Pcie Express Vs M.2: Which One Is Supreme For Your Blazing-fast Needs?
What To Know
- 2 SSDs come in different form factors, so you’ll need to make sure that your motherboard supports the form factor of the M.
- However, if you’re looking for a more compact and affordable option, then M.
- In addition to speed, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing between PCIe and M.
When building or upgrading a computer, you’ll need to choose between two primary storage interfaces: PCI Express (PCIe) and M.2. Both offer high-speed data transfer rates, but they have different advantages and disadvantages. In this blog post, we’ll compare PCIe vs M.2 to help you decide which interface is right for your needs.
What is PCI Express?
PCI Express (PCIe) is a high-speed expansion bus standard that allows computer components to communicate with each other. It’s used for connecting graphics cards, network cards, and other peripherals to the motherboard. PCIe slots come in different sizes, with x1, x4, x8, and x16 being the most common. The number after the “x” indicates the number of lanes available for data transfer.
What is M.2?
M.2 is a compact storage interface that’s designed for small form-factor devices like laptops and tablets. It’s also used in some desktop motherboards. M.2 slots can accommodate different types of storage devices, including SATA SSDs, NVMe SSDs, and even some Wi-Fi cards.
PCIe vs M.2: Speed
In terms of speed, PCIe has the advantage over M.2. PCIe 4.0 can achieve speeds of up to 16 GT/s (gigatransfers per second), while M.2 SATA SSDs are limited to 6 GT/s. NVMe SSDs, which use the PCIe interface, can reach speeds of up to 32 GT/s.
PCIe vs M.2: Form Factor
M.2 has a clear advantage in terms of form factor. M.2 SSDs are much smaller than PCIe SSDs, making them ideal for small form-factor devices. PCIe SSDs, on the other hand, are typically larger and require more space.
PCIe vs M.2: Compatibility
PCIe is more widely compatible than M.2. PCIe slots are available on most motherboards, while M.2 slots are only available on some motherboards. Additionally, M.2 SSDs come in different form factors, so you’ll need to make sure that your motherboard supports the form factor of the M.2 SSD you want to use.
PCIe vs M.2: Price
PCIe SSDs are typically more expensive than M.2 SATA SSDs. However, NVMe SSDs, which use the PCIe interface, can be even more expensive than PCIe SSDs.
PCIe vs M.2: Which Interface Should You Choose?
The best interface for you depends on your specific needs. If you need the fastest possible storage speeds, then PCIe is the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a more compact and affordable option, then M.2 is a good choice.
Beyond Speed: Other Factors to Consider
In addition to speed, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing between PCIe and M.2:
- Compatibility: Make sure that your motherboard supports the interface you want to use.
- Form factor: Consider the size of the storage device you need and make sure that your case has enough space for it.
- Price: PCIe SSDs are typically more expensive than M.2 SATA SSDs, but NVMe SSDs can be even more expensive.
The Future of PCIe and M.2
Both PCIe and M.2 are expected to continue to evolve in the future. PCIe 5.0 is already in development and promises to double the speeds of PCIe 4.0. M.2 is also expected to see some changes in the future, with new form factors and technologies being developed.
Wrapping Up
PCIe and M.2 are both great storage interfaces with their own advantages and disadvantages. PCIe offers faster speeds, while M.2 is more compact and affordable. Ultimately, the best interface for you depends on your specific needs.
Top Questions Asked
Q: What is the main difference between PCIe and M.2?
A: The main difference between PCIe and M.2 is the form factor. PCIe SSDs are larger and require more space, while M.2 SSDs are smaller and more compact.
Q: Which interface is faster, PCIe or M.2?
A: PCIe is faster than M.2. PCIe 4.0 can achieve speeds of up to 16 GT/s, while M.2 SATA SSDs are limited to 6 GT/s. NVMe SSDs, which use the PCIe interface, can reach speeds of up to 32 GT/s.
Q: Which interface is more compatible, PCIe or M.2?
A: PCIe is more compatible than M.2. PCIe slots are available on most motherboards, while M.2 slots are only available on some motherboards. Additionally, M.2 SSDs come in different form factors, so you’ll need to make sure that your motherboard supports the form factor of the M.2 SSD you want to use.
Q: Which interface is more affordable, PCIe or M.2?
A: PCIe SSDs are typically more expensive than M.2 SATA SSDs. However, NVMe SSDs, which use the PCIe interface, can be even more expensive than PCIe SSDs.
Q: Which interface is better for gaming, PCIe or M.2?
A: For gaming, PCIe is the better choice. PCIe SSDs offer faster speeds, which can improve gaming performance.
