XPS-8930 vs XPS-8930-SE - Major differences

Question

For you that own these (or know these well) what is the major differences between the two models?

I'm especially interested in knowing:

- how you get the better/upgraded heatsink-and-fan-cooler ? Is that determined by the model or is determined by the Intel-processor you choose?

- how to get the largest power-supply available on either

That kind of stuff. After all this time, you think there would be a list, chart, or something. Surely, the difference is NOT just that ...

a. the XPS-8930-SE comes with a slightly-prettier case
b. Dell allows you to pre-config and buy the XPS-8930-SE with higher-end components.

Vic384 · Answer

I can only go by what is on Dell's website if you customize the system. The Special Edition offers the K processor options and the option for an 850 Watt power supply.

redxps630 · Answer

I do not pretend I know these well. it seems you can order both k and non-k cpu for SE, but only non-k for plain 8930.

@Dell630i the 'upgraded' blower fan/heatsink CPU cooler is strictly a function of processor (K or non-K) and not a function of 'base' or 'Special Edition'. If you order an XPS 8930 SE with a non-K CPU, you will get the 'standard' CPU cooler

460W is base stock psu for both plain XPS and SE.

850 Watt Power Supply [80 Plus Gold Efficiency] for SE. https://www.dell.com/en-us/work/shop/pdr/xps-8930-desktop/cto8930w10pcfl3h

RoHe · Answer

You can configure the Tower, eg here, but the SE gives more GPU choices, some of which require the 850W PSU upgrade... The Tower has option NOT to have an optical drive.

GKDesigns · Answer

@Tesla1856

The differences as best I can tell:

o I don't like silver boxes so the black case with high gloss black front looks much better, imo;

o Large PSU comes on systems/GPUs that need it (pay attention to the GPU Help Me spec chart);

o VR-ready SE systems include heatsinks on motherboard near CPU;

o Overclocked K-version CPUs include CPU cooler with heat pipes that blocks the PSU and maybe fan power headers on the motherboard, and may block replacement of top case fan;

o The configurable options vary and likely cost more on the SE;

o Both use a small, poorly-ventilated case that is more likely to run hotter and noisier with SE power hungry options.

I chose black, maxed the CPU (i9-9900) to get Hyperthreading with no overclocking, took the RTX 2060 for best system price, and planned ahead to upgrade to two 120mm case fans (https://www.dell.com/community/XPS-Desktops/XPS-8930-how-is-the-cooling-in-the-i9-9900/m-p/7508730/highlight/true#M46666). Runs cool and quiet for normal PC usage (no gaming). I added a wired Logitech Illuminated KB and cordless RX720 mouse that I've been using for many years. I think it's a nice enough system worth owning, but it's hard to recommend unless you can configure it modestly, upgrade the case fans and peripherals, and uninstall the Dell and McAfee and Killer junk.

GK

GKDesigns · Answer

@Anonymous

This is also true; everything mentioned is blocked. However, the unit conveniently comes with screws, which can be removed to 'unblock' everything. In my humble opinion, the advantage of the blower style fan is that it works in conjunction with the top exhaust fan in moving hot air up and out of the case. The blower fan sucks in air and blows it straight up through the fin bank into the top exhaust fan, supporting the hot air flow regime of 'up and out of the case'. Alternatively, the non "K" unit just pushes the hot air against the mobo and, eventually out of the case.

Good to know and makes sense, thanks! My only remaining reservations would be blower housing noise and if the fan can be easily replaced with an aftermarket fan, but it looks like the upgraded cooler is worth having... the exhaust directed out the top case fan is a good feature.

GK

XPS Desktops

XPS-8930 vs XPS-8930-SE - Major differences

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