Solid-state drives (SSDs) offer performance and reliability than traditional hard disk drives (HDDs). When you look at SSDs you might see terms like M.2, SATA, PCIe and NVMe. These can make it hard to know which SSD will work with your motherboard.

In this article we will explain what M.2, SATA, PCIe and NVMe SSDs are. We will also help you figure out if an M.2 SSD is compatible with your motherboard.

What are M.2 SSDs (SATA, PCI, NVMe)?

M.2 is a type of form factor for SSDs that is being widely used in computers and laptops. M.2 SSDs are smaller and more compact than the 2.5-inch SSDs (which usually use SATA). This makes them great for devices where space’s tight. They connect directly to the motherboard through the M.2 slot, so no need of cables for the connection.

M.2 SSDs come in lengths and widths shown by numbers such, as 2242, 2260 or 2280.

M.2 SSDs use a coding system where the first two digits indicate the width in millimetres and the last two digits indicate the length. For example an M.2 2280 SSD is 22mm wide and 80mm long.

Below is the full available list:

For your information, 2280 is the most common M.2 NVMe SSD found on desktop and laptop.

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What are SATA SSDs?

SATA, which stands for Serial ATA is an interface used for connecting storage devices to a computer. They are the common type of SSDs and are widely compatible with all older motherboards. SATA SSDs offer performance and are relatively affordable.

SATA SSDs can be, in the form of a 2.5‑inch drive or an M.2 drive. The M.2 SATA SSDs use the SATA interface and can be easily installed in M.2 slots on motherboards.

What are PCIe SSDs?

PCIe, which stands for Peripheral Component Interconnect Express, often used to link graphics cards, network cards and storage devices. PCIe SSDs are faster than SATA SSDs.

PCIe SSDs are also come in the form of a 2.5-inch drive or an M.2 drive. M.2 PCIe SSDs use the PCIe connection. They give faster data movement and cost more than SATA SSDs. They give better performance for work that needs fast storage.

What are NVMe SSDs?

NVMe, which stands for Non-Volatile Memory Express is a protocol made for SSDs. NVMe SSDs use the PCIe connection to give faster speeds and less delay, than SATA and PCIe SSDs.

Like PCIe SSDs, NVMe SSDs can be a 2.5-inch drive or an M.2 drive. M.2 NVMe SSDs are the common type and are very popular because of their great performance.

However it is important to know that not every M.2 slot works with NVMe SSDs and compatibility depends on the motherboard.

How to Identify Which M.2 SSD is Compatible with Your Motherboard?

Before buying an M.2 SSD, it’s important to make sure it will work with your motherboard. Here are some steps to help you find out if an M.2 SSD is compatible.

1. Look at your motherboard documentation: Check the user manual or go to the manufacturer’s website. There you can find details about the M.2 slots and what types of SSDs are supported.

If you don’t know the name of your motherboard, open the Start menu and type “system information.” Then open System Information. On the System Summary page look for the baseboard manufacturer name and the baseboard product. Use these two details to search for more information.

2. Check the keying of the M.2 slot: M.2 SSDs have notches, called keying, marked with letters like B, M or B+M (see the first screenshot above). These notches show which SSDs can fit into the slot. Check your motherboard documentation to see what key type is supported.

3. Think about size and space: Make sure the M.2 SSD you plan to buy will fit in your computer case. Look at the M.2 slot’s length in the motherboard manual to see what sizes are supported.

4. Check the interface: Some M.2 slots support both SATA and NVMe SSDs. Others support one. Be sure to find out which type your slot supports before you buy.

By following these steps and using the information from your motherboard documentation you can be sure the M.2 SSD you choose will work with your system.

Understanding the difference between M.2, SATA, PCIe and NVMe SSDs is important when picking the storage for your computer. M.2 SSDs are small and easy to install. SATA, PCIe and NVMe SSDs each offer speeds and performance. Checking that your M.2 SSD is compatible, with your motherboard helps you make a choice. You get storage and better reliability.