entranceHow to choose a SSD Laptop Drive: Basic Rules. How to choose SSD Laptop Drive: Basic Rules Solid State Drive M2
Good day!
Today, work on a laptop (PC) without an SSD disk is, I will tell you enough painfully and hurt. And to realize it, you need to at least once again work with the system where it is set: Fast OS download, instantly open applications and documents, no hangs or disc boot 100% after turning on the device.
So, well, to the essence ... In this article, the process of installing the "new-fashioned" SSD M2 in a typical laptop is scholating. Actually, there is nothing difficult in this, but there are quite a few questions of the relative disk format (and I solved some of them to collect here, to summarize my past materials, and respond to once ...).
Addition!
SSD disc can be installed not only in the M2 connector. There are some more options, how can I connect 2-3 disks to the laptop (I recommend to familiarize):
1) Key selection
I think this is the first thing to be noted. The fact is that there are several types of SSD M2: SATA, PCIE (and these in turn are divided into several subtypes). In all this manifold, it is not wonderful to get confused ...
Therefore, before choosing and buying a SSD M2 of the drive, I recommend to get acquainted with this article:
For those who doubt whether to go to an SSD disk, I will recommend to get acquainted with this material:
By the way, I also want to note (since they have already been asked more than once): Here's the difference between the transition from HDD on SSD (SATA) - noticeable with the naked eye, even the weak laptop starts to "fly". But the difference between SSD (SATA) and SSD (PCIE (32 Gbps)) is invisible, if you do not watch the test results (at least if you do not work very actively with the disk).
Personally, I think that most of the "Super" SSD (PCIE) is not a lot of meaning, but to add to the classic HDD - some solid-state drive, definitely worth it!
2) what we need
3) installation process (Consider a pair of options)
Laptop models are now on the market dozens. Conditionally towards our topic, I would divide laptops into 2 parts:
- those devices where there is a small lid for quick access to slots for the installation of RAM, disks, etc.;
- and devices that need to be fully disassembled before you can connect the drive.
I will consider both options.
Option number 1: There are specials on the laptop. Protective cover for quick access to the components
1) First turn off the laptop. Disconnect all devices from it: mice, headphones, power cable, etc.
2) turn over. If you can remove the battery - remove it.
Paying attention!
That before replacing or adding memory, disk, etc., some laptops (which have covers for quick access to memory, disk, but the battery is hidden inside the device)You must be transferred to the savings of the battery. For example, the HP Pro Book G4 (in the example below) you need to turn off, connect the power adapter, and click simultaneously Win + Backspace + Power, then turn off the power adapter. After the operation done, the laptop will not start to connect the power adapter, and you can safely perform upgrades.
3) Then unscrew the fastening screws that hold the lid. As a rule, their 1-4 pcs. (See Example below).
In his example, by the way, I used the HP Pro Book G4 laptop - the service of HP laptops is very conveniently implemented by the service: access to disks, memory, cooler can be obtained by unscrewing 1 screw and removing the protective cover.
We unscrew the screw fixing the protective cover // HP Pro Book G4
4) Actually, under the lid we find the M2 slot - inserts a drive into it (I pay attention to: the drive must do without much effort into the slot, look at the keys carefully!).
5) I will add that SSD M2 drives are fixed with the end with the screw. It does not accidentally fly out of the slot to the drive (the screw, usually comes complete to SSD. Do not neglect the fixation!).
6) Well, and everything left to put back the protective cover, consolidate it. Next turn the laptop and turn on ...
Paying attention!
After windows downloads In the "My Computer" and in the Explorer you can not see this disk! The fact is that many new SSDs are not formatted.
To see the disk - go to disk management And format it ( approx. : To open the drives control, press the Win + R buttons combination, and enter the DiskMGMT.msc command to the "Run".
Option number 2: There are no specials on the laptop. Lids (full disassembly ...)
As a rule, there are no special caps on compact laptops (as well as in those devices whose body is made of metal).
By the way, I will give one advice: before you begin to disassemble a laptop, I essentially recommended to look at the video disassembly video of the same model of the device. I especially advise everyone to all who do not really do it ...
I have a hurry to recall: that the disassembly and opening of the device body may cause warranty service failure.
1) The first action is similar: turn off the laptop, disconnect all the wires (power, mouse, etc.), turn over.
2) If you can remove the battery - remove it (usually fastened with two latches). In my case, the battery was located inside the housing.
3) Next, we unscrew all the fastening screws along the contour. Please note that part of the cogs can be hidden under stickers and rubber legs. (which are often present on the device to reduce vibration).
For example, on a laptop that I disassembled as an experimental (ASUS ZenBook UX310) - two screws were under rubber legs!
Remove the lid - fastening screws || ASUS ZenBook UX310.
4) Next, before something to touch or connect / disable - be sure to disconnect the battery (If you have inside the case, like me. Simply, in the absence of a protective cover for quick access to memory slots - usually, the battery is inside the laptop).
As a rule, the battery is attached to several screws. After you unscrew them, look attentively the loops: sometimes they go over the battery and with inaccurate removal - you can easily damage them!
5) You can now connect SSD M2 by inserting it into the corresponding slot. Do not forget to fix it with a fastening screw!
6) Then you can collect the device in the reverse order: re-put the battery, protective cover and fix it with screws.
By the way, as already said above, many programs in Windows (including conductor) may not see your SSD. Therefore, you need to use either or to the tool that is in Windows - disk management .
To open the drives: Press the Win + R button combination, enter the DiskMGMT.msc command and press ENTER. See two screenshots below.
4) The process of transferring old Windows | Or installing a new OS
After the disk is installed in the laptop, and you check that the device recognized it and sees 2 possible options Event Development:
- on the SSD disc you can install a new Windows OS. On how to do it, see here:
- either the SSD can be transferred to your "old" system with an HDD disk. How it is done, I also described in one of my articles: (Note: View Step 2)
Perhaps the only moment that should be noted: By default, your old Windows OS will be loaded first. hard disk (HDD). To change this, you need to go to the BIOS / UEFI in the Boot section and change the priority (the example is shown in the photo below).
After rebooting, the default must be loaded new system With SSD drive.
By the way, also choose the OS, which is considered by default, can be in windows settings: To do this, open the Control Panel at the address - Control Panel \\ System and Security \\ System. Next, open the link " Extra options Systems "(in the menu on the left).
The "System Properties" window must open, we need the "Advanced" tab: There is a "Download and Recovery" subsection - to open its parameters.
In this subsection, you can choose which OS from all set by default, and upload when the laptop / PC is turned on.
Well, or, if you do not get tired - you can manually specify the loadable system each time the computer is turned on (see the example below, such a window must pop up automatically after installation of the 2nd, 3rd, etc. OS) ...
In general, this is all ...
Although solid-state discs (SSD - Solid State Drive) have been existing for some time, I myself started using them quite recently. Stayed the price, a small capacity, albeit substantially high speed compared to conventional hard drives. Before you delve into the varieties of SSD, the manufacturing technologies used by the types of memory and controllers should be stopped on the form factor (i.e., in fact, physical sizes) of these drives, i.e. how they differ in the form which connectors Have and how to use them. If the SSD form factor of 2.5 inches does not cause questions (sizes, the location of the interface connectors, they are practically identical to hard disks), then the other variety causes questions. SSD M2 - What is it where to connect, the better or worse than the usual? Let's understand
SATA interface development
This interface came to the PATA shift, becoming more compact, replacing a wide loop thinner and comfortable. The desire for compactness is a normal trend. Even for SATA, it took a variety that would allow it to use in mobile devices Or where special requirements are presented to the size of components. So the MSATA option appeared - the same SATA, but in more compact packaging.
This connector lived for a short time, since he was pretty quickly coming by another - M.2, which possesses great opportunities. I will pay attention to that there is no letters "SATA" in the abbreviation, and I did not say that this is a new version of this interface. Why it will be clear a little later.
I just say that MSATA, and M.2 allow you to do without loops, power cables, which improves convenience, allows you to make a computer compact. Moreover, M.2 is even less than MSATA.
What M.2 looks like and what is needed
This is a small connector located on the motherboard or extension board, which is installed in the PCI-Express slot. Use M.2 is not only for SSD, but also to install Wi-Fi, Bluetooth modules, and so on. The scope of application can be quite large, which makes M.2 very useful. If a computer upgrade is planned, then I believe that the presence of this connector on the motherboard, even if you do not plan anything else to install anything, it may be useful. Who knows what happens in a few months, what new device will want to buy ...
Example M.2 can be seen on the illustrations. He may be so
or so.
What is the difference? In the jumper (called "key"), which is in the connector. In order to understand its purpose, you will deeper into the computer interfaces.
M-Key and B-Key
Modern hard drives (and SSD including) are traditionally connected to the SATA bus. I, but briefly I repeat.
SATA III has a maximum capacity of 6 Gbps, approximately 550-600 MB / s. For conventional hard drives such speeds are unattainable, but for SSD discs develop a much greater speed, in general, it is not difficult. Only there is no point in this if the interface still cannot "pump" the flow of data at a speed of greater on which it is capable of.
Therefore, it was possible to use the PCI-Express bus having a large bandwidth:
- PCI EXPRESS. 2.0 with two lines (PCI-E 2.0 x2) provides 8 Gb / s bandwidth, or approximately 800 MB / s.
- PCI EXPRESS 3.0 with four lines (PCI-E 3.0 x4) gives 32 Gbps, which corresponds to about 3.2 GB / s.
Which interface is used to connect devices, and determines the position of the key (jumpers).
SATA (M + B key):
PCI-Express (m key):
SSD discs can have the following key options:
For example, take the ASUS Z170-P motherboard. It has a M.2 connector with a m-key. This means that the PCIE × 4 bus is used. Immediately the question arises, is it possible to install an SSD disk with the SATA interface there? But this question is interesting.
We will have to climb the maternal fees in the specification and see whether it supports M.2 SATA. If you believe the site of the manufacturer, then yes. It means that if an SSD disk is bought, for example, Intel 600p Series, then it is originally designed for the PCIE × 4 bus and should not be any problems.
And if there is, for example, the CRUCIAL MX300 running on the SATA bus? According to the manufacturer specifications, such an SSD should also work.
That is supported by the SATA bus in the M.2 interface, you should pay special attention when buying a motherboard.
We summarize said.
- M.2 is just another form factor (size and connector) SSD disks. Used SATA and / or PCI-Express bus. Installed by motherboards M.2 connectors use PCIE × 4 bus. Opportunity sets SSD. The SATA interface must be specified in the motherboard specifications.
- Type of used SDD-disk bus depends on keys. SATA discs Typically produced in the M + B key formula, and PCIE X4 is the key M.
2242, 2260, 2280 - What is it?
Looking through the characteristics of the motherboard or laptop, where there is a M.2 connector, you can see such a line in the description of this connector: "M Key, Type 2242/2260/2280". Well, with "M Key", I hope it is already clear, this is the location of the key in the connector (which indicates the use of the PCIE × 4 tire). But what does "Type 2242/2260/2280" mean?
Everything is simple, this is the sizes of SSD disks that can be installed in this connector. Physical dimensions. The first 2 digits are width that is 22 mm. Second 2 digits - length. It can vary, and make up 42, 60 or 80 mm. Therefore, if the selected SSD, for example, the same CRUCIAL MX300, has a length of 80 mm, i.e. refers to Type 2280, then with its installation there will be no problems.
SSD Transcend MTS400 with a volume of 64 GB has a length of 42 mm, i.e. type 2242. If supported support for such an SSD, it is also not difficult to establish it. In fact, this indicates whether the laptop is placed on the motherboard or case, the locking drive screws that are designed for different length Installed modules. This is how it looks like on the motherboard.
Conclusion
M.2 is a more compact SSD storage factor. Many models are manufactured both in a traditional 2.5-inch format and as a small board with a M.2 connector. If such a connector is present in the laptop or on the motherboard, then this is a good reason to place a drive in it. Do it systemic, or use for other purposes - a separate question.
Personally, I plan when the upgrade of my computer is at home, about what I use M.2 to install a disk under the system. Thus, the number of wires will slightly reduce, and it will work quickly.
Have questions? Specify. Am I mistaken in something? Always ready for constructive criticism. What did it inact about something? Let's figure it out together.
Are becoming increasingly popular due to numerous advantages. They have miniature sizes and do not occupy a lot of space in a laptop, a mini-pc or a desktop housing (they are installed directly on the motherboard), at the same time, allow you to achieve a speed of the inaccessible "ordinary" SSD by 2.5 inches.
You need to know that SSD M.2 discs are available in various formats (may vary in length), as well as two main variations - using the SATA interface (cheaper and slower) and using the PCI Express / NVME interface (more expensive). Used by this moment The SATA interface allows you to achieve maximum bandwidth 6 Gb / s, while PCIE X4 to 32 GB / s, so the difference in performance can be very large as the price.
By the way, it is worth mentioning about the Intel Optane memory (not to be confused with the Intel Optane SSD), which has the M.2 carrier format, but serves to speed up the operation of the HDD discs. This technology works only on new Intel platforms, but it works surprisingly well, allowing you to significantly increase the speed of magnetic disks.
M.2 connectors on motherboards can support both standards, or only one - it is worth checking before buying, for example, do not attempt to install the PCIE / NVME disk into the M.2 connector with only the SATA standard. It is worth noting that M.2 PCIE drives you can also connect to port U.2 (through the adapter), and to the PCI Express slot.
Below are both most effective SSD designsthat use the PCI Express X4 3.0 (NVME) tire and cheaper / less powerful models that use the SATA standard.
Inexpensive SSD Drive M.2
Among the cheap disks M.2 How can I find constructions that use SATA and PCIE. The possibilities of the first are close to the SSD 2.5 inches, but in their favor, there is a size, as well as the fact that part of the computers may not serve M.2 NVME discs.
WD Green PC SSD G2 (120 GB)
WD Green PC SSD G2 series is one of the cheapest options M.2. Based on the SATA interface, and the productivity of the model 120 GB reaches 545 MB / s when reading and 430 MB / s when writing data. The manufacturer applied here a 4-channel Silicon Motion SM2246XT controller and TOSHIBA 3D TLC NAND memory cells (but without cache memory).
Main characteristics:
- Disc format: M.2 2280
- Capacity: 120 GB
- Disk Interface: SATA III
- Record speed: 430 MB / s
- Read speed: 545 MB / s
- Memory Cells: Toshiba 3D TLC NAND
ADATA XPG SX6000 (128 GB)
ADATA XPG SX6000 is, in turn, one of the cheapest carriers of SSD M.2 using PCIe 3.0 x2. The manufacturer applied here a 4-channel REALTEK RTS5760 controller and modern 3D TLC NAND memory. The stated speeds reach 730/660 MB / s. A warranty is provided up to 5 years, but it is limited to the TBW ratio (75 TB data record).
It is worth noting that models with 256 GB and 512 GB are not only available at a price, but also much faster (1000/800 MB / S).
Main characteristics:
- Disc format: M.2
- Capacity: 128 GB
- Interface: PCI-Express 3.0 x2 (NVME), PCIe 3.0 x2 / NVME 1.2
- Record speed: 660 MB / s
- Reading speed: 730 MB / s
ADATA ULTIMATE SU800 M.2 (250 GB)
ADATA ULTIMATE SU800 M.2 discs differ very good ratio Prices and opportunities offered. The modern 3D TLC NAND memory cells and a 4-channel Silicon Motion SM2258 controller are used.
This is a SATA disk, so the performance is identical, as well as a 2.5-inch version - read speed reaches 560 MB / s, and records - 520 MB / s. A warranty is provided for 3 years, but is not limited to the TBW coefficient. Together with the disk we get a package software Acronis True Image. HD.
Main characteristics:
- Capacity: 256 GB
- Interface: SATA III M.2
- Record speed: 520 MB / s
- Read speed: 560 MB / s
- Memory Cells: Micron 3D TLC NAND
Solid State Drive M.2 for Laptop
In the case of laptops, it will often be the only disk in the computer, so it is worth taking care of sufficient capacity - do not invest in SSD with a capacity below 240/256 GB. We must also pay attention to the type of interface - does the carrier support the SATA or PCIE interface, and what format (longer, 2280, or, in short, 2260 or 2242).
Crucial MX500 M.2 (250 GB)
The latest generation of SSD with the SATA interface from Crucial, that is, the MX500 is another successful blow to the average productivity segment. The version M.2 of the disk is characterized by quite good performance, and the stated speeds reach 560 MB / s when reading and 510 MB / s when data recording. Crucial provides a 5-year warranty (limited TBW 100 TB).
Main characteristics:
- Disc format: M.2 2280
- Capacity: 250 GB
- Interface: SATA III
- Record speed: 510 MB / s
- Read speed: 560 MB / s
- Memory Cells: Micron 3D TLC NAND
TRANSCEND MTS420 (240 GB)
Transcend MTS420 in version 240GB - this is very good suggestion For users who need M.2 Little Format 242. The manufacturer indicated the maximum speed at 560 MB / s when reading and 500 MB / s when recording. It is worth noting that many other discs in this format are characterized by wast characteristics. The manufacturer gives it a 3-year warranty.
Main characteristics:
- Disc format: M.2 2242
- Capacity: 240 GB
- Interface: SATA III
- Record speed: 500 MB / s
- Read speed: 560 MB / s
- Memory Cells: Micron 3D TLC NAND
ADATA XPG SX8200 (480 GB)
This is a good offer for laptop users who can install SSD media in M.2 2280 PCIE media. If the laptop boasts the M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4 connector - the speeds will be 3200 MB / s when reading and 1700 MB / s. The XPG SX8200 drive is covered with a 5-year manufacturer's warranty.
Main characteristics:
- Disc format: M.2 2280
- Capacity: 480 GB
- Record speed: 1700 MB / s
- Reading speed: 3200 MB / s
- Memory Cells: Micron 3D TLC NAND
Top drives SSD M.2
Best discs M.2. have amazing characteristics, and their effectiveness approaches the limit of the PCI Express interface capabilities (the best of the disks presented here reaches maximum speed 3.5 GB per second). Obviously, it has its reflection at a high price. Such discs can be recommended by professionals, for example, working with complex video projects in 4K permit.
GOODRAM IRDM ULTIMATE (480 GB)
IRDM Ultimate 480 GB is a good offer for more demanding users. What is important, in the kit there is an adapter for the PCI Express slot. The manufacturer also installed the heat sink that protects the disc from overheating. On board the 8-channel Phison PS5007-E7 controller and durable TOSHIBA A19 MLC NAND memory cells. Maximum speeds reach 2900/2200 MB / s. The IRDM Ultimate series is covered with a 5-year manufacturer warranty without limiting data recording.
Main characteristics:
- Disc format: M.2 2280 / AIC HHHL
- Capacity: 480 GB
- Interface: PCIe 3.0 x4 / NVME 1.2
- Record speed: 2200 MB / s
- Read speed: 2900 MB / s
- Memory Cells: Toshiba A19 MLC NAND
Intel SSD 760p (512 GB)
Intel SSD 760P is effective SSD media for desktop computers and modern laptops using the M.2 connector and the PCIe 3.0 x4 interface. On board the Silicon Motion SM2262 controller and IMFT 3D TLC NAND memory cell. Maximum speeds are 3230 MB / s when reading and 1625 MB / s when recording. The manufacturer provides for drives 5 years warranty, but limited TBW (288 TB recording).
Main characteristics:
- Disc format: M.2
- Capacity: 512 GB
- Interface: PCI-Express 3.0 x4 (NVME)
- Record speed: 1625 MB / s
- Reading speed: 3230 MB / s
- Memory Cells: IMFT 3D TLC NAND
Samsung SSD 970 EVO (500 GB)
SSD 970 EVO is the third generation of high-speed media M.2 with the PCIE interface from Samsung. The 970 EVO models are designed for users who are looking for very fast, but not top-end solutions - such a combination we will find in the 970 Pro models. The declared reading speed reaches 3,400 MB / s, and recording - 2300 MB / s. A 5-year-old manufacturer's warranty is distributed on the 970 EVO hard drives - we recall that the warranty period in previous 960 EVO models was only 3 years.
Main characteristics:
- Disc format: M.2 2280
- Capacity: 500 GB
- Interface: PCIe 3.0 x4 / NVME 1.3
- Record speed: 2300 MB / s
- Read speed: 3400 MB / s
- Memory Cells: Samsung TLC V-NAND
Samsung SSD 970 Pro (1 TB)
Samsung 970 Pro 512 GB is an absolutely top carrier SSD M.2 PCIE, designed for professionals. The manufacturer used the super-domain memory MLC V-NAND here, so users may not be afraid for their data. It is difficult from the PCIe 3.0 x4 interface to squeeze even more, so the carrier reaches a speed of 3500 MB / s in reading and 2300 MB / s in the record. The 970 Pro series hard drives distributes a 5-year manufacturer's warranty.
Main characteristics:
- Disc format: M.2 2280
- Capacity: 1000 GB
- Interface: PCIe 3.0 x4 / NVME 1.3
- Record speed: 2700 MB / s
- Read speed: 3500 MB / s
- Memory Cells: Samsung MLC V-NAND
Greetings to all, dear blog readers Website! In 2002, the SATA interface appeared, which is now used to connect the absolute majority. hard disks and SSD. Over the past 16 years, he updated three times, while retaining backward compatibility. In 2009, a compact version of this interface appeared - MSATA, which is located right on the motherboard.
The support of the M 2 connector on motherboards began to do since 2013. In its intended purpose, it is very similar to MSATA, but it allows you to bypass the interface bandwidth limit. Since the MSATA standard is based on SATA 3, its bandwidth It is only 600 MB / s, and modern SSDs are already operating at a speed of 3000 MB / s and above.
So the SSD looks like in the form factor M2
Using M2 connector to a computer, you can install not only SSD, but also other NGFF devices: Wi-Fi cards, Bluetooth, NFC and GPS extension boards. With this type of connection, you get rid of numerous wires coming from the drive to system board. Thus, save space inside system Block, improve its cooling and simplify the service.
SSD discsusing connector m2, look like planks random access memory - The same thin and inserted directly to the computer's motherboard. It is noteworthy that initially the M 2 connector was used in laptops and netbooks, because their housing is quite thin for installation of full-size devices. Then, the M2 connector began to meet on ordinary motherboards - on stationary PC.
M 2 connector uses to communicate with motherboard This type of interface as PCI Express. Just do not confuse with the PCI Express connector itself, which can be several and which are located below the video card connector, and are present even on old motherboards. This is a little different, although there are SSDs connected via the PCIE port. But what the M2 connector looks like on the motherboard:
Features
SSD discs intended for the M2 connector are manufactured in different sizes: 2230, 2242, 2260, 2280 and 22110. The first two digits indicate the width, and the two subsequent - length (in millimeters). The longer the bar, the more chips on it can be positioned, the more the disk capacity will be. Despite such a variety of form factors, the most popular is 2280.
M 2 connector on modern motherboards may have a different position. We are talking about some "keys". Again, you can make an analogy with RAM straps: DDR3 memory differs from DDR2 the location of the keys - small cuts in the planks and the slots themselves, respectively. Also here, small cuts can be located in the left and right parts of the port..
The M2 connector can have two keys: B and M. It turns out that they are not compatible with each other. However, you can find motherboards with a B + M connector (combined). In addition to the PCIE interface, the port M2 also supports SATA mode. But the speed in SATA will be significantly lower than in PCI Express. Keys usually determine which type of interface will be used.
In conventional hard drives (HDD), the controller is associated with operating system Through the AHCI protocol. But this protocol is not able to use all the possibilities of modern solid-state drives. It pushed to the emergence of a new protocol called NVME. The new protocol is characterized by low delays and allows you to perform more operations per second, while the minimum loading processor.
How to choose m2 SSD
When you buy a SSD drive that runs on the M 2 interface, be sure to pay attention to the following things:
- Port size m2. Pick up such a disc so that it can be installed in the motherboard so that nothing else has restrained.
- The key type is b, m, or combined. Both motherboard and SSD itself must have keys compatibility. SATA M2 SSD discs are usually produced with "M + B" keys, and PCIE M2 SSD - with the key "M".
- The interface version and the number of lines: PCI-E 2.0 x2 has a bandwidth of 8 Gb / s, and PCI-E 3.0 x4 - 3.2 GB / s.
- Which interface is supported - PCI Express or SATA. Of course, PCIE looks preferable because it allows you to work with high speeds. The ability to install M2 SSD in SATA mode should be specified in the manual for the motherboard.
- The NVME protocol support is desirable. If it is not, then AHCI will come down.
SSD disk that is suitable in all parameters will be much faster that connected simply through SATA ports. Such a solution may be required in games and programs that require high read / write disk. The best option There will be a disc using the PCIE interface of the third version with four lines and the NVME protocol.
Good day.
Already as a few years have sunk disputes about the benefit from using SSD drives - now it is recommended to install it all: not only professional gamers or programmers, but also by normal users. Advantage in disk performance colossal: 5-10 times!
However, now there are quite a lot of SSD drives that differ in size (approx.: Form factor): if with SSD form factor 2.5 inches (classic size, it also looks like hDD) There are not many questions, then with the "new-fashioned" SSD M2 - a real confusion!
Actually, in this article I wanted to disassemble the most basic about SSD M2 drives: What kind of drive is suitable for me, which interface is used, that this is for 2242, 2260, 2280 and the keys "M", "B", "B & M" on the storage label. ..
SSD M2 Drive: We understand with confusion
In many new laptops and computers on the motherboard, a new M2 connector has become increasingly (which is not surprising!). After all, he replaced interfaces: MSATA, Mini PCI Express.
And here I want to immediately note the advantage of the M2 interface: it allows you to do without power cables, individual loops, etc. good (in fact, it allows you to connect devices by simply inserting the card into the slot!). In addition, it is less than the same MSATA. All this in the coupe allows M2 to use in more mobile and compact devices, makes it more convenient and popular.
I will add that you can use M2 for installation Wi-Fi adapter, 3G / 4G modems, Bluetooth module, and other devices. (Note: Simply, many believe that M2 is used exclusively for SSD)
By the way!
M2 Interface One time was called as NGFF (next generation factor forms). In some stores and some manufacturers, SSD M2 meet with this label.
What is confusion
1) SATA and PCIE
The format M2, of course, is undoubtedly promising, but it's not easy with him very much. Immediately I will say that it is divided into two large types: SATA and PCIE (and each of these types is divided into several subtypes).
Why was it done? M2, as already said above, conceived as a universal interface, which will replace outdated MSATA and Mini PCIE. But the fact is that the SATA III bandwidth is 6 Gbit / s, and the SSD M2 PCIE drive is able to provide speed of up to 32 Gbit / s (agree, the difference is essential!).
Supplementthat M.2 PCIE differs in speed depending on the number of lines. For example, PCI Express 2.0 with two lines (designated as PCI-E 2.0 x2) - provides speed up to 8 Gb / c, PCI Express 3.0 with four lines (PCI-E 3.0 x4) - provides covert 32 Gb / s.
All the luxury is that most devices (say, laptops) support only one type of disk, for example, SSD M2 SATA III. Those. When choosing, you need to very carefully approach what the device is supported (but about it a few words below).
2) Dimensions of the drive 2242, 2260 and 2280
Another important moment: M2 drives (both SATA and PCIE) - can be different dimensions. Total three of them: 2242, 2260 and 2280.
The first two digits (22) are the drive width, the second (42, 62 or 80) is its length (see the screenshot below as an example).
The bottom line is that different motherboards support different dischargers. And if the drive is smaller length, you can still insert into the slot, then if it is more - it's trouble ...
However, I note that now there are universal discs, a long 80 mm long, which can be used to the desired length (approx.: All the necessary chips are located at a length of 42 mm).
3) keys
The keys imply contacts and their location on the drive. There are three types of keys: "M", "B", and a universal "B & M" (a visual example below). Before buying a disc, you need to know which key is supported by your device.
Drives with different keys, visual example
Keys on SSD M2 Drives: Interface, Mechanical Compatibility, Scheme
The whole "salt" with these keys is that, for example, mat. The PCIE X2 socket board uses the "B" key, but there are SSD SSD storage devices that also use the "B" key! Of course, if you connect such a drive to the motherboard with the PCIE X2 socket - it will not work!
4) NVME technology
Old discs use the AHCI protocol, but with the advent of faster discs - it stopped cope with its task (does not allow the use of maximum speed characteristics of the drives). To solve this problem released a new protocol - NVME.
It provides a higher speed, requires less resources from the processor during read / write operations, have become much less than the delay. So that your SSD can work on this protocol, pay attention to whether your mat is supported. Board this technology.
Results (what to know before buying SSD M2, so as not to be in the "fools"):
- which interface is supported by your motherboard (PCI-E 2.0 x4, PCI-E 3.0 x2, PCI-E 3.0 x4, SATA III);
- sSD M2 dimensions of a drive that can be installed (2280, 2260, 2242);
- the key that supports your motherboard (usually, SATA discs are manufactured with the key "M & B", and PCIE X4 - with the key "M");
- is it supported by mat. NVME technology board (if any naturally, the drive is worth buying with NVME support).
Only after the answer to these few questions, you can make a choice of SSD M2, which will work with you.
Update from 01/27/2019. Now began to appear on the sale of laptops (and mat. Fees) with universal ports to which SSD M2 can be connected both PCI-E and SATA.
Is it worth the game of the candle? Lee to SSD ...
Many are often asked if it is worth it to go to SSD, so the difference is significant ...
As an example will show comparative Test Multiple disks installed on me on laptops / PCs. The first test is SSD M2 (NVME), the second - SSD M2 (SATA III), the third is a classic HDD.
SSD Drive Speed \u200b\u200bTest (NVME, SATA), HDD | Crystal Diskmark - Dough Utility)
Note! On the screenshots you see synthetic tests. In real work (when loading OS, start games, working with software): Many of ordinary users Mark a huge difference between HDD and SSD (SATA), but almost do not notice between SSD (NVME) and SSD (SATA).
Pay attention to the first line. Reading speed (READ) 2591 MB / S against 73 MB / S is a difference of 30 ÷ 35 times! Those. If earlier, before installing SSD (NVME), Windows booted within 1 minute - now less than 10 seconds!
I'm not talking about other programs: Word, browsers, players, etc. - start instantly, immediately after double click on the label!
Addition!
How to check the speed of the disk: HDD, SSD. Test, determining the difference in speed between SSD and HDD, is it worth moving on a solid -
How to find out which SSD M2 is supported by my mat. fee
Very popular question. First, I want to say, do not believe any utilities to view the characteristics of the PC. The fact is that they can show the presence of a slot M2, but in fact on the board it may not be (i.e., it is provided for its place on the board, and there is no physically slot)!
And so, closer to the case ...
1) Option number 1 - look at the mate itself. board.
If on your mat. The board is the M2 connector - in most cases there is a marking on which you can recognize the necessary information (example below). In addition, you immediately make sure of the physical availability of this connector (which is important to do before buying a drive).
2) Option number 2 - View on the manufacturer's website
Knowing the model of the motherboard (or laptop), you can go to the site of its manufacturer and see the characteristics. By the way, some motherboards are now made universal, which can support several types of SSD M2 drives (users of laptops in this case are less fortunate, because they most often support some one specific type).
Characteristics mat. Boards on the manufacturer's website
3) Option number 3 - View an overview of a specific laptop (mat. Fees).
Many shops and users (who have already purchased this iron) often make reviews from which you can learn the necessary data. However, I recommend to reinforce them as the first two options (because to say, make sure with your own eyes).
Additions are welcome ...