Contents
Choosing the best m2 ssd can be tough. Our top pick is the Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB, which offers lightning-fast speeds of up to 7,450 MB/s. For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD, but you will lose some speed. The key tradeoff is between capacity and speed. The rest of this page will help you find the best option for your needs.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Ssds Reviewed in Detail
Below, we review our top picks for the best m2 ssd.
1. Best Overall
Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB, PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280, Up to 7,450 MB/s
- MEET THE NEXT GEN: Consider this a cheat code; Our Samsung 990 PRO Gen4 SSD helps you reach near max performance with lightning-fast speeds; Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or a tech guru, you’ll get power efficiency built for the final boss
- REACH THE NEXT LEVEL: Gen4 steps up with faster transfer speeds and high-performance bandwidth; With a more than 55% improvement in random performance compared to 980 PRO, it’s here for heavy computing and faster loading
- THE FASTEST SSD FROM THE WORLD’S FLASH MEMORY BRAND: The speed you need for any occasion; With read and write speeds up to 7450/6900 MB/s you’ll reach near max performance of PCIe 4.0 powering through for any use
- PLAY WITHOUT LIMITS: Give yourself some space with storage capacities from 1TB to 4TB; Sync all your saves and reign supreme in gaming, video editing, data analysis and more
- IT’S A POWER MOVE: Save the power for your performance; Get power efficiency all while experiencing up to 50% improved performance per watt over the 980 PRO; It makes every move more effective with less consumption
The Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB is our top choice for the best m2 ssd. This SSD excels with read speeds up to 7,450 MB/s and a capacity of 2TB. Gamers and tech enthusiasts will appreciate its power efficiency, making it a great investment in speed and performance. Compared to other picks like the Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD, it offers much higher speeds, which can be important during intensive tasks. However, it is best suited for users who prioritize performance over portability. If you’re looking for the best m2 ssd, the 990 PRO is a strong contender that won’t disappoint.
Pros
- Read speeds up to 7,450 MB/s
- 2TB capacity for ample storage
- Power efficiency designed for high-performance tasks
Cons
- Higher price compared to some options
- Limited portability due to being an internal SSD
Best for: Gamers and tech enthusiasts. Not ideal for: Users needing a portable option.
The Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB is the best m2 ssd for performance and capacity.
2. Best Splurge
Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD, Up to 1050MB/s, USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2, IP65 Water and Dust Resistance, Updated Firmware, External Solid State Drive,…
- Get NVMe solid state performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds in a portable, high-capacity drive(1) (Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending on host device & other factors. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes.)
- Up to 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance mean this tough drive can take a beating(3) (Previously rated for 2-meter drop protection and IP55 rating. Now qualified for the higher, stated specs.)
- Use the handy carabiner loop to secure it to your belt loop or backpack for extra peace of mind.
- Help keep private content private with the included password protection featuring 256‐bit AES hardware encryption.(3)
- Easily manage files and automatically free up space with the SanDisk Memory Zone app.(5). Non-Operating Temperature -20°C to 85°C
The Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD offers excellent performance in a compact design. With read speeds reaching up to 1,050 MB/s, it serves well for users needing portability. This SSD is a solid option for those who want to store and transfer files easily while on the go. When compared to the Samsung SSD 990 PRO, it lacks the same high-speed performance but makes up for it with its IP65 rating, ensuring protection from water and dust. A notable limitation is that it has lower speeds than internal SSDs; thus, it may not suit users looking for maximum performance.
Pros
- Portable design; easy to carry
- IP65 water and dust resistance
- 2TB capacity for storing large files
Cons
- Significantly lower speeds compared to internal SSDs
- May not be suitable for gaming or high-performance tasks
Best for: Users needing a portable storage solution. Not ideal for: Gamers requiring high speeds.
The Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD is the best splurge for portability and capacity.
3. Best for Small Spaces
Samsung SSD 990 PRO 1TB, PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280, Up to 7,450 MB/s
- HUGE SPEED BOOST: Get random read/write speeds that are 40%/55% faster than 980 PRO; Experience up to 1400K/1550K IOPS, while sequential read/write speeds up to 7,450/6,900 MB/s reach near the max performance of PCIe 4.0*
- BREAKTHROUGH POWER EFFICIENCY: Use less power and get more performance; Enjoy up to 50% improved performance per watt over 980 PRO, plus optimal power efficiency with max PCIe 4.0 performance**
- SMART THERMAL CONTROL: Samsung’s own nickel-coated controller delivers effective thermal control; With its slim size, 990 PRO is a perfect fit for desktops and laptops that meet the PCI-SIG D8 standard***
- THE CHAMPION MAKER: Up to 65% improvement in random performance enables faster loads for an ultimate gaming experience on PS5 and DirectStorage PC games****
- SAMSUNG MAGICIAN SOFTWARE: Get the most out of your SSD with Samsung Magician’s advanced yet intuitive optimization tools; Monitor drive health, protect valuable data, and receive important updates for your 990 PRO
The Samsung SSD 990 PRO 1TB is a powerful SSD that delivers impressive performance. It reaches read speeds of up to 7,450 MB/s, making it a top choice for gamers and content creators. Compared to its 2TB counterpart, this model offers nearly the same speed but at a lower capacity. It is an excellent option for those who need speed without needing the extra space. However, for users who want more storage, this option may fall short. Overall, the 990 PRO 1TB is a fantastic choice for high-speed access in a smaller size.
Pros
- High read speeds up to 7,450 MB/s
- 1TB capacity suitable for many users
- 40% faster random read speeds than previous models
Cons
- Lower capacity compared to the 2TB version
- May not be enough for larger files or games
Best for: Users needing high speed in a smaller capacity. Not ideal for: Those requiring more than 1TB.
The Samsung SSD 990 PRO 1TB offers high speeds for those who want less storage.
4. Best Design
Patriot P210 256GB SATA 3 2.5 Inch SSD
- Capacity 256GB Latest SATA 3 Controller
- Built in end-to-end data path protection, SmartECC technology, and Thermal throttling technology
- SEQ Performance Read up to 500MB/s, Write up to 400MB/s
- 4K Aligned Random Write: up to 30K IOPs
The Patriot P210 256GB SATA 3 SSD is an excellent choice for those on a budget. It has read speeds of up to 500MB/s, which is decent for everyday tasks. However, it is not as fast as NVMe SSDs, making it less suitable for gamers. Compared to other picks, it falls short in speed but is a reliable option for basic needs. The main limitation is that its smaller capacity might not be enough for users with large software or games. This SSD fits well for users seeking an affordable entry into solid-state drives.
Pros
- Affordable option for small budgets
- Decent read speeds for everyday tasks
- 256GB capacity suitable for basic storage
Cons
- Slower than NVMe SSDs
- Limited capacity for larger users
Best for: Budget-conscious users. Not ideal for: Gamers and heavy software users.
The Patriot P210 256GB SSD is a great design for budget users looking for basic storage.
5. Most Versatile
Seagate 2TB Portable Hard Drive | USB 3.0 (STGX2000400)
- Easily store and access 2TB to content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external hard drive
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
The Seagate 2TB Portable Hard Drive is designed for easy storage and access. This external hard drive connects via USB 3.0, making it convenient for most computers. While it provides ample space, it does not match the speed of SSDs, with slower transfer rates. Compared to SSD options here, this one sacrifices speed for capacity. The limitation is its slower data transfer speeds, which may frustrate users who need quick access to files. It suits those who prioritize storage over speed or need a backup solution.
Pros
- 2TB capacity for large file storage
- Easy plug-and-play setup
- Compatible with Windows and Mac computers
Cons
- Significantly slower than SSDs
- Less portable than compact SSD options
Best for: Users needing large storage for backups. Not ideal for: Those needing fast access to files.
The Seagate 2TB Portable Hard Drive is most versatile for large storage needs.
6. Best Premium
Sandisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD, Up to 2000MB/s Transfer Speeds-New Model
- NEARLY 2X FASTER THAN OUR PREVIOUS GENERATION(8) – move 1,000 high-res photos in under 60 seconds(6) with up to 2000MB/s transfer speeds(2).
- IP65 RATING AND UP TO 3M DROP PROTECTION(3) – protects against spills and drops.
- POCKET-SIZED – fits easily in pockets and small bags.
- SPACE TO OWN YOUR AI CONTENT – speed and capacity to download your high-res clips and photo edits.
- 256-BIT AES ENCRYPTION(4) – helps keep private files secure with password protection.
The Sandisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD is a newer model that offers improved transfer speeds. It reaches up to 2,000MB/s, making it nearly twice as fast as its previous version. This portable SSD is perfect for users who want speed and convenience. Compared to the 2TB model, it offers lower storage but higher speeds. The limitation is that users needing more than 1TB may find this option lacking. Overall, this model is ideal for those who need fast, portable data access.
Pros
- Fast transfer speeds up to 2,000MB/s
- Compact and portable design
- 1TB capacity for versatile storage
Cons
- Lower capacity compared to 2TB SSD
- May not suit users needing larger storage
Best for: Users needing speed in a portable format. Not ideal for: Those requiring more than 1TB.
The Sandisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD is the best premium choice for fast, portable access.
7. Best Heavy-Duty
Sandisk Optimus 5100 500GB NVMe SSD, PCIe 4.0, M.2 2280
- SPEED UP PROJECTS. Launch creator applications fast with uncompromising PCIe 4.0 read speeds up to 7,100MB/s,[2] (1TB and 2TB[1] models) and write speeds up to 6,700MB/s[2] (1TB[1]-4TB[1] models).
- CREATE AND STORE MORE. Make more room for your 4K videos and high-resolution images with capacities from 500GB[1] up to 4TB[1] on M.2 2280 built with our trusted 8th generation SANDISK BiCS QLC 3D CBA NAND.
- IT GOES WHERE YOU GO. With an all-new power efficient design, your drive delivers high performance with low power, giving you more time to be productive while on the go.
- UNCOMPROMISED RELIABILITY. With up to 1,200 TBW[3] (4TB[1] model) endurance rating, your drive is designed for creators.
- KEEP YOUR DRIVE UPDATED. Monitor your SSD’s performance and check for updates with the downloadable SANDISK Dashboard application.[5]
The Sandisk Optimus 5100 500GB NVMe SSD is designed for speed and performance. It offers read speeds up to 7,100MB/s, making it suitable for creative professionals. Compared to other SSDs, it provides a great balance of capacity and speed. The limitation is its smaller storage size, which may not meet the needs of users requiring more space. Ideal for content creators, this SSD shines in providing fast access for applications and media.
Pros
- Impressive read speeds up to 7,100MB/s
- 500GB capacity for essential storage
- Perfect for creative applications
Cons
- Limited capacity for larger projects
- Not suitable for heavy gamers
Best for: Creative professionals needing speed. Not ideal for: Gamers needing more storage.
The Sandisk Optimus 5100 500GB NVMe SSD is best for heavy-duty creative tasks.
8. Best for Beginners
Sandisk Optimus 5100 1TB NVMe SSD, PCIe 4.0, M.2 2280
- SPEED UP PROJECTS. Launch creator applications fast with uncompromising PCIe 4.0 read speeds up to 7,100MB/s,[2] (1TB and 2TB[1] models) and write speeds up to 6,700MB/s[2] (1TB[1]-4TB[1] models).
- CREATE AND STORE MORE. Make more room for your 4K videos and high-resolution images with capacities from 500GB[1] up to 4TB[1] on M.2 2280 built with our trusted 8th generation SANDISK BiCS QLC 3D CBA NAND.
- IT GOES WHERE YOU GO. With an all-new power efficient design, your drive delivers high performance with low power, giving you more time to be productive while on the go.
- UNCOMPROMISED RELIABILITY. With up to 1,200 TBW[3] (4TB[1] model) endurance rating, your drive is designed for creators.
- KEEP YOUR DRIVE UPDATED. Monitor your SSD’s performance and check for updates with the downloadable SANDISK Dashboard application.[5]
The Sandisk Optimus 5100 1TB NVMe SSD is a great pick for those needing speed and capacity. With read speeds up to 7,100MB/s, it supports demanding applications. Compared to its 500GB counterpart, this version offers more storage while maintaining excellent speed. A limitation is that it may not be enough for users with extensive collections of large files. Overall, this SSD is a solid choice for anyone needing reliable performance and storage.
Pros
- Fast read speeds up to 7,100MB/s
- 1TB capacity for increased storage
- Suitable for various applications
Cons
- Still limited for extensive storage needs
- Not ideal for casual users
Best for: Users needing a balance of speed and storage. Not ideal for: Those with large file collections.
The Sandisk Optimus 5100 1TB NVMe SSD is the best choice for beginners needing reliability.
Ssds Compared Side by Side
This table compares the key features of the best m2 ssd options.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB | Best Overall | Samsung | $389.99 | Check |
| 2 | Sandisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD | Best Splurge | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $289.99 | Check |
| 3 | Samsung SSD 990 PRO 1TB | Best for Small Spaces | Samsung | $239.99 | Check |
| 4 | Patriot P210 256GB SATA 3 2.5 Inch SSD | Best Design | Patriot Memory | $37.99 | Check |
| 5 | Seagate 2TB Portable Hard Drive | USB 3.0 | Most Versatile | Seagate | $129.99 | Check |
| 6 | Sandisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD | Best Premium | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $259.46 | Check |
| 7 | Sandisk Optimus 5100 500GB NVMe SSD | Best Heavy-Duty | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $109.99 | Check |
| 8 | Sandisk Optimus 5100 1TB NVMe SSD | Best for Beginners | Sandisk Technologies, Inc. | $194.46 | Check |
| 9 | PNY CS900 500GB 2.5" SATA III Internal SSD | — | PNY | $89.89 | Check |
| 10 | Kingston NV3 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD | PCIe 4.0 Gen 4×4 |… | — | Kingston Digital, Inc | $159 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from reliable tech websites, manufacturer specifications, and user reviews. This gave us a well-rounded view of each product’s performance and reliability.
How we built this shortlist
We filtered through over 20 different models based on speed, capacity, and customer ratings. The top options were those that consistently performed well in reviews and had a solid reputation.
What we ruled out and why
Products that had low read/write speeds or poor customer feedback were not included. Any SSDs without sufficient capacity for most users were also eliminated from consideration.
What we did not do
We did not test any products by hand. No lab measurements were taken, and we did not create any scores. Our findings are based solely on collected data and expert reviews.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated every three months or as new products are released. Keeping the data fresh ensures you have the latest information.
What to look for
Speed
Speed is important when choosing an SSD. Look for read speeds of at least 3,000 MB/s for good performance. Higher speeds will benefit gamers and content creators, especially for large files.
Capacity
Consider how much space you need. SSDs come in various sizes, from 256GB to several terabytes. If you store a lot of games or media, aim for at least 1TB.
Durability
Durability matters for long-term use. Check for features like water resistance and shockproof designs. These features help your drive survive spills or drops.
Form Factor
Choose the right form factor for your device. M.2 drives are slim and connect directly to the motherboard. Ensure your device supports M.2 to avoid compatibility issues.
Brand Reputation
Brand reputation can indicate quality. Trusted brands like Samsung and Sandisk often have better customer service and warranties. Research the brand before making a purchase.
How to Choose Ssds
Assess Your Storage Needs
Determine how much space you need based on your usage. For casual users, a 500GB SSD may be enough. Gamers or professionals should consider 1TB or more.
Prioritize Speed for Your Usage
If you need fast load times for games or large files, look for SSDs with high read/write speeds. For regular tasks, moderate speeds are usually sufficient.
Check Compatibility
Ensure your device supports M.2 SSDs. Most modern laptops and desktops do, but older models may not. Review your device specifications before buying.
Look for Warranty and Support
Check the warranty length offered by the manufacturer. A longer warranty can provide confidence and may indicate a more reliable product.
Read User Reviews
User reviews can give insight into real-world performance. Look for feedback on speed, reliability, and customer service experiences.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best m2 ssd?
The best m2 ssd is the Samsung SSD 990 PRO 2TB due to its high speed and capacity.
How do I choose an m2 ssd?
Assess your storage needs, prioritize speed, and check compatibility with your device.
Are m2 SSDs faster than SATA SSDs?
Yes, m2 SSDs, especially those using PCIe, are generally faster than SATA SSDs.
Can I use an m2 SSD in any computer?
Not all computers support m2 SSDs. Check your device specifications before purchasing.
What capacities do m2 SSDs come in?
M2 SSDs range from 256GB to several terabytes, catering to different storage needs.
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