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Deciding whether to buy an M.2 or SSD can be confusing—especially when you’re trying to balance speed, compatibility, budget, and future-proofing your system. The truth is, “SSD” is a broad category, and M.2 is actually a form factor that often uses SSD technology. In 2024, most high-performance drives are M.2 NVMe SSDs, offering blazing-fast speeds ideal for gaming, content creation, and everyday productivity. This guide cuts through the jargon and helps you choose the best option based on real-world performance, value, and use case. Whether you’re upgrading a laptop, building a gaming rig, or expanding PS5 storage, we’ve tested and ranked the top options so you can buy with confidence.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Should I Buy M 2 Or Ssd Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. WD Blue SN5100 2TB NVMe M.2 SSD for PC and Laptop Storage Upgrade
The WD Blue SN5100 2TB NVMe M.2 SSD delivers excellent performance for everyday computing and creative workflows. With PCIe Gen4 speeds up to 7,100 MB/s, it’s 30% faster than previous generations, making file transfers and app launches noticeably snappier. Its 2TB capacity gives you plenty of room for large projects, games, and media libraries.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PCIe Gen4 NVMe interface with read speeds up to 7,100 MB/s
- ✓ 2TB capacity using reliable SanDisk 3D NAND technology
- ✓ nCache 4.0 technology for accelerated large file copying
- ✓ M.2 2280 form factor fits most laptops and desktops
- ✓ Backed by a 5-year warranty for peace of mind
Why We Recommend It
This drive strikes the perfect balance between speed, capacity, and reliability. Whether you’re editing videos, running AI tools, or just want faster boot times, the SN5100 handles it all without breaking a sweat. WD’s reputation for quality and the included long warranty make it a smart investment.
Best For
Content creators, students, and professionals who need fast, dependable storage for large files and multitasking.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional read/write speeds for Gen4 NVMe
- Large 2TB capacity at a reasonable price
- Easy installation in most modern systems
- 5-year warranty adds long-term value
Cons:
- No included heatsink (may need one for sustained workloads)
- Slightly higher power draw under load compared to Gen3
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “No issues and easy installation. Quality product for storage size and price.”
Customer Review: “Not too much I can say other than it arrived overnight and was installed in 5 minutes. It works fine. The read/write speed is what I needed and I have used WD products in the past. They are reliable. Also WD has a 5 year warranty on the NVME and that IS a plus. Well worth it!”
2. SIX 1TB NVMe M.2 SSD with Heatsink for Gaming and PS5 Expansion
The SIX 1TB NVMe M.2 SSD with heatsink is built for gamers and PS5 owners who want top-tier speed and thermal management. With PCIe Gen4x4 support and read speeds up to 7,350 MB/s, it dramatically reduces load times in demanding games. The included heatsink ensures stable performance even during long gaming sessions.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Blazing-fast read speeds up to 7,350 MB/s
- ✓ Includes aluminum heatsink for thermal regulation
- ✓ Fully compatible with PS5, laptops, and desktops
- ✓ 1TB capacity ideal for game libraries and apps
- ✓ Plug-and-play installation with no drivers needed
Why We Recommend It
If you’re expanding your PS5 or building a high-end gaming PC, this drive delivers console-certified performance with room to grow. The heatsink is a game-changer—literally—preventing throttling and maintaining peak speeds when it matters most.
Best For
Gamers, streamers, and PS5 users who want fast, reliable storage with built-in cooling.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- One of the fastest Gen4 drives on the market
- Heatsink included—no extra purchase needed
- Seamless PS5 compatibility out of the box
- Solid build quality and consistent performance
Cons:
- Only 1TB capacity may require future upgrades
- Heatsink adds slight height—check clearance in small builds
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Installed this in my PS5 and noticed immediate improvements in load times. The heatsink keeps it cool even after hours of gameplay.”
Customer Review: “Great value for a Gen4 drive with heatsink. Easy to install and works flawlessly with my desktop rig.”
3. WD_BLACK 2TB SN770 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD
The WD_BLACK SN770 offers incredible value for gamers who want high-speed Gen4 performance without paying premium prices. With up to 5,150 MB/s read speeds and 2TB of space, it’s perfect for storing large game libraries while delivering smooth, stutter-free gameplay.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PCIe Gen4 interface with 5,150 MB/s read speeds
- ✓ 2TB capacity for extensive game and media storage
- ✓ Optimized for gaming with low latency and high responsiveness
- ✓ M.2 2280 form factor fits most modern systems
- ✓ WD_BLACK Dashboard for monitoring health and performance
Why We Recommend It
This drive proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get excellent gaming performance. It’s fast enough for competitive play, spacious enough for AAA titles, and priced right for budget-conscious builders.
Best For
Budget-minded gamers and PC builders who want Gen4 speeds and large storage without overspending.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding price-to-performance ratio
- Reliable WD_BLACK brand with solid firmware
- No heatsink needed for most use cases
- Great for both gaming and general productivity
Cons:
- Slightly slower than top-tier Gen4 drives (like Samsung 990 Pro)
- Limited software features compared to premium competitors
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I swapped in the WD_BLACK SN770 2TB NVMe drive to upgrade my gaming PC and I’ve been really pleased. It’s noticeably faster when booting, loading large games, and moving big files—the difference between waiting and not waiting is real. The drive feels solid (no weird heat or noise issues), and with “
Customer Review: “For gamers and tech enthusiasts looking to elevate their gaming experience, the Western Digital WD_BLACK 2TB SN770 NVMe Internal Gaming SSD is an absolute powerhouse. Designed for speed, reliability, and performance, this SSD is a must-have upgrade for anyone wanting lightning-fast load times and se”
4. Kingston NV3 2TB M.2 NVMe SSD with PCIe 4.0 and Fast Speeds
The Kingston NV3 is a reliable, high-capacity Gen4 NVMe SSD that delivers consistent performance for everyday users and light creators. With up to 6,000 MB/s read speeds and 2TB of storage, it’s a great all-rounder for upgrading older systems or expanding current ones.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PCIe 4.0 NVMe with read speeds up to 6,000 MB/s
- ✓ 2TB capacity ideal for media, games, and backups
- ✓ Low power consumption for better laptop battery life
- ✓ Compact M.2 2280 design
- ✓ Kingston’s reputation for durability and support
Why We Recommend It
Kingston has a long history of making dependable storage, and the NV3 continues that tradition. It’s not the fastest drive here, but it’s incredibly stable, energy-efficient, and perfect for users who prioritize reliability over peak benchmarks.
Best For
Laptop users, office PCs, and anyone needing a quiet, efficient, and spacious SSD upgrade.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent energy efficiency
- Smooth performance for daily tasks
- Large capacity at a competitive price
- Trusted brand with global support
Cons:
- Not ideal for heavy sustained workloads
- No included heatsink
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I recently installed the Kingston NV3 1TB M.2 NVMe SSD, and it has been an excellent upgrade for my system. The performance is impressive — with PCIe 4.0 speeds and up to 6000 MB/s, everything feels much faster. Boot times are almost instant, apps open immediately, and large file transfers are smoot”
Customer Review: “Kingston NV3 500GB SSD ReviewThis SSD is a true marvel! 🚀 The speed difference is huge compared to a SATA SSD or a traditional hard drive. Installation was super easy, fitting perfectly into the M.2 slot on my motherboard.What impressed me most is its read and write speeds. It more than delivers on “
5. SIX 4TB NVMe M.2 SSD with Heatsink for PS5 and Desktop Gaming
If you need massive storage without sacrificing speed, the SIX 4TB NVMe M.2 SSD is a beast. With PCIe Gen4x4 support and read speeds up to 7,350 MB/s, it’s perfect for gamers, video editors, and anyone who refuses to delete files. The included heatsink keeps temperatures in check during heavy use.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Massive 4TB capacity for unlimited storage
- ✓ Ultra-fast 7,350 MB/s read speeds
- ✓ Built-in heatsink for thermal stability
- ✓ Compatible with PS5, desktops, and laptops
- ✓ Ideal for 4K video, game libraries, and backups
Why We Recommend It
This is one of the few 4TB Gen4 drives that doesn’t compromise on speed or cooling. If you’re tired of managing multiple drives or constantly deleting games, this single solution gives you space and performance in one package.
Best For
Power users, content creators, and gamers who need maximum storage with top-tier speed.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Huge 4TB capacity eliminates storage anxiety
- Top-speed Gen4 performance
- Heatsink included for free
- Great for PS5 expansion
Cons:
- Higher price point than smaller capacities
- May be overkill for casual users
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The media could not be loaded.The SIX NVMe M.2 SSD PCIe 4.0 (1TB, 2280) absolutely exceeded my expectations. It arrived well packaged with everything I needed — an optional heatsink, screwdriver, screw, and standoff — which honestly saved me a trip to the store since I had lost my factory set screw “
Customer Review: “I decided to get this for my laptop as I needed more drive space and was looking for something that would also be high speed. So far this drive has been working great! Really fast for the price, speeds have been working just as advertised so far. Installation was also pretty easy, I did have to use “
6. Timetec 256GB SSD 3D NAND SATA III M.2 2280
The Timetec 256GB SATA III M.2 SSD is an entry-level option for basic upgrades. While it’s not NVMe fast, it’s still significantly quicker than traditional hard drives and fits budget builds or older systems that don’t support PCIe.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ SATA III interface with up to 550 MB/s read speeds
- ✓ 3D NAND and SLC cache for improved endurance
- ✓ M.2 2280 form factor saves space
- ✓ Compatible with Windows and Linux systems
- ✓ Affordable price for basic storage needs
Why We Recommend It
Only consider this if your system doesn’t support NVMe or you’re on a very tight budget. It’s fine for light tasks like web browsing or office work, but avoid it for gaming or heavy workloads.
Best For
Older laptops, budget desktops, or secondary storage where speed isn’t critical.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Easy to install
- Reliable for basic use
Cons:
- Much slower than NVMe drives
- Small 256GB capacity fills up quickly
- Reports of early failure in some units
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought this cheap ssd for my first PC build ever thinking it would be OK to cheap out on atleast one component as everything else on my pc was expensive but GOD WAS THIS A MISTAKE. (I have used this ssd for approximately one year) First issue I had with this my PC was random heat spikes from the c”
Customer Review: “These drives are completely unreliable. I purchased two Timetec SSDs in 2024. One 128 GB drive in March of 2024 and one 256 GB drive in November of 2024. Both are already dead. The 128 GB drive I used as a system drive for about eight months before it stopped working one day. So, foolishly thinking “
7. Crucial E100 2TB M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen4 Internal SSD
The Crucial E100 2TB delivers solid Gen4 performance at an attractive price. With up to 5,000 MB/s read speeds, it’s 8x faster than SATA SSDs and perfect for users upgrading from older storage. It’s compatible with both laptops and desktops, making it a versatile choice.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PCIe Gen4 NVMe with 5,000 MB/s read speeds
- ✓ 2TB capacity for ample storage
- ✓ Easy installation with step-by-step guides
- ✓ Compatible with most modern laptops and desktops
- ✓ Backed by Micron’s memory expertise
Why We Recommend It
Crucial is known for reliability, and the E100 continues that trend. It’s not the flashiest drive, but it’s consistent, well-priced, and perfect for anyone moving from HDDs or SATA SSDs to NVMe.
Best For
First-time NVMe upgraders, students, and general users who want a simple, fast, and spacious SSD.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Great entry-level Gen4 performance
- Large 2TB capacity
- Easy to install and clone
- Good value for money
Cons:
- Not as fast as premium Gen4 drives
- No included heatsink
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I chose this product because it was a large size, which was good for the large games I play, and it was cheap. It is significantly faster than what I was using before (an HDD), and it works perfectly. Installation was a breeze. It was super easy to put in and initialize.”
Customer Review: “I chose this product because it was a large size, which was good for the large games I play, and it was cheap. It is significantly faster than what I was using before (an HDD), and it works perfectly. Installation was a breeze. It was super easy to put in and initialize.Read more”
Complete Buying Guide for Should I Buy M 2 Or Ssd
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing between M.2 and other SSD types, focus on three things: interface (SATA vs. NVMe), form factor (M.2 vs. 2.5-inch), and use case. Most modern M.2 drives are NVMe-based, meaning they’re much faster than SATA SSDs. If your motherboard or laptop supports NVMe, go for an M.2 NVMe SSD—it’s the best choice for speed and future-proofing. Only choose SATA M.2 if your system doesn’t support NVMe or you’re on a very tight budget.
Budget Planning
Prices vary widely: entry-level SATA M.2 SSDs start around $20 for 256GB, while high-end 4TB NVMe drives can cost $300+. For most users, a 1TB–2TB NVMe M.2 SSD offers the best balance of speed, capacity, and value ($60–$120). Gamers and creators should prioritize Gen4 NVMe with heatsinks; casual users can opt for reliable Gen3 or budget Gen4 models.
Final Thoughts
Don’t get hung up on “M.2 vs. SSD”—think “NVMe vs. SATA” instead. If your device supports it, always choose an M.2 NVMe SSD. It’s faster, smaller, and more efficient. Use our top picks above based on your needs: the WD Blue SN5100 for overall value, the SIX X7400 for gaming, or the Kingston NV3 for efficiency. Avoid cheap SATA drives unless absolutely necessary—they’re slower and often less reliable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is M.2 faster than SSD?
A: It depends! M.2 is a form factor, not a technology. Some M.2 drives use SATA (slower), while others use NVMe (much faster). NVMe M.2 SSDs are significantly faster than traditional 2.5-inch SATA SSDs—often 5–10x quicker in real-world tasks.
Q: Can I use an M.2 SSD in any laptop?
A: Not always. Check your laptop’s manual or specs to see if it has an M.2 slot and whether it supports NVMe or only SATA. Some older systems only support SATA M.2, which limits your speed options.
Q: Do I need a heatsink for my M.2 SSD?
A: For light use, no. But for gaming, video editing, or PS5 expansion, a heatsink helps prevent thermal throttling and maintains peak performance. Many high-speed drives include one—look for “with heatsink” in the title.
Q: What’s the difference between Gen3 and Gen4 NVMe?
A: Gen4 NVMe drives are about twice as fast as Gen3, with speeds up to 7,000+ MB/s vs. 3,500 MB/s. However, real-world gains depend on your workload. For gaming and general use, the difference is noticeable but not dramatic—Gen3 is still excellent.
Q: Should I buy a 1TB or 2TB SSD?
A: If you play modern games, edit videos, or store large files, go for 2TB. For basic use (web, office, light apps), 1TB is sufficient. Prices per GB drop significantly at higher capacities, so 2TB often offers better long-term value.
Still unsure which drive to pick? Start with our 🏆 Best Choice—the WD Blue SN5100—for the perfect mix of speed, capacity, and reliability. Or grab the ⭐ Editor’s Choice, the SIX 1TB with heatsink, if you’re upgrading your PS5 or gaming rig. Click any “Check Price” button above to compare current deals and make your upgrade today!
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