SATA vs NVMe: Which SSD Do I Need?
Upgrading to an SSD is one of the best ways to speed up an older computer, and adding a second drive is the easiest way to get more storage for games. But there are several types of SSD, and not every type fits every computer. Here is how to choose.
The three main types of internal SSD
| Type | Looks like | Typical speed | Fits |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5-inch SATA | A small rectangular case, the size of a laptop hard drive | Up to about 550MB/s | Most laptops and desktops with a 2.5" or 3.5" drive bay and a SATA connection |
| M.2 NVMe (PCIe) | A small stick-shaped circuit board | Roughly 2,000–7,000MB/s or more, depending on the PCIe generation | Computers and consoles with an M.2 slot that supports NVMe |
| M.2 SATA | The same stick shape as NVMe | Up to about 550MB/s | Older M.2 slots that only support SATA |
How to tell what your computer supports
- Check the manual or specifications for your laptop or motherboard. Look for "M.2 (PCIe/NVMe)" or "SATA".
- Look at the existing drive. If you have a 2.5" drive, a 2.5" SATA SSD is a direct replacement.
- Check the M.2 length. M.2 drives are described by size: 2280 (22mm wide, 80mm long) is the standard for desktops and most laptops. Handheld PCs such as the Steam Deck and ASUS ROG Ally, and some ultrabooks, use the shorter 2230 size.
PCIe generations
NVMe drives are labelled PCIe 3.0, 4.0 or 5.0. Newer drives are backwards compatible: a PCIe 4.0 drive works in a PCIe 3.0 slot, but runs at PCIe 3.0 speeds. For most people, a PCIe 4.0 drive such as the Kingston NV3 is a good balance of price and performance.
Upgrading a PlayStation 5
The PS5 accepts an additional M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD in its expansion slot. Sony recommends a drive with sequential read speeds of 5,500MB/s or faster, and a heatsink or heat-dissipating cover. Read our step-by-step guide to installing an NVMe SSD in a PS5 in our Gaming guides.
Do I need an external SSD instead?
If you cannot open your computer, or want storage you can move between devices, a portable SSD plugs in by USB-C and is much faster than a USB flash drive or external hard drive.
How much capacity?
- 500GB: a boot drive for office or home use
- 1TB: the best all-round choice for most laptops and PCs
- 2TB–4TB: gaming libraries, photo and video storage
Frequently asked questions
Will an NVMe SSD fit in a 2.5" drive bay?
Not directly. NVMe drives need an M.2 slot. If your computer only has a 2.5" bay, choose a 2.5" SATA SSD.
Can I move my existing Windows installation to a new SSD?
Yes, using disk-cloning software. You will need a way to connect both drives at once — for example a USB adapter or enclosure — if your computer only has one drive slot.
Is a PCIe 5.0 SSD worth it?
Only if your motherboard supports PCIe 5.0 and you regularly move very large files. For gaming and everyday use, PCIe 4.0 is plenty.
Shop SSDs
Need help choosing? Call us on 01422 363983 (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm).