There are different types of SSDs on the market today. You’ve probably heard the terms “SATA,” “NVMe,” “PCIe,” and “M.2,” but what exactly are they?
To begin with, the different types of SSDs depend mainly on the connection interface between the storage unit and the computer or server. Let’s dive into each type.
NVMe
Non-Volatile Memory Express (NVMe) is a protocol for SSDs that allows data exchange speeds to reach up to 2600 MB/s — that’s almost 5x times as fast as SATA SSDs. NVMe SSDs are newer than the SATA SSDs and usually use peripheral component interconnect express (PCIe), discussed in more detail next.
NVMe SSDs are more expensive than SATA SSDs and usually require more power. That’s why they’re only used for specific needs, such as for businesses that prioritize high data processing and transfer speeds.
The NVMe protocol also works with flash memory, which means that even external or portable, NVMe SSDs will perform just as fast as internally connected NVMe SSDs.
SATA
The first interface or generation used with SSDs is called Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA). It’s the most commonly used interface among hard drives and storage devices.
SATA delivers speeds up to 600 MB/s, and its size fits most notebooks and PCs, hence its popularity. SATA also comes in a smaller size, referred to as mini-SATA (mSATA).
SATA is the slowest among all SSD types, but it still has a data transfer rate up to 5x faster than HDDs.
M.2
ConnectorFormerly known as Next Generation Form Factor (NGFF), the M.2 connector ensures that an SSD reaches the fastest speed possible (upwards of 2600 MB/s). If the computer’s motherboard doesn’t have an M.2 connector, then alternatively, a PCIe card with an M.2 connector is used to connect the NVMe SSD to the motherboard.
If the computer’s motherboard already has an M.2 connector, you’ll find the storage labeled “SATA M.2” or “NVMe M.2.” However, if the motherboard doesn’t have it and has a PCIe card with a built-in M.2 connector, it’ll be labeled as “PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD.”
The M.2 connector is relatively small in size and is there to replace mSATA. It’s also suitable for small-sized notebooks as well as larger devices. M.2 connector is compatible with SATA, PCIe, and even USB 3.0.
PCIe
ConnectorYou can also categorize SSDs according to the connectors used, which define the data transfer speed.
PCIe is the same connector used to connect high-performing graphic cards directly to the motherboard. When NVMe SSDs use PCIe connectors, they deliver the fastest possible data processing and transfer speeds.
However, the difference in speed, or bandwidth, is most noticeable when dealing with larger files (50 GB or more), but when starting Windows or launching a game, it won’t be much different from using typical SSDs.
