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13 Best M.2 SSDs [Tested and Reviewed]
M.2 SSDs can be used as primary or supplementary storage for custom-built PCs, sleek laptops, and even gaming consoles like the PS5. These solid state drives (SSDs) boast a high-speed interface for quick data transfer and faster all-around performance. However, there are multiple standards to choose from like PCIe 4.0x4 and PCIe 3.0x4. If you’re unsure of which one to choose, we’ve put together a roundup of the best M.2 SSDs based on our extensive testing.
Here, we've gathered 13 of the best-selling M.2 SSDs from notable brands and popular retailers. Our experts rigorously evaluated each drive based on four key criteria and then ranked them according to their level of performance.
mybest defines the best M.2 SSDs as a product that allows for instant game and application startup/loading while maintaining low temperature rise. In addition to our top picks, we’re also sharing tips on what features to consider when buying a new SSD for your computer or gaming system. Keep scrolling to discover our most recommended M.2 SSDs for fast boot times and quick performance without overheating.
Daniel is an IT expert and bioengineer. He gained a background in computer hardware and electronics while serving as an IT Helpdesk Technician for three years. After completing his Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering, he began working in biotechnology. He currently does research on heart surgery and invents new electronic devices.
After graduating from the University of Tsukuba's School of Art and Design, she joined a major home electronic retailer to put her knowledge of digital devices and software to use. Not only was she tasked with selling computers, she was responsible for sales of tech equipment such as printers and routers, proposing internet and communication services, and was in charge of forming comprehensive contracts for computer sales. Putting sales quotas and profits aside, she made it her goal to put the customers' needs first and match them with the best products. In 2022, she joined mybest as the head guide of PC equipment. Utilizing her experience and knowledge of various digital devices from major manufacturers such as Fujitsu and Dell, she is committed to producing articles that help connect users to the best PC products.
How We Tested the Products
- Sequential Access Speed1
We established our benchmark for user satisfaction in sequential access speed as one that is capable of achieving the advertised speeds of a PCIe 4.0x4 M.2 SSD.
- Random Access Speed2
We set the benchmark for satisfactory random access speeds as that meets the average advertised speed of a standard gaming SSD.
- Various Application Processing Speed3
Our benchmark for acceptable processing speeds was based on the PCMark 10 standard, which covers a comprehensive set of tasks that are typical in today’s standard workplace.
- Internal Temperature Low4
We looked for SSDs with little to no temperature increase, as higher temperatures could lead to slower speeds and drive failure.
All product tests
were conducted in-house at mybest
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.The mybest team independently conducts its own tests to rank products.
Why You Can Trust Us
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
By Using an M.2 SSD, You Can Solve Both Insufficient Capacity and Slow Operation at Once!
The NVMe-connected M.2 SSDs, which have become more prevalent in recent years, are considerably faster than traditional SATA-connected M.2 SSDs. The difference between NVMe and SATA connections is the interface; recent M.2 SSDs are equipped with the faster NVMe interface, which has resulted in a significant improvement in data transfer speed. Whereas the SATA-connected M.2 SSDs had a sequential access speed of about 600MB/s, NVMe-connected M.2 SSDs have evolved to reach speeds of about 8000MB/s for high-speed models. If you add an M.2 SSD to your PC as additional storage, it will increase your data storage capacity and prevent your PC from slowing down if storage is almost full.
Be Sure to Check Whether It’s Compatible With Your PC Before You Purchase It
When installing an M.2 SSD on your PC, be sure to check whether it is compatible with your motherboard.
The Size Is Generally Type-2280 for Most Motherboards
Even though they’re all referred to as M.2 SSDs, they come in various sizes. These sizes are often denoted as “Type-XX XX” in product names, where the first two digits represent the height and the last two specify the width. Sometimes, the latter part can have three digits.
The majority of M.2 SSDs used in desktop PC motherboards are of the "Type-2280". For laptop storage replacements, you’d typically look for "Type-2242", but for the purpose of this content, we will only introduce "Type-2280" for motherboards.
You Should Also Check the Key That Represents the Shape of the Cut-Out. The Current Mainstream Is the M Key
Next, let's pay attention to the "Key" which indicates the shape of the notch. The Key refers to the shape of the connection terminal of the M.2 SSD, with major ones being "M-Key", "B-Key", "B&M-Key" etc. You cannot insert the M.2 SSD if the shape of the key does not match the interface on the motherboard side, and it will not operate even if you forcefully insert it.
Currently, motherboards equipped with PCIex4 interface, which allows high-speed data transfer, are mainstream. Since the key that supports PCIex4 is the M-Key only, this content deals with M-Key SSDs. However, if you use an older motherboard with a SATA standard interface, you need to select a B-Key SSD. Please make sure to check the interface of your motherboard before you choose your SSD.
How to Choose M.2 SSDs
Here are the points to keep in mind when choosing the best M.2 SSDs.
If You Want to Transfer Data at High Speed, Choose Something That Supports PCIe 4.0
PCIe stands for Peripheral Component Interconnect-Express, which refers to a standard used for data transfer. There are different generations of PCIe, and as of 2024, the mainstream one is PCIe 4.0. Until quite recently, PCIe 3.0 was predominant, but over the next few years, it is predicted that PCIe 5.0 will become popular. It has backward compatibility, so if your motherboard supports PCIe 4.0, you can use not only PCIe 4.0 compliant products but also PCIe 3.0 compatible M.2 SSDs.
In the recently tested products, there were both those that supported up to PCIe 4.0 and those that supported up to PCIe 3.0. Even among the same manufacturer's products, the sequential read numbers varied approximately twofold. The average sequence read for PCIe 4.0 compatible products was 6,855.59MB/s, while that for PCIe 3.0 compatible products was 3,560.88MB/s, a significant difference. Therefore, if your motherboard is compatible, we recommend using PCIe 4.0 compliant products.
Heat Is the Cause of Failure. Choose a Model With a Large Heat Sink
The risk of performance issues increases as the temperature of SSDs rise. The threshold for normal operation is 158°F, beyond which a mechanism called thermal throttling is activated, intentionally reducing processing speed to lower the temperature. To use it for a long time without reducing its performance, choose a product that doesn’t easily heat up.
In our tests, none of the products with large heat sinks exceeded 158°F. On the other hand, products without heat sinks sometimes exceeded 158°F. By controlling the temperature increase, both the risk of data crash and performance drop can be prevented, so we recommend products with large heat sinks.
If You’re Going to Use It With the PS5, Choose One That Meets the Size and Speed Requirements
When using an M.2 SSD with a PS5 instead of a PC, it's necessary that it meets the size and speed requirements. The requirements are as indicated in the image, but it's often the case that a product with PCIe 4.0 will meet the speed requirement. Since the temperature tends to rise when using it with a PS5, please be sure to choose a product with a heat sink.
You can filter by "For PS5s" in the ranking section, so if you are using it with a PS5, check for compatible products.
13 Best M.2 SSDs Ranking
Products | Image | mybest Score | Click to purchase | Key features | Main Score | Details | |||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sequential Access Speed | Random Access Speed | Various Application Processing Speed | Internal Temperature Low | Standard Size | NVMe | Interface | Nominal Maximum Read Speed | Nominal Maximum Write Speed | Sequential Access Read Speed | Sequential Access Write Speed | Random Access Read Speed | Random Access Write Speed | PS5 Compatibility | Heat Dissipation Mechanism | TBW | Manufacturer's Warranty Period | Width | Depth | Height | ||||||
1 | Crucial Crucial T500 1TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 SSD | | 4.50 | The Processing Performance Is High, Temperature Increase Is Well-Controlled, and There Are Virtually No Blind Spots | 4.82 | 4.92 | 4.86 | 3.85 | M.2-2280 form factor | PCI-Express Gen4 | 7400MB/s | 7000MB/s | 7082.80MB/s | 6681.21MB/s | 849.05MB/s | 557.73MB/s | Heat Sink | 600TBW | 60 months | 0.86 in. | 3.15 in. | 0.09 in. | |||
2 | Western Digital WD_BLACK SN850X NVMe™ SSD | | 4.46 | The Random Access Is Excellent. It Also Operates at Low Temperatures, Recommended for Gamers | 4.78 | 5.00 | 4.78 | 3.80 | M.2-2280 form factor | PCI-Express Gen4 | 7300MB/s | 6300MB/s | 6942.14MB/s | 6385.60MB/s | 1182.19MB/s | 949.03MB/s | Heat Sink | 600TBW | 60 months | 0.87 in. | 0.79 in. | 0.09 in. | |||
3 | Corsair MP600 PRO 1TB M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen. 4 x4 SSD | | 4.44 | Random Access Is Excellent. It’s Easy to Maintain It at a Temperature With a Low Risk of Failure | 4.76 | 5.00 | 4.70 | 3.80 | M.2-2280 form factor | PCI-Express Gen4 | 7000MB/s | 5500MB/s | 7033.78MB/s | 6072.34MB/s | 1151.28MB/s | 868.88MB/s | Heatsink | 700TBW | unknown | 0.91 in. | 3.15 in. | 0.59 in. | |||
4 | Laxer NM790 with Heatsink | | 4.28 | Sequential Access Is Excellent. The Temperature Increase Is Also Adequately Controlled | 4.81 | 4.93 | 4.76 | 3.46 | M.2-2280 form factor | PCI-Express Gen4 | 7400MB/s | 6500MB/s | 7099.56MB/s | 6612.85MB/s | 824.07MB/s | 572.24MB/s | Heat Sink | 1000TBW | 60 months | 0.87 in. | 3.15 in. | 0.10 in. | |||
5 | Transcend PCIe SSD 250S | | 4.26 | It’s Not Top-Class, but It’s Certainly Fast Enough. The Temperature Increase Is Also Under Control | 4.75 | 4.93 | 4.70 | 3.46 | M.2-2280 form factor | PCI-Express Gen4 | 7200MB/s | 6200MB/s | 7061.25MB/s | 5952.30MB/s | 859.99MB/s | 572.02MB/s | Thermal Conductive Sheet | 780TBW | 60 months | 0.87 in. | 3.15 in. | 0.15 in. | |||
6 | Kingston NV2 NVMe PCIe Gen 4.0 SSD | | 4.23 | The Rise in Temperature Is Being Controlled. The Speed Is Sufficient for Practical Use | 4.19 | 4.94 | 4.59 | 3.65 | M.2-2280 form factor | PCI-Express Gen4 | 3500MB/s | 2800MB/s | 3662.92MB/s | 2585.68MB/s | 741.36MB/s | 581.35MB/s | None | 320TBW | 36 months | 0.87 in. | 3.15 in. | 0.08 in. | |||
7 | MSI SPATIUM M371 NVMe M.2 | | 4.08 | An Expensive SSD That Meets Minimum Performance Requirements | 4.04 | 4.94 | 4.16 | 3.65 | M.2-2280 form factor | PCI-Express Gen3 | 2350MB/s | 1900MB/s | 2508.66MB/s | 1962.35MB/s | 831.28MB/s | 592.11MB/s | None | 210TBW | 60 months | 0.9 in. | 3.15 in. | 0.08 in. | |||
8 | ADATA LEGEND 800 | | 4.06 | Among Those Compatible With Pcie 4.0, the Performance Isn’t That High | 4.19 | 4.94 | 4.59 | 3.32 | M.2-2280 form factor | PCI-Express Gen4 | 3500MB/s | 2800MB/s | 3729.48MB/s | 2551.57MB/s | 738.80MB/s | 580.96MB/s | Thermal Conductive Sheet | 600TBW | 36 months | 0.87 in. | 3.15 in. | 0.09 in. | |||
9 | Silicon Power PCIe Gen 3×4 P34A60 | | 3.98 | A Budget PCIe SSD With Top-Notch Random Read/Write Speeds | 4.10 | 4.98 | 4.41 | 3.28 | M.2-2280 form factor | PCI-Express Gen3 | 2200MB/s | 1600MB/s | 3258.37MB/s | 1953.80MB/s | 795.65MB/s | 664.20MB/s | None | 600TBW | 60 months | 0.87 in. | 3.15 in. | 0.14 in. | |||
10 | SAMSUNG 980 PRO PCIe® 4.0 NVMe® SSD 1TB | | 3.93 | Fast Sequential Read/Write Speeds But Hindered by a High Operating Temperature | 4.66 | 4.96 | 4.65 | 3.00 | M.2-2280 form factor | PCI-Express Gen4 | 7000MB/s | 5000MB/s | 6855.59MB/s | 5001.90MB/s | 830.27MB/s | 620.32MB/s | None | 600TBW | 60 months | 0.87 in. | 3.15 in. | 0.94 in. | |||
CrucialCrucial T500 1TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 SSD
| Nominal Maximum Read Speed | 7400MB/s |
|---|---|
| Nominal Maximum Write Speed | 7000MB/s |
| Sequential Access Read Speed | 7082.80MB/s |
| Sequential Access Write Speed | 6681.21MB/s |
| Random Access Read Speed | 849.05MB/s |
| Random Access Write Speed | 557.73MB/s |
The Processing Performance Is High, Temperature Increase Is Well-Controlled, and There Are Virtually No Blind Spots
What we loved
- ・Lightning-fast sequential read/write speeds
- ・Large heat sink to prevent overheating
- ・All-rounder that’s suitable for gaming or creative tasks
What we didn't love
- ・Random access read/write speeds not as fast as other drives
Crucial T500 1TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 SSD from the major electronics manufacturer, Crucial. The interface is compatible with PCIe 4.0x4.
The average sequential read speed was recorded at 7082.80MB/s, and the average sequential write speed was 6681.21MB/s. Among the products verified this time, it is one of the very fastest, about twice as fast as the PCIe 3.0 products. The average random read speed was recorded at 849.05MB/s, and the average random write speed was 557.73MB/s. The random access speed is not much different from others, but it can be said to be sufficiently within the acceptable range.
The processing speed of various apps measured in PCMark10 is amongst the highest in the products we tested this time, which is more than three times the score of the product with the lowest score. It could be called a fast SSD. The maximum temperature during operation is 127.4℉. It comes with a large heat sink, and it is attractive that it can properly dissipate heat despite its high processing performance. It performs better than average in every aspect and can be said to be a product that is easy to use for anyone.
| Standard Size | M.2-2280 form factor |
|---|---|
| NVMe | |
| Interface | PCI-Express Gen4 |
| PS5 Compatibility | |
| Heat Dissipation Mechanism | Heat Sink |
| TBW | 600TBW |
| Manufacturer's Warranty Period | 60 months |
| Width | 0.86 in. |
| Depth | 3.15 in. |
| Height | 0.09 in. |
Western DigitalWD_BLACK SN850X NVMe™ SSD
| Nominal Maximum Read Speed | 7300MB/s |
|---|---|
| Nominal Maximum Write Speed | 6300MB/s |
| Sequential Access Read Speed | 6942.14MB/s |
| Sequential Access Write Speed | 6385.60MB/s |
| Random Access Read Speed | 1182.19MB/s |
| Random Access Write Speed | 949.03MB/s |
The Random Access Is Excellent. It Also Operates at Low Temperatures, Recommended for Gamers
What we loved
- ・Outstanding random access read/write speeds
- ・Large heat sink to keep temperatures manageable
- ・Excellent for high-performance gaming (PC or PS5)
What we didn't love
- ・Some drives have faster sequential read/write speeds
Western Digital, a major manufacturer specializing in storage products, offers the "WD_BLACK SN850X NVMe SSD". This is a product of WD_Black, which is considered a brand for gamers within the company, and the interface supports PCIe 4.0×4.
The average sequential read value was recorded as 6942.14MB/s, and the average sequential write value was 6385.60MB/s. Although not top class among the products we tested this time, these are fairly high numbers. The average random read value was 1182.19MB/s and the average random write value was recorded as 949.03MB/s. Sequential access was higher than average, but random access was quite excellent, ranking as top class among the products we tested this time.
The processing speed of various applications measured by PCMark10 is sufficiently high and can be considered top-notch. It scores more than twice as high as the lowest-performing product we've reviewed this time. The maximum operating temperature is 129.2℉. Thanks to the large heatsink, the temperature rise is suppressed, and the attractive feature is that it can be maintained at a relatively low temperature considering its performance. With fast random access speed and the ability to maintain a low temperature, it's a product we recommend for gamers.
| Standard Size | M.2-2280 form factor |
|---|---|
| NVMe | |
| Interface | PCI-Express Gen4 |
| PS5 Compatibility | |
| Heat Dissipation Mechanism | Heat Sink |
| TBW | 600TBW |
| Manufacturer's Warranty Period | 60 months |
| Width | 0.87 in. |
| Depth | 0.79 in. |
| Height | 0.09 in. |
CorsairMP600 PRO 1TB M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen. 4 x4 SSD
| Nominal Maximum Read Speed | 7000MB/s |
|---|---|
| Nominal Maximum Write Speed | 5500MB/s |
| Sequential Access Read Speed | 7033.78MB/s |
| Sequential Access Write Speed | 6072.34MB/s |
| Random Access Read Speed | 1151.28MB/s |
| Random Access Write Speed | 868.88MB/s |
Random Access Is Excellent. It’s Easy to Maintain It at a Temperature With a Low Risk of Failure
What we loved
- ・Exceptional sequential read/write speeds
- ・Impressive random access read/write speeds
- ・Very good temperature regulation
What we didn't love
- ・Somewhat pricey for what you get
- ・Prone to mild thermal throttling
The 'MP600 PRO 1TB M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen. 4 x4 SSD' from Corsair, which primarily deals with gaming devices. The interface supports PCIe 4.0x4.
The average value of the sequential read is 7033.78MB/s, and the average value of the sequential write is 6072.34MB/s. Among the products tested this time, it's quite fast. The average value of the random read is 1151.28MB/s, and the average value of the random write is 868.88MB/s. Particularly, the random access is extremely excellent, and it can be said that it's a product with outstanding data transfer speed. The processing speeds of various applications measured in PCMark10 were slightly above average, but not at the top class. The maximum temperature during operation was 129.2℉. Thanks to the large heat sink, the temperature increase was well controlled.
The maximum internal temperature is measured during PCMark10 score measurement. However, considering the high benchmark scores of sequential and random access, the PCMark10 score was close to the average. Therefore, there is a possibility that light thermal throttling is initiated at an early stage during long-term operation, thus reducing the risk of malfunction.
| Standard Size | M.2-2280 form factor |
|---|---|
| NVMe | |
| Interface | PCI-Express Gen4 |
| PS5 Compatibility | |
| Heat Dissipation Mechanism | Heatsink |
| TBW | 700TBW |
| Manufacturer's Warranty Period | unknown |
| Width | 0.91 in. |
| Depth | 3.15 in. |
| Height | 0.59 in. |
LaxerNM790 with Heatsink
| Nominal Maximum Read Speed | 7400MB/s |
|---|---|
| Nominal Maximum Write Speed | 6500MB/s |
| Sequential Access Read Speed | 7099.56MB/s |
| Sequential Access Write Speed | 6612.85MB/s |
| Random Access Read Speed | 824.07MB/s |
| Random Access Write Speed | 572.24MB/s |
Sequential Access Is Excellent. The Temperature Increase Is Also Adequately Controlled
What we loved
- ・Fast sequential read/write speeds
- ・Maintains a low temperature
- ・Good for PC or PS5 gaming
What we didn't love
- ・Underwhelming random access read/write speeds
The "Lexar NM790" by Laxer, primarily dealing in memory products, is compatible with a PCIe 4.0x4 interface.
The average rate for sequential read was recorded as 7099.56MB/s, and for sequential write, the average rate was 6612.85MB/s. These are very high values among those we have verified this time. The average rate for random read was recorded as 824.07MB/s, and for random write, it was 572.24MB/s. Although random access is not slow, it is average, so we can say that this product is stronger for sequential access.
The processing speed of various apps measured in PCMark10 is average among those compatible with PCIe 4.0, but overall it's at a sufficiently high speed level. The maximum temperature during operation is 141.8℉. It's equipped with a large heatsink, so despite the high performance, the temperature rise is well controlled.
| Standard Size | M.2-2280 form factor |
|---|---|
| NVMe | |
| Interface | PCI-Express Gen4 |
| PS5 Compatibility | |
| Heat Dissipation Mechanism | Heat Sink |
| TBW | 1000TBW |
| Manufacturer's Warranty Period | 60 months |
| Width | 0.87 in. |
| Depth | 3.15 in. |
| Height | 0.10 in. |
TranscendPCIe SSD 250S
| Nominal Maximum Read Speed | 7200MB/s |
|---|---|
| Nominal Maximum Write Speed | 6200MB/s |
| Sequential Access Read Speed | 7061.25MB/s |
| Sequential Access Write Speed | 5952.30MB/s |
| Random Access Read Speed | 859.99MB/s |
| Random Access Write Speed | 572.02MB/s |
It’s Not Top-Class, but It’s Certainly Fast Enough. The Temperature Increase Is Also Under Control
What we loved
- ・Fast sequential read/write speeds
- ・Very good temperature regulation
- ・Above-average processing speeds
What we didn't love
- ・Lacks a large heat sink
- ・Pricey
Transcend primarily deals with flash memory products, including the "PCIe SSD 250S". The interface is compatible with PCIe 4.0×4.
The average value for sequential read is 7061.25MB/s, and the average value for sequential write recorded is 5952.30MB/s. These are high numbers among the products that were tested this time. The average value for random read is 859.99MB/s, and the average value for random write is 572.02MB/s. The speed of sequential access is excellent compared to others, but the random access performance can be said to be average.
The processing speed of various applications measured in PCMark10 is higher than average, and while it's not top-tier, it is sufficiently fast. The maximum operating temperature is 141.8℉. Although there is no large heat sink attached, the temperature increase remains within a range with fewer malfunction risks.
| Standard Size | M.2-2280 form factor |
|---|---|
| NVMe | |
| Interface | PCI-Express Gen4 |
| PS5 Compatibility | |
| Heat Dissipation Mechanism | Thermal Conductive Sheet |
| TBW | 780TBW |
| Manufacturer's Warranty Period | 60 months |
| Width | 0.87 in. |
| Depth | 3.15 in. |
| Height | 0.15 in. |
KingstonNV2 NVMe PCIe Gen 4.0 SSD
| Nominal Maximum Read Speed | 3500MB/s |
|---|---|
| Nominal Maximum Write Speed | 2800MB/s |
| Sequential Access Read Speed | 3662.92MB/s |
| Sequential Access Write Speed | 2585.68MB/s |
| Random Access Read Speed | 741.36MB/s |
| Random Access Write Speed | 581.35MB/s |
The Rise in Temperature Is Being Controlled. The Speed Is Sufficient for Practical Use
What we loved
- ・Good temperature control
- ・One of the most affordable SSDs on our list
- ・Regulates temperature well
What we didn't love
- ・Not the best choice for heavy computing tasks
- ・Lacks a large heat sink
Kingston, famous for their flash memory products, has released the "NV2 NVMe PCIe Gen 4.0 SSD". The interface is compatible with PCIe 4.0x4.
The average value of sequential read is 3662.92MB/s, and the average value of sequential write was recorded at 2585.68MB/s. Among PCIe 4.0 products, it's not particularly fast. The average value of random read was recorded at 741.36MB/s, and the average value of random write was 581.35MB/s.
The processing speed of various apps measured in PCMark10 is slightly below average. Among the products we tested this time, it's on the slower side, but it's not inconvenient to the point where it's problematic in practical use. The maximum operating temperature is 134.6℉. Although it doesn't come with a large heatsink, we can say its temperature rise is sufficiently suppressed.
| Standard Size | M.2-2280 form factor |
|---|---|
| NVMe | |
| Interface | PCI-Express Gen4 |
| PS5 Compatibility | |
| Heat Dissipation Mechanism | None |
| TBW | 320TBW |
| Manufacturer's Warranty Period | 36 months |
| Width | 0.87 in. |
| Depth | 3.15 in. |
| Height | 0.08 in. |
MSISPATIUM M371 NVMe M.2
| Nominal Maximum Read Speed | 2350MB/s |
|---|---|
| Nominal Maximum Write Speed | 1900MB/s |
| Sequential Access Read Speed | 2508.66MB/s |
| Sequential Access Write Speed | 1962.35MB/s |
| Random Access Read Speed | 831.28MB/s |
| Random Access Write Speed | 592.11MB/s |
An Expensive SSD That Meets Minimum Performance Requirements
What we loved
- ・Sufficient speeds for moderate computing tasks
- ・Random read speed on par with PCIe 4.0
- ・Suppresses temperature well
What we didn't love
- ・Underwhelming processing speeds relative to cost
- ・No large heat sink
The MSI SPATIUM M371 NVMe M.2 has a PCIe 3.0×4 interface. Average sequential read and write speeds were 2508.66MB/s and 1962.35MB/s, respectively, which are close to its advertised speeds (2350MB/s and 1900MB/s). Random read and write speeds of 831.28MB/s and 592.11MB/s. The random read speed is on par with PCIe 4.0-compatible products.
On the flip side, overall processing speeds were low, especially considering that this is the most expensive M.2 SSD on our list. However, its maximum operating temperature didn’t exceed 134.6℉, even though this drive doesn’t have a large heat sink.
| Standard Size | M.2-2280 form factor |
|---|---|
| NVMe | |
| Interface | PCI-Express Gen3 |
| PS5 Compatibility | |
| Heat Dissipation Mechanism | None |
| TBW | 210TBW |
| Manufacturer's Warranty Period | 60 months |
| Width | 0.9 in. |
| Depth | 3.15 in. |
| Height | 0.08 in. |
ADATALEGEND 800
| Nominal Maximum Read Speed | 3500MB/s |
|---|---|
| Nominal Maximum Write Speed | 2800MB/s |
| Sequential Access Read Speed | 3729.48MB/s |
| Sequential Access Write Speed | 2551.57MB/s |
| Random Access Read Speed | 738.80MB/s |
| Random Access Write Speed | 580.96MB/s |
Among Those Compatible With Pcie 4.0, the Performance Isn’t That High
What we loved
- ・One of the lower priced M.2 SSDs on our list
- ・Thin sheet helps dissipate heat, keeping temperature low
What we didn't love
- ・Weak performance speeds vs. other PCIe 4.0 SSDs
- ・Avoid for heavy computing tasks
The ADATA LEGEND 800 M.2 SSD had some of the lowest sequential read and write speeds among other PCIe 4.0 drives in our tests (3729.48MB/s and 2551.57MB/s). Random access read and write speeds weren’t that high, either (738.80MB/s and 580.96MB/s).
Processing speeds were rated slightly below average against PCMark 10 benchmarks. Thanks to a thin sheet designed to let heat escape, temperatures didn’t reach beyond 147.2℉.
| Standard Size | M.2-2280 form factor |
|---|---|
| NVMe | |
| Interface | PCI-Express Gen4 |
| PS5 Compatibility | |
| Heat Dissipation Mechanism | Thermal Conductive Sheet |
| TBW | 600TBW |
| Manufacturer's Warranty Period | 36 months |
| Width | 0.87 in. |
| Depth | 3.15 in. |
| Height | 0.09 in. |
Silicon PowerPCIe Gen 3×4 P34A60
| Nominal Maximum Read Speed | 2200MB/s |
|---|---|
| Nominal Maximum Write Speed | 1600MB/s |
| Sequential Access Read Speed | 3258.37MB/s |
| Sequential Access Write Speed | 1953.80MB/s |
| Random Access Read Speed | 795.65MB/s |
| Random Access Write Speed | 664.20MB/s |
A Budget PCIe SSD With Top-Notch Random Read/Write Speeds
What we loved
- ・An affordable option
- ・Random read/write speeds on par with PCIe 4.0
- ・Sequential read/write speeds faster than advertised
What we didn't love
- ・Doesn’t have a large heat sink
- ・Processing speeds aren’t great
The Silicon Power PCIe Gen 3x4 P34A60 M.2 SSD has sequential read and write speeds that exceed its advertised rates. (We recorded speeds of 3258.37MB/s and 1953.80MB/s, respectively).
Random read speeds averaged 795.65MB/s, and random write speeds were 664.20MB/s. Those are on par with PCIe 4.0 drives. Processing speeds weren’t particularly speedy but the operating temperature didn’t exceed 149℉.
| Standard Size | M.2-2280 form factor |
|---|---|
| NVMe | |
| Interface | PCI-Express Gen3 |
| PS5 Compatibility | |
| Heat Dissipation Mechanism | None |
| TBW | 600TBW |
| Manufacturer's Warranty Period | 60 months |
| Width | 0.87 in. |
| Depth | 3.15 in. |
| Height | 0.14 in. |
SAMSUNG980 PRO PCIe® 4.0 NVMe® SSD 1TB
| Nominal Maximum Read Speed | 7000MB/s |
|---|---|
| Nominal Maximum Write Speed | 5000MB/s |
| Sequential Access Read Speed | 6855.59MB/s |
| Sequential Access Write Speed | 5001.90MB/s |
| Random Access Read Speed | 830.27MB/s |
| Random Access Write Speed | 620.32MB/s |
Fast Sequential Read/Write Speeds But Hindered by a High Operating Temperature
What we loved
- ・Very fast sequential read/write speeds
What we didn't love
- ・Middling performance speeds for price
- ・Prone to thermal throttling
The Samsung 980 PRO PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD scored among the highest in our tests for sequential read and write speeds (6855.59MB/s and 5001.90MB/s, respectively). Processing speeds were otherwise average, and it paled in comparison to other PCIe 4.0 SSDs when it came to random access read and write speeds.
A max operating temperature of 179.6℉ could have triggered thermal throttling, resulting in lower performance speeds overall.
| Standard Size | M.2-2280 form factor |
|---|---|
| NVMe | |
| Interface | PCI-Express Gen4 |
| PS5 Compatibility | |
| Heat Dissipation Mechanism | None |
| TBW | 600TBW |
| Manufacturer's Warranty Period | 60 months |
| Width | 0.87 in. |
| Depth | 3.15 in. |
| Height | 0.94 in. |
CrucialCrucial P3 Plus 1TB PCIe M.2 2280 SSD
| Nominal Maximum Read Speed | 5000MB/s |
|---|---|
| Nominal Maximum Write Speed | 3600MB/s |
| Sequential Access Read Speed | 5195.13MB/s |
| Sequential Access Write Speed | 4746.39MB/s |
| Random Access Read Speed | 848.97MB/s |
| Random Access Write Speed | 551.34MB/s |
Fast Enough but High Temps Could Cause Trouble
What we loved
- ・Reasonably-priced M.2 SSD
- ・High sequential read and write speeds
- ・Fast processing
What we didn't love
- ・High risk of drive failure due to high operating temps
The Crucial P3 Plus 1TB PCIe M.2 2280 SSD has above-average sequential read and write speeds and average random access read/write speeds.
Processing speeds were on the higher end among the other SSDs we tested, but with a max operating temperature of 161.6°F, there’s a higher risk of malfunction.
| Standard Size | M.2-2280 form factor |
|---|---|
| NVMe | |
| Interface | PCI-Express Gen4 |
| PS5 Compatibility | |
| Heat Dissipation Mechanism | None |
| TBW | 220TBW |
| Manufacturer's Warranty Period | 60 months |
| Width | 0.87 in. |
| Depth | 3.15 in. |
| Height | 0.09 in. |
Western DigitalWD Blue SN580 NVMe™ SSD
| Nominal Maximum Read Speed | 4150MB/s |
|---|---|
| Nominal Maximum Write Speed | 4150MB/s |
| Sequential Access Read Speed | 4191.13MB/s |
| Sequential Access Write Speed | 4172.52MB/s |
| Random Access Read Speed | 977.87MB/s |
| Random Access Write Speed | 948.51MB/s |
A Well-Balanced SSD With Subpar Temperature Regulation
What we loved
- ・Well-balanced, speedy performance
- ・Exceptional random access read/write speeds
What we didn't love
- ・Temperature regulation could be a problem
- ・No large heat sink attached
The Western Digital WD Blue SN580 NVMe SSD had more impressive random access read/write speeds relative to its average sequential read/write speeds, but this results in a well-balanced SSD that otherwise performs well.
Against PCMark 10 benchmarks, it scored higher than most of the hard drives in our tests.
The max temperature (159.8℉) barely surpassed the rate at which the risk of failure begins to increase, and there’s no large heat sink attached.
| Standard Size | M.2-2280 form factor |
|---|---|
| NVMe | |
| Interface | PCI-Express Gen4 |
| PS5 Compatibility | |
| Heat Dissipation Mechanism | None |
| TBW | 900TBW |
| Manufacturer's Warranty Period | 60 months |
| Width | 0.87 in. |
| Depth | 3.15 in. |
| Height | 0.09 in. |
SAMSUNG970 EVO Plus NVMe® M.2 SSD 1TB
| Nominal Maximum Read Speed | 3500MB/s |
|---|---|
| Nominal Maximum Write Speed | 3300MB/s |
| Sequential Access Read Speed | 3560.88MB/s |
| Sequential Access Write Speed | 3312.97MB/s |
| Random Access Read Speed | 846.41MB/s |
| Random Access Write Speed | 634.59MB/s |
A Pricey M.2 SSD That Doesn’t Quite Live Up to Its High Cost
What we loved
- ・Sufficient if you don’t need a drive for heavy computing
What we didn't love
- ・Poor performance relative to the high price
- ・Prone to drive failure from overheating
The Samsung 970 EVO Plus NVMe M.2 SSD has a PCIe 3.0x4 interface.
Sequential and random access read/write speeds were middling, especially for the relatively high cost. Processing speeds were also slow, and a 168.8℉ max operating temperature makes it a risky investment if you want an SSD that won’t overheat.
| Standard Size | M.2-2280 form factor |
|---|---|
| NVMe | |
| Interface | PCI-Express Gen4 |
| PS5 Compatibility | |
| Heat Dissipation Mechanism | None |
| TBW | 600 TBW |
| Manufacturer's Warranty Period | 60 months |
| Width | 0.87 in. |
| Depth | 3.15 in. |
| Height | 0.09 in. |
How We Tested the M.2 SSDs
At mybest, we believe the best M.2 SSD can promptly boot games and apps without risk of overheating. To find our top picks, we collected 13 of the best-selling M.2 SSDs from popular brands and retailers across the internet.
Note that for this review, we exclusively evaluated M.2 SSDs with NVMe connections, fit Type-2280 motherboards, and have M-Key connectors. All capacities are fixed at 1TB.
We based our evaluations on the following criteria:
- Sequential Access Speed
- Random Access Speed
- Application Processing Speed
- Internal Temperature
Products we tested
- ADATA｜LEGEND 800
- Corsair｜MP600 PRO 1TB M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen. 4 x4 SSD
- Crucial｜Crucial P3 Plus 1TB PCIe M.2 2280 SSD
- Crucial｜Crucial T500 1TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 SSD
- Kingston｜NV2 NVMe PCIe Gen 4.0 SSD
- Laxer｜NM790 with Heatsink
- MSI｜SPATIUM M371 NVMe M.2
- SAMSUNG｜980 PRO PCIe® 4.0 NVMe® SSD 1TB
- SAMSUNG｜970 EVO Plus NVMe® M.2 SSD 1TB
- Silicon Power｜PCIe Gen 3×4 P34A60
- Transcend｜PCIe SSD 250S
- Western Digital｜WD Blue SN580 NVMe™ SSD
- Western Digital｜WD_BLACK SN850X NVMe™ SSD
Sequential Access Speed
We established our benchmark for user satisfaction in sequential access speed as one that is capable of achieving the advertised speeds of a PCIe 4.0x4 M.2 SSD.
Scoring Method
Using the benchmark software Crystal Disk Mark, we measured sequential access read and write speeds. We measured both figures three times, with the averages evaluated at a 5:5 ratio. Scores were based on the highest level of M.2 SSD speeds, which has a maximum theoretical value of 8,000MB/s.
Test Conditions
OS: Windows 11 Pro
CPU: Intel Core i7-12700KF
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Ti
Memory: 32GB DDR5
Random Access Speed
We set the benchmark for satisfactory random access speeds as that meets the average advertised speed of a standard gaming SSD.
Scoring Method
We used Crystal Disk Mark benchmark software to measure random access read and write values. We performed these tests three times and the average values were evaluated at a 5:5 ratio. Final scores were relative to the upper limit of 700MB/s for fast M.2 SSDs.
Test Conditions
OS: Windows 11 Pro
CPU: Intel Core i7-12700KF
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Ti
Memory: 32GB DDR5
Various Application Processing Speed
Our benchmark for acceptable processing speeds was based on the PCMark 10 standard, which covers a comprehensive set of tasks that are typical in today’s standard workplace.
Scoring Method
Using PCMark 10, we measured processing speeds through running various apps. The scale of our recommendations was based on a theoretical speed limit of 4,000, the maximum level that PCMark 10 is able to measure.
Test Conditions
OS: Windows 11 Pro
CPU: Intel Core i7-12700KF
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Ti
Memory: 32GB DDR5
Internal Temperature Low
We looked for SSDs with little to no temperature increase, as higher temperatures could lead to slower speeds and drive failure.
Scoring Method
We used software to measure the temperature of each SSD and recorded logs from startup until the benchmark test was completed. Considering the risk of failure, we set the maximum limit at 30°C (86°F) and rated products based on how well they stayed below this limit.
Test Conditions
<PC used for test>
OS: Windows 11 Pro
CPU: Intel Core i7-12700KF
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Ti
Memory: 32GB DDR5
Top 5 M.2 SSDs
No. 1: Crucial｜Crucial T500 1TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 SSD
No. 2: Western Digital｜WD_BLACK SN850X NVMe™ SSD
No. 3: Corsair｜MP600 PRO 1TB M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen. 4 x4 SSD
No. 4: Laxer｜NM790 with Heatsink
No. 5: Transcend｜PCIe SSD 250S
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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