Best M 2 SSDs Reviewed: Top 5 Performance Picks

Ever feel overwhelmed when you look at all the different M 2 drives out there? It’s like walking into a giant candy store where every wrapper looks exciting! Choosing the right M 2 can feel tricky because there are so many types and speeds. You want your computer to be fast, but picking the wrong part can slow things down or even cost you extra money.

Making the right choice matters a lot for how quickly your games load or how smoothly you can work. We understand the confusion of terms like NVMe and SATA. Don’t worry about getting lost in technical jargon anymore!

By the end of this article, you will know exactly what makes one M 2 different from another. We will break down the important features so you can pick the perfect storage for your needs. Get ready to learn the secrets to choosing a fast and reliable M 2 drive!

Top M 2 Recommendations

No. 1
Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 1TB, PCIe Gen 4x4, Gen 5x2 M.2 2280, Speeds Up-to 7,150 MB/s, Upgrade Storage for PC/Laptops, HMB Technology and Intelligent Turbowrite 2.0, (MZ-V9S1T0B/AM)
  • GROUNDBREAKING READ/WRITE SPEEDS: The 990 EVO Plus features the latest NAND memory, boosting sequential read/write speeds up to 7,150/6,300MB/s*. Ideal for huge file transfers and finishing tasks faster than ever.
  • LARGE STORAGE CAPACITY: Harness the full power of your drive with Intelligent TurboWrite2.0's enhanced large-file performance—now available in a 4TB capacity.
  • EXCEPTIONAL THERMAL CONTROL: Keep your cool as you work—or play—without worrying about overheating or battery life. The efficiency-boosting nickel-coated controller allows the 990 EVO Plus to utilize less power while achieving similar performance.
  • OPTIMIZED PERFORMANCE: Optimized to support the latest technology for SSDs—990 EVO Plus is compatible with PCIe 4.0 x4 and PCIe 5.0 x2. This means you get more bandwidth and higher data processing and performance.
  • NEVER MISS AN UPDATE: Your 990 EVO Plus SSD performs like new with the always up-to-date Magician Software. Stay up to speed with the latest firmware updates, extra encryption, and continual monitoring of your drive health–it works like a charm.
No. 2
Crucial P310 1TB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280, Up to 7,100MB/s, for Laptop, Desktop (PC), & Handheld Gaming Consoles, Includes Acronis Data Recovery Software, Solid State Drive - CT1000P310SSD801
  • PCIe 4.0 Performance: Delivers up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds for quicker game load times, bootups, and smooth multitasking
  • Spacious 1TB SSD: Provides space for AAA games, apps, and media with standard Gen4 NVMe performance for casual gamers and home users
  • Broad Compatibility: Works seamlessly with laptops, desktops, and select gaming consoles including ROG Ally X, Lenovo Legion Go, and AYANEO Kun. Also backward compatible with PCIe Gen3 systems for flexible upgrades
  • Better Productivity: Up to 2x faster than previous Gen3 generation. Improve performance for real world tasks like booting Windows, starting applications like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, and working in applications like Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint
  • Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control for reliable Gen4 performance trusted by gamers and home users
No. 3
Kingston NV3 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD | PCIe 4.0 Gen 4x4 | Up to 6000 MB/s | SNV3S/1000G
  • Ideal for high speed, low power storage
  • Gen 4x4 NVMe PCle performance
  • Capacities up to 4TB
No. 4
SIX NVME M.2 SSD PCIe 4.0-1TB m.2 2280 ssd, Read UP to 7350MB/s 1TB for Gaming PS5 Memory Storage Expansion with Heatsink, Internal Solid State Hard Drive PCIe gen 4x4 Nvme for Laptop Desktop pc
  • Unleash Upgraded power - Employing PCIe Gen4x4 High Speed Interface, SIX X7400 nvme m.2 ssd confer it UP to 7350MB/s read speeds. With faster transfer speeds and high-performance bandwidth and throughput.
  • Work and Play - Whether you pursue science or culture, X7400 m.2 ssd 1TB accentuates ferocious performance for heavy computing and immersive gameplay. Get up to 40% fast performance for heavy-duty applications in data analytics, content creation, gaming and more.
  • Match ur Next-level M.2 SSD - Compatibility ready for laptop, desktop or PS5 storage expansion, X7400 internal 1TB ssd is easy to install to extend lifecycle and storage. Speed up your bootups, file transfers, and game loads for tech-savvy users or hardcore gamer.
  • Purpose Built - SIX X7400 m.2 nvme ssd ps5 is built for achieving immersive gameplay, experiencing uninterrupted gameplay and incredibly short load times. Breathe in. Focus. Breathe out, X7400 lightning-fast loading are ready for your final boss.
  • 5 Years Limited Warranty & What u Get - Your X7400 nvme m.2 ssd is safeguarded for 5 years by SIX Limited Warranty Service. To improve your installation experience, X7400 provide all you need for installation(such as screw, screwdrivers, heatsink and so on).
No. 5
Crucial P310 2TB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280, Up to 7,100MB/s, for Laptop, Desktop (PC), & Handheld Gaming Consoles, Includes Acronis Data Recovery Software, Solid State Drive - CT2000P310SSD801
  • PCIe 4.0 Performance: Delivers up to 7,100 MB/s read and 6,000 MB/s write speeds for quicker game load times, bootups, and smooth multitasking
  • Spacious 2TB SSD: Provides space for AAA games, apps, and media with standard Gen4 NVMe performance for casual gamers and home users
  • Broad Compatibility: Works seamlessly with laptops, desktops, and select gaming consoles including ROG Ally X, Lenovo Legion Go, and AYANEO Kun. Also backward compatible with PCIe Gen3 systems for flexible upgrades
  • Better Productivity: Up to 2x faster than previous Gen3 generation. Improve performance for real world tasks like booting Windows, starting applications like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, and working in applications like Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint
  • Trusted Micron Quality: Built with advanced G8 NAND and thermal control for reliable Gen4 performance trusted by gamers and home users
No. 6
Samsung 990 PRO SSD 1TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal Solid State Hard Drive, Seq. Read Speeds Up to 7,450 MB/s for High End Computing, Gaming, and Heavy Duty Workstations, MZ-V9P1T0B/AM
  • 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
No. 7
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 Speed, Next Gen TLC 3D NAND, for Laptops, Handheld Gaming Devices - WDS200T4X0E
  • HIGH-OCTANE GAMING. Experience speeds up to 7,250MB/s read and 6,900MB/s write (1-2TB models), with up to 35% faster performance than previous generation.
  • PURPOSE-BUILT. Designed for serious on-the-go gamers, with a PCIe Gen4 interface and SANDISK’s next generation TLC 3D NAND.
  • MORE SPACE FOR FAVORITES AND NEW TITLES. Available in multiple capacities up to 2TB, upgrade to an SSD that gives you tons of storage.
  • MORE TIME TO CLEAR THAT CHECKPOINT. Built with laptops and handheld gaming devices in mind, with up to 100% more power efficiency over the previous generation.
  • DO MORE WITH DASHBOARD. Ensure your drive is optimized for prime performance with the downloadable WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows only).
No. 8
Ediloca EN600 PRO SSD 256GB PCIe 3.0 Gen 3x4, NVMe M.2 2280, Up to 2800MB/s, Internal Solid State Drive, SLC Cache 3D NAND TLC, Graphene Cooling Sticker, Storage for PC, Desktop and Laptops
  • 【Excellent Performance】EDILOCA EN600 Pro M.2 SSD adopts NVMe1.3 technology to upgrade your PC performance to load up faster and transfer data faster. This 256GB SSD adds graphene heat dissipation stickers to provide effective heat dissipation control for high-performance solid-state drives, so that the hard drives can work durable and reliable.
  • 【High Speed Transfer】 Interface: NVMe/PCIe Gen3 x4, Configure dynamic SLC cache to effectively maintain high-speed operation and stability of SSD, Sequential read/write speeds up to 3200/1250 MB/s, this PCIe NVMe SSD greatly enhances your PC performance, easily responding to heavy software applications, game loading, and more, making work and play a breeze.
  • 【Superior Reliability and Stability】This internal SSD hard drive adopts 3D NAND technology and high-quality TLC particles, realized low power consumption, further improved product life and stability.This m.2 256GB SSD has no mechanical moving parts inside, good shock resistance and high data security.
  • 【Wide Compatibility】This product is Gen3 PCIe NVMe SSD with M.2 2280 form factor and compatible with laptops, desktops, and all-in-one computers (computer motherboard must be equipped with M.2 NVMe interface).Internal SSD is compatible with Windows7, 8, 10, 11, Mac OS10.9, and later. Note: NOT compatible with PS5.
  • 【3-Year Service】EDILOCA has 3 years limited service. Ediloca is committed to providing comprehensive storage application solutions to global customers.If you have any questions about this NVMe SSD, We will provide you with technical support services.Product comes with instructions, screws and screwdriver.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for ‘M 2’: Finding Your Perfect Match

Thinking about getting the ‘M 2’? This guide helps you pick the best one. We cover what makes a great ‘M 2’ and what you should watch out for. Choosing the right one makes a big difference!

1. Key Features to Look For

When you shop for an ‘M 2’, some features really stand out. These make your experience better or worse. Look closely at these main points:

  • Performance Speed: How fast does the ‘M 2’ work? Faster speeds mean less waiting. Check the advertised speed ratings.
  • Durability Rating: Does the product feel strong? A good durability rating means it lasts a long time.
  • Connectivity Options: How easily does it connect to other things? Look for modern connection ports or wireless capabilities.
  • Ease of Use (Interface): Is the setup simple? A clean, easy-to-understand interface saves time and frustration.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

The quality of your ‘M 2’ relies on a few key things. Good materials and design boost quality. Poor construction lowers it.

Factors That Boost Quality:
  • High-Grade Internal Components: Better parts inside mean smoother operation.
  • Ergonomic Design: If it feels good to hold or use, the design team did a great job.
  • Strong Warranty Support: A long warranty shows the company trusts its product.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
  • Cheap Plastic Casing: Thin, flimsy plastic breaks easily.
  • Overheating Issues: If it gets too hot during use, performance drops fast.
  • Outdated Software Support: If the manufacturer stops updating the software, the ‘M 2’ becomes obsolete sooner.

2. Important Materials

What the ‘M 2’ is made of matters a lot. Materials affect weight, strength, and how long it lasts.

Look for models that use robust materials. Metal alloys often provide better heat dissipation than standard plastics. If the main contact points use rubberized grips, handling improves significantly. Always check the product specifications for material composition. Avoid products where the primary structure is composed of very lightweight, brittle materials.

3. User Experience and Use Cases

How you plan to use the ‘M 2’ should guide your purchase. Different users need different things.

Common Use Cases:
  • Everyday Tasks: If you just need it for simple, daily jobs, you do not need the top-tier speed. Focus on reliability and battery life (if applicable).
  • Heavy Professional Use: If you push the ‘M 2’ hard for long periods, prioritize cooling systems and maximum performance ratings.
  • Portability Focused: If you travel a lot, weight and size become the most important factors. Small, light designs are essential here.

A great user experience means the product blends into your life easily. Read user reviews about setup time and troubleshooting. If many people complain about confusing settings, that model might frustrate you.


10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the ‘M 2’

Q: What is the expected lifespan of the ‘M 2’?

A: With proper care, most quality ‘M 2’ units last between three to five years. Heavy use might shorten this time.

Q: Does the ‘M 2’ require special maintenance?

A: Generally, no. Basic cleaning keeps it working well. Check the manual for specific cleaning advice.

Q: Can I upgrade the internal parts of the ‘M 2’?

A: This depends heavily on the specific model. Some are fully sealed, meaning upgrades are impossible. Others allow simple component swaps.

Q: How important is the official manufacturer warranty?

A: The warranty is very important. It protects your investment if a major fault occurs early on.

Q: What is the difference between the standard and the ‘M 2 Pro’?

A: The ‘Pro’ version usually offers faster processing speeds and often includes better quality materials for increased durability.

Q: Does the ‘M 2’ work well with older operating systems?

A: Compatibility varies. Always check the minimum system requirements listed on the box or product page before buying.

Q: How much noise does the ‘M 2’ typically make during operation?

A: Newer models are often designed to be very quiet. If noise bothers you, look for models specifically advertising “silent operation” features.

Q: What is the best way to store the ‘M 2’ when not in use?

A: Store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid extreme temperatures, as heat damages internal components quickly.

Q: Are there common failure points I should watch for?

A: Common issues often involve the power input jack or connection ports wearing out due to frequent plugging and unplugging.

Q: Should I buy the ‘M 2’ during a sale?

A: Buying during a sale is smart, especially if you are not in a rush. Discounts can be significant on older versions when a new model launches.