Hey there, fellow gamers and tech enthusiasts! If you’re lucky enough to have an ASUS ROG Ally X in your arsenal, you already know it’s a game-changer for handheld PC gaming. But let’s be real – games are getting bigger, and your storage space can fill up faster than you can say “download complete.” That’s where a fantastic SSD upgrade comes in, and today we’re diving deep into some of the Crucial best SSD for ROG Ally X options, plus a top-notch alternative.
Upgrading your ROG Ally X’s internal storage isn’t just about more space; it’s about boosting load times, improving overall system responsiveness, and ensuring your games run as smoothly as possible. The ROG Ally X, thankfully, comes with an M.2 2280 slot, a significant upgrade from the original Ally’s 2230, giving you more flexibility. However, many excellent 2230 drives are still perfectly compatible and can be fantastic, especially if you’re looking for power efficiency or a specific size. We’ve rounded up 7 top contenders that promise to elevate your handheld gaming experience. Let’s get cracking!
Why Upgrade Your ROG Ally X’s SSD?
Before we jump into the products, let’s quickly chat about why this upgrade is so crucial (pun intended!):
- More Games, Less Worry: Modern AAA titles can eat up 100GB+ easily. More storage means more games installed and ready to play.
- Blazing-Fast Load Times: NVMe SSDs, especially PCIe Gen4, dramatically cut down on game loading screens, letting you jump into the action quicker.
- Smoother Performance: A faster SSD can improve texture streaming and overall system responsiveness, making your handheld feel snappier.
- Future-Proofing: As games evolve, so do their storage demands. An upgrade ensures your Ally X stays competitive.
Ready to find the Crucial best SSD for ROG Ally X for your needs? Let’s check out the top picks!
Product Reviews
1. Crucial P310 2TB M.2 2230 SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe
If you’re looking for a compact powerhouse for your ROG Ally X, the Crucial P310 2TB M.2 2230 SSD is an outstanding choice. While the Ally X supports the larger 2280 form factor, a high-quality 2230 drive like this one can still be used, especially if you appreciate its excellent power efficiency and broad compatibility across various handhelds. This drive doesn’t just offer generous space; it’s engineered to deliver robust PCIe Gen4 performance, making your game loads faster and your system more responsive, all while being mindful of your battery life during those epic gaming sessions.
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Key Features:
- Broad Compatibility: Works with Valve Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally (original), Microsoft Surface, and select Dell laptops for easy portable upgrades.
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Delivers up to 7,100MB/s read and 6,000MB/s write speeds for quicker game load times, bootups, and smooth multitasking.
- Spacious NVMe SSD: This 2TB SSD provides space for AAA games, apps, and media with compact M.2 2230 NVMe SSD form factor for casual gamers and home users.
- Power-efficient Design: Engineered for low power draw to extend battery life on handheld consoles and laptops.
- Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control for reliable Gen4 performance trusted by gamers and home users.
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Pros:
- Excellent balance of speed, capacity, and power efficiency.
- Ideal compact 2230 form factor for various handhelds.
- Proven Crucial/Micron reliability.
- Great for extending battery life on portable devices.
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Cons:
- Requires an M.2 2230 to 2280 adapter for direct internal use in ROG Ally X (though it is compatible with older ROG Ally models directly).
- May not offer the absolute peak speeds of some 2280 Gen4 drives.
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User Impressions: Users rave about the ease of installation in compatible handhelds and the noticeable speed improvements. Many appreciate the extended battery life, a crucial factor for mobile gaming. Its reliability and steady performance are frequently highlighted.
See it on Amazon here
2. Crucial P310 4TB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280
If storage space is your ultimate priority, and you want to pack virtually your entire game library onto your ROG Ally X, the Crucial P310 4TB SSD in the M.2 2280 form factor is an absolute titan. This drive perfectly leverages the ROG Ally X’s native 2280 slot, offering a massive capacity alongside formidable PCIe 4.0 performance. It’s not just about gaming either; this drive is designed to accelerate everything from boot-up times to demanding applications, making your Ally X a true powerhouse for both play and productivity.
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Key Features:
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Delivers up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds for quicker game load times, bootups, and smooth multitasking.
- Spacious 4TB SSD: Provides space for AAA games, apps, and media with standard Gen4 NVMe performance for casual gamers and home users.
- Broad Compatibility: Works seamlessly with laptops, desktops, and select gaming consoles including ROG Ally X, Lenovo Legion Go, and AYANEO Kun. Also backward compatible with PCIe Gen3 systems for flexible upgrades.
- Better Productivity: Up to 2x faster than previous Gen3 generation. Improve performance for real-world tasks like booting Windows, starting applications like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, and working in applications like Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
- Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control for reliable Gen4 performance trusted by gamers and home users.
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Pros:
- Enormous 4TB capacity allows for a vast game library.
- Native M.2 2280 form factor for direct fit in ROG Ally X.
- Excellent PCIe Gen4 speeds for gaming and productivity.
- Highly versatile, compatible with many devices.
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Cons:
- Higher price point due to capacity.
- Might be overkill if you only play a few games at a time.
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User Impressions: Users are thrilled with the sheer amount of storage this drive offers, meaning they rarely have to uninstall games. The performance boost is widely appreciated, and the ease of installation in compatible 2280 devices (like the Ally X) is a frequent positive remark.
See it on Amazon here
3. Crucial P310 1TB M.2 2230 SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe
For those who want a solid upgrade without breaking the bank or going for maximum capacity, the Crucial P310 1TB M.2 2230 SSD is a fantastic middle-ground. Like its 2TB sibling, this compact drive offers impressive PCIe Gen4 speeds and a focus on power efficiency, making it perfect for your ROG Ally X if you’re using an adapter or have other handhelds that natively support the 2230 standard. It provides a significant leap over typical stock storage, ensuring your games load faster and your device’s battery lasts longer.
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Key Features:
- Broad Compatibility: Works with Steam Deck, ROG Ally (original), Microsoft Surface, and select Dell laptops for easy portable upgrades.
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Delivers up to 7,100MB/s read and 6,000MB/s write speeds for quicker game load times, bootups, and smooth multitasking.
- Spacious NVMe SSD: This 1TB SSD provides space for AAA games, apps, and media with compact M.2 2230 NVMe SSD form factor for casual gamers and home users.
- Power-efficient Design: Engineered for low power draw to extend battery life on handheld consoles and laptops.
- Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control for reliable Gen4 performance trusted by gamers and home users.
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Pros:
- Great value for a 1TB Gen4 NVMe SSD.
- Excellent power efficiency for extended battery life.
- Compact 2230 form factor, highly versatile for other handhelds.
- Reliable Crucial/Micron performance.
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Cons:
- Requires an M.2 2230 to 2280 adapter for direct internal use in ROG Ally X.
- 1TB might still feel limiting for very large game libraries.
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User Impressions: This 1TB version is a popular choice for its balance of performance and price. Users appreciate the immediate speed increase and the peace of mind that comes with Crucial’s reputation for quality. It’s often recommended as a cost-effective upgrade for various handheld devices.
See it on Amazon here
4. Crucial P310 1TB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280
For many ROG Ally X users, the Crucial P310 1TB SSD in the M.2 2280 form factor will hit that sweet spot. It offers a generous 1TB of storage, which is ample for a good selection of modern games, and it slides right into the Ally X’s native 2280 slot. With robust PCIe Gen4 speeds, you’ll experience significantly faster game loading and overall system snappiness compared to stock drives. This drive is a perfect blend of capacity, performance, and compatibility for the discerning handheld gamer.
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Key Features:
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Delivers up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds for quicker game load times, bootups, and smooth multitasking.
- Spacious 1TB SSD: Provides space for AAA games, apps, and media with standard Gen4 NVMe performance for casual gamers and home users.
- Broad Compatibility: Works seamlessly with laptops, desktops, and select gaming consoles including ROG Ally X, Lenovo Legion Go, and AYANEO Kun. Also backward compatible with PCIe Gen3 systems for flexible upgrades.
- Better Productivity: Up to 2x faster than previous Gen3 generation. Improve performance for real-world tasks like booting Windows, starting applications like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, and working in applications like Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
- Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control for reliable Gen4 performance trusted by gamers and home users.
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Pros:
- Ideal 1TB capacity for a diverse game library.
- Direct M.2 2280 fit for ROG Ally X, no adapters needed.
- Strong PCIe Gen4 speeds for noticeable performance gains.
- Excellent value for money.
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Cons:
- Not the largest capacity available if you need a truly immense game library.
- No integrated heatsink (though not typically needed for Ally X unless heavily stressed).
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User Impressions: This is a highly popular option for its blend of practical capacity and strong performance. Users consistently report significant improvements in game load times and overall system responsiveness after upgrading. Its straightforward installation into 2280-compatible devices makes it a favorite.
See it on Amazon here
5. Crucial P310 500GB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280
For gamers on a tighter budget or those who only need a modest boost in storage for their ROG Ally X, the Crucial P310 500GB SSD is a solid entry-level option. While 500GB might seem less generous compared to its larger siblings, it still offers a significant upgrade over smaller stock drives and crucially provides PCIe Gen4 speeds. It fits perfectly into the ROG Ally X’s M.2 2280 slot and delivers faster boot times and quicker game loads for your essential titles, making it an efficient and affordable way to enhance your handheld experience.
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Key Features:
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Delivers up to 6,600 MB/s read and 5,000 MB/s write speeds for quicker game load times, bootups, and smooth multitasking.
- Spacious 500GB SSD: Provides space for AAA games, apps, and media with standard Gen4 NVMe performance for casual gamers and home users.
- Broad Compatibility: Works seamlessly with laptops, desktops, and select gaming consoles including ROG Ally X, Lenovo Legion Go, and AYANEO Kun. Also backward compatible with PCIe Gen3 systems for flexible upgrades.
- Better Productivity: Up to 2x faster than previous Gen3 generation. Improve performance for real-world tasks like booting Windows, starting applications like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, and working in applications like Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
- Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control for reliable Gen4 performance trusted by gamers and home users.
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Pros:
- Most budget-friendly M.2 2280 Gen4 NVMe option from Crucial.
- Direct fit for ROG Ally X.
- Still offers a substantial performance boost over older SSDs or eMMC.
- Reliable Crucial/Micron build quality.
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Cons:
- 500GB capacity can fill up quickly with modern AAA games.
- Slightly lower peak speeds compared to the 1TB and 4TB P310 models.
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User Impressions: Users who opt for this drive typically prioritize affordability and a basic performance upgrade. They find it effective for holding a few favorite games and appreciate the speed increase for general system use. It’s often recommended for those replacing very small or slow stock drives.
See it on Amazon here
6. Crucial T710 2TB Gen5 NVMe SSD, Up to 14,500 MB/s
For the ultimate performance enthusiast who wants to push boundaries, the Crucial T710 2TB Gen5 NVMe SSD is a glimpse into the future of storage. While the ROG Ally X officially supports PCIe Gen4, this Gen5 drive is backward compatible and will operate at Gen4 speeds, still delivering incredible performance. Its sheer speed capabilities, coupled with an integrated heatsink option, make it a powerhouse for not just gaming but also demanding creative tasks that can benefit from DirectStorage. If you want the fastest possible drive and don’t mind the premium, this is it.
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Key Features:
- WIN BIGGER: Experience Gen5 gameplay at the speed of thought. With up to 14,900/13,800 sequential read/write speeds, you’ll be faster out of the gate.
- ENHANCE YOUR GAMING EXPERIENCE: Don’t miss out on the detailed atmospheres of your favorite games. Activate advanced ray tracing in applicable games to see all the reflections, fog and lighting to improve your gameplay.
- POINT. CLICK. DONE.: Spend more time being creative and less time waiting on your latest renders. Included DirectStorage speeds up your creative process and allows you to create as fast as you can imagine.
- LEADING GEN5 TECHNOLOGY: Crucial is a pioneer in blazing-fast Gen5 storage, built for maximum performance. The T710 showcases Crucial’s innovation and pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in gaming, creativity, and beyond.
- STREAMLINE YOUR SYSTEM WITH A PREMIUM HEATSINK: The T710 offers an integrated heatsink to maximize heat dissipation for optimal performance without noisy fans or liquid cooling. A non-heatsink option is also available.
- SSD ENCRYPTION SUPPORT: Protect your data with hardware encryption. Install the latest T710 firmware exclusively via Crucial’s official support page (Support > Firmware Updates) to enable encryption.
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Pros:
- Future-proof Gen5 technology, capable of extreme speeds.
- Integrated heatsink (for heatsink option) helps manage thermals.
- Excellent for DirectStorage-enabled games and creative workloads.
- Hardware encryption support for enhanced data security.
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Cons:
- Premium price point, significantly more expensive than Gen4 alternatives.
- ROG Ally X cannot fully utilize Gen5 speeds (will operate at Gen4 max).
- The heatsink version might not fit in all cramped handheld enclosures.
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User Impressions: Power users and enthusiasts are blown away by the T710’s speed, especially in systems that can fully leverage Gen5. While Ally X users won’t get the full Gen5 experience, they still report a snappy, top-tier Gen4 performance with the added benefit of future-proofing.
See it on Amazon here
7. fanxiang 2TB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD, PCIe Gen 4×4 Speed
Looking for a high-capacity 2230 option from an alternative brand for your ROG Ally X (with adapter)? The fanxiang 2TB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD offers a compelling blend of speed and generous storage. This drive is tailored for compact devices, providing a seamless upgrade experience with its robust PCIe Gen4 performance. What truly makes it stand out is the integrated graphene heat dissipation sticker, an intelligent solution to manage thermals in tight spaces like handheld consoles, ensuring stable and reliable performance during intense gaming.
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Key Features:
- Blazing-Fast Performance: Experience ultra-fast read speeds up to 5200 MB/s and write speeds up to 4500MB/s with the fanxiang S630 PCIe 4.0 2TB NVMe SSD, ensuring smooth gaming, quick boot times, and efficient multitasking. Backward compatible with PCIe 3.0.
- Compact M.2 2230 Form Factor: Designed for space-constrained devices, the S630 2TB M.2 2230 SSD fits perfectly in Steam Deck, Microsoft Surface, laptops, ultrabooks, and mini PCs, providing a seamless storage upgrade.
- Advanced Thermal Management: The fanxiang S630 2TB NVMe SSD features a graphene heat dissipation sticker on its surface, acting as an ultra-thin heat sink. This innovative design effectively reduces the heat generated during use, improving the overall performance and stability of the SSD while maintaining a cool operating temperature.
- Premium Flash Technology: Equipped with high-quality 3D NAND Flash chips and a robust controller, the 2TB M.2 2230 SSD offers higher reliability and durability. These components have been rigorously tested to guarantee a longer service life and stable performance.
- 5 Years of Reliable After-Sales Support: Backed by long-term after-sales service, provided a 5-year quality service or 640TBW, please feel free to purchase and use with no worries.
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Pros:
- Generous 2TB capacity in a compact 2230 form factor.
- Integrated graphene heatsink for efficient thermal management.
- Competitive PCIe Gen4 speeds for gaming.
- Excellent 5-year warranty for peace of mind.
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Cons:
- Requires an M.2 2230 to 2280 adapter for direct internal use in ROG Ally X.
- Not as fast as the Crucial P310 series in raw sequential speeds.
- Brand recognition may not be as high as Crucial.
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User Impressions: Users are impressed by the value and performance offered by this fanxiang drive. The 2TB capacity in the 2230 size is a major draw for handheld device owners. Many commend the effective thermal design and the noticeable speed improvements over stock storage. The long warranty is also a reassuring factor.
See it on Amazon here
FAQ Section
Q1: What is the main difference between M.2 2230 and M.2 2280 SSDs?
A1: The numbers (2230, 2280) refer to the physical dimensions of the SSD. 2230 means 22mm wide by 30mm long, while 2280 means 22mm wide by 80mm long. The ROG Ally X natively supports the larger 2280 form factor, which generally allows for more NAND chips and thus higher capacities and sometimes better thermal performance. The original ROG Ally supported 2230.
Q2: Does the ASUS ROG Ally X support M.2 2280 SSDs internally?
A2: Yes, absolutely! One of the significant upgrades for the ROG Ally X over the original ROG Ally is its native support for the M.2 2280 form factor, making upgrades much more straightforward and offering a wider range of high-capacity options.
Q3: What does PCIe Gen4 NVMe mean for my ROG Ally X?
A3: PCIe Gen4 (PCI Express Generation 4) NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) is a high-speed interface that allows SSDs to achieve incredibly fast data transfer rates. For your ROG Ally X, this translates to significantly faster game load times, quicker boot-ups, and a smoother overall computing experience compared to older Gen3 SSDs or SATA drives.
Q4: Can I use a PCIe Gen5 SSD in my ROG Ally X?
A4: Yes, you can use a PCIe Gen5 SSD in your ROG Ally X, but it will operate at PCIe Gen4 speeds. The Ally X’s motherboard only supports PCIe Gen4, so while the Gen5 drive is backward compatible, you won’t get its full advertised Gen5 speeds. It’s an option for future-proofing, but a high-quality Gen4 drive offers better value for the Ally X’s current capabilities.
Q5: Is it difficult to install a new SSD in the ROG Ally X?
A5: Upgrading the SSD in the ROG Ally X is generally considered a moderate difficulty task. It requires opening the device, which involves removing screws and carefully detaching the back panel. You’ll also need to transfer your operating system or perform a fresh Windows installation. If you’re comfortable with basic electronics and follow a detailed guide or video tutorial, it’s certainly doable for most users.
Q6: Will upgrading my SSD improve my ROG Ally X’s gaming FPS?
A6: Directly, no. An SSD upgrade primarily impacts loading times, boot times, and how quickly games and applications respond. Your in-game frame rate (FPS) is determined by the CPU, GPU, and RAM. However, a faster SSD can reduce stuttering related to asset streaming in some games and improve overall system responsiveness, which indirectly enhances the feeling of a smoother gaming experience.
Q7: How much storage capacity do I really need for my ROG Ally X?
A7: This depends on your gaming habits.
* 500GB-1TB: Good for casual gamers or those who only play a few AAA titles at a time.
* 2TB: An excellent sweet spot for most gamers, allowing for a substantial library of modern games without constant uninstalling.
* 4TB: Ideal for hardcore gamers who want to install a massive library and never worry about space. Considering the ROG Ally X is a portable device, 2TB is often the recommended balance between cost and convenience.
Conclusion
There you have it – a comprehensive look at some of the Crucial best SSD for ROG Ally X options, along with a strong alternative, to help you make the most of your portable gaming powerhouse. Whether you’re chasing the absolute highest capacity with the Crucial P310 4TB, aiming for the perfect balance of speed and storage with the 1TB M.2 2280, or even exploring the bleeding edge with a Gen5 drive, there’s a perfect SSD out there for your needs.
Remember, a solid SSD upgrade is one of the most impactful improvements you can make to your ROG Ally X. It’s not just about space; it’s about speed, responsiveness, and truly enjoying every moment of your handheld gaming adventures. So go ahead, pick your champion, and turbocharge your Ally X today! Happy gaming!