Tutorial: Surface Pro 8 SSD Upgrade [Step-by-Step Guide]

Updated by

Sherly 

Updated on April 28, 2024

If your Surface Pro 8's storage is running low on space, you can expand the storage capacity by upgrading the SSD. However, before proceeding with the upgrade, it is recommended that you back up all your data to an external storage device and ensure you have all necessary tools, including disk management software, prepared beforehand.

Many users have reported difficulties in upgrading the SSD on their Surface Pro 8. Here's a real-life scenario:

在我们开始之前，请确保您已经为升级做好了充分的准备：

1. Purchase a reliable SSD and initialize the SSD for use.

?2. Download a reliable data transfer tool: Upgrading the SSD for SP8 can be straightforward. We recommend using the disk management software Partition Master, as it allows for backing up your data, cloning your operating system, and more. Keep reading to learn how to upgrade the SSD on your Surface Pro 8 and why we prefer Partition Master over other disk management tools!

3. Prepare the tools for removing and installing SSDs: SIM card or SSD removal tool.

Alright, let's begin. The first step we need to take is to transfer or clone all the original data from the old SSD to the new one.

Stage 1. Surface Pro 8 SSD Upgrade - Transferring Data to the New SSD

Before upgrading your SSD, it's recommended to back up or move your data to a new backup drive. This ensures that you don't lose any information from your old SSD when transitioning to the new one. The most trustworthy tool for this purpose that we recommend is the tools Partition Master.

It has several disk clone/transfer features that have spoiled us! You can choose to copy or clone the entire operating system from your old SSD to the new SSD. By cloning the operating system, you create an exact replica of your old drive on a backup drive. You can then move this clone file to your new SSD after installing it on the Surface Pro 8.

The tool Partition Master also clones the operating system much more quickly than other programs would, and the same goes for backing up data or transferring it to another SSD/HDD. Here's how to use this tool to transfer all your data to the new SSD: 1. **Download and Install**: First, download the Partition Master software from a reliable source. Install it on your computer where the current operating system is installed. 2. **Launch the Program**: After installation, double-click the icon to launch the Partition Master application. 3. **Select Source Disk**: In the program interface, you'll see a list of all the disks connected to your PC. Identify your current HDD (the one with the operating system) and select it as the source disk. 4. **Select Destination Disk**: Next, choose your new SSD as the destination disk where you want to transfer the data. 5. **Clone Process**: Look for an option like "Clone" or "Disk Copy" in the main menu. Click on it, and then confirm your selection of the source and destination disks. The program will then prompt you to start the cloning process. 6. **Wait for Completion**: The cloning process may take some time, depending on the size of your data and the speed of your drives. Do not interrupt the process or turn off your computer during this time. 7. **Boot from New SSD**: Once the cloning is complete, you need to change your BIOS settings to boot from the new SSD instead of the old HDD. This varies between systems, but typically involves entering BIOS setup during boot, selecting the boot order, and prioritizing the SSD. 8. **Verify Data**: After successfully booting from the SSD, verify that all your data and applications are functioning correctly. Remember to backup important data before any major operation, and always read the software's user manual or online tutorials for detailed instructions.

Step 1. Select the source disk.

• Click "Clone" from the left-hand menu. Select "Clone OS Disk" or "Clone Data Disk" and click "Next".
• Choose the source disk and click "Next".

Step 2. Select the target disk.

• Select the desired HDD/SSD as your destination and click "Next" to proceed.
• Read the warning message and confirm by clicking the "Yes" button.

Step 3. View the disk layout and edit the target disk partition size.

Then click "Continue" when the program warns it will erase all data on the target disk. (If you have valuable data on the target disk, back it up beforehand.)

You can choose "Autofit the disk," "Clone as the source," or "Edit disk layout" to customize your disk arrangement. (Select the last option if you wish to allocate more space to the C drive.)

Step 4. Click "Start" to begin the disk cloning process.

Here are some of the key features of the tool Partition Master:

• Fix Surface Pro's black screen issue
• Clone operating system disk
• Clone Windows to a new drive
• Rebuild Master Boot Record (MBR)
• Unlock Surface without password
• 4K alignment of SSD for performance enhancement
• Write zero to the hard drive

You should give Partition Master a try today to truly discover its power and usefulness! Download this tool now to upgrade your Surface Pro 8 SSD.

Stage 2. Surface Pro 8 SSD Upgrade - Remove the Original SSD

The first step to upgrade your Surface Pro's SSD is to remove the old one before installing a new one. Don't worry; just keep reading, and we'll guide you through the process step by step.

Step 1. Turn off your Surface Pro 8 and disconnect any external devices such as your keyboard, mouse, or others.

Step 2. Open the back of the Surface Pro 8, where the Microsoft logo is positioned.

Step 3. Using a SIM ejector or any other pointed tool, insert it into the hole of the SSD cover to remove the cover. Take off the cover and set it aside.

Step 4. With the cover removed, the SSD should be secured in place by a screw. Unscrew it to remove the SSD.

Step 5. Remove the original SSD.

If you intend to keep the original SSD for backup or other purposes, store it in an anti-static bag to safeguard it from damage. By completing this step, you have successfully removed the original SSD from your Surface Pro 8.

Stage 3. Surface Pro 8 SSD Upgrade - Install the New Cloned SSD This stage involves installing the newly cloned SSD into your Surface Pro 8. Follow these steps: 1. **Power off your Surface Pro 8**: Ensure that your device is completely turned off and disconnected from any power source. 2. **Access the SSD**: Remove the magnetic back cover of your Surface Pro 8 by gently lifting it from the edges. You'll find the SSD beneath the cover. 3. **Remove the old SSD**: Gently disconnect the old SSD from its connector. Be careful not to apply too much force, as the connector is delicate. 4. **Install the new SSD**: Align the new cloned SSD with the connector and carefully insert it, making sure it clicks into place. 5. **Replace the back cover**: Carefully place the magnetic back cover back onto your Surface Pro 8, ensuring it aligns properly and secures tightly. 6. **Reconnect and power on**: Reconnect any peripherals and power sources, then turn on your device. 7. **Verify the clone**: Once booted, check if your system is functioning normally and all data is present. You can run a quick disk check or system diagnostic to confirm the integrity of the cloned drive. If everything runs smoothly, you've successfully upgraded your Surface Pro 8's SSD with the cloned data.

Once the data transfer is complete and you've opened the back case! It's time to upgrade the SSD on your Surface Pro 8.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to accomplish that:

Step 1. Before we begin, ensure that your Surface Pro 8 is turned off and all cables are disconnected.

Step 2. Carefully open the back cover of your Surface Pro 8.

Step 3. Carefully install the SSD.

Insert the SSD into the slot.

Step 4. Carefully secure your new SSD in its slot by screwing in the screw.

Step 5. Place the cover back on your Surface Pro 8 and gently press down on it.

That's it! You've successfully upgraded your Surface Pro 8's SSD! Additionally, if this guide was helpful, share it with your friends and family to assist them as well!

Conclusion

Purchasing a Surface Pro 8 and upgrading its storage之后 is significantly more affordable than customizing the storage on Microsoft's checkout page. A 1TB SSD upgrade costs around $800 on Microsoft's website; however, you can find the same SSD with identical storage capacity on电子商务 platforms at a much lower price.

Fortunately, Microsoft has made the process of upgrading the SSD on the Surface Pro 8 incredibly straightforward. However, you may encounter challenges when it comes to backing up your data. But with the help of tools like Partition Master, upgrading the SSD on the Surface Pro 8 without losing data has also become much easier!

You can quickly back up all your data from the previous drive or create a clone of it and then move it to the new drive. This way, you won't lose any data or PC settings. And after upgrading to the SSD and transferring all your data to the new SSD, you can pick up right where you left off!

Surface Pro 8 SSD Upgrade FAQs 1. Can I upgrade the SSD in my Surface Pro 8? Yes, you can upgrade the SSD in your Surface Pro 8, but it requires technical expertise as the process involves disassembling the device. 2. What type of SSD does the Surface Pro 8 use? The Surface Pro 8 uses an M.2 NVMe SSD, specifically the PCIe Gen 4 standard for faster data transfer speeds. 3. Are SSD upgrades compatible with all Surface Pro 8 models? SSD compatibility may vary depending on the model and region. It's essential to check the specifications and ensure the replacement SSD is compatible with your specific Surface Pro 8. 4. Do I need any special tools for the upgrade? You will need a precision screwdriver set and possibly an adhesive remover or spudger to safely remove the SSD from its slot. 5. Will upgrading the SSD void my warranty? Upgrading the SSD yourself might void your warranty. It's recommended to seek professional assistance to preserve warranty coverage. 6. Can I transfer data from my old SSD to the new one? Yes, you can use data migration software or a professional service to transfer data from the old SSD to the new one. Alternatively, you can back up your data before the upgrade and restore it afterward. 7. How do I access the SSD for replacement? Accessing the SSD in a Surface Pro 8 involves removing the back panel, disconnecting the battery, and locating the M.2 SSD slot. 8. Are there performance gains with a higher capacity SSD? Upgrading to a higher capacity SSD with similar or better performance ratings can improve overall system responsiveness, especially if you frequently work with large files. 9. Is it worth upgrading the SSD or buying a new device? If your Surface Pro 8 meets your needs in other aspects, upgrading the SSD can be a cost-effective way to extend its life and enhance its performance. 10. Where can I find instructions for the SSD upgrade process? Detailed instructions for the SSD upgrade process can be found in online forums, YouTube tutorials, or Microsoft's official support pages, but proceed with caution as it involves handling delicate components.

Do you have any other queries regarding what to consider when upgrading the SSD on your Surface Pro 8? We've got you covered with all the information you need right here.

**1. Can I upgrade the SSD in my Surface Pro 8?**

Yes, you can upgrade the SSD in your Surface Pro 8. However, not any SSD will work. It utilizes an M.2 2230 PCIe SSD. To upgrade, you'll need to replace the current SSD with another of the same type, specifically an M.2 2230 PCIe SSD, ensuring a higher storage capacity.

**2. Is 256GB SSD sufficient for Surface Pro 8?**

It depends on the user's usage. For most casual users, 256GB is ample; however, for others, it might not suffice, and they would benefit from more storage capacity. Fortunately, the storage on the Surface Pro 8 is upgradable. So, even if you initially purchase the Surface Pro 8 with 256GB of storage, you have the option to upgrade it later on.

**3. What are the best SSDs for Surface Pro 8?**

Any reputable brand's M.2 2230 PCIe SSD is the optimal SSD for the Surface Pro 8. Attempting to install other types of SSDs will not function due to the distinctive design of M.2 2230 PCIe SSDs.