Looking for the best SSD M.2 you can buy in 2024? Whether you’re upgrading your gaming rig, building a high-performance workstation, or just tired of slow boot times, choosing the right NVMe SSD makes a world of difference. With blazing-fast read and write speeds, compact M.2 form factors, and support for PCIe Gen4 and even Gen5, today’s SSDs deliver incredible performance at increasingly affordable prices. In this expert-reviewed roundup, we’ve tested and compared the top-performing M.2 SSDs across different budgets and use cases—so you can pick the one that fits your needs perfectly.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 What Is The Best Ssd M2 You Can Buy Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Crucial P310 2TB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280, Up to 7,100MB/s, for Laptop, Desktop, & Handheld Devices
The Crucial P310 2TB is our top pick for the best SSD M.2 you can buy right now—offering near-flagship Gen4 speeds, excellent compatibility, and reliable performance at a fair price. Whether you’re gaming, editing videos, or just want faster everyday computing, this drive delivers smooth, consistent performance across laptops, desktops, and even handheld gaming devices.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PCIe Gen4 NVMe interface with up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds
- ✓ Spacious 2TB capacity ideal for games, apps, and large media libraries
- ✓ Broad compatibility with laptops, desktops, ROG Ally X, Lenovo Legion Go, and more
- ✓ Built with Micron 3D TLC NAND for durability and long-term reliability
- ✓ Low power consumption—great for battery-powered devices
Why We Recommend It
The Crucial P310 strikes the perfect balance between speed, capacity, and value. It’s fast enough for demanding workloads but doesn’t overheat or throttle like some higher-end drives. Plus, it works seamlessly across a wide range of systems, making it one of the most versatile M.2 SSDs on the market.
Best For
Gamers, content creators, and general users who want high-speed storage without breaking the bank. Ideal for upgrading older systems or expanding storage in compact builds.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent real-world performance with minimal throttling
- Large 2TB capacity at an affordable price per GB
- Works with a wide variety of devices, including handhelds
- Reliable brand with strong warranty support
Cons:
- No included heatsink (not needed for most laptops or low-TDP builds)
- Slightly slower than top-tier Gen4 drives like the SN850X
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 noticeably quicker than my old Gen3 drive.” – Alex T.
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. Boot times are superfast, and game loading speeds have improved dramatically.” – Jamie L.
2. Crucial T710 PCIe Gen5 NVMe 1TB SSD, Up to 14,900 MB/s, Laptop & Desktop Compatible, for Creative Pros
If raw speed is your priority and you’ve got a compatible Gen5 motherboard, the Crucial T710 is the fastest consumer SSD we’ve tested. With read speeds up to 14,900 MB/s, this drive is built for professionals handling 8K video, massive game libraries, or data-intensive creative workflows.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Blazing PCIe Gen5 performance: up to 14,900 MB/s read, 13,800 MB/s write
- ✓ Optimized for Intel 13th/14th Gen and AMD Ryzen 7000 platforms
- ✓ 1TB capacity with high endurance and advanced error correction
- ✓ Includes optional heatsink version for sustained performance under load
- ✓ Backward compatible with Gen4 slots (at reduced speeds)
Why We Recommend It
The T710 isn’t just fast—it’s future-proof. While most users won’t fully utilize Gen5 speeds yet, if you’re building a high-end workstation or gaming rig with a Z790 or X670E motherboard, this SSD ensures you’re ready for what’s next. Just be aware: it runs hot, so proper cooling is essential.
Best For
Creative professionals, video editors, 3D artists, and enthusiasts with Gen5-capable systems who need maximum throughput for large file transfers and real-time rendering.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unmatched sequential read/write speeds in real-world tests
- Excellent for large file transfers and professional workloads
- Solid build quality and reliable firmware
- Heatsink version helps manage thermals during extended use
Cons:
- Requires Gen5 motherboard to unlock full potential
- Higher power draw and heat output than Gen4 drives
- Premium pricing—overkill for casual users
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is an interesting piece of hardware. This particular NVMe SSD Gen 5.0 exceeded read and write speeds for me in Crystal Disk, and that was on a working ‘C’ drive. This Gen 5.0 drive cooks, and in more ways than one. Running this in the Gen 5.0 slot on a Gigabyte X670E motherboard.” – TechEnthusiast92
Customer Review: “You might think (as I did) that you’re doing better by getting this OEM heatsink version—paying about $30 extra. I learned the lesson the hard way that exactly the opposite holds true. Crucial periodically runs deals; selling heatsink version even cheaper than naked drive. Don’t fall for that unless you really need the extra cooling.” – BuildMaster88
3. WD_Black SN7100 2TB NVMe SSD – Gen4 PCIe, M.2 2280, Up to 7,250 MB/s Read Speed, Up to 6,900 MB/s Write
The WD_Black SN7100 offers incredible value—delivering near-top-tier Gen4 speeds at a budget-friendly price. With 7,250 MB/s read and 6,900 MB/s write speeds, this 2TB SSD outperforms many pricier competitors and is purpose-built for gamers who want speed without overspending.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ High-octane gaming performance: up to 7,250 MB/s read, 6,900 MB/s write
- ✓ 35% faster than previous-gen WD Black drives
- ✓ Uses SanDisk’s next-gen TLC 3D NAND for reliability
- ✓ Available up to 2TB—plenty of space for your favorite games
- ✓ Simple installation with no software bloat
Why We Recommend It
For the price, the SN7100 is hard to beat. It delivers flagship-level speeds in real-world gaming and productivity tasks, all while staying cool and efficient. If you’re upgrading from a Gen3 drive or building a mid-range PC, this SSD gives you premium performance without the premium cost.
Best For
Budget-conscious gamers, students, and home users who want fast, reliable storage without paying for unnecessary extras like RGB or bundled software.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding price-to-performance ratio
- Consistently high speeds in benchmarks and real use
- Low heat output—no heatsink needed in most cases
- Trusted brand with strong reputation in gaming SSDs
Cons:
- No included cloning software (unlike some competitors)
- Limited availability in certain regions
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought the WD_BLACK SN7100 4TB to replace my smaller WD SN570 Gen3 boot drive. Installation was straightforward—just slide it into the M.2 slot, and done. Using CrystalDiskMark, I consistently saw around 7000 MB/s read and 6200 MB/s write on the 4GB test.” – GamerDad2024
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!!” – CasualBuilder
4. WD_BLACK SN850X 2TB NVMe SSD with Heatsink – M.2 2280, Up to 7,300 MB/s Read Speeds, Up to 6,300 MB/s Write
The WD_BLACK SN850X with heatsink is a powerhouse SSD designed for serious gamers and performance seekers. With read speeds up to 7,300 MB/s and a built-in heatsink, it stays cool under pressure—making it perfect for compact builds or high-load scenarios where thermal throttling is a concern.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Insane Gen4 speeds: up to 7,300 MB/s read, 6,300 MB/s write
- ✓ Integrated heatsink prevents thermal throttling during long gaming sessions
- ✓ Built with SanDisk TLC 3D NAND for endurance and speed
- ✓ Available up to 8TB—ideal for massive game libraries
- ✓ PlayStation 5 compatible (with or without heatsink)
Why We Recommend It
The SN850X has been a favorite among enthusiasts for years—and for good reason. It’s fast, reliable, and the heatsink version adds peace of mind for users in tight cases or high-temperature environments. While newer drives offer slightly better value, the SN850X remains a benchmark for Gen4 performance.
Best For
High-end gamers, PC builders, and PS5 owners who want top-tier speed with added thermal protection. Also great for workstations that handle large files regularly.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Consistently delivers advertised speeds even under sustained load
- Heatsink design improves longevity and stability
- Excellent compatibility with consoles and PCs
- Strong random read/write performance for multitasking
Cons:
- Pricier than newer alternatives like the P310 or SN7100
- Heatsink adds slight height—may not fit in ultra-thin laptops
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.” – PCBuilderPro
Customer Review: “Excellent SSD Internal Solid State Drive with Heatsink. Product is easy to install and blazing fast speed. Glad I purchased the SSD WITH Heatsink. No errors or throttling and works great.” – SpeedDemon99
5. Crucial P310 500GB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280, Up to 6,600MB/s, for Laptop, Desktop, & Handheld Devices
The Crucial P310 500GB is the little sibling of our top pick—offering the same great Gen4 performance in a smaller, more affordable package. Perfect for budget builds, secondary drives, or handheld devices, this SSD delivers reliable speed without sacrificing compatibility.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PCIe Gen4 NVMe with up to 6,600 MB/s read and 5,000 MB/s write
- ✓ Compact 500GB capacity ideal for OS, essential apps, and a few games
- ✓ Works with laptops, desktops, ROG Ally X, Lenovo Legion Go, and AYANEO Kun
- ✓ Low-profile design—no heatsink needed for most use cases
- ✓ Energy-efficient for longer battery life on portable devices
Why We Recommend It
Not everyone needs 2TB of storage—and that’s where the P310 500GB shines. It’s fast, efficient, and compatible with a wide range of systems, including popular handheld gaming PCs. If you’re looking for a lightweight upgrade or a boot drive for a secondary machine, this is a smart choice.
Best For
Students, travelers, and handheld gamers who need a fast, compact SSD for everyday tasks and light gaming. Also great as a secondary drive in dual-SSD setups.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent speed for the price
- Broad device compatibility—including niche handhelds
- Low power consumption extends battery life
- Reliable Crucial build quality
Cons:
- 500GB fills up quickly with modern games
- No heatsink included (though rarely needed at this capacity)
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Perfect for my AYANEO Kun—installed in seconds and instantly boosted load times. The drive runs cool and quiet, even during long gaming sessions. Highly recommend for handheld upgrades!” – PortableGamer
Customer Review: “Bought this as a boot drive for my old laptop. Went from 2-minute boot times to under 15 seconds. The speed difference is night and day. Great value for a Gen4 drive!” – RetroUpgrader
Complete Buying Guide for What Is The Best Ssd M2 You Can Buy
Essential Factors We Consider
When picking the best SSD M.2, we focus on real-world performance, not just specs. That means testing read/write speeds, thermal behavior, compatibility, and value. We also consider who will use the drive—gamers need fast load times, while creators prioritize large-file handling. Other key factors include NAND type (TLC is ideal), endurance ratings, warranty length, and whether a heatsink is included or needed.
Budget Planning
You don’t need to spend $300 to get a great M.2 SSD. For under $100, drives like the WD_Black SN7100 or Crucial P310 500GB offer excellent performance. Mid-range options ($120–$180) like the P310 2TB give you more space and speed. Only go premium (like the T710 Gen5) if you have a compatible system and heavy workloads. Always check for sales—SSD prices drop frequently!
Final Thoughts
The best SSD M.2 for you depends on your system, use case, and budget. For most people, the Crucial P310 2TB offers the sweet spot of speed, capacity, and compatibility. Gamers on a budget should consider the WD_Black SN7100, while power users with Gen5 motherboards can future-proof with the T710. No matter your choice, upgrading to a modern NVMe SSD will transform your computing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the difference between PCIe Gen4 and Gen5 SSDs?
A: PCIe Gen5 SSDs are significantly faster—offering nearly double the bandwidth of Gen4. However, they require a compatible motherboard (Intel 13th/14th Gen or AMD Ryzen 7000) and run hotter. For most users, Gen4 is still the best balance of speed and value.
Q: Do I need a heatsink for my M.2 SSD?
A: Not always. Laptops and low-power builds usually don’t need one. But if you’re using a high-speed Gen4 or Gen5 drive in a compact desktop or running heavy workloads, a heatsink helps prevent thermal throttling and extends drive life.
Q: Can I use these SSDs in a PlayStation 5?
A: Yes—many of these drives (like the SN850X and P310) are PS5-compatible as long as they meet Sony’s speed and size requirements. Just ensure the drive has a heatsink or buy one separately if needed.
Q: Is 500GB enough for a gaming SSD?
A: It depends. Modern AAA games can take 100GB+ each, so 500GB fills up fast. We recommend 1TB as a minimum for gaming, but 500GB works well as a boot drive or for handheld devices with limited space.
Q: How do I clone my old drive to a new M.2 SSD?
A: Most reputable brands offer free cloning software (like Acronis for WD or Crucial Storage Executive). Alternatively, tools like Macrium Reflect Free or Clonezilla work great. Always back up your data before cloning!
Ready to supercharge your system? Pick one of our top-rated SSDs above and enjoy faster boot times, quicker game loads, and smoother multitasking. Don’t wait—your future self will thank you every time you turn on your PC!