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Choosing the right M.2 SSD can feel overwhelming with so many options on the market. Whether you’re upgrading your gaming rig, expanding storage on a laptop, or building a high-performance PC, picking the best M.2 SSD means balancing speed, capacity, reliability, and budget. In this guide, we’ve tested and reviewed the top 5 M.2 SSDs available today—focusing on real-world performance, value, and compatibility—so you can make a confident decision without the guesswork.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 What M 2 Ssd To Buy Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. WD Black SN7100 2TB NVMe Gen4 M.2 SSD for Laptops and Gaming Handhelds
The WD Black SN7100 is built for gamers and power users who demand blazing-fast load times and rock-solid reliability. With read speeds up to 7,250 MB/s and write speeds hitting 6,900 MB/s, this Gen4 NVMe SSD delivers a noticeable performance leap over older drives—especially in large game files and multitasking scenarios.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PCIe Gen4 interface with Sandisk TLC 3D NAND for consistent high-speed performance
- ✓ Available in up to 2TB capacity—perfect for storing dozens of AAA games
- ✓ Optimized for laptops and handheld gaming devices like the Steam Deck
- ✓ Low power consumption helps extend battery life on portable systems
Why We Recommend It
This SSD strikes an excellent balance between speed, durability, and portability. It’s not just fast—it’s purpose-built for on-the-go gaming, making it ideal if you’re upgrading a laptop or handheld device. Plus, WD’s reputation for reliability means you won’t worry about data loss during critical sessions.
Best For
Gamers using laptops or handhelds, content creators needing portable high-speed storage, and anyone upgrading from a slower SATA or Gen3 drive.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional read/write speeds (up to 7,250/6,900 MB/s)
- Compact M.2 2280 form factor fits most modern systems
- Reliable performance under heavy workloads
- Energy-efficient design ideal for battery-powered devices
Cons:
- No included heatsink (may require third-party cooling in desktops)
- Slightly pricier than entry-level Gen4 options
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 – M.2 2280, Up to 7,300 MB/s Read Speeds
The WD_BLACK SN850X is a flagship-grade NVMe SSD that lives up to its hype. With read speeds up to 7,300 MB/s and write speeds reaching 6,300 MB/s, it’s one of the fastest consumer drives on the market—ideal for hardcore gamers, streamers, and professionals handling large files.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Top-tier PCIe Gen4 performance with Sandisk TLC 3D NAND
- ✓ Optional heatsink version keeps temps low during extended gaming sessions
- ✓ Capacities up to 8TB—yes, eight terabytes of lightning-fast storage
- ✓ Backed by a 5-year warranty and rigorous endurance testing
Why We Recommend It
If you want no-compromise speed and future-proof capacity, the SN850X is hard to beat. It handles 4K video editing, massive game libraries, and OS booting with ease. The optional heatsink model is especially worth it if you’re installing it in a desktop or PS5.
Best For
High-end gaming PCs, workstations, PS5 upgrades, and users who want maximum performance without worrying about bottlenecks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- One of the fastest Gen4 SSDs available (7,300 MB/s read)
- Excellent thermal management with heatsink option
- Massive capacity options (up to 8TB)
- Proven reliability and strong warranty support
Cons:
- Premium pricing—best suited for enthusiasts
- Heatsink version adds slight bulk (may not fit all laptop configurations)
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. WD Blue SN5100 2TB NVMe Gen4 M.2 SSD for PC and Laptop Storage Upgrade
The WD Blue SN5100 proves you don’t need to spend a fortune for solid Gen4 performance. Delivering speeds up to 7,100 MB/s read, it’s 30% faster than previous generations and offers excellent value for everyday users, students, and casual gamers looking to upgrade without breaking the bank.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PCIe Gen4 speeds up to 7,100 MB/s—ideal for fast boot and load times
- ✓ Sandisk nCache 4.0 technology accelerates file transfers and project workflows
- ✓ 2TB capacity provides ample space for OS, apps, and media
- ✓ Backed by WD’s 5-year warranty and trusted reliability
Why We Recommend It
This SSD delivers near-flagship speeds at a mid-range price. It’s perfect if you want the benefits of Gen4 without paying premium dollars. Whether you’re editing videos, running AI tools, or just want snappier system responsiveness, the SN5100 handles it all smoothly.
Best For
Budget-conscious upgraders, students, home office users, and anyone replacing an older SATA SSD with a fast, reliable Gen4 drive.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio
- Fast Gen4 speeds (up to 7,100 MB/s read)
- Reliable Sandisk NAND and WD quality control
- Easy installation in laptops and desktops
Cons:
- No included heatsink
- Write speeds lower than premium models (around 6,000 MB/s)
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!”
4. Samsung 990 EVO 2TB NVMe M.2 SSD for PC and Laptop Storage Expansion
Samsung’s 990 EVO combines smart efficiency with reliable performance. With read/write speeds up to 5,000/4,200 MB/s, it may not top the charts, but it delivers 70% better performance per watt than its predecessor—making it a great choice for laptops and eco-conscious users.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Hybrid PCIe Gen4/Gen3 interface ensures broad compatibility
- ✓ Up to 70% improved performance per watt—great for battery life
- ✓ Samsung’s intelligent thermal control prevents throttling
- ✓ Trusted brand with strong firmware support and tools
Why We Recommend It
This SSD shines in real-world usage rather than synthetic benchmarks. It’s energy-efficient, runs cool, and integrates seamlessly with Samsung’s Magician software for monitoring and optimization. Perfect if you prioritize longevity and system stability over raw speed.
Best For
Laptop users, eco-friendly builds, office PCs, and anyone wanting a reliable, efficient SSD from a trusted manufacturer.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent power efficiency extends laptop battery life
- Smart thermal management keeps temps in check
- Compatible with both Gen3 and Gen4 systems
- Samsung’s reputation for quality and support
Cons:
- Lower peak speeds compared to other Gen4 drives
- Lacks the cache boost of higher-end Samsung models
Customer Reviews
“Customer Review: As a PC builder and heavy gamer, my old SATA SSD was becoming a serious bottleneck for my i7-12700K and RTX 5070 Ti system. I chose the Samsung 990 EVO Plus 2TB to be my new primary OS and games drive, and the difference is staggering. This isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a complete transformation.”
“Customer Review: The 1TB Samsung SSD 990 EVO Plus was an amazing upgrade for my PC. Installation in M.2 format was quick and easy, and I noticed the difference from the very first boot: the read and write speeds are incredibly fast, making the system and programs instantly responsive. Furthermore, HMB and Intelligent”
5. 1TB NVMe Gen4 M.2 SSD with Heatsink for PS5, Gaming, and Desktop Use
This value-packed Gen4 SSD comes with a pre-installed heatsink, making it plug-and-play ready for PS5 expansion or high-heat desktop environments. With read speeds up to 7,350 MB/s, it delivers premium performance at a surprisingly affordable price point.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Includes aluminum heatsink—no extra purchase needed
- ✓ PCIe Gen4 x4 interface with speeds up to 7,350 MB/s
- ✓ Compact 2280 form factor fits PS5, laptops, and desktops
- ✓ Bundled screwdriver and screws simplify installation
Why We Recommend It
If you’re upgrading your PS5 or building a budget gaming PC, this SSD offers incredible convenience and performance. The included heatsink ensures stable temps during long gaming sessions, and the all-in-one package saves time and hassle.
Best For
PS5 owners, budget gamers, and DIY builders who want a complete, ready-to-install solution without hunting for compatible parts.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Heatsink included—great for PS5 and high-load systems
- Impressive Gen4 speeds (up to 7,350 MB/s read)
- All necessary installation hardware provided
- Affordable price for the performance level
Cons:
- Only 1TB capacity (smaller than other recommendations)
- Unknown brand may lack long-term track record
Customer Reviews
“Customer Review: 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”
Complete Buying Guide for What M 2 Ssd To Buy
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing an M.2 SSD, we focus on four key areas: speed, capacity, compatibility, and value. Speed matters most for gamers and creators—look for Gen4 drives with 7,000+ MB/s read speeds. Capacity should match your needs: 1TB for basic use, 2TB+ for gaming or media. Always check your device’s M.2 slot type (PCIe Gen3 vs Gen4) and physical space, especially in laptops or PS5. Finally, balance performance with price—you don’t always need the fastest drive to see real benefits.
Budget Planning
M.2 SSDs range from under $80 for budget 1TB models to over $200 for high-capacity flagship drives. Set a budget based on your use case: casual users can thrive with mid-tier options like the WD Blue SN5100, while enthusiasts should invest in the WD_BLACK SN850X. Don’t forget to factor in potential cooling solutions—some drives include heatsinks, others require separate purchases.
Final Thoughts
The best M.2 SSD for you depends on your system, workload, and wallet. Our top pick, the WD Black SN7100, offers the best blend of speed, portability, and reliability for most users. But whether you’re gaming, working, or upgrading a laptop, there’s a perfect SSD in our list above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the difference between Gen3 and Gen4 M.2 SSDs?
A: Gen4 SSDs use the latest PCIe interface and offer nearly double the bandwidth of Gen3—up to 7,000+ MB/s vs ~3,500 MB/s. However, you’ll only see the benefit if your motherboard or device supports Gen4.
Q: Can I use an M.2 SSD in my laptop?
A: Yes—if your laptop has an M.2 slot. Check your manual for supported lengths (usually 2280) and interface type (NVMe vs SATA). Most modern ultrabooks and gaming laptops support NVMe Gen3 or Gen4.
Q: Do I need a heatsink for my M.2 SSD?
A: Not always. Laptops and low-power systems often don’t need one. But for desktops, PS5, or heavy workloads, a heatsink helps prevent thermal throttling and maintains peak performance.
Q: How much storage do I really need?
A: For general use, 1TB is plenty. Gamers should aim for 2TB+ to store multiple AAA titles. Video editors or AI users may need 4TB or more.
Q: Are cheaper SSDs reliable?
A: Many budget SSDs from reputable brands (like WD Blue) are very reliable for everyday use. Just avoid no-name brands with no warranty or reviews.
Ready to supercharge your system? Pick the M.2 SSD that fits your needs from our expert-reviewed list above—and enjoy faster boots, quicker loads, and smoother performance today!
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