So, you’ve got your hands on the awesome ASUS ROG Ally – a true game-changer in the world of handheld gaming. But let’s be real, that built-in storage can fill up faster than you can say “download complete,” especially with today’s massive AAA titles. If you’re serious about your portable gaming experience, upgrading your SSD isn’t just an option; it’s practically a necessity. A better SSD means faster load times, smoother gameplay, and enough room for your entire game library, all while extending your Ally’s lifespan.
Finding the crucial best SSD for ROG Ally can be a bit tricky, though. You need something that fits the specific M.2 2230 form factor (for most original Ally models), offers stellar PCIe Gen4 speeds, and won’t drain your battery in minutes. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide, diving deep into 10 top contenders that can transform your ROG Ally from great to absolutely legendary.
Let’s dive in and find the perfect storage solution to keep you gaming without limits!
Why Upgrade Your ROG Ally’s SSD?
You might be wondering if an SSD upgrade is truly worth the hassle. The answer is a resounding YES! Here’s why:
- More Space: The most obvious reason. Games are huge now, and a larger SSD means you won’t have to constantly delete and re-download titles.
- Faster Loading Times: Experience quicker boot-ups for your Ally and significantly reduced loading screens in games. No one likes staring at a loading bar!
- Improved Performance: While it won’t boost your FPS directly, a faster SSD can lead to smoother texture streaming in games and overall snappier system responsiveness.
- Enhanced Battery Life: Many modern NVMe SSDs are designed to be power-efficient, potentially giving you a few extra minutes of playtime on the go.
- Future-Proofing: As games get more demanding, a high-capacity, high-speed SSD ensures your ROG Ally stays relevant for longer.
The Top 10 SSDs for Your ROG Ally
We’ve scoured the market for the best options, focusing on performance, compatibility, and value. Here are our picks:
1. Crucial P310 2TB M.2 2230 SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe
This 2TB M.2 2230 SSD from Crucial is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a significant storage boost without sacrificing performance or battery life. Its compact size is perfect for your ROG Ally, and being a Crucial product, you know you’re getting reliable quality from a brand built on Micron’s advanced NAND technology. It’s an ideal balance of speed, space, and efficiency, making it a strong contender for the crucial best SSD for ROG Ally.
- Key Features:
- Broad Compatibility: Works with Valve Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally, Microsoft Surface, and select Dell laptops.
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Up to 7,100MB/s read and 6,000MB/s write speeds.
- Spacious 2TB NVMe SSD: Plenty of room for AAA games, apps, and media.
- Power-efficient Design: Engineered for low power draw to extend battery life.
- Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control.
- Pros:
- Excellent speed for game loading and system responsiveness.
- Perfect M.2 2230 form factor for ROG Ally.
- Generous 2TB capacity.
- Designed for power efficiency.
- Reliable brand with quality components.
- Cons:
- Might be overkill for casual users who don’t need 2TB.
- User Impressions: Many users praise its seamless installation in handhelds like the ROG Ally and Steam Deck, noting a noticeable improvement in game load times and overall system snappiness. The power efficiency is also a big plus for portable devices.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Crucial P310 1TB M.2 2230 SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe
If 2TB feels like too much, or you’re working with a tighter budget, this 1TB version of the Crucial P310 M.2 2230 SSD is another excellent option. It offers all the same great features as its larger sibling – the impressive PCIe Gen4 speeds, power efficiency, and perfect form factor – just in a more modest capacity. It’s a solid choice for a balanced storage upgrade for your ROG Ally.
- Key Features:
- Broad Compatibility: Works with Steam Deck, ROG Ally, Microsoft Surface, and select Dell laptops.
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Up to 7,100MB/s read and 6,000MB/s write speeds.
- Spacious 1TB NVMe SSD: Sufficient space for a large game library.
- Power-efficient Design: Engineered for low power draw to extend battery life.
- Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control.
- Pros:
- High-speed performance for quick game loads.
- Ideal M.2 2230 size for ROG Ally.
- Good balance of capacity and cost.
- Energy-efficient for handhelds.
- Built with reliable Micron components.
- Cons:
- Might still feel limited if you have a truly massive game collection.
- User Impressions: Users love the “just right” 1TB capacity, providing plenty of space for essential games without breaking the bank. Performance is consistently reported as fast and stable, making it a popular choice for handheld upgrades.
- See it on Amazon here
3. Crucial P310 4TB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280
Hold on a sec! While this Crucial P310 SSD boasts an enormous 4TB capacity and blistering PCIe Gen4 speeds, it’s crucial to note its M.2 2280 form factor. The original ASUS ROG Ally typically uses a shorter M.2 2230 slot. This 2280 model is natively compatible with devices like the newer ROG Ally X, Lenovo Legion Go, or certain laptops. If you have an original ROG Ally, you’d likely need an M.2 2230 to 2280 adapter board to install it, which adds complexity and may not fit well. However, for compatible devices, this offers truly massive storage and top-tier performance.
- Key Features:
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds.
- Spacious 4TB SSD: Unprecedented space for AAA games, apps, and media.
- Broad Compatibility: Works with laptops, desktops, ROG Ally X, Lenovo Legion Go, AYANEO Kun. Backward compatible with PCIe Gen3.
- Better Productivity: Up to 2x faster than previous Gen3 generation.
- Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control.
- Pros:
- Absolutely massive 4TB storage capacity.
- Blazing-fast PCIe Gen4 speeds.
- Reliable Crucial brand with quality components.
- Backward compatible with Gen3 systems.
- Cons:
- M.2 2280 form factor is not a direct fit for the original ASUS ROG Ally without an adapter.
- Higher price point due to capacity.
- User Impressions: For those with compatible devices (like the ROG Ally X), this drive is a dream come true, offering endless storage for even the largest game libraries. Performance is universally praised, making it a top pick for maxing out storage.
- See it on Amazon here
4. Crucial P310 1TB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280
Similar to the 4TB model, this 1TB Crucial P310 SSD in an M.2 2280 form factor delivers exceptional PCIe Gen4 performance and reliability. It’s ideal for upgrading laptops, desktops, and handhelds that support the 2280 size, such as the ROG Ally X or Legion Go. For the original ROG Ally, remember that this M.2 2280 size will require an adapter if you attempt to install it, which isn’t generally recommended for the original Ally’s compact design. Still, it’s a high-quality, high-speed SSD option.
- Key Features:
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds.
- Spacious 1TB SSD: Ample room for games and applications.
- Broad Compatibility: Works with laptops, desktops, ROG Ally X, Lenovo Legion Go, AYANEO Kun. Backward compatible with PCIe Gen3.
- Better Productivity: Up to 2x faster than previous Gen3 generation.
- Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control.
- Pros:
- Excellent read/write speeds for fast performance.
- Reliable Crucial brand.
- Generous 1TB capacity.
- Good value for a Gen4 1TB SSD.
- Cons:
- M.2 2280 form factor requires an adapter for the original ROG Ally.
- User Impressions: Customers appreciate the raw speed and dependable performance this 1TB drive offers for devices that can accommodate the 2280 size. It’s often chosen for its balance of speed, capacity, and the trusted Crucial name.
- See it on Amazon here
5. Crucial P310 500GB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280
This 500GB Crucial P310 SSD is another M.2 2280 form factor drive, bringing solid PCIe Gen4 speeds to a more budget-friendly capacity. While its read/write speeds are slightly lower than the 1TB and 4TB P310 models, they’re still excellent for everyday computing and gaming. Again, for the original ASUS ROG Ally, you’ll need to consider an adapter for this 2280 drive, making it a less direct upgrade path. However, it’s a very capable drive for other compatible devices.
- Key Features:
- PCIe 4.0 Performance: Up to 6,600 MB/s read and 5,000 MB/s write speeds.
- Spacious 500GB SSD: Decent space for essential games and OS.
- Broad Compatibility: Works with laptops, desktops, ROG Ally X, Lenovo Legion Go, AYANEO Kun. Backward compatible with PCIe Gen3.
- Better Productivity: Up to 2x faster than previous Gen3 generation.
- Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control.
- Pros:
- Affordable entry into PCIe Gen4 speeds.
- Reliable Crucial brand.
- Good performance for its price and capacity.
- Cons:
- M.2 2280 form factor is not ideal for the original ROG Ally without an adapter.
- 500GB might be quickly filled by modern games.
- User Impressions: Users find this 500GB drive to be a significant upgrade over older SATA drives or smaller NVMe options for compatible machines. It offers a noticeable speed boost for daily tasks and gaming without a huge investment.
- See it on Amazon here
6. SABRENT Rocket Q4 2230 NVMe SSD 2TB – PCIe Gen4
If you’re looking for a top-tier alternative to Crucial, the SABRENT Rocket Q4 2230 NVMe SSD is a phenomenal choice. This 2TB drive is specifically designed for tight spaces like the ROG Ally (with a proper adapter for the Ally, as some earlier Q4 models were 2242, but this specifically states 2230 for ROG Ally with adapter), offering true M.2 2230 form factor compatibility and powerful PCIe Gen4 performance. Sabrent is known for its high-quality storage solutions, and this drive delivers both speed and a generous capacity for your handheld gaming needs.
- Key Features:
- Designed for Tight Spaces: Fits Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally (with adapter), Surface Pro, with true M.2 2230 form factor.
- Powerful Performance: Up to 5GB/s read and 800K IOPS with Gen4 PCIe interface and Phison E21T controller.
- Massive 2TB Capacity: Eliminate the need for microSD cards or external drives.
- 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 M.2 2230 form factor for ROG Ally (though verify exact fit for current Ally model, Sabrent notes “with adapter” for Ally specifically).
- Excellent PCIe Gen4 speeds for gaming.
- Generous 2TB capacity.
- Known for reliability and good thermal behavior.
- Includes cloning software.
- Cons:
- QLC flash might have slightly lower endurance than TLC, though usually not an issue for typical gaming use.
- The “with adapter” mention for ROG Ally might imply it’s not a direct drop-in for all Ally models.
- User Impressions: Sabrent’s reputation holds true here; users report excellent performance and reliability, especially for handheld devices. The included cloning software is a much-appreciated bonus, making the upgrade process smoother.
- See it on Amazon here
7. fanxiang 2TB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD, PCIe Gen 4×4 Speed
The fanxiang 2TB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD is a strong contender for those seeking high capacity and solid performance at a potentially more accessible price point. Its true M.2 2230 form factor makes it a direct fit for your ROG Ally, and the included graphene heat dissipation sticker is a thoughtful touch for keeping temperatures down in compact devices. With blazing-fast Gen4 speeds and a 5-year warranty, it offers compelling value.
- Key Features:
- Blazing-Fast Performance: Up to 5200 MB/s read and 4500 MB/s write speeds with PCIe 4.0.
- Compact M.2 2230 Form Factor: Perfect for Steam Deck, Microsoft Surface, laptops, and ROG Ally.
- Advanced Thermal Management: Graphene heat dissipation sticker for cooler operation.
- Premium Flash Technology: Equipped with high-quality 3D NAND Flash chips and robust controller.
- 5 Years of Reliable After-Sales Support: Backed by a 5-year quality service or 640TBW.
- Pros:
- Direct fit M.2 2230 for ROG Ally.
- Excellent speeds for gaming and system responsiveness.
- Integrated heat management for handhelds.
- Generous 2TB capacity.
- Long 5-year warranty.
- Cons:
- Fanxiang is a newer brand compared to Crucial or Sabrent, which might concern some users.
- User Impressions: Many users are pleasantly surprised by the performance and reliability of this fanxiang drive, especially given its competitive pricing. The included thermal sticker is a frequently mentioned positive, and customers appreciate the significant storage upgrade.
- See it on Amazon here
8. Crucial BX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD
Important Note: While this is a Crucial SSD, and it offers 1TB of storage, the Crucial BX500 is a 2.5-inch SATA SSD. This form factor is NOT compatible with the ASUS ROG Ally’s M.2 NVMe slot. The ROG Ally uses a much smaller, faster M.2 2230 NVMe SSD. While the BX500 is a fantastic upgrade for older laptops or desktops still using 2.5-inch SATA drives, it will not work for your ROG Ally. We’ve included it here for context within the Crucial lineup, but please ensure you purchase an M.2 NVMe 2230 SSD for your Ally.
- 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.
- Crucial 3-year limited warranty.
- Pros:
- Very affordable 1TB SSD.
- Significant upgrade over traditional hard drives.
- Excellent energy efficiency for laptops.
- Trusted Crucial brand reliability.
- Cons:
- NOT compatible with ASUS ROG Ally. This is a 2.5-inch SATA drive, not M.2 NVMe.
- Slower than NVMe PCIe Gen4 SSDs.
- User Impressions: For devices that are compatible (like older laptops or desktops), the BX500 is a highly praised, cost-effective upgrade that breathes new life into systems. Users consistently report noticeable speed improvements for everyday tasks.
- See it on Amazon here
9. Addlink New S91 2TB 2230 NVMe High Performance PCIe
The Addlink New S91 2TB 2230 NVMe SSD is another excellent option for boosting your ROG Ally’s storage. With its true M.2 2230 form factor, it’s designed to slot right into your handheld, providing high-performance PCIe Gen4 speeds. Addlink is carving out a reputation for delivering reliable and speedy storage solutions, and this 2TB drive offers a fantastic balance of capacity and performance, backed by a solid 5-year warranty.
- Key Features:
- Interface/Form Factor: PCIe Gen4x4, M.2 2230. Backward compatible with Gen3x4.
- Speed: Read/Write up to 5000/3200MB/s (speeds depend on device).
- Compatibility: Designed for M.2 2230 form factor space, including Valve Steam Deck, ROG Ally, and Intel/AMD laptop/tablet platforms.
- Features: Supports SLC Caching & (HMB) host memory buffer, SMART, TRIM, Thermal Throttling, SmartECC.
- Warranty: Backed by a 5-year limited warranty.
- Pros:
- Perfect M.2 2230 form factor for ROG Ally.
- Generous 2TB capacity.
- Solid PCIe Gen4 performance.
- Includes important SSD management features.
- Good 5-year warranty.
- Cons:
- Read/write speeds are good, but some Crucial models offer higher maximums.
- User Impressions: Users report easy installation and a significant bump in storage and speed for their handheld gaming devices. The drive handles demanding games well, and the long warranty provides peace of mind.
- See it on Amazon here
10. fanxiang 1TB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD, PCIe Gen 4×4 Speed
Rounding out our list is the 1TB version of the fanxiang M.2 2230 NVMe SSD. This is an ideal upgrade if you need more space than the stock drive but don’t quite need 2TB. It offers blazing-fast PCIe Gen4 speeds, the all-important M.2 2230 form factor for your ROG Ally, and thoughtful features like a graphene heat dissipation sticker for optimal thermal performance. It’s a reliable, high-value choice backed by a reassuring 5-year warranty.
- Key Features:
- Blazing-Fast Performance: Up to 5000 MB/s read and 3600 MB/s write speeds with PCIe 4.0.
- Compact M.2 2230 Form Factor: Fits perfectly in Steam Deck, Microsoft Surface, laptops, ultrabooks, and mini PCs, including ROG Ally.
- Advanced Thermal Management: Graphene heat dissipation sticker reduces heat generation.
- Premium Flash Technology: High-quality 3D NAND Flash chips and robust controller for reliability.
- 5 Years of Reliable After-Sales Support: Backed by a 5-year quality service or 320TBW.
- Pros:
- Direct fit M.2 2230 for ROG Ally.
- Excellent speeds for smooth gaming and multitasking.
- Effective thermal management for handheld use.
- Solid 1TB capacity.
- Long 5-year warranty.
- Cons:
- Maximum speeds are slightly lower than some premium alternatives.
- User Impressions: Similar to its 2TB sibling, this 1TB fanxiang drive receives high marks for its performance and ease of installation. Users frequently highlight the value for money and the peace of mind offered by the long warranty.
- See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Getting ready to upgrade your ROG Ally? Here are some common questions you might have:
Q1: What M.2 SSD form factor does the ASUS ROG Ally use?
The original ASUS ROG Ally primarily uses an M.2 2230 NVMe SSD. It’s crucial to select a drive with this specific size (22mm wide, 30mm long) to ensure a direct fit. Newer models like the ROG Ally X might support 2280, but always double-check your specific model.
Q2: What’s the difference between M.2 2230 and M.2 2280?
The numbers refer to the physical dimensions of the SSD module: 22mm x 30mm for 2230, and 22mm x 80mm for 2280. While 2280 drives are more common in laptops and desktops, the compact size of handhelds like the ROG Ally necessitates the shorter 2230 form factor. Trying to fit a 2280 into a 2230 slot usually requires an adapter and significant modification, which is generally not recommended.
Q3: Do I need a PCIe Gen4 SSD for my ROG Ally?
Yes, the ROG Ally supports PCIe Gen4, and using a Gen4 SSD will give you the best possible performance, leading to much faster game load times and system responsiveness compared to older Gen3 drives. While Gen3 drives are backward compatible, you won’t get the full speed potential of your Ally.
Q4: How difficult is it to install a new SSD in the ROG Ally?
The process involves opening the Ally, removing a few screws, and carefully replacing the original SSD. It requires some technical comfort and the right tools (small Phillips screwdriver). There are many excellent video guides available online that walk you through each step. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to seek professional help.
Q5: Will upgrading my SSD void my ROG Ally warranty?
Typically, opening your device to upgrade components like the SSD might void your warranty if damage occurs during the process. However, many manufacturers are becoming more lenient with user-upgradable parts. It’s always best to check ASUS’s specific warranty policy or contact their support directly before performing any upgrades.
Q6: Do I need to reinstall Windows after upgrading my SSD?
Yes, you’ll need to install Windows (or restore a backup image) on your new SSD. Many SSD brands, like Sabrent, offer cloning software that allows you to copy your existing Windows installation and data directly to the new drive, saving you the hassle of a fresh install.
Q7: Should I go for 1TB or 2TB SSD?
This really depends on your gaming habits. If you play a few large AAA games and cycle through them, 1TB might be enough. But if you have a massive library, play many different titles, or want to store media, 2TB (or even 4TB for the Ally X) will provide a lot more breathing room and prevent you from constantly uninstalling games. Given the ease of installation, it’s often better to go for the largest capacity you can comfortably afford.
Conclusion
Upgrading your ASUS ROG Ally’s SSD is one of the most impactful enhancements you can make to your portable gaming experience. It’s not just about getting more space; it’s about unlocking faster load times, smoother operations, and ensuring your handheld powerhouse is ready for anything you throw at it.
When choosing the crucial best SSD for ROG Ally, remember to prioritize the M.2 2230 form factor and PCIe Gen4 speeds for optimal compatibility and performance. Whether you opt for a high-capacity Crucial P310, a speedy Sabrent Rocket Q4, or a value-packed fanxiang or Addlink drive, any of these choices will undoubtedly elevate your ROG Ally gaming.
So, go ahead, pick your upgrade, and get ready to truly unleash your handheld gaming potential! Happy gaming!