Alienware 17 R5 from Dell Outlet

I had my laptop stolen and the only way I can get a replacement system in time to get it during the short window I am in the US is to get one from Dell Outlet. It has the following:

i7-8750
8GB RAM
1TB HD
1060 video

I want to upgrade the RAM and put a m.2 SSD into it when it arrives. I am going to throw a Crucial 8GB module into it (same size and speed of the one in it already). I am planning on getting that via Amazon.com. Do you see any issues with this module conflicting with the one already in it?

I am going to get a 500GB m.2 SSD. I am wondering if any of you can recommend something that you feel is a better fit for me than the 970 pro. I will be using it for some games (Ark: Survival Evolved, COD - WWII, NFS) and VMs. Is there a better fit for me?

This is nothing compared to my stolen system but it is a beginning.

Is there anything I should look for on my Alienware before I take it out of the country for 6 months?

 

Hey there. Nice system.

If you are planning to add a M.2 to your machine, it has to be a NVMe, standard SATA won't fly in the full length slots.

Might look at the Samsung 900 series EVO line as well, saves a bit of cash.