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When building a new PC, one of the most impactful upgrades you can make is choosing the right storage. M.2 SSDs have become the go-to choice for modern builds thanks to their blazing-fast speeds, compact size, and plug-and-play convenience. Unlike traditional SATA SSDs or bulky HDDs, M.2 NVMe drives connect directly to your motherboard via PCIe lanes, delivering significantly faster read/write speeds—perfect for gaming, content creation, and everyday multitasking. But with so many options on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve tested and reviewed the top M.2 SSDs to help you decide: Is M.2 SSD best for a new build? Spoiler: The answer is a resounding yes—and these seven drives prove why.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Is M.2 Ssd Best For A New Build Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. WD Black SN7100 2TB NVMe M.2 SSD for Laptops and Gaming Devices
The WD Black SN7100 is a high-octane Gen4 NVMe SSD built for gamers and power users who demand top-tier performance without compromise. With read speeds up to 7,250MB/s and write speeds hitting 6,900MB/s, this drive delivers noticeably faster load times and smoother multitasking than older Gen3 models.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ PCIe Gen4 interface with next-gen TLC 3D NAND
✓ Up to 35% faster than previous WD Black generations
✓ Available in capacities up to 2TB—perfect for large game libraries
✓ Low-profile M.2 2280 design fits most laptops and desktops
✓ Built-in thermal management prevents throttling under load
Why We Recommend It
This SSD strikes an excellent balance between speed, reliability, and value. It’s purpose-built for gaming and intensive workloads, making it ideal for anyone building a high-performance PC. Plus, its consistent real-world performance matches its impressive specs.
Best For
Gamers, content creators, and professionals upgrading to a fast, dependable NVMe drive with room to grow.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Blazing-fast sequential read/write speeds
- Excellent thermal performance under sustained loads
- Reliable Sandisk TLC NAND architecture
- Great price-to-performance ratio
Cons:
- No included heatsink (may require third-party cooling in tight builds)
- Limited to Gen4 speeds (not future-proof for Gen5-only systems)
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought the WD_BLACK SN7100 4TB to replace my smaller WD SN570 Gen3 boot drive. Installation was straightforward i.e just slide it into the M.2 slot, and done. Using CrystalDiskMark V9.5.0, I consistently saw around 7000 MB/s read and 6200 MB/s write on the 4 GB test, and about 6800 MB/s.”
Customer Review: “Great SSD for the price. Installation was simple and the drive delivers fast load times in games and everyday use. The performance is definitely noticeable. Overall, a solid upgrade for any gaming PC!!”
2. WD_BLACK SN850X 2TB NVMe SSD with Heatsink – M.2 2280, Up to 7,300 MB/s Read speeds, Up to 6,300 …
The WD_BLACK SN850X is a premium Gen4 NVMe SSD that combines elite performance with smart thermal design. With an integrated heatsink and speeds up to 7,300MB/s read, it’s engineered for gamers and creators who refuse to compromise on speed or stability.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Integrated aluminum heatsink reduces throttling
✓ Sequential read speeds up to 7,300MB/s and write up to 6,300MB/s
✓ Available up to 8TB capacity using Sandisk TLC NAND
✓ Optimized firmware for low latency and high IOPS
✓ Compatible with PS5 (with or without heatsink)
Why We Recommend It
This drive delivers near-maximum Gen4 performance with rock-solid reliability. The included heatsink isn’t just cosmetic—it actively keeps temps down during long gaming sessions or large file transfers, ensuring consistent speed.
Best For
Enthusiast gamers, streamers, and anyone building a high-end desktop or upgrading their PS5 storage.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding sustained performance thanks to heatsink
- PS5-compatible out of the box
- Excellent random read/write performance for OS and apps
- Long lifespan with strong endurance ratings
Cons:
- Higher cost per GB compared to non-heatsink models
- Heatsink may not fit in ultra-compact ITX builds
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Upgraded to the WD_BLACK 2TB SN850X NVMe from a Gen 3 SSD, and the difference is massive. This drive delivers exactly what it promises — insane speeds, great thermal performance, and rock-solid reliability. Right out of the box, I was getting read/write speeds over 7,000 MB/s.”
Customer Review: “The 1TB WD_BLACK SN850X was one of the best upgrades I made to my PC. Installation in M.2 format was quick and easy, and I noticed the difference from the very first boot: game loading times were drastically reduced, and the system responded with impressive smoothness. Speeds of up to 7,300 MB/s are”
3. Crucial P310 500GB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280, Up to 6,600MB/s, for Laptop, Desktop , & Handhel…
The Crucial P310 proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get serious Gen4 performance. This budget-friendly NVMe SSD delivers up to 6,600MB/s read speeds and works seamlessly across laptops, desktops, and even handheld gaming devices like the ROG Ally.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ PCIe Gen4 x4 interface with NVMe 1.4 support
✓ Read speeds up to 6,600MB/s and write up to 5,000MB/s
✓ Compact M.2 2280 form factor
✓ Broad compatibility with laptops, desktops, and select handhelds
✓ Micron 3D NAND for reliable endurance
Why We Recommend It
If you’re building a mid-range PC or upgrading an older laptop, the P310 offers near-top-tier Gen4 speeds at a fraction of the cost. It’s perfect for casual gamers and everyday users who want a snappy system without overspending.
Best For
Budget-conscious builders, students, and anyone upgrading from SATA SSDs or HDDs to NVMe.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for Gen4 performance
- Works in a wide range of devices including handhelds
- Low power consumption ideal for laptops
- Reliable Micron NAND with solid warranty
Cons:
- Only 500GB capacity (may fill up quickly with modern games)
- No heatsink included
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I recently upgraded to the Crucial P310 2TB SSD and it’s been a fantastic addition to my setup. Plenty of space: 2 TB gives me lots of room for OS, apps, games, and files without tight space concerns. Fast speeds: For Gen4 NVMe, load and boot times are superfast.”
Customer Review: “I’ve been using this Crucial P310 2TB SSD for 4 months now in my small form factor PC build and it’s been fantastic. Installation was simple and straightforward – no issues at all. The performance is outstanding for both gaming and everyday use.”
4. Crucial P510 PCIe Gen5 NVMe 1TB SSD, Up to 11,000MB/s, TLC NAND, Laptop & Desktop Compatible, fo…
The Crucial P510 is one of the first consumer Gen5 NVMe SSDs that brings next-gen speed to mainstream builds. With read speeds up to 11,000MB/s and write up to 8,500MB/s, it’s built for AI workloads, 4K video editing, and future-proof gaming rigs.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ PCIe Gen5 x4 interface with NVMe 2.0 support
✓ Sequential read up to 11,000MB/s, write up to 8,500MB/s
✓ Backward compatible with Gen4 systems
✓ Micron 232-layer TLC NAND for endurance and efficiency
✓ Compact M.2 2280 design fits most modern motherboards
Why We Recommend It
While still early in the Gen5 adoption curve, the P510 offers a glimpse into the future of storage—without requiring a complete system overhaul. It’s backward compatible, so you can use it today and unlock full speed when you upgrade your platform.
Best For
Tech enthusiasts, early adopters, and professionals building future-ready systems with Gen5-capable motherboards.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- True Gen5 performance at a competitive price
- Backward compatible with Gen4 slots
- High endurance thanks to Micron TLC NAND
- Ideal for AI, rendering, and large file workflows
Cons:
- Requires Gen5 motherboard for full speed
- Higher power draw than Gen4 drives
- May need active cooling in sustained workloads
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I purchased this Crucial NVMe drive to replace a Samsung Pro that seems to have an issue with one of Windows 11 updates. Although I updated the firmware, it still would go south from time to time. However, purchasing this Crucial P510, I find that it performs better than the Samsung 990 Pro ever did.”
Customer Review: “It’s a good drive. I think Crucial (Micron) just announced though, that they are stopping their consumer drives to concentrate on their commercial side, making drives for AI use. I’m happy with the speeds and it was a good drive for the money.”
5. WD Black SN8100 2TB Gen5 NVMe SSD for AI, Gaming, and Video Editing
The WD Black SN8100 is a flagship Gen5 NVMe SSD designed for the most demanding workloads. With jaw-dropping read speeds up to 14,900MB/s and write up to 14,000MB/s, it’s built for AI training, 8K video editing, and competitive gaming where every millisecond counts.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ PCIe Gen5 x4 interface with ultra-low latency
✓ Sequential read up to 14,900MB/s, write up to 14,000MB/s
✓ Over 100% more power efficient than Gen4 drives
✓ Advanced thermal throttling protection
✓ Optimized for sustained heavy workloads
Why We Recommend It
This is one of the fastest consumer SSDs on the market. While it demands a Gen5-compatible system to shine, it delivers unparalleled performance for professionals and hardcore gamers who need maximum throughput.
Best For
AI developers, video editors, and performance purists building top-tier workstations or gaming rigs.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unmatched Gen5 speed and bandwidth
- Exceptional power efficiency for its class
- Robust thermal management
- Ideal for data-intensive applications
Cons:
- Requires latest AMD or Intel Gen5 platform
- Premium pricing
- Overkill for basic gaming or office use
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This drive is a beast! I use it for 4K/8K video editing and the difference in render times is incredible. Boot-up is instant, and large project files load in seconds.”
Customer Review: “Expensive but worth it if you’re serious about performance. Make sure your motherboard supports Gen5 or you won’t see the benefits.”
6. Samsung 990 PRO SSD 4TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal Solid State Hard Drive, Seq. Read Speeds Up to…
The Samsung 990 PRO is a legendary Gen4 NVMe SSD known for its reliability, speed, and massive 4TB capacity. With read speeds up to 7,450MB/s and write up to 6,900MB/s, it’s a favorite among gamers, creators, and professionals worldwide.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Samsung V-NAND technology with in-house controller
✓ Sequential read up to 7,450MB/s, write up to 6,900MB/s
✓ 4TB capacity ideal for large game libraries and media
✓ Low power consumption and efficient thermal design
✓ 5-year warranty with high TBW (terabytes written) rating
Why We Recommend It
Samsung has long been a leader in flash memory, and the 990 PRO is a testament to their engineering. It’s fast, durable, and backed by excellent support—making it a safe bet for any high-end build.
Best For
Users who want maximum storage, top-tier Gen4 performance, and brand reliability in one package.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- One of the fastest Gen4 drives available
- Massive 4TB capacity
- Excellent endurance and long-term reliability
- Strong random I/O performance
Cons:
- Higher price per GB than some competitors
- No heatsink included on 4TB model
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Samsung never disappoints. This 4TB drive runs cool, fast, and handles everything I throw at it—from AAA games to 4K video projects.”
Customer Review: “Worth every penny. I’ve had mine for over a year with zero issues. Load times are insane and it never slows down.”
7. Samsung 9100 PRO 2TB Gen5 NVMe M.2 SSD for AI and Gaming Workloads
The Samsung 9100 PRO is Samsung’s answer to the Gen5 revolution—delivering mind-bending speeds up to 14,700MB/s read and 13,400MB/s write. Built for AI acceleration and extreme gaming, it’s one of the most advanced consumer SSDs available.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ PCIe Gen5 x4 interface with NVMe 2.0
✓ Sequential read up to 14,700MB/s, write up to 13,400MB/s
✓ Random read/write up to 1.85M/2.6M IOPS
✓ Advanced thermal solution with graphene coating
✓ Optimized for AI, gaming, and creative workloads
Why We Recommend It
If you’re building a bleeding-edge system and want the absolute best performance money can buy, the 9100 PRO is hard to beat. It’s not just fast—it’s engineered for the future of computing.
Best For
AI researchers, pro gamers, and tech enthusiasts with Gen5-compatible hardware.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Top-tier Gen5 performance
- Exceptional random I/O for multitasking
- Samsung’s proven reliability and support
- Efficient thermal management
Cons:
- Very high cost
- Requires latest platform (AM5/LGA1851)
- Overkill for casual users
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’ve been building PCs for years, and Samsung has always been my go-to brand for storage. The Samsung SSD 9100 PRO 4TB PCIe 5.0×4 fits right in with the quality I’ve come to expect. From build quality to speed, it doesn’t disappoint.”
Customer Review: “If you want a serious performance boost, the Samsung 9100 PRO is a beast. I dropped the 4TB version into my laptop, and load times basically disappeared—projects that used to take minutes now open in seconds.”
Complete Buying Guide for Is M.2 SSD Best for a New Build
Essential Factors We Consider
When evaluating whether an M.2 SSD is best for your new build, we focus on four key areas: performance (read/write speeds and IOPS), compatibility (Gen4 vs Gen5, M.2 slot type), capacity (how much storage you realistically need), and value (price per GB). We also consider thermal performance, brand reliability, and real-world usage scenarios like gaming, content creation, or general productivity.
Budget Planning
You don’t need to break the bank to get a great M.2 SSD. For most users, a 1TB–2TB Gen4 drive like the WD Black SN7100 or Crucial P310 offers the best balance of speed, capacity, and cost ($0.08–$0.12 per GB). If you’re building a high-end workstation or want future-proofing, investing in a Gen5 drive makes sense—but only if your motherboard supports it. Always leave room in your budget for a quality heatsink if your case has poor airflow.
Final Thoughts
Yes—M.2 SSDs are absolutely the best choice for a new PC build in 2024 and beyond. They’re faster, smaller, and more efficient than any other storage option. Whether you’re a gamer, creator, or casual user, upgrading to NVMe storage will transform your experience with quicker boots, faster loads, and smoother multitasking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is M.2 SSD better than SATA SSD for a new build?
A: Absolutely. M.2 NVMe SSDs are significantly faster than SATA SSDs, with speeds often 5–7x higher. They also take up less space and connect directly to the motherboard, reducing cable clutter.
Q: Do I need a heatsink for my M.2 SSD?
A: Not always, but recommended for Gen4 and Gen5 drives under heavy load. Many high-performance SSDs (like the WD_BLACK SN850X) come with one, or you can buy an aftermarket heatsink for around $10–$15.
Q: Can I use a Gen5 M.2 SSD in a Gen4 motherboard?
A: Yes! Gen5 SSDs are backward compatible and will run at Gen4 speeds. This makes them a great future-proof investment.
Q: How much storage do I really need?
A: For most gamers, 1TB–2TB is ideal. If you work with large files (video, AI datasets), consider 4TB. Avoid going below 500GB—modern games can take 100GB+ each.
Q: Are all M.2 SSDs the same size?
A: Most consumer M.2 SSDs are 2280 (22mm wide, 80mm long), which fits nearly all modern motherboards. Always double-check your manual to be safe.
Ready to supercharge your new build? Any of the M.2 SSDs on this list will deliver a noticeable performance boost over older storage tech. Whether you prioritize speed, capacity, or value, there’s a perfect drive for your needs. Click the “Check Price” buttons above to compare current deals and make your upgrade today!
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