| WD Black SN850X 2280 | High-performance NVMe with excellent sustained writes. | View on Amazon UK |
| Crucial P5 Plus NVMe 2280 | Excellent value NVMe with strong real-world performance. | View on Amazon UK |
| Anker 130W USB-C PD Charger | Compact GaN charger for USB-C laptops. | View on Amazon UK |
| Ugreen 130W USB-C PD Charger | Affordable universal USB-C charger. | View on Amazon UK |
Prices and availability may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Related Dell Upgrade Guides
- Dell Battery Replacement: Latitude, XPS & Inspiron Step-by-Step
- Best RAM for Dell Laptops in 2026
- Dell Precision T7920 RAM & SSD Upgrade Guide (2018)
- Dell Precision T7875 RAM & SSD Upgrade Guide (2024)
- Dell Precision T5860 RAM & SSD Upgrade Guide (2024)
- Dell Upgrade Guide
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