Building or upgrading a PC is exciting, especially when you’re looking to squeeze every drop of performance out of your system. If you’re rocking an AM4 motherboard with M.2 SSD slots, you’re already on the right track for blazing-fast storage. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best components? That’s where Sabrent comes in. Renowned for their high-performance and reliable storage solutions, Sabrent offers a fantastic range of M.2 SSDs and accessories that perfectly complement any AM4 motherboard for M.2 SSD setup.
While Sabrent doesn’t manufacture motherboards themselves, their products are specifically designed to leverage the power of modern platforms, including AMD’s popular AM4. From lightning-quick NVMe drives to versatile adapters and enclosures, integrating Sabrent into your build means unlocking incredible speeds and efficiency. We’ve handpicked 7 of Sabrent’s best offerings to help you maximize your system’s potential. Let’s dive in!
1. SABRENT 2TB Rocket 4 Plus NVMe 4.0 Gen4 PCIe M.2 SSD
This drive isn’t just fast; it’s a speed demon designed for the most demanding users. If you’re a gamer, a content creator, or anyone who needs their system to respond instantly, the Sabrent Rocket 4 Plus is an absolute game-changer. It leverages PCIe Gen4 to deliver eye-watering read and write speeds, making loading times and file transfers feel virtually instantaneous. Pair this with your AM4 motherboard for M.2 SSD and prepare for an unparalleled experience.
- Blazing-Fast Performance: Achieve up to 7100MB/s read and 6600MB/s write speeds with PCIe Gen4.
- Next-Gen NVMe Interface: Built on NVMe 1.4 and PCIe Gen4 x4 for maximum throughput and low latency; backward compatible with PCIe Gen3.
- High-Endurance TLC NAND: Engineered with premium 3D TLC NAND for long-lasting performance, stability, and consistent write speeds under load.
- Advanced Thermal Management: Requires heatsink for optimal Gen4 performance; designed for compatibility with onboard motherboard heatsinks or PS5 slot.
- Easy Cloning & Sector Control: Includes Acronis True Image for SABRENT; new utility supports custom 512e/4K formatting for seamless OS migrations.
Pros:
– Exceptional speed for demanding tasks.
– High endurance and stability thanks to TLC NAND.
– Includes cloning software for easy migration.
– Backward compatibility with PCIe Gen3 systems.
Cons:
– Requires a heatsink for optimal Gen4 performance, which might not be included.
– Premium performance comes at a higher price point.
User Impressions: Users consistently praise the Rocket 4 Plus for its raw speed and reliability. Many have reported significant improvements in game loading, video editing, and overall system responsiveness. The need for a heatsink is often mentioned, but most AM4 motherboards come with integrated M.2 heatsinks, making it a non-issue for many.
2. SABRENT 4-Drive NVMe M.2 SSD to PCIe 3.0 x4 Adapter
Sometimes, your AM4 motherboard might have limited M.2 slots, or you might want to add NVMe storage to an older system. This clever adapter is your solution! It allows you to add up to four NVMe M.2 SSDs using just one PCIe x4 slot. It’s an excellent way to expand your storage capabilities without upgrading your entire motherboard, especially if you have an older PCIe 3.0 AM4 motherboard for M.2 SSD that still has a spare x4, x8, or x16 slot.
- Expansive Storage: Add up to four NVMe SSDs to your computer with a single x4 PCIe 3.0 adapter card.
- Resilient & Cool: Includes an aluminum heatsink with silicone thermal padding for efficient heat dissipation.
- Compatible & Fast: Fits in x4, x8, and x16 PCIe slots; backward compatible with PCIe 2.0/1.0.
- Efficient Power Management: Supports multiple power protocols including ASPM and L1 sub-states.
- Backed by SABRENT: Supports M-Key NVMe SSDs only; compatible with Windows 8.1+ and macOS 10.3.3+.
Pros:
– Massively expands NVMe storage capacity from a single PCIe slot.
– Includes cooling solution for drives.
– Easy installation with included tools.
– Great for repurposing older systems with spare PCIe slots.
Cons:
– Limited to PCIe 3.0 speeds (though still very fast).
– Requires a free PCIe slot.
– Only supports M-Key NVMe SSDs.
User Impressions: Customers love the simplicity and effectiveness of this adapter for expanding storage. The included heatsink and easy installation are frequently highlighted. It’s seen as a cost-effective way to add high-speed storage without a full system overhaul.
3. SABRENT USB 3.2 Type-C Tool-Free Enclosure for M.2 PCIe NVMe and SATA SSDs
Need portable, blazing-fast storage? This Sabrent M.2 enclosure is a dream come true. Whether you’re moving large files between systems, backing up critical data, or just need an incredibly fast external drive, this tool-free solution makes it easy. It’s incredibly versatile, supporting both NVMe and SATA M.2 SSDs, which means your Sabrent M.2 SSD can go wherever you do!
- CONVENIENCE: 100% Tool-Free installation and removal of SSDs.
- DESIGN: Ultra-slim aluminum case with an ABS frame; sleek, durable, and portable.
- COMPATIBILITY: M.2 form factor compatible with both SATA and NVMe in sizes: 2242/2260/2280.
- SPEED: USB 3.2 supports data transmission speeds of up to 10Gbps (1000MB/s).
- PLUG & PLAY: No additional drivers required, bus powered, no external power supply needed.
Pros:
– Tool-free design for quick SSD swapping.
– Supports both NVMe and SATA M.2 SSDs.
– Excellent 10Gbps data transfer speeds.
– Highly portable and durable.
– Bus-powered, so no extra power adapter needed.
Cons:
– Actual speeds depend on the installed M.2 SSD and the USB port’s capabilities.
– Aluminum casing can get warm under heavy load (normal for high-speed drives).
User Impressions: This enclosure is a fan favorite for its ease of use and broad compatibility. Users appreciate the tool-free design and the ability to quickly turn an internal M.2 SSD into a fast external drive. It’s particularly popular among tech enthusiasts and content creators.
4. SABRENT Rocket 4 2TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 M.2 2280
Another stellar entry in the Sabrent Rocket series, this 2TB Gen4 NVMe SSD offers incredible performance that’s perfect for a high-end gaming PC or a professional workstation built around an AM4 motherboard for M.2 SSD. With slightly different speed characteristics than the Rocket 4 Plus, it still delivers top-tier performance for ultra-fast boots and demanding applications.
- Next-Gen Gen4 Performance: Reach up to 7450MB/s read and 6400MB/s write speeds with PCIe 4.0 NVMe.
- High IOPS, Low Heat: Get up to 1000K/950K random IOPS with minimal thermal output.
- Universal Compatibility: Compatible with desktops, laptops, and PS5; single-sided M.2 2280 design.
- Power for Pros and Gamers: Delivers fast, reliable storage for intensive applications.
- Sabrent Quality and Support: Built with premium components and broad OS support.
Pros:
– Excellent sequential and random read/write speeds.
– Optimized for stable performance without excessive heat.
– Broad compatibility, including PS5.
– Backed by Sabrent’s reputation and support.
Cons:
– Requires a PCIe Gen4 compatible motherboard to achieve stated speeds.
– May still benefit from a dedicated heatsink under sustained heavy use.
User Impressions: This Rocket 4 drive consistently earns high marks for its speed and reliability. Users report quick boot times, smooth application launches, and significantly reduced loading screens in games. Its single-sided design is a plus for compact builds.
5. SABRENT Rocket Q4 2230 NVMe SSD 2TB – PCIe Gen4
This pint-sized powerhouse is a game-changer for compact devices like the Steam Deck or ASUS ROG Ally, but it’s also a fantastic option if you need a high-capacity, fast boot drive in a small form factor for specialized AM4 builds. Don’t let its size fool you; this 2230 M.2 SSD packs a serious punch with Gen4 speeds and impressive capacity.
- Designed for Tight Spaces: Fits Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally (with adapter), Surface Pro, and other space-constrained devices with true M.2 2230 form factor.
- Powerful Performance: Achieve up to 5GB/s read and 800K IOPS with a Gen4 PCIe interface.
- Massive 2TB Capacity: Eliminate the need for microSD cards or external drives with high-speed QLC flash.
- Efficient and Reliable: DRAM-less with Host Memory Buffer (HMB) support for low power draw and responsive performance.
- Retail Quality You Can Trust: New, fully supported SSD with downloadable Sabrent Acronis cloning software.
Pros:
– Perfect for small form factor devices and specific AM4 mini-ITX builds.
– Impressive Gen4 speeds for its size.
– Large 2TB capacity in a compact package.
– Efficient power consumption.
Cons:
– QLC flash may have lower endurance than TLC for extremely heavy, sustained writes (though still very durable for typical use).
– Might require an adapter for some M.2 slots designed for 2280 drives.
User Impressions: This tiny drive gets rave reviews from owners of handheld gaming devices who are thrilled with the performance upgrade and increased storage. Its robust build and easy installation, combined with Sabrent’s cloning software, make it a popular choice for those with specific size requirements.
6. SABRENT 2TB Rocket 4 Plus NVMe 4.0 Gen4 PCIe M.2 SSD
It’s clear why the Sabrent Rocket 4 Plus makes a second appearance on our list – it’s simply that good! This model is identical to Product 1, offering the same phenomenal Gen4 speeds and robust features that make it a standout choice for any high-performance AM4 motherboard for M.2 SSD. Its popularity means it’s often available through different retailers or as part of various bundles, offering flexibility for shoppers. All the fantastic features, pros, and cons mentioned for Product 1 apply here, reinforcing its status as a top-tier NVMe SSD.
User Impressions: As with its counterpart, users love the Rocket 4 Plus for its raw speed and reliability. It consistently delivers on its promises for gamers, content creators, and power users, making it a highly recommended upgrade.
See it on Amazon here (Note: Link provided is the same as Product 1, as the product description is identical.)
7. SABRENT 4-Drive NVMe SSD to PCIe 4.0 X 16 Adapter
For the ultimate NVMe storage expansion on a modern AM4 system, this PCIe 4.0 x16 adapter is a powerhouse. If you have an AM4 motherboard that supports PCIe bifurcation (lane splitting), you can unleash the full potential of up to four NVMe SSDs running at PCIe 4.0 speeds. This is perfect for professional workstations, servers, or extreme enthusiast builds that require massive, lightning-fast storage arrays.
- More Storage: Add up to four high-performance NVMe SSDs to a system with a single adapter in a physical x16 PCIe slot.
- PCIe 4.0 Compliant: Supports even the fastest PCIe 4.0 SSDs; backward compatible with older generations.
- Built Cool: Designed with quality aluminum and thermal padding; optional active cooling (fan) via a rear-positioned switch.
- RAID Capable, Flexible Management: Plug and play, supports Intel VROC and AMD Ryzen NVMe RAID, as well as software/UEFI RAID.
- Supported By Sabrent: Requires M.2 M key NVMe SSDs and UEFI PCIe bifurcation support.
Pros:
– Unrivaled NVMe storage expansion at PCIe 4.0 speeds.
– Robust cooling solution with optional active fan.
– Supports various RAID configurations.
– High-quality build for stability and durability.
Cons:
– Requires an AM4 motherboard with PCIe bifurcation support (check your motherboard manual!).
– Needs a physical x16 PCIe slot.
– Can be an advanced setup for some users.
User Impressions: This adapter is highly valued by users with specific needs for extreme storage performance and capacity. Those who have motherboards supporting bifurcation rave about the ability to run multiple NVMe drives at full speed. The active cooling option is a big plus for ensuring thermal stability under heavy loads.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What does “AM4 motherboard for M.2 SSD” mean for Sabrent products?
A1: It refers to AMD motherboards using the AM4 socket that feature M.2 slots for installing high-speed solid-state drives. Sabrent’s M.2 SSDs and adapters are designed to be fully compatible with these motherboards, allowing you to take full advantage of their performance capabilities.
Q2: Do I need a heatsink for my Sabrent NVMe M.2 SSD?
A2: For PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSDs, especially those from Sabrent like the Rocket 4 Plus, a heatsink is highly recommended. While they’ll work without one, a heatsink prevents thermal throttling under sustained heavy loads, ensuring you get consistent peak performance. Many modern AM4 motherboards come with integrated M.2 heatsinks.
Q3: What’s the difference between PCIe Gen3 and Gen4 SSDs, and is it worth upgrading?
A3: PCIe Gen4 SSDs offer roughly double the theoretical bandwidth of Gen3 SSDs. If your AM4 motherboard supports PCIe Gen4 (usually found on B550, X570 chipsets, or newer B450/X470 with specific BIOS updates for Ryzen 3000/5000 series CPUs), upgrading to a Sabrent Gen4 SSD provides significantly faster loading times, file transfers, and overall system responsiveness, especially for demanding tasks like gaming and content creation.
Q4: Can I use a Sabrent NVMe SSD in an M.2 slot designed for SATA?
A4: No, M.2 slots are typically keyed for either SATA or NVMe, or sometimes both (a “universal” M-key slot). Sabrent NVMe SSDs will only fit and function in M.2 slots that support NVMe (usually M-key). Always check your motherboard’s manual to confirm the M.2 slot compatibility.
Q5: What is PCIe bifurcation, and why is it important for the 4-drive adapters?
A5: PCIe bifurcation is a motherboard feature that allows a single physical PCIe slot (e.g., x16) to be split into multiple smaller logical slots (e.g., four x4 slots). This is crucial for multi-NVMe SSD adapters like Sabrent’s 4-Drive cards, as it allows each NVMe drive to get its own dedicated PCIe lanes and thus operate at full speed. Without bifurcation support, only one SSD on the adapter might be recognized or they might operate at reduced speeds.
Q6: Are Sabrent SSDs compatible with older AM4 chipsets like B450 or X470?
A6: Yes, Sabrent NVMe SSDs are backward compatible. A PCIe Gen4 Sabrent SSD will work perfectly fine in a B450 or X470 motherboard, but it will operate at PCIe Gen3 speeds, which are still very fast. For full Gen4 speeds, you’d need a B550 or X570 (or newer) chipset and a compatible Ryzen 3000 series or newer CPU.
Q7: Do Sabrent products come with a warranty or support?
A7: Yes, Sabrent is known for offering good customer support and product warranties. Most products come with a limited warranty, and they often provide software like Acronis True Image for cloning. Registering your product on their website is usually recommended for the best support experience and firmware updates.
Choosing the right components for your AM4 motherboard for M.2 SSD doesn’t have to be complicated. With Sabrent’s range of high-quality, high-performance NVMe SSDs and versatile accessories, you’re well on your way to building a lightning-fast and reliable PC. Happy building!