So, you’ve got yourself an ASUS ROG Ally – a phenomenal handheld gaming PC that brings your favorite titles on the go! But let’s be real, even the most generous stock storage can feel cramped when you’re juggling AAA games, updates, and your growing digital library. That’s where a beefy internal SSD upgrade comes in, specifically a 2TB model to truly unleash your gaming potential. Finding the crucial best 2TB SSD for ROG Ally means looking for speed, reliability, and, most importantly, the right form factor.
The original ROG Ally typically uses an M.2 2230 NVMe slot, which is much smaller than standard desktop SSDs. This guide dives deep into 10 top SSD options, including some of the best M.2 2230 NVMe drives perfect for an internal upgrade, alongside other storage solutions that might fit different needs (like the ROG Ally X or external storage). Let’s supercharge your Ally!
How to Pick the Perfect SSD for Your ROG Ally
Before we jump into the reviews, here’s a quick rundown of what to look for when selecting an SSD for your ROG Ally:
- Form Factor: For the original ASUS ROG Ally, you must look for an M.2 2230 NVMe SSD. This compact size is essential for internal upgrades. Larger 2280 drives won’t fit without extensive modification or for specific newer models like the ROG Ally X (which some 2280 drives might mention compatibility with).
- Interface: Aim for PCIe Gen4 NVMe. This provides the fastest read/write speeds, leading to quicker game loads and boot times.
- Capacity: While 1TB is a good start, a 2TB SSD is often the sweet spot, offering ample space for a significant game library without constantly worrying about uninstalling titles.
- Efficiency: Lower power consumption means better battery life on your handheld.
The 10 Top SSDs for Your ROG Ally
Now, let’s explore some of the most compelling storage options out there!
Crucial P310 2TB M.2 2230 SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe
This Crucial P310 stands out as an absolutely ideal candidate for an internal ROG Ally upgrade. It’s a true M.2 2230 form factor, meaning it should slot right in without fuss, and it boasts PCIe Gen4 speeds that will significantly cut down on game load times and improve overall system responsiveness. If you’re looking for a straightforward, high-performance internal upgrade for your original Ally, this is a fantastic choice.
- Key Features:
- Broad Compatibility: Works with Valve Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally, 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.
- Pros:
- Perfect M.2 2230 form factor for ROG Ally.
- Excellent Gen4 NVMe speeds for gaming.
- Power-efficient design helps battery life.
- Reliable Crucial/Micron brand.
- Cons:
- May not be the absolute fastest Gen4 drive on the market, but still very fast.
- User Impressions: Users frequently praise this drive for its easy installation in handheld devices like the ROG Ally and Steam Deck, noting a noticeable boost in performance and storage capacity. Many appreciate the balance of speed, price, and reliability.
- See it on Amazon here
SABRENT Rocket Q4 2230 NVMe SSD 2TB – PCIe Gen4
Sabrent has made a name for itself with high-performance storage solutions, and the Rocket Q4 2230 2TB is no exception. This drive is specifically “Designed for Tight Spaces,” making it another excellent contender for an internal ROG Ally upgrade. Its QLC flash offers massive capacity, ensuring you won’t have to delete games to make room for new ones.
- Key Features:
- Designed for Tight Spaces: Fits Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally, 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 and Phison E21T controller—designed for smooth gaming and rapid file access.
- Massive 2TB Capacity: Eliminate the need for microSD cards or external drives. Store your full game library and files internally with high-speed QLC flash.
- Efficient and Reliable: DRAM-less with Host Memory Buffer (HMB) support for low power draw, responsive performance, and excellent thermal behavior.
- Retail Quality You Can Trust: New, fully supported SSD with downloadable Sabrent Acronis cloning software—no OEM pulls, no uncertainty, just plug-and-play reliability.
- Pros:
- True M.2 2230 for perfect ROG Ally fit.
- Strong PCIe Gen4 performance.
- Includes cloning software, a nice bonus.
- Good thermal behavior for handhelds.
- Cons:
- QLC NAND can sometimes have slightly lower sustained write speeds compared to TLC, though unlikely to be an issue for gaming.
- User Impressions: This SSD is highly regarded for its perfect fit and performance in various handhelds. Users consistently report significant improvements in game loading and overall responsiveness, making it a go-to choice for upgrades.
- See it on Amazon here
Crucial P310 4TB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280
While not a 2230 form factor, this 4TB Crucial P310 offers a monumental storage upgrade for compatible devices. Crucially, its features mention “ROG Ally X” compatibility. If you’re an early adopter of the ROG Ally X or have another compatible device that can handle an M.2 2280 drive, this offers incredible space and the same reliable Gen4 performance as its smaller siblings.
- 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.
- Pros:
- Massive 4TB capacity for an enormous game library.
- Excellent Gen4 speeds.
- Good for ROG Ally X and other 2280 compatible handhelds/laptops.
- Cons:
- M.2 2280 form factor: NOT for the original ASUS ROG Ally internal slot.
- User Impressions: Customers love the vast capacity and fast performance, particularly for gaming laptops and compatible handhelds. It’s often chosen by those who want to avoid external drives altogether.
- See it on Amazon here
WD_BLACK 2TB SN770M M.2 2230 NVMe SSD for Handheld Gaming
WD_BLACK is a name synonymous with gaming performance, and their SN770M is specifically engineered for handheld devices like the ROG Ally and Steam Deck. This 2TB M.2 2230 drive brings Western Digital’s trusted quality and high speeds, making it an excellent upgrade option for serious handheld gamers.
- Key Features:
- Introducing the WD_BLACK SN770M SSD, the first M.2 2230 NVMe SSD built from a brand gamers trust.
- Supercharge compatible handheld devices such as the ASUS ROG Ally and Valve Steam Deck with speeds up to 5,150 MB/s (1TB and 2TB models) for blazingly quick game installations and level loads.
- Play more games, larger games wherever you are with up to 2TB of trusted Western Digital TLC 3D NAND storage.
- Revitalize and expand the storage of your M.2 2230 SSD compatible laptop such as many Microsoft Surface and Dell models.
- Backed by Western Digital’s 5-year limited warranty, keep your drive tuned with the Western Digital Dashboard (Windows only) software.
- Pros:
- Ideal M.2 2230 form factor for ROG Ally.
- Trusted gaming brand (WD_BLACK).
- Good Gen4 speeds for handheld gaming.
- 5-year warranty for peace of mind.
- Cons:
- Speeds are good but slightly lower than some top-tier Gen4 drives.
- User Impressions: Handheld gamers consistently praise the SN770M for its seamless compatibility and robust performance. Users highlight the reduced loading times and the reliability of a Western Digital product.
- See it on Amazon here
Crucial P310 1TB M.2 2230 SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe
If your budget is a bit tighter or you simply don’t need the full 2TB right now, the 1TB version of the Crucial P310 M.2 2230 SSD is another fantastic choice for your ROG Ally. It offers the same excellent compatibility, power efficiency, and strong Gen4 performance as its 2TB sibling, just with half the capacity. It’s still a significant upgrade over stock storage.
- Key Features:
- Broad Compatibility: Works with Steam Deck, ROG Ally, 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.
- Pros:
- Perfect M.2 2230 form factor for ROG Ally.
- Strong Gen4 NVMe speeds.
- Power-efficient, great for battery life.
- More budget-friendly than 2TB options.
- Cons:
- Only 1TB capacity, which might fill up quickly for avid gamers.
- User Impressions: This 1TB drive is popular among users who need a solid upgrade without breaking the bank. They report similar performance benefits to the 2TB version, making it a reliable and cost-effective choice.
- See it on Amazon here
Crucial BX500 2TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD
This SSD is a different beast entirely. The Crucial BX500 is a 2.5-inch SATA internal SSD. While it offers a great 2TB capacity and is an excellent upgrade for traditional laptops or desktop PCs still using old hard drives, it is not compatible for internal installation in the ASUS ROG Ally. The ROG Ally uses a tiny M.2 NVMe slot, not a 2.5-inch bay. Keep this in mind!
- Key Features:
- Boot up faster. Load files quicker. Improve overall system responsiveness.
- 300% faster than a typical hard drive.
- Improves battery life because it’s 45x more energy efficient than a typical hard drive.
- Micron 3D NAND – advancing the world’s memory and storage technology for 40 years.
- Crucial 3-year limited warranty.
- Pros:
- Cost-effective 2TB upgrade for older laptops/desktops.
- Much faster and more efficient than traditional HDDs.
- Reliable Crucial brand.
- Cons:
- NOT for internal ROG Ally upgrade. Incorrect form factor.
- Slower than NVMe SSDs.
- User Impressions: For its intended use in laptops and desktops, users find the BX500 to be a fantastic value, offering a noticeable speed boost over mechanical hard drives and extending the life of older systems.
- See it on Amazon here
Crucial P510 2TB Gen5 NVMe SSD, Up to 10,000 MB/s
Pushing the boundaries of speed, the Crucial P510 is a cutting-edge Gen5 NVMe SSD. While its phenomenal read/write speeds of up to 11,000/9,500MB/s are incredibly impressive, it comes in an M.2 2280 form factor and requires a Gen5 compatible motherboard. This means it is not suitable for internal installation in the original ASUS ROG Ally and would currently be overkill for most handhelds. However, for a powerful Gen5 desktop or compatible Gen5 laptop, it’s an affordable performance powerhouse.
- 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.
- Pros:
- Blazing-fast Gen5 speeds.
- Excellent performance-to-price ratio for Gen5.
- Includes cloning software.
- Cons:
- NOT for internal ROG Ally upgrade. Requires Gen5 compatibility and M.2 2280 form factor.
- User Impressions: Early adopters of Gen5 systems are thrilled with the P510’s incredible speeds for tasks like video editing, large file transfers, and next-gen gaming, noting its impressive value for a Gen5 drive.
- See it on Amazon here
fanxiang 2TB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD, PCIe Gen 4×4 Speed
The fanxiang S630 is a strong contender for your ROG Ally, offering a 2TB capacity in the essential M.2 2230 form factor. It brings solid PCIe Gen4 speeds, promising quick game loads and system responsiveness. What’s more, its inclusion of a graphene heat dissipation sticker is a thoughtful touch, aiming to keep temperatures down and performance consistent during those intense gaming sessions.
- 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.
- 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.
- 5 Years of Reliable After-Sales Support: Backed by long-term after-sales service, provided a 5-year quality service or 640TBW.
- Pros:
- Perfect M.2 2230 form factor for ROG Ally.
- Solid Gen4 speeds.
- Integrated graphene heat dissipation is a plus for handhelds.
- 5-year warranty.
- Cons:
- Brand may be less recognized than Crucial or WD_BLACK, though still offers good features.
- User Impressions: Users report excellent compatibility and performance in handheld devices. The thermal sticker is a frequently mentioned positive, contributing to stable operation even during extended play.
- See it on Amazon here
Crucial X9 2TB Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB 3.2
This is an entirely different category of storage! The Crucial X9 is a robust 2TB external portable SSD, offering fast speeds via USB. While it’s fantastic for backing up files, carrying your media, or even running some games directly from it on a PC, console, or your ROG Ally, it’s not an internal upgrade. It connects via USB-C and offers a durable, travel-friendly solution for expanding storage without opening your device.
- Key Features:
- High-speed Performance: Designed for casual gamers and everyday use, this external SSD with up to 1050MB/s accelerates large file transfers, media editing, and backup processes outperforming traditional hard drives.
- Built to Last: Perfect for travel and all types of weather with IP55 water and dust resistance. Plus, it’s drop resistant up to 7.5 ft (2 meters).
- Broad Compatibility: External drive connects effortlessly with Windows, Mac, iPad Pro, Chromebooks, Android, Linux, PS4, PS5, and Xbox via USB-C and USB-A.
- High-Capacity Storage: Store all your photos, videos, backups, and more with this compact 2TB SSD.
- Bonus Software Included: Enjoy three months of Mylio Photos plus and Acronis True Image when you purchase and register your external drive.
- Pros:
- Excellent for portable, external storage for the ROG Ally (and other devices).
- Very durable and rugged for travel.
- Fast USB 3.2 speeds.
- Broad compatibility.
- Cons:
- Not an internal upgrade for the ROG Ally.
- Requires a USB-C port, which could be used for charging/accessories.
- User Impressions: People love the X9 for its compact size, robust build quality, and impressive speed for an external drive. It’s a favorite for on-the-go data storage and media consumption.
- See it on Amazon here
Addlink New S91 2TB 2230 NVMe High Performance PCIe
The Addlink S91 is another strong contender for the “crucial best 2TB SSD for ROG Ally” title, specifically designed with M.2 2230 devices in mind. It delivers robust PCIe Gen4x4 performance, ensuring your games load quickly and your system remains snappy. Its explicit mention of ROG Ally compatibility makes it a confident choice for an internal storage boost.
- Key Features:
- [Interface/Form Factor] PCIe Gen4x4. Backwards compatible with Gen3x4 Interface. 3D NANG SLC Cache support (HMB) host memory buffer/M.2 2230.
- [Speed] Read/Write up to 5000/3200MB/s. Designed for Steam gamers, Laptop/Tablet user. Note: read/write speed depend on the device, interface, usage and other factors so that actual performance may be lower.
- [Compatibility] Designed for M.2 2230 form Factor space, including select models from Valve Steam Deck, ROG Ally, and popular Intel& AMD laptop/tablet Platform.
- [Features] Supports SLC Caching & (HMB) host memory buffer, SMART, TRIM, Thermal Throttling, SmartECC. Dimensions (mm): 30(L) x 22 (W) x 2.15 (Max. H); Key Type: M Key.
- [Warranty] Backed by a 5-year limited warranty.
- Pros:
- Perfect M.2 2230 form factor for ROG Ally.
- Good PCIe Gen4 performance.
- Specific mention of ROG Ally compatibility.
- 5-year warranty for reliability.
- Cons:
- Stated speeds are good but not the absolute highest among Gen4 drives.
- User Impressions: Users appreciate the straightforward installation and immediate performance benefits in their handhelds. It’s often recommended as a reliable and cost-effective upgrade for both Steam Deck and ROG Ally.
- See it on Amazon here
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Upgrade
Upgrading your ASUS ROG Ally’s storage is one of the most impactful improvements you can make to your handheld gaming experience. While we’ve looked at a range of drives, for the original ROG Ally, the Crucial P310 2TB M.2 2230, Sabrent Rocket Q4 2230 2TB, WD_BLACK SN770M 2TB, fanxiang 2TB M.2 2230, and Addlink New S91 2TB 2230 are all fantastic choices that deliver the right form factor and performance.
Always double-check your device’s exact requirements before purchasing, but with a 2TB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD, you’ll be able to download more games, load them faster, and truly make your ROG Ally the ultimate portable gaming powerhouse. Happy gaming!
FAQ: Your ROG Ally SSD Upgrade Questions Answered
Q1: What specific SSD form factor does the ASUS ROG Ally use internally?
A1: The original ASUS ROG Ally primarily uses an M.2 2230 NVMe SSD. This is a very compact size (22mm wide, 30mm long), so it’s crucial to select a drive with this specific form factor for an internal upgrade. Newer models like the ROG Ally X might support larger M.2 2280 drives, but always check your specific model’s specifications.
Q2: Can I install a 2TB SSD in my ROG Ally?
A2: Yes, absolutely! Many M.2 2230 NVMe SSDs are available in a 2TB capacity, offering a significant upgrade over the stock storage and allowing you to store a much larger game library.
Q3: What are the main benefits of upgrading my ROG Ally’s SSD?
A3: The primary benefits include drastically increased storage capacity, much faster game loading times, quicker boot-ups, and an overall more responsive system. It means less time waiting and more time playing!
Q4: Is it difficult to replace the SSD in the ROG Ally?
A4: Replacing the SSD in the ROG Ally is considered a moderate difficulty task. It requires opening the device, which involves carefully removing screws and clips, and then cloning your existing operating system or performing a fresh Windows installation. While doable for most tech-savvy users, if you’re uncomfortable, consider seeking professional help.
Q5: Will upgrading my SSD void my ROG Ally’s warranty?
A5: In many regions (like the US, thanks to Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act), simply opening your device and upgrading user-serviceable components like the SSD generally does not void the warranty, provided no damage is caused during the process. However, it’s always best to check ASUS’s specific warranty policy for your region to be certain. Any damage caused during the upgrade process would likely not be covered.
Q6: What’s the difference between NVMe (PCIe Gen4) and SATA SSDs, and why does it matter for the ROG Ally?
A6: NVMe SSDs (especially PCIe Gen4) are significantly faster than SATA SSDs because they use the PCIe interface, which offers much higher bandwidth. SATA SSDs connect via the older SATA interface, which has lower speed limits. The ROG Ally uses an NVMe M.2 slot, meaning it can take full advantage of the faster NVMe speeds for quicker game loads and system performance. SATA SSDs are not compatible for internal installation in the Ally.
Q7: Can I use an external SSD with my ROG Ally?
A7: Yes, you can! The ROG Ally has a USB-C port that supports external drives. An external SSD can be a great way to store additional games or media files, but it won’t be as fast as an internal NVMe SSD for running games directly, and it won’t replace your primary internal storage for the operating system and core applications.