Welcome, fellow gamers and tech enthusiasts! If you’re looking to upgrade your rig, build a new PC, or simply speed up your system, you know that Solid State Drives (SSDs) are no longer a luxury – they’re a necessity. Especially when it comes to gaming, fast load times and seamless multitasking can make all the difference between victory and defeat, or smooth workflow and frustrating lag.
Crucial, a brand synonymous with reliability and performance in the memory and storage world, offers a fantastic range of SSDs. But with terms like NVMe, PCIe Gen4, and allocation unit size floating around, choosing the right one can feel a bit daunting. While the Crucial best allocation unit size for SSD and gaming is often a nuanced topic that Windows typically handles well with its default settings for SSDs, understanding the overall performance capabilities of your drive is key. The good news is, by picking a high-quality Crucial SSD, you’re already setting yourself up for optimal performance, regardless of minor partition tweaks.
In this guide, we’re diving deep into 10 fantastic Crucial SSDs, both internal and external, that are perfect for everything from casual use to hardcore gaming and demanding content creation. We’ll break down what makes each stand out, helping you choose the perfect drive to supercharge your system.
What to Look for in a Gaming SSD
Before we jump into the reviews, let’s quickly touch on what truly matters when picking an SSD for gaming and high-performance tasks.
- Speed (Read/Write): This is paramount. Faster sequential and random read/write speeds mean quicker game loads, faster file transfers, and a more responsive system overall. NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs, especially those leveraging PCIe Gen4 or Gen5, offer significantly higher speeds than older SATA drives.
- Capacity: Modern games are huge! You’ll want enough space for your favorite titles, operating system, and other applications without constantly juggling files. 1TB is a good starting point for many gamers, with 2TB or more being ideal.
- Form Factor: Internal SSDs usually come as M.2 sticks for desktops and laptops. Portable SSDs are great for external storage, console gaming, or moving large files between devices.
- Durability & Reliability: Crucial SSDs, built with Micron quality NAND, are known for their robust construction and thermal management, ensuring your data is safe and your drive performs consistently under pressure.
- Compatibility: Ensure the SSD you choose is compatible with your motherboard (for internal drives) or devices (for external drives).
Now, let’s explore some of the best Crucial SSDs that’ll have you saying goodbye to load screens!
The 10 Best Crucial SSDs for Gaming and Performance
1. Crucial P310 1TB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280
The Crucial P310 1TB SSD is a fantastic entry point into the world of PCIe Gen4 NVMe performance, offering a significant boost over older Gen3 drives without breaking the bank. It’s designed for those who want quicker game load times, snappier bootups, and smoother multitasking for everyday tasks and casual gaming. Its balanced performance makes it a solid choice for upgrading a current system or building a new one with a focus on value.
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Key Features:
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds.
- Spacious 1TB SSD: Ample space for AAA games, apps, and media.
- Broad Compatibility: Works with laptops, desktops, and select gaming consoles (ROG Ally X, Lenovo Legion Go, AYANEO Kun), backward compatible with PCIe Gen3.
- Better Productivity: Up to 2x faster than previous Gen3, improving performance for Windows boot, Adobe apps, and Microsoft Office.
- Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control for reliable performance.
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Pros:
- Excellent value for Gen4 NVMe speeds.
- Generous 1TB capacity for most users.
- Wide compatibility, including handheld gaming devices.
- Noticeable performance improvement over Gen3 SSDs.
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Cons:
- Not the absolute fastest Gen4 drive available (for extreme enthusiasts).
- Lacks a heatsink, which might be needed for sustained heavy workloads in some systems.
User Impressions: Users frequently praise the P310 1TB for its straightforward installation and immediate impact on system responsiveness. Gamers, in particular, highlight the significantly reduced loading screens and overall smoother experience compared to traditional hard drives or even older SATA SSDs. Many find it to be a perfect balance of performance and affordability.
2. Crucial P310 500GB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280
For those needing a speed boost on a tighter budget or for systems where 1TB isn’t strictly necessary, the Crucial P310 500GB offers the same great PCIe Gen4 performance in a more compact capacity. It’s an ideal choice for a primary boot drive or for housing a selection of your most-played games and essential applications, delivering significant speed improvements for casual gamers and everyday home users.
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Key Features:
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Up to 6,600 MB/s read and 5,000 MB/s write speeds.
- Spacious 500GB SSD: Suitable for OS, core applications, and a few AAA games.
- Broad Compatibility: Seamless integration with laptops, desktops, and handheld consoles, backward compatible with PCIe Gen3.
- Better Productivity: Offers up to 2x faster performance than Gen3 for daily tasks and productivity software.
- Trusted Micron Quality: Reliable Gen4 performance with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control.
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Pros:
- Affordable entry into Gen4 NVMe speeds.
- Perfect as a fast boot drive or secondary gaming drive.
- Easy installation and broad compatibility.
- Excellent performance boost for everyday computing.
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Cons:
- 500GB might be limiting for avid gamers with a large game library.
- Slightly lower top speeds compared to the 1TB version of the P310.
User Impressions: Customers often choose the 500GB P310 as a cost-effective upgrade for older laptops or as a dedicated drive for their operating system and frequently used programs. They appreciate the noticeable speed difference in daily tasks and the snappier feel of their system, proving that even at this capacity, the Gen4 benefits shine through.
3. Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2
When you need fast storage that goes wherever you do, the Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD is an absolute standout. Designed for casual gamers, content creators, and everyday users on the go, it offers impressive speeds for quick file transfers, media editing, and backups. Its rugged design ensures your data is safe from the elements, making it perfect for travel and field work.
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Key Features:
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s for accelerating large file transfers and media tasks.
- Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop-resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
- Broad Compatibility: Works with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C/USB-A.
- High-Capacity Storage: Compact 2TB SSD for photos, videos, backups, and games.
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Excellent balance of speed, capacity, and portability.
- Very durable and resistant to water, dust, and drops.
- Wide range of device compatibility, great for console gaming expansion.
- Compact size makes it easy to carry.
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Cons:
- Speed is limited by USB 3.2, not as fast as internal NVMe drives.
- May not be ideal for competitive PC gaming directly off the drive.
User Impressions: Users love the X9 2TB for its robust build quality and impressive transfer speeds, especially when moving large video files or game libraries between devices. It’s a popular choice for console gamers looking to expand their storage without sacrificing performance, and for photographers/videographers needing reliable on-location backups.
4. Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2
The Crucial X9 1TB Portable SSD brings the same winning combination of speed, durability, and broad compatibility as its 2TB sibling, but in a more budget-friendly 1TB capacity. It’s ideal for students, everyday users, and casual gamers who need a reliable external drive to store important files, expand console storage, or quickly transfer documents and media without the bulk of a traditional external hard drive.
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Key Features:
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s for fast file transfers and backups.
- Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop-resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
- Broad Compatibility: Connects effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C/USB-A.
- High-Capacity Storage: Compact 1TB SSD, perfect for everyday storage needs.
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Affordable and portable high-speed storage solution.
- Extremely durable, great for travel and outdoor use.
- Plug-and-play compatibility with a vast array of devices.
- Significantly faster than external HDDs.
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Cons:
- 1TB might be limiting for extensive game libraries or professional video editing.
- USB 3.2 speeds are slower than internal NVMe options.
User Impressions: Customers frequently commend the X9 1TB for its compact design and ruggedness, making it a reliable companion for school or work. Many find it invaluable for extending console storage, allowing them to carry a good selection of games wherever they go. The transfer speeds are consistently praised for being quick and reliable.
5. Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD, Up to 2,100MB/s, USB 3.2
Stepping up the speed game, the Crucial X10 1TB Portable SSD is engineered for creators, students, and PC gamers who demand even faster external data access. With read speeds up to 2,100MB/s, it’s a significant leap beyond many portable drives, ensuring quick transfers for massive files and smoother workflows for demanding applications. Its enhanced durability makes it a robust choice for heavy-duty use on the move.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast Speeds: Up to 2,100MB/s read speeds for rapid data access.
- Built to Last: IP65 dust and water resistance, drop-resistant up to 9.8 ft (3 meters).
- Broad Compatibility: Works with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C/USB-A.
- Ultimate Storage Capacity: Compact 1TB SSD for extensive photo, video, and game storage.
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Blazing fast external transfer speeds, close to internal NVMe performance.
- Superior durability with IP65 rating and enhanced drop resistance.
- Ideal for high-resolution video editing and gaming on the go.
- Wide device compatibility, including next-gen consoles.
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Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port on the host device to achieve maximum speeds.
- Higher price point than the X9 series.
User Impressions: Reviewers are consistently impressed by the X10 1TB’s incredible speed, noting a dramatic reduction in transfer times for large project files and game libraries. Its ruggedness is a major selling point for those who work or play in varied environments, appreciating the peace of mind that their data is protected.
6. Crucial P510 1TB Gen5 NVMe SSD, Up to 11,000 MB/s
For those at the bleeding edge of PC performance, the Crucial P510 1TB Gen5 NVMe SSD delivers serious speed and next-generation compatibility. With incredible read/write speeds, this drive dramatically reduces load times for games and applications, making it a top contender for enthusiasts, professional gamers, and content creators building a Gen5-ready system. It represents an exceptional balance of performance and price within the high-end market.
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Key Features:
- SERIOUS SPEED: Reduced load times with read/write speeds up to 11,000/9,500MB/s.
- GEN5 COMPATIBILITY: Easy installation and flexibility for Gen5 laptops and desktops.
- AFFORDABLE PERFORMANCE: Exceptional balance of performance and price for cutting-edge tech.
- MICRON QUALITY: Top-tier Micron performance that you can trust.
- SEAMLESS UPGRADES: Included Acronis True Image for Crucial software for easy data migration.
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Pros:
- Blazing fast Gen5 NVMe speeds for ultimate performance.
- Future-proof for new motherboards and CPUs.
- Excellent for competitive gaming, 4K video editing, and heavy workloads.
- Acronis software simplifies upgrades.
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Cons:
- Requires a Gen5 compatible motherboard and CPU to utilize full speed.
- May generate more heat, necessitating a good heatsink (often included with Gen5 motherboards).
User Impressions: Early adopters rave about the P510 1TB’s unparalleled speed, noting that everything feels instantaneous. Gamers find game load times almost non-existent, and content creators praise the rapid rendering and file handling. While acknowledging the need for compatible hardware, they see it as a worthwhile investment for future-proofing.
7. Crucial P310 1TB M.2 2230 SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe
This specialized Crucial P310 1TB M.2 2230 SSD is a game-changer for owners of handheld consoles like the Steam Deck and ROG Ally, or compact devices like Microsoft Surface laptops. Its tiny M.2 2230 form factor packs 1TB of PCIe Gen4 NVMe performance, providing a massive storage and speed upgrade for portable gaming and productivity without compromising battery life thanks to its power-efficient design.
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Key Features:
- Broad Compatibility: Specifically designed for Steam Deck, ROG Ally, Microsoft Surface, and select Dell laptops.
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Up to 7,100MB/s read and 6,000MB/s write speeds for quicker game loads.
- Spacious NVMe SSD: 1TB capacity in a compact M.2 2230 form factor.
- Power-efficient Design: Engineered for low power draw to extend battery life on portable devices.
- Trusted Micron Quality: Reliable Gen4 performance with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control.
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Pros:
- Perfect fit for popular handheld gaming consoles and ultra-compact laptops.
- Significant speed and capacity upgrade for portable devices.
- Excellent power efficiency extends battery life.
- Delivers a true Gen4 gaming experience on the go.
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Cons:
- Niche form factor, not suitable for standard desktops or larger laptops.
- Installation can be challenging for some handheld devices.
User Impressions: This particular P310 is a darling among handheld console owners, who report transformative improvements in game loading, system responsiveness, and the sheer number of games they can carry. The power efficiency is also a frequently highlighted benefit, allowing for longer gaming sessions.
8. Crucial T500 1TB Gen4 NVMe M.2 Internal Gaming SSD
The Crucial T500 1TB Gen4 NVMe M.2 Internal Gaming SSD is purpose-built for gamers and content creators seeking top-tier Gen4 performance. With lightning-fast sequential and random speeds, it’s designed to excel in loading games, rendering textures, and significantly reducing CPU utilization with Microsoft DirectStorage, ensuring a smooth and immersive gaming experience. It’s also a powerhouse for content creation applications.
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Key Features:
- LIGHTNING SPEEDS: Sequential reads/writes up to 7,300/6,800MB/s and random read/writes up to 1.15M/1.44M IOPs.
- COMPATIBLE: Easy installation in M.2 slots of laptops, desktops, or workstations.
- ULTIMATE GAMING: Load games up to 16% faster and get faster texture renders with less CPU utilization via Microsoft DirectStorage.
- CONTENT CREATION: Up to 42% faster performance in content creation apps, faster rendering of photos/videos.
- ADOBE CREATIVE CLOUD: One month of Adobe Creative Cloud All-Apps plan included.
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Pros:
- Exceptional Gen4 speeds optimized for gaming and content creation.
- DirectStorage support enhances gaming performance and efficiency.
- Strong random read/write performance for snappier system responsiveness.
- Valuable Adobe Creative Cloud bonus for creators.
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Cons:
- May require a separate heatsink for sustained peak performance in some systems.
- Slightly higher price point compared to entry-level Gen4 drives.
User Impressions: Gamers absolutely adore the T500 1TB for its ability to cut down load times dramatically and provide a consistently smooth in-game experience. Content creators also highlight its prowess in speeding up video editing and rendering tasks. The DirectStorage benefits are a big draw for those with compatible systems, making this a truly optimized gaming drive.
9. Crucial X9 Pro 4TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s Read
For professional creators, videographers, and power users who need massive, fast, and secure external storage, the Crucial X9 Pro 4TB Portable SSD is an indispensable tool. It combines a huge 4TB capacity with reliable 1050MB/s read/write speeds, all wrapped in an even more robust and feature-rich design. Its professional-grade durability and security features make it perfect for critical field work and data management.
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Key Features:
- High-speed Performance: Up to 1050MB/s read and write for seamless workflow for professionals.
- Built to Last: IP55 water and dust resistance, drop-resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters), includes lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
- Broad Compatibility: Connects effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C/USB-A.
- Professional Capacity: Massive 4TB storage for extensive project files, raw footage, and backups.
- Bonus Software Included: Three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Immense 4TB capacity suitable for professional use.
- Consistent high read and write speeds for demanding tasks.
- Enhanced security features like password protection.
- Rugged design with useful professional touches (lanyard loop, activity light).
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Cons:
- Higher cost due to professional-grade features and capacity.
- Speed, while excellent for portable, isn’t on par with internal NVMe drives.
User Impressions: Professionals consistently praise the X9 Pro 4TB for its reliability and sheer storage capacity, allowing them to carry entire project libraries on the go. The added security features and sturdy build quality are frequently mentioned as crucial for peace of mind when working on location with valuable data.
10. Crucial P510 2TB Gen5 NVMe SSD, Up to 10,000 MB/s
If you’re building a high-end system and need both cutting-edge speed and ample storage, the Crucial P510 2TB Gen5 NVMe SSD is an excellent choice. This drive mirrors the incredible Gen5 performance of its 1TB counterpart but doubles the capacity, providing vast space for extensive game libraries, large-scale content creation projects, and demanding applications. It offers the same exceptional balance of performance and price for Gen5 technology.
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Key Features:
- SERIOUS SPEED: Reduced load times and enjoy read/write speeds up to 11,000/9,500MB/s.
- GEN5 COMPATIBILITY: Easy installation and flexibility for Gen5 laptops and desktops.
- AFFORDABLE PERFORMANCE: Exceptional balance of performance and price, making it an ideal choice for savvy buyers.
- MICRON QUALITY: Top-tier Micron performance that you can trust.
- SEAMLESS UPGRADES: Included Acronis True Image for Crucial software allows users to easily migrate data from old drives to the P510.
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Pros:
- Massive 2TB capacity with cutting-edge Gen5 NVMe speeds.
- Future-proof for next-generation systems and applications.
- Ideal for power users, competitive gamers, and professional content creators.
- Backed by Crucial’s trusted Micron quality.
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Cons:
- Requires a Gen5 motherboard and CPU for maximum performance.
- High-performance drives like this may benefit from additional cooling.
User Impressions: Users with compatible Gen5 systems are thrilled with the P510 2TB’s performance, reporting instantaneous operations across the board. The combination of immense speed and generous capacity makes it a top recommendation for those who want to eliminate storage bottlenecks and future-proof their high-end builds.
Conclusion
Choosing the right SSD can dramatically improve your gaming experience, productivity, and overall system responsiveness. Crucial offers a robust lineup of drives, from the high-value PCIe Gen4 P310 series to the ultra-fast Gen5 P510, and versatile portable options like the X9 and X10.
While the Crucial best allocation unit size for SSD and gaming is often something you won’t need to manually adjust (the default 4KB for NTFS is generally optimal and well-handled by modern SSDs and Windows), focusing on a high-performance drive like those from Crucial ensures you’re getting the most out of your storage. These drives are built with quality Micron NAND and engineered for speed and reliability, meaning less time staring at load screens and more time enjoying your games or getting work done.
Whether you’re upgrading a handheld console, building a powerful gaming PC, or simply need fast, reliable external storage, there’s a Crucial SSD on this list that’s perfect for your needs. Happy gaming!
FAQ Section
Q1: What is “allocation unit size” and why is it mentioned with SSDs?
A: The allocation unit size (also known as cluster size) is the smallest amount of disk space that can be allocated to hold a file. When you format an SSD, you choose this size. For most users and modern SSDs, the default 4KB allocation unit size for NTFS (Windows’ file system) is the Crucial best allocation unit size for SSD and gaming. This is because modern operating systems and applications are optimized for this size, balancing performance and storage efficiency.
Q2: Does allocation unit size significantly impact gaming performance on an SSD?
A: For most modern SSDs and operating systems, the impact of changing the allocation unit size from the default (typically 4KB) is negligible for gaming. Modern SSD controllers and Windows’ caching mechanisms are highly optimized. Unless you have a very specific workload with extremely small or large files, sticking with the default is usually the best approach and won’t noticeably affect game load times or in-game performance.
Q3: What’s the main difference between NVMe and SATA SSDs?
A: The main difference is speed and interface. SATA SSDs connect via the SATA interface and offer speeds up to around 600 MB/s. NVMe SSDs, on the other hand, connect directly to the motherboard via the PCIe interface, which offers significantly higher bandwidth. This allows NVMe drives to achieve speeds many times faster than SATA, often exceeding 7,000 MB/s for Gen4 and even 11,000 MB/s for Gen5 drives, making them ideal for high-performance tasks like gaming and content creation.
Q4: How much SSD storage do I really need for gaming?
A: This depends on your gaming habits. With modern AAA games often requiring 50-100GB (or even more!), 1TB is generally considered a good starting point for most gamers who want to install several large titles. If you have a vast game library or also do content creation, 2TB or even 4TB (especially for external drives) would be a more comfortable choice to avoid constantly uninstalling and reinstalling games.
Q5: Are portable SSDs like the Crucial X9 and X10 good for gaming on consoles or external PC storage?
A: Absolutely! Portable SSDs are fantastic for console gaming (PS5, Xbox, Switch, Steam Deck, ROG Ally) as they offer significantly faster load times than traditional external hard drives and allow you to expand storage easily. For PCs, they’re excellent for storing large game libraries, frequently transferring big files, or even running some games directly, especially if they have USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 ports that can leverage the X10’s higher speeds.
Q6: What is PCIe Gen4 or Gen5, and why should I care for gaming?
A: PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) refers to the interface that connects high-speed components like GPUs and NVMe SSDs to your motherboard. Gen4 and Gen5 are successive generations of this interface, offering double the bandwidth of the previous generation. For gaming, a Gen4 or Gen5 NVMe SSD means incredibly fast game loading, quicker texture streaming, and overall snappier system responsiveness, especially as games become more demanding and utilize technologies like Microsoft DirectStorage.
Q7: Do I need a heatsink for my NVMe SSD, especially for gaming?
A: For high-performance NVMe SSDs, especially Gen4 and Gen5 drives used for intense gaming or sustained heavy workloads, a heatsink is highly recommended. These drives can generate heat, and excessive heat can lead to “thermal throttling,” where the drive slows down to prevent damage. Many motherboards come with integrated M.2 heatsinks, or you can purchase aftermarket ones. The Crucial P510 or T500, for instance, would benefit from good thermal management.